2017-Past-News

2017 Current News Posts

Dec 30 p Something happened to the upload software (filezilla) yesterday.
Dec 30 p We've now switched software and appear to be back to good.
Dec 30 p What we wanted to say, Happy 90th birthday to Don Jarvis.
Dec 30 p Sorry for the delay
Dec 30 p For those far away, Clayberry has about 3 inches of the white stuff on the ground with temps suppose to drop to around 3 degrees overnight.
Dec 30 p Based on his own comments, a bunch of us are scratching our head when it comes to Drumpf.
Dec 30 p Actually some are questioning is mental stability with the word dementia surfacing in the conversations.
Dec 30 p Here's yet another example of the orange headed guy talking out his butt. While bad mouthing Joe Manchin, Drumpf commented on how many jobs are coming to West Virginia and how great the coal economy is doing. He added: I'm the one that saved coal!
Dec 30 p Here's the write up.
Dec 30 p As we start the new year, come on Bob Mueller and get him out of there!!

Dec 29 a Practically a heat wave this morning. We're starting at 16 degrees!!
Dec 29 a If you have a Courthouse need today, better be over there before they close at High Noon
Dec 29 a The week between Christmas and New Year's Day is a slow poke week. Many people burn up a few of their vacation days to make a week off of work. Delta is doing that as well. Feels good too
Dec 29 a So how's Clay Senior and Community Services (old CDC) doing after their first year without the Ramsey clan at the helm, the best we can say is, under the new management, they didn't go belly up and that's a good thing
Dec 29 a The mess clean up continues with paying an outstanding IRS debt down to $25,443. Medicaid's lien is down to just $6312.
Dec 29 a So how much cash is left on hand? It's up to $81, 856 and hopefully growing.
Dec 29 a Full details in next week's Communicator.
Dec 29 a We're screwing off these last few days in 2017. No posts unless something dumb happens
Dec 28 a On this last Thursday of the year, 6 degrees in Clayberry. Brrrrrr
Dec 28 a Tonight the Lady Panthers travel to Braxton County for a Basketball matchup. Go Lady Panthers.
Dec 28 a WYAP and WTUB usually sportscasts the Braxton games
Dec 28 a Not so tonight
Dec 28 a Their veteran sportscaster, TG Griffith, remains under the weather with a flu, virus, cold, crud, since before Christmas
Dec 28 a Get well wishes extended to TG.
Dec 28 a Update on yesterday's 8 minute long Commission meeting coming later today
Dec 28 a In the mean time, try to stay warm.

Dec 27 early a County Commission will convene their last meeting of the year today at 10 am sharp. good soft seats and plenty of heating to go around. And, they even have HoHo's and Ding Dongs available.
Dec 27 a from the email bag: MISSING Black Lab Preston. He was last seen in Moore Fork/ Big Otter area on Christmas morning around 8am. He has been gone about a day an a half. He is solid black, with brown eyes, and weighs around 70 pounds probably. He was wearing a camo collar. Please call 304-286-3550
Dec 27 a Last call for Person of the Year nominations. Email over your choice and a brief description today.
Dec 27 a Better get your Christmas decorations put away today. Temps Thursday morning should be around 9 degrees. %%$$!! Winter.

Dec 26 a With the big holiday over except for clean up duties, let's get back to life in Clayberry
Dec 26 a Our Classified page is a great place to sell off those non fitting or useless Christmas gifts
Dec 26 a With niceness set aside for another year....
Dec 26 a HE White Elem is the lowest performing school in the county. Based on standardized test scores, HE White was ranked lowest in the state on more than one occasion.
Dec 26 a Oh they've got a beautiful playground, hiking trail, greenhouse, and theme park school trips but as far as education, it hasn't happened at that small rural school in a long time.
Dec 26 a Breeding stock, druggy parents / grandparents has something to do with the problems there. The biggy problem is the administration and teaching staff. Believe it or not, having trained, certified, thinking, caring teachers on site makes a big difference.
Dec 26 a For instance, not too long ago when Principal Rhonda Jelich was the helm of HE White, standardized test scores in math went way up. One year, under her resign, the school had the highest math scores in the county.
Dec 26 a When asked about the huge change in math scores, Superintendent Link Poo said during a public meeting, we're investigating the scores.
Dec 26 a What he was saying was, we think something is up and there's no way HE White kids could perform better than at the saintly schools of Clay Elem and Valley Fork
Dec 26 a In the end, there was no cheating or manipulation. What happened was, the place had quality leadership in place. A principal that demanded education take front and center stage instead of PE and fun time
Dec 26 a In the last few years, HE White test scores and performance has been in the gutter.
Dec 26 a Trying to beef up the performance, the Pentagon sent senior, experienced, retired teachers and administrators down there to give Principal April Kearns guidance. Our feeling is, the needed changes never came at HE White. Those students were receiving a pee poor foundation for upper level course material.
Dec 26 a One week ago, during a Sch Bd meeting, without much ado, HE White Elem Principal April Kearns was moved out of that slot and back into a classroom.
Dec 26 a Kearns is well liked in the Bomont, Glen, Porter's Creek community and may be a darn good teacher. But, in the way of leadership and making decisions unpopular to teachers and parents, it wasn't happening.
Dec 26 a Not sure who will replace Ms Kearns in the top perch but we hope it is someone with a proven track performance and skills to set the school on the right track. Kids should, will, be the beneficator of this mid year shake up.

Dec 25 p Some things change. Some don't
Dec 25 p Like... Christmas eve at Harbor Freight. That's where men go instead of buying a present for their wifey.
Dec 25 p Sunday evening, HF was filled with flannel shirted men buying drills, wrenches, screw drivers, jacks, and more. There was happiness in the HF store. Smiles were seen on everybody but the store clerks.
Dec 25 p The Devil lives in that Cross Lanes store. The bad guy was working on us as we skirted our certain duty to buy for the loved one. It was the Devil that mailed out that 25% off , one day only, coupon that we found in the mail box dated for December 24th..
Dec 25 p Then there are things that change that we don't want to change.
Dec 25 p For the Ace Cub Reporter and spouse, this was the first Christmas without the kid at home. After 27 years and the kid now 25 hours away, it's a much quieter Christmas at Tallhouse.
Dec 25 p Hope your Holiday season is going well. Enjoy your time off from work and hug those kids. They're gone before you know it
Dec 25 p Posts return on Tuesday.

Dec 24 early a This is a special Sunday morning. It's Christmas eve in the Appalachian Mountains of County Clay.
Dec 24 a Outside, the rain has stopped, the temp is standing at 40 degrees. Weathercasters are predicamentating, snow showers tonight and into Christmas morning.Sure looks like we're going to have a white (and a little mud), Christmas
Dec 24 a Over the last 12 months we've published some of the dumbest , horrindous, accountings of our elected and volunteer leaders along with the scariest reports on Donny J and the fate of the nation. Along the line came nice stuff, the things that make this place we call home, so very special.
Dec 24 a From the staff of Delta Communication, we wish the best of holiday wishes to you and yours.
Dec 24 a Merry Christmas to all.
Dec 24 a For those that can listen in, non profit WYAP-LP and WTUB-LP in Lizemores is offering all Christmas music thru tomorrow evening.
Dec 22 a Danny Joe Fitzwater, 68, see OBITUARY page
Dec 22 a Courthouse closes today at high noon.
Dec 22 a Many local businesses will be closing early tomorrow for the Holiday break.
Dec 22 a Men, you better get your shopping in today. And Yes, a chainsaw with an automatic oiler and 18 inch bar makes a wonderful Christmas gift for the wifey.
Dec 22 a From all of us at clayberry.org and The Communicator, the best of holiday wishes. Peace on Earth.
Dec 22 a With the most well received holiday upon us, our plan is to shut down this web portal for three days or so. Before we go we have a couple morsels of info worth noting.
Dec 22 a Yesterday morning, Black Shirts arrested Nathan William Stephenson (DOB 11-7-1978). Charged with attempted stabbing of one time Senator Randy Schoonover. The criminal complaint is interesting for a couple reasons
Dec 22 a From the complaint penned by JN Holcomb:.... upon arrival I was greeted by Schoonover and was informed that Stephenson had verbally told him he was going to cut his eyes and kill him.
Dec 22 a Yikes! Now that's peturbed big time.
Dec 22 a Based on street talk... we think, Mr Stephenson found a bunch of tele call records on his wife's cell phone from Randy Schoonover and reacted the way he did.
Dec 22 a Stephenson was picked up and lodged in the slammer on our dime.
Dec 22 a Here's an interesting passage later on in the criminal complaint: .... Upon arriving at the residence of Randy Schoonover, Holcomb was greeted by Rita Smith [that's Randy's girl friend] and welcomed into the house. Upon entering the house a smoldering pipe and a pot grinder was on the table. Miss Smith took full responsibility for both items. A total of one gram of pot was found.
Dec 22 a Miss Smith was arrested as well.
Dec 22 a Let's see now, someone threatens your life, you call the Badges, you know they're coming, and when they arrive, you invite them inside your house.
Dec 22 a Does anybody else see the need for a big Dumb Arss tattoo to be on Randy and Smith's forehead?
Dec 22 a Dumb Dumb Dumb
Dec 22 a here's an update on a murder from two weeks ago. The coverage includes Clayberry mentions.
Dec 22 a One year ago tomorrow, the Ramsey Family Clan received formal notice from Clay Development Corp, you're fired. While we're still waiting on some Federal corruption charges to become public, it was the end of an era and a good end. Here comes another end.
Dec 22 a Clay Development Corporation (CDC) had been a well known local social service provider for decades and not ina good way.
Dec 22 a Are you sitting down?
Dec 22 a Wed afternoon, as a part of the regular Board meeting, Clay Development Corp, disbanded, disorganized ! CDC is no more.
Dec 22 a Before you start doing the happy dance, the Board decided, the CDC name was so tarnished, they would rename the organization. While they can't get away from the deeds and garbage performed by CDC, they can change the name.
Dec 22 a What once was is now, Clay Senior and Community Services, Inc. CSACS
Dec 22 a Decisions made to change outdoor signs and complete the paperwork for the change over ASAP.
Dec 22 a Enjoy your Holiday break one and all
Dec 22 a Merry Christmas and may the Force be with you

Dec 21 a Linda J. White, 73, see OBITUARY page
Dec 21 a Some have been emailing, why didn't the radio station broadcast Tuesday night's CHS Basketball game?
Dec 21 a The same answer applies to why they're not airing tonight's contest.
Dec 21 a Answer is, TG Griffith is sick. Coughing, hacking, snotty nose and such does not go well in front of a mic.
Dec 21 a Get well wishes extended to veteran sportscaster TG Griffith.

Dec 20 a For those interested in what's really going on in Clayberry, The Communicator newspaper should be of interest to you. This time around, our lead article covers the happenings during Motion Day held Monday Dec 18th. We've also included all the details on Town employee Dwana Murphy getting her butt fired.
Dec 20 a This afternoon, 3pm sharp, the Clay Development Corp (CDC) Board of Directors convene for their monthly meeting.
Dec 20 a The properly noticed gathering is open to the public.
Dec 20 a Fellers.. if you plan on picking up a bottle of spirits for the Holiday Season, something of note. No whiskey sales allowed this Sunday. Get your hooch ahead of time
Dec 20 a For our Trumpster clickers, how does it feel after Drumpf's first Congressional win?
Dec 20 a Higher taxes and benefit cut backs.
Dec 20 a What a nice Christmas gift

Dec 19 p Yes Sir, Yes Sir indeed, the Communicator made it out the door today with all the Dwana details
Dec 19 p Enjoy!

Dec 17 p There's one time of year when everything slows down a bit. That one time is coming this week. Kids call it quits Tuesday for their annual 2 weeks off.
Dec 17 p With a drizzle coming down on a chilly afternoon, we still have many homes heated with wood. Around the county smoke came out of chimneys, kids were running around outside, and for the most part , streets were empty.
Dec 17 p Inside homes, peanut butter cookies were being baked. The once a year treat, fruit cake, was being consumed with fingers being licked. Trees are up.
Dec 17 p Even as poor as we are, many many homes in the county are decorated outside.
Dec 17 p It's Christmas time.
Dec 17 p The Communicator comes out Tuesday afternoon with a Monday at 5pm deadline for submissions.
Dec 17 p This edition includes Christmas ads for businesses and individuals alike. $20 is the asking price for a 2 column by 3 inch tall one time note in the newspaper. If you're interested, just leave a message on the answering machine (304 587 6007) or email us with your information.
Dec 17 p Even with the Republicrats raising taxes and fees left and right, our state budget is in shambles. Noticed this on metro news today. Cutting down trees in our State Parks appears to be the way to balance the budget this year. How wonderful!
Dec 17 p George Stephen Gregorich , formerly of Swandale W. Va., see Obituary page.

Dec 16 a On this Saturday morning when men are out looking at chain saws and ATV's instead of shopping for the wifey....
Dec 16 a Maynard Lane, 94, of Bickmore, see OBITUARY page
Dec 16 a We never think about the drinking wawa supply. Instead, the subject of someone dumping something bad into the tank or or a poison into the plant.
Dec 16 a The Clay plant and its predecessor has been pumping out potable wawa for many decades. Clay's operation feeds the wet stuff to Clay County PSD as well as Clay Roane PSD. Combined, that's a a bunch of customers.
Dec 16 a We have good news
Dec 16 a Two days ago, the Town installed a security system as well as a dozen cameras in and around the facility.
Dec 16 a Now well into the 21st Century, we've finally made it into the demands of the 20th Century.

Dec 15 a Final score from last night's b ball game, CHS 71, Webster 77. The stars were not aligned for us last night
Dec 15 a Yesterday we posted Fran King's comments on CAMC no longer taking Medicaid and Medicare. A feller called to tell us, according to the Charleston Gazette, what the mega hospital chain is no longer accepting is the Medicare Advantage program
Dec 15 a Temps are chilly. Need firewood? We have a new vender on the CLASSIFIED page
Dec 15 a This is the last for the rug rats in school before a long Winter break. The ones we've been around, they are wired tight!
Dec 15 a School shuts down next Tuesday for the curtain climbers. Beware.
Dec 15 a A note from the Clay County Library: The Winter Library Hours we will be closing @ 5 instead of 6 pm. starting immediately for the months of December, January and February. Our Board Meetings have changed as well. The Board Meetings will be the second Tuesday of each month @ 10:30 a.m. instead of 4:30 p.m.
Dec 15 a Some 15% of high school students said they had used marijuana within the previous 30 days. And 12.1% of students said they had used a vaping device. But only 5% had smoked cigarettes. One in 10 high school seniors said he or she had vaped marijuana at least once in the past year. Read more right here.

Dec 14 p Here's a morsel of interest from Fran King.
Dec 14 p Ms King advised the world, she noticed a sign while at a CMAC facility in Charleston. The sign proclaimed, come Jan 1st 2018, CAMC will no longer accept Medicaid nor Medicare insurance plans.
Dec 14 p With the vast majority of West Virginians being senior citizens and or poor people, that's a real head scratcher.
Dec 14 a Tonight the CLay High Panthers travel to Webster County for a big match up. Start time is 7:30. Go Panthers
Dec 14 a WYAP-LP and WTUB-LP will air the contest beginning around 7:20 with pre game by TG Griffith
Dec 14 a Here's the links page to listen online.
Dec 14 a Also this evening, the multi county Broadband group will meet at the Big Otter Fire Dept
Dec 14 a What was going on five years ago? In a small Connecticut school, the mass killing of kids.
Dec 14 a Back in 2007, Prez Dubbya drove the nation into a huge recession, depression really. Since then some of the country has rebounded. For most of the nation including West Virginia, that ain't the case.
Dec 14 a Most of us depend on the internet for much of our information, games, social media, and research. Today the Republicrats on the FCC plan to vote out. The change will have a huge change on how and who gets to use and be seen on the world wide web. For this country, life will never be the same again or at least until Drumpf is removed from office.
Dec 14 a We've neglected covering a strange story on a shooting death over in Calhoun County and a tie to Clayberry. The alleged shooter, maybe one of the shooters, Evan Lee Hershman, is a Lizemores native. Many of us remember when Hershman was a late night Go Mart worker here in County Clay. While we've been asleep at the wheel, that's not been the case over on the herherald website.
Dec 14 a Got some good news. The newly reorganized Clay Development Corp (CDC) held their first public Board meeting last month. In many ways, management was not forthcoming with stuff like public notice, hesitant to make public, public info, and secret time
Dec 14 a Get this, yesterday CDC made public their meeting notice and Board agenda well ahead of their Dec 20th, 3pm Board meeting. A refreshing change
Dec 14 a County Commission met yesterday morning. From the gathering, a note
Dec 14 a Commissioner Linky Poo commented that SuddenLink, a cable based telephone , TV and internet provider in the Southern end of the county, has purchased by another outfit.
Dec 14 a Changing ownership is common these days.
Dec 14 a According to the Linkster, the company plans to invest a million bucks into this county's system. Now, that's good news
Dec 14 a Also from the CCC meeting.....
Dec 14 a There's a small band of volunteers working to improve internet speed and availability in a multi county service area. That group applied for a $125,000 grant to do project analysis, engineering study.
Dec 14 a According to the Linkster, the grant has been approved.
Dec 14 a For those drinking frog pee in the Southern end of the county, we now know, about 9% of the PAck Fork / Independence Road water line extension and upgrade project is now complete. The entire project could be done as early as June 2018.
Dec 14 a Finally from Wed morning, another group is working to grow ATV trails in Central West Virginia including Clayberry. Showing good wisdom, the CCC voted to support the project as long as the West Virginia Trails Authority is involved.
Dec 14 a Commissioner Fran King acknowledged the number of projects this county has tried going alone and wound up in a peeing contest with everybody asking just one question, what's in it for me.
Dec 14 a Full meeting details in next Tuesday's Communicator.
Dec 14 a Each Jan., Delta Communication announces a Person of the Year. The award has always gone to someone who has made a difference in Clayberry and in a good way. We're accepting nominations right now. Deadline for submissions is next week. Email your nominee soon

Dec 13 a For our around the region and beyond clickers, 16 degrees this morning with bright sunshine filling the sky. A beautiful Hump Day coming our way
Dec 13 a Last night the CHS Panthers put it all over Herbert Hoover, 58 to 51. One feller mentioned, that was the first time the boys had beaten HHHS in basketball.... as long as he could remember!
DEc 13 a County Commission meets this morning at 10am. Great chance to get in out of the weather and watch our elected officials at work.
Dec 13 a Let's do some catching up...
Dec 13 a Each year the State School Building Authority (BDA) doles out around $50 million to county school systems for additions, repairs, and new structures. This year, the total outlay amounted to $59.1 million. Each grant requires local match funds. Most counties including Clayberry, have little in the way of match money.
Dec 13 a Cash flush from FEMA dollars compliments last year's Great Wash Out which damaged several schools and some other school property, local leaders decided to get creative with those $$$ and use that (part of it anyway) as a local match when seeking $9 million from the SBA.
Dec 13 a Two months ago, the Sch Bd felt felt confident they would receive the $9m. Last month, Superintendent Joe Paxton spoke that he felt this wasn't just pie in the sky. A couple weeks ago, word on the street had it, Clayberry Schools would instead receive around $3 million
Dec 13 a The $9 million request amounted to almost 20% of the total pot of money. 20% is a big chunk. This year, no other county including Kanawha ($6.9 million) asked for that much. Most of the requests came in around $1 million or less.
Dec 13 a For Clayberry and from the Charleston Gazette: Clay had asked for $9.3 million, with the only proposed matching funds from the school system being the $500,000 the Federal Emergency Management Agency is expected to provide to repair damage from the June 2016 flood. The county was planning to use the FEMA money to fix issues with the flooded area beneath Clay County High’s gym — issues that Clay schools Superintendent Joe Paxton said could lead to future structural problems. But while that work was ongoing, Clay planned to also change the direction of the gym floor, remove a stage that’s no longer needed because the school has a separate auditorium and accomplish other work — all allowing the single basketball court to be replaced with two. The county also wanted the money to pay for a new HVAC system; bathroom upgrades, partly to make the restrooms compliant with the federal Americans with Disabilities Act; window replacements for energy efficiency; an expanded commons area, partly to make more room at lunchtime; and new communications and security equipment.
Dec 13 a Monday afternoon, the SBA made their awards public.
Dec 13 a Clayberry didn't receive a penny. Sometimes when you get greedy, you get nothin'. Such is the case for our local system.
Dec 13 a That means, every FEMA dollar we receive, those funds have to be used for flood damages with no wiggle room for pet projects.
Dec 13 a Monday night the Business Development Authority held their monthly meeting. Part of their time was spent discussing future efforts in the county. One of the topics included the DEP and W Va Guard units making more use of the left over strip mine area, AKA, Fola and Vandalia.
Dec 13 a One thing that was mentioned was a landing strip for military aircraft.
Dec 13 a Not sure if that will ever happen but ...that idea was first advanced by now departed, Fred Sampson
Dec 13 a Fred was a visionary that knew the importance of using state funds to help grow this humble county.
Dec 13 a Mr Sampson's deep thinking and git up and go is already missed in the County of Little.

Dec 12 late p Clay County Schools are operating on a two hour delay Wed morning. Sleep in kids
Dec 12 a Blanch (Neff) McCune, 88, of Lizemores, see OBITUARY page
Dec 12 a 42 degrees this morning with weathercasters telling us, get out the winter jackets, rain, snow showers, and temps down in the low 20's for the next four days.
Dec 12 a A small band of volunteers are trying to grow better internet service for this and three other counties. The Clayberry team meets today at 1pm in the County Commission room at the Courthouse
Dec 12 a Tonight the CHS Boys are taking on Herbert Hoover HS in home court action. Go Panthers
Dec 12 a 101.7FM plans to air the match up beginning around 7:20pm with TG Griffith behind the mic
Dec 12 a Here's the online link for those too far away to attend in person.
Dec 12 a Special Note 1: the non profit's station is having transmitter problems. Instead of a good sound for several miles out, the power setting goes up and then down, and then off, then everything starts over again. The volunteers have replaced the aging rascal with a back up smaller unit. Replacement is not going to be cheap. The last transmitter came in at around $3000
Dec 12 a Special Note: To keep all the Basketball games coming this season and to help with replacing, repairing the transmitter, it takes sponsors. So far this season, WYAP-LP has only 4 sponsors. It takes about 15 sponsors to make it happen. $50 is the asking donation for the entire High School season. If you can help em out, stop by Clay Auto today. Thanks in advance
Dec 12 a Very interesting Business Development Authority meeting last night. Post coming on that info later today.

Dec 11 p Forgot to mention in last night's post, the BDA also meets tonight.
Dec 11p BDA meetings are held in the old State Road garage in Two Run and begin at 6:30. Their agenda makes mention of an update on the hiking trail. Hope there's some good news there.
Dec 11 p Better get your outdoor chores taken care of this afternoon. The high temp for Wed is just 28 degrees with dustings of snow coming Tuesday. Brrrrrrrrrrrrrr
Dec 11 p Need a full or part time job? See JOBS page today.

Dec 10 p School Board meets at the Pentagon Monday night at 6pm. The agenda was posted timely.
Dec 10 p Lets talk dirty rotten crap.
Dec 10 p Things come to mind. Stealing from a little ole lady.... a church robber stands out as rotten to the core
Dec 10 p Now add this. Stealing from the Toys for Tots Christmas campain. Fortunately, they were caught on camera.
Dec 10 p Are you noticing the number of people diagnosed with demntian. Old Timer's desease? Here's a study that is linking such to the use of canola oil.

Dec 10 a This Sunday morning we're waking up to our first dusting of snow. Ridge tops are showing about half an inch, just enough to make the place look like Christmas time.Something about snow brings out the magic of the Season.
Dec 10 a The Ace Cub Reporter is a diabetic cripple even with a whole cocktail of drugs taken each day.
Dec 10 a At every corner he tries to come up with some all new cure for the rotten disease.
Dec 10 a 9 years ago, after listening to a local radio show which touted the virtues of eating cinnamon as a cure to everything, he tried that out and decided, if a little helps, a lot will do better
Dec 10 a After several months of eating a bunch of that stuff, he wound up in the hospital. Although breaking wind was much less revolting, a humongo kidney stone had to be surgically removed in the Spring of of 2008.
Dec 10 a No more cinnamon for that lad.
Dec 10 a Now he may have found something that really might help.
Dec 10 a A few months back, he started drinking tomato juice, maybe a full glass a day.
Dec 10 a Get this, each night, after a tomato juice went down the hatch, remarkably, blood sugar levels were much lower the next morning.
Dec 10 a We're not medically trained but others are reporting similar results.
Dec 10 a The big news from the last seven days was the firing of long time Town employee, Dwana Murphy
Dec 10 a See below for details
Dec 10 a Since then, we've been receiving emails left and right. As often happens, the wolves have come out from the woodwork including an online petition to have the lady investigated.
Dec 10 a Friday night's Christmas Parade was a huge success. Lasting a full 30 minutes, everything from inflated animals to log trucks and four wheelers were decorated with lights from stem to stern.
Dec 10 a There was something missing.
Dec 10 a The Clay High Marching Band was nowhere to be seen or heard.
Dec 10 a They were seen and heard over in Gauley Bridge Saturday night. It took two costly to operate buses and a box truck to make that road trip and people over there happy..
Dec 10 a Shame the same great sounds weren't heard close to home
Dec 10 a Enjoy the snow this morning.

Dec 8 late p Clay High Panthers smeared Midland Trail, 69 - 40.
Dec 8 a There's some stuff to do this time of year
Dec 8 a Tonight is the unannounced Christmas Parade in downtown Clay. If it's like last year's version, the after dark event will include vehicles with tons of lights. 22 degrees this morning and it's suppose to be about that temp tonight.
Dec 8 a Also, the CHS Panthers are taking on Midland Trail in home game action which begins at 7:30 sharp. Go Panthers
Dec 8 a To get all the boys and girls games on the air, non profit 101.7 FM is still looking for a bunch of sponsors to make it happen. So far only four sponsors have come on board for the season
Dec 8 a If you can help em out, go see Pete over at Clay Auto Parts right away.
Dec 8 a Here's the online links for web listeners.
Dec 8 a Indoor dance, music, and good food tonight up at the Big Otter Community Center.
Dec 8 a More scoop later today

Dec 6 p Thursday morning a bunch of the smallest of small fries will come to the Courthouse and decorate indoor Christmas trees and munch on cookies and hot chocolate. That's always a fun time to be around the big brick building.
Dec 6 p In Nov., Greater Clay Recovery Committee voted to shut the office down on Dec 1st and get rid of the two employees. Reason, they're out of operating money. Rent will be paid thru the end of Dec.
Dec 6 p Greater Clay's governing committee meets Thursday evening at 5pm in their Main Street digs. Having not seen an agenda (as of 11pm Wed evening), not sure if the agency will shut down completely or try to keep the notion alive for a while longer.
Dec 6 p How many of ya have checked back over and over this afternoon for the latest on the Town of Clay dealings. We can tell by the counter, a bunch of ya have. Thanks for your patience and here goes.
Dec 6 p Tuesday evening Clay Town Council went behind closed doors to discuss disciplinary action of an employee. That was the employee that used the Town's Sam's Club card for personal items. FYI: The Sam's account was set up to be for tax exempt purposes, aka, any govt agency can make purchases without paying sales tax. There is also the issue of what happened to those reward points at the end of each year for the last 20+ years.
Dec 6 p First some background.
Dec 6 p In this state, any employee minus an employment contract is an "at will" employee. As such, management can walk in at any time and say: We know longer need your services and you're fired.
Dec 6 p Dwana Murphy went to work for the Town as a meter reading around 95 or 96. With the help of her now ex Mother In law, Betty Murphy, Dwana quickly moved up through the ranks and gained a certain position in the community.
Dec 6 p Dwana later followed Betty Murphy as Town Recorder. She held that position until moving out of town limits and a public ourcry, was forced to resign.
Dec 6 p She also worked as a Class II WaWa operator.
Dec 6 p Behind the scenes, Dwana continued the Murphy empire of side room deals and influence.
Dec 6 p After last night's lengthy secret time, with a unanimous vote in public, Town Council, all five of em, voted to fire the 20+ year employee. They, maybe the Mayor, called her up and told her, you are fired
Dec 6 p This morning early, Dwana Murphy took her office keys to Town Hall, turned them in and walked out, an unemployed person.
Dec 6 p Over the years there have been Town employees that hastily turned in their resignations instead of facing a firing squad. At other times, Council hid rotten employee dealings like the time a clerk stole over $5000 from Town Coffers and was never prosecuted. There was an elected official's grandson that broke into the new Log Factory and stole the gold electrical contact points and nothing was done to the lad.
Dec 6 p There have been times when local elected officials owed huge wawa bills and Council let them float by without public scrutiny or prosecution. There were hidden deals where some agencies were allowed free wawa service.
Dec 6 p Who was behind the giving of Town Christmas bonuses and such? Dwana would be the correct answer. Who was responsible for doling out the crappy work to disliked employees, Dwana once again.
Dec 6 p As far as out right firing an employee, this firing was the first in many, many, many years.
Dec 6 p Mayor Hubbard held a meeting with the remaining employees this morning around 9am
Dec 6 p Bet their shorts were all bunched up!
Dec 6 p Bet the remaining employees are walking a new line, one where they actually get some work done and fulfill requests made by Council and the public!
Dec 6 p It's a new day in the Town of Clay land. It's a day devoid of the left over strings from years gone by.
Dec 6 p Good!
Dec 6 p There is already street talk of Dwana trying to get her job back via some kind of civil lawsuit.
Dec 6 p Full details in the next Communicator.
Dec 6 p Come Feb when we do the anual begging campaign, remember how nice it is to have a web portal with first hand, factual, to the point, local news. That place is right here on beeuuuutiful clayberry.org.

Dec 6 a Get your java, this is going to take a few minutes...
Dec 6 a 29 degrees this morning with a dusting of the white stuff expected for Friday night.
Dec 6 a It was one heck of a Lady Panther B Ball game last night. The final quarter was a stand up all the way barn burner with Lewis County coming out on top, 57 to 53
Dec 6 a The Communicator made it out the door Tuesday afternoon. It's a darn good edition loaded with down home info you can find nowhere else. 80 cents and worth every penny
Dec 6 a Whomever is organizing Friday's Christmas parade, those folks have done little in the way of promoting the fun time. To date, they've provided no notice of the event , in any way, as far we can see
Dec 6 a During last night's Town Council meeting, word came of the parade, date, time, and that the Town's Security Man, Danny Berry, would assist anyway he can. That's as official as we can manage. See EVENTS page for details
Dec 6 a For decades, Clay Town Council has been a hand off management team. They met once a month, talked about doing something, collected their pay days, and went home. By the next month's meeting, they had forgot about what was talked about 30 days prior. Things have changed with the new administration.
Dec 6 a Here's the biggy for the morning. Mayor Hubbard brought some serious business to the Council table last night.
Dec 6 a Last month, while purchasing a new safe for the Town office at Sam's Club, he found out, the Town of Clay has a Sam's Club card on file.
Dec 6 a After scratching his head a couple times, he did some investigating.
Dec 6 a Turns out, there's been a Town of Clay Sam's Club card for many years. We think he said, 19 years.
Dec 6 a It's always good to wisely spend taxpayer funds but....
Dec 6 a This card had one town employee as a the primary card holder and a bunch of that employee's family and friends listed as other card holders.
Dec 6 a The card allows for tax free purchases as well as end of the years points (cash) back to the primary card holder.
Dec 6 a Keep in mind, town elders knew nothing about this arraignment held by the one employee. Nothing
Dec 6 a At Hubbard's request, Sam's Club pulled the last two years worth of records. Town purchases amounted to zero on the card but the employee had used the card. According to the Mayor, one purchase, personal purchase, was over $2000.
Dec 6 a See the problem? Is anybody saying, Fraud? Unjust enrichment?
Dec 6 a With their serious hat on, Council provided frank discussion during their monthly meeting on the policy of such an inside concept. With a unanimous vote, they decided to immediately cancel the Sam's Card.
Dec 6 a The policy issue was settled. The Sam's Club problem and liability for the Town was settled, kaput.
Dec 6 a According to the W Va Ethics Commission opinion 2010-18, such purchases are unlawful.
Dec 6 a Council went into secret time to discuss discipline for the wayward employee.
Dec 6 a Town Recorder Joe Coleman is also a Town employee. Citing conflict issues as an employee, Coleman did the right thing and stayed out, away, from the secret time talks
Dec 6 a Check back this evening for the results of the secret time and any public vote on discipline
Dec 6a We're glad Jason Hubbard is on the job.

Dec 4 p Communicator comes out tomorrow. No updates unless someone does something dumb before Tuesday evening
Dec 4 p Believe it or not, it's Clay High basketball season time.
Dec 4 p The local radio stations are planning to air a little over 20 games this season. the mix will be half boys and half girls.
Dec 4 p First game to be on non profit 101.7FM and 106.7FM is Tuesday evening when the girls take the courts in Lewis County action.
Dec 4 p To get the season on, those folks needs sponsors. $50 is the asking price for the whole season. That's three months of getting your and/or your business name mentioned several times during each contest.
Dec 4 p If you are interested in getting our athlete's names and good deeds on the radio, stop by and see Peter over at Clay Auto Parts in Two Run and do so right away.
Dec 4 p Go Lady Panthers!
Dec 4 p Town Council meets Tuesday at 5:30pm in the WaWa Plant . Meeting is open to the public except when its not
Dec 4 a CAEZ also meets tomorrow.
Dec 4 p Better enjoy this afternoon's 60 degree temp. Rotten weather including a chance of snow comes our way at week's end.

Dec 3 p This past week is one for the history books. Real history.
Dec 3 p Friday was the 316th day of the trumpistan reign of prevarication. Whatever the guy says, we know the truth ain't in it and to believe just the opposite
Dec 3 p On Friday General Flynn admitted to felony fibbing, the shortage jail time charge available. There is little doubt, to receive that low felony consideration, the deal was cast, Flynn will spill his guts on Team Trump.
Dec 3 p Sure reminds us of 44 years ago when Nixon's John Dean went to the Senate and spilled the beans on that administration
Dec 3 p True Drumpf could pardon his deviate family and friends but that still leaves him in the grease. He can't pardon himself. Before you say, well, VP Pence will just give him the easy out. Wrong, Pence is in deep trouble as well and is looking at time out in the pasture.
Dec 3 p Bet the White House staff slept little this weekend. Also, bet the staff is already putting feelers out for other job opportunities
Dec 3p Might be a great Christmas after all for the rest of the nation.
Dec 3 p Without Demorat support or involvement, the Senate got a step closer to increasing taxes on everybody except the millionaires and corporations. In the package and unknown to many are the cutbacks to Medicare, Medicaid, ObamaCare, and children insurance programs.
Dec 3 p Washington leadership is in sad shape this Dec 2017.
Dec 3 p Locally, Jim Dawson is an ole fart that works hard to make a living. His garage business has been at it for years. Those seeking dependable repairs, they go to Dawsons
Dec 3 p This past week, one of the vehicles in his parking lot was stolen. Others were vandalized.
Dec 3p Street crimes continues to bite folks that are already struggling to keep their doors open for business.
Dec 3 p On Sunday morning, came a scanner request for Badges to investigate a 4 wheeler stolen in the Queen Shoals area.
Dec 3 p Richwood W Va has been home to scandalous govt dealings for decades.
Dec 3 p Back in the 40's, it was Richwood leadership that went after the Burnette family's religious beliefs.
Dec 3 p That lawsuit made it all the way to U S Big Robes and established the separation of church and state ruling that this county's leadership struggles with right thru today.
Dec 3 p Richwood's Mayor Bob Baber is in the grease with his Town Council trying hard to toss the independent thinking Baber from power. Another costly lawsuit is in the works as we write.
Dec 3 p We have a small band of volunteers trying to organize improved internet service for a four county service area which includes County Clay. Here's an update on that much needed effort.
Dec 3 p Raise your hand if you think Badges over step their bounds. For those folks concerned over bogus searches, here's some interesting reading on a couple cases that the Court smacked down.
Dec 3 p With Drumpf in charge, it gets confusing on whether ObamaCare is still around. The answer is Yes and little has changed. For those needing cheap insurance coverage, here's the facts. Deadline to sign up is in two weeks.
Dec 3 p The Communicator comes out Tuesday. Deadline for submissions is Monday around 5pm. This edition is also a great time for businesses and individuals to include thier Christmas message to customers.
Dec 3 p We've got sunshine this afternoon. Get out and enjoy it while you can.
Dec 2 a We keep trying to update the web but it ain't working. Instead, calling it writer's block, we're screwing off. Might be related to warm weather and desire to polish off Fall duties in the yard.
Dec 2 a Don't forget, Santa come to town this morning. See EVENTS page now
Dec 2 a People have asked, why don't you have a listing for the Christmas parade.
Dec 2 a Our response is, what Christmas parade
Dec 2 a Volunteer efforts go on all the time. The workers work their butts off preparing a nice event but fail in one area. That area is advertising.
Dec 2 a That appears to be the case with the supposedly coming, Christmas parade
Dec 2 a Mark yesterday as a big day in history. Built on a weak foundation, when Gen Flynn plead guilty, the House of Trumpistan went into a tail spin. The crumble is now underway. Knuckle draggers are crying.
Dec 2 a Good!
Dec 2 a With cooler weather now coming, we hope to get back in the website groove

Nov 30 p Billy Joe Doughty Jr, 44 of Procious, see OBITUARY page

Nov. 28 p During the 2016 Great Wash Out, over at Clay High, the sides of their VFW building collapsed, the bus garage flooded, lower level parts of the school went under water. No school in County Clay was covered by flood insurance. None
Nov. 28 p We forgot to mention something from Monday night's Sch Bd meeting
Nov. 28 p The only question from the peanut gallery was about flood insurance
Nov. 28 p From Joe Paxton: we don't have flood insurance and a stipulation before receiving FEMA money, Clayberry schools must start paying for the costly insurance
Nov. 28 p What state is the worst place to operate a business?
Nov. 28 p For the third year in a row, West Virginia ranked at the bottom of Forbes’ list of the “Best States for Business.” West Virginia's ranking was the result of multiple factors, according to Forbes senior editor Kurt Badenhausen, including the worst population growth rate in the United States and the lowest college attainment rate in the country at 19.6 percent.
Nov. 28 p Just two states away is the best place to operate a business.
Nov. 28 p Here's the complete Forbes list.
Nov. 28 p Changing gears and trying to make your day even crapier...
Nov. 28 p North Korea has rockets that can reach over 8000 miles and thats all of the USA; the Republicrats tax increase plan hits low wager earners worst; that same plan reduces Medicaid and Medicare coverage; and, the Federal govt is facing a shutdown in 10 days.
Nov. 28 p What's all that mean? One thing
Nov28p The folks in charge, the Repubs, don't know how to govern.
Nov 28 p Have a wonderful day clickers.
Nov. 28 a Last night's School Board meeting was over in 15 minutes. Absent from duty was Cheryl White. Held at Lizemore Elem, the idea of going to each school is to allow the public, parents, community members, to comment and make suggestions.
Nov. 28 a Many years ago, the Legislature came up with an idea to further include the community into the educational process. They called the notion, a Local School Improvement Council.
Nov. 28 a The idea was to have a steering committee made up of parents and community leaders to make changes at the local school. Giving power to the people. Now that's dangerous!
Nov. 28 a Local leaders knew right off the bat, don't let the rabble have any power or let them think they have any power.
Nov. 28 a To that end, LSIC's were quickly turned into groups made up of team players like principals, teachers, and service personnel.
Nov. 28 a There was a time when LSIC's made big demands of the Sch Board, important stuff like hiring more teachers, adding a different classes and on and on
Nov. 28 a Those days are over
Nov. 28 a Last night, the Lizemore LSIC asked for some shelving for their library. That was it. There is no need for anything else at that school.
Nov. 28 a Another well trained and in lock step LSIC in action

Nov. 27 a After four days of screwing off and feeling better about it, it's time to get back to work.
Nov. 27 a Sch Board convenes in public session tonight at 6pm down at Lizemores Elem.
Nov. 27 a The agenda includes replacing After School teachers and the Site Coordinator.
Nov. 27 a After 30+ years of coaching, Mary Francis Ramsey is retiring.
Nov. 27 a New stuff on Classified and OBituary page
Nov. 27 a More later today

Nov. 24 a We're recovering from indigestion and a sore thumb.
Nov. 24 a We're also taking four days off from the business of news.
Nov. 24 a No updates except Obits and seriously dumb bunny Clayberry news

Nov. 22 a First something important. Funeral arrangements for Fred Sampson have changed. Please reread the OBITUARY for up to date viewing and funeral location.
Nov. 22 a County Commission meets this morning beginning at 10am.
Nov. 22 a The Communicator made it out the door and is available at news stands across the region.
Nov. 22 a 20 pages of news and views including all the details from the latest Grand Jury proceedings
Nov. 22 a For those afar, here in Clayberry and for the last two days of good weather, the place is awash with the sound of high powered rifles kabooming and the four wheelers roaring up and down every side round and trail path. It's buck season 2017. The official color for Deer Camp week is orange.
Nov. 22 a Charlie Manson spent part of his childhood down in Charleston where hs made a name for himself as a nice kid. The West Side also sports the honor of having a person that tried to kill a President. Here's the rundown.
Nov. 22 a The write up includes a reference to Van's Never Closed Market in Dog Town heading toward Dunbar. Van's was the first all night market for Charleston and the place to go for cheap beer. In the way of security, the one armed Van Watson kept his 38 special out in plain view and at the ready. No one messed with that guy excpt us kids who egged his big plate glass windows every Halloween.
Nov. 22 a The empty building still stands today and is located beside the Post Office on West Washington Street.
Nov. 22 a The Communicator and this sister website regularly complain about pee poor test scores and dismal performance of our education system. Because of those embarrassing results year after year, the Republicrats have found a way to make rotten scores go away. It's so simple.
Nov. 22 a For us old farts, Nov. 22nd is the day the world stopped and we remember the day JFK was killed right before our eyes..
Nov. 22 a The conspiracy theories continue.
Nov. 22 a The very best of Thanksgiving wishes to you and yours.

Nov. 20 p Fred Sampson, 87, of Ivydale, see OBITUARY page

Nov. 20 a County Clay is at war with Bambi
Nov. 20 a Men are dressed in their new winter boots and orange jackets and carrying enough ammo and weaponry to knock out North Korea. Four wheelers are zooming thru the woods. You can almost hear the stampede of deer trying to get away from their fate
Nov. 20 a Kids are out of school all week. Parents are already crying and the week off of school is just beginning
Nov. 20 a This seven days is known as Deer Camp. The world stops for seven days.
Nov. 20 a This morning, two minutes before the downtown Clay wawa outage was suppose to happen, we received this email from the Town of Clay: We have called several business's in Town and let them know that we will be turning off the water from the courthouse on main street down through Pisgah to Pierson lumber. We HAVE NOT issued a boil water and we will not do so until we see what customers will be on it. Monday morning we will decide who will be on that Boil Water and it will be issued then. Clay Water This email was sent over the weekend to another email address for the communicator. realty did try to notify you.
Nov. 20 a Friday around 2:30, the Courthouse and others were provided notice of the outage set for today.
Nov. 20 a The just above email makes mention that the Water Operators attempted to send an email this weekend
Nov. 20 a Why not on Friday when everybody else was notified?
Nov. 20 a The Communicator comes out tomorrow. Deadline for submissions is today around 5pm
Nov. 20 a No updates until we get the thang to bed sometime early Tuesday morning

Nov. 19 a The Clay County Courthouse will be closed on Monday. Courthouse workers received a call from the Town of Clay Friday afternoon about a main line wawa repair coming from 9 to 3pm on the 20th.
Nov. 19 a Courthouse closings affect lots of people. Everyone from people paying taxes, to checking deeds, and filing papers. they need to know about the one day closing.
Nov. 19 a Once again, even after raising H during a recent Boil Water Order for the Town of Clay NOT providing notice, the Town of Clay has been derelict with notification once again. Chief Water Operator Drema Thomas and operator Dwana Murphy are the responsible parties.
Nov. 19 a We've received emails and phone calls from those wanting to know about funeral arrangement for Fred Sampson. As of this morning, we have received no word on the service or if there is going to even be a service.
Nov. 19 a Last night big poofs of wind came tearing thru County Clay.
Nov. 19 a This morning, many of us woke up to no lights, TV, nor a furnace.
Nov. 19 a Outages are reported all around the state.
Nov. 19 a THis web update comes via a handy dandy portable generator powering the DSL and screen.
Nov. 19 a There's a chance of snow for later today.
Nov. 19 a Had he lived, Happy 100th Birthday wishes to Robert C Byrd.

Nov. 17 late p Homer Osborne, 90, of Bickmore, see OBITUARY page

Nov. 17 p Here's the latest on Jeanie Davis' Auction scheduled for Saturday Nov. 18th
Nov. 17 p It is true that some of the Auction posters were marked CANCELED
Nov. 17 p BUT BUT BUT, the AUCTION IS ON FOR TOMORROW
Nov. 17 p the only thing that is NOT being sold Saturday Nov. 18th are the vehicles and lite aircraft.
Nov. 17 p Everything else is a go!!!
Nov. 17 p See you at the auction.

Nov. 17 a Everybody loves a good auction. Most of us wind up buying a bunch of crapola that we don't need and ends up in a yard sale down the road.
Nov. 17 a Jeanie Davis was hosting an auction set for tomorrow over on Hansford Fork.
Nov. 17 a We noticed yesterday, on one of the auction posters, in big black block print, CANCELED.
Nov. 17 a That's all we know about it as of this morning.
Nov. 17 a You may think we've been screwing off for the last two days. Wrong O
Nov. 17 a In between our nap schedule, we've been watching govt happenings.
Nov. 17 a We'll get to a couple notes for this morning
Nov. 17 a For decades, Clay Development Corp (CDC) was the head scratcher of the county. Actually, CDC was the embarassment of the county.
Nov. 17 a We watched them reduce, eliminate, by-law requirements so Pam Ramsey Taylor could be installed as Director during a coup.
Nov. 17 a The idea was to circle the wagons and have one family in charge of the CDC money, goods and services.
Nov. 17 a With the new leadership, they changed general membership and Board membership to reflect inside views and reduce any chance of toppling the empire. Get out of line with the Czar, you'd be tossed out in the cold
Nov. 17 a Many saw the problem and on a couple of times, change almost came to CDC.
Nov. 17 a At another point, the Taylor guard had to take wayward boardsters to court to keep control . For those outsiders trying to make things better, they managed to pick the world's worst lawyer, a lawyer so inept, he got sanctioned by the Judge for doing absolutely zero prep ahead of the hearing.
Nov. 17 a So secretive was CDC operations, they took others to court to regain control of a policy and procedure manual.
Nov. 17 a Whether a Boardster or employee, ask one question and OFF WITH YOUR HEAD.
Nov. 17 a Many remember the time that Everette Eagle stood up and said something along the lines of, I want to know what's going on here???? Eagle was tossed from the Board that afternoon
Nov. 17 a CDC employed badges to remove members of the public from public meetings.
Nov. 17 a A couple employees saw the questionable financial dealings and challenged the non profit social service provider. Those folks were fired on the spot.
Nov. 17 a Those cases were taken to court where CDC lost and had to pay out big settlement sums.
Nov. 17 a When Team Taylor was removed from the organization last Dec 23rd, the county felt, things are going to change for the better.
Nov. 17 a For the last 9 months, an outside agency (AAA) was brought in to revive the deeply in debt CDC and get it back on a trustworthy path.
Nov. 17 a The first public meeting the new CDC Board was held Tuesday, Nov. 14th at 3pm. The public was allowed to attend.
Nov. 17 a Around the table, the Board was provided few details. Everything was in general terms. As for what a new hire was being paid, how many hours the male will work, all that is top secret and could not be discussed in public. Management felt it would also be a bad thing to let the Board know the name if the new employee over at the Nutrition Site.
Nov. 17 a As for how much they're paying for electric, wawa, toilet paper, paint, nope, that too is not available to the public.
Nov. 17 a During an interview published by the Communicator and later during a Nov. 2017 County Commission meeting, the public was told, the new and improved Clay Development Corp would operate under Open meeting Law. At some other point, we were told, for them to secure Fed. funding, they were required to follow Sunshine Law.
Nov. 17 a On Tuesday, the new Board did not post a meeting agenda for all to see. Nothing was posted even on the day of the meeting. No member of the public was provided a meeting agenda nor financial report.
Nov. 17 a OK OK, it was their first meeting and we'll give em a break on agenda posts. The learning process is just underway.
Nov. 17 a We can't give em a break on thinking, financials are off limit for the taxpayer. We can't give em a break for thinking, the new, already hired, employee is top secret. We can't give em a break for going secret on wage levels.
Nov. 17 a We're trying to give em the benefit of the doubt for their first meeting. But, the problem with the old CDC was absolute, total secrecy, which led to inside deals one after another.
Nov. 17a Surely to goodness, we're not headed down that same path again.

Nov. 14 p Madge Shelvegene Mullins , 81, see OBITUARY page
Nov. 14 p Let's do some catchin up
Nov. 14 p Monday night's Sch Bd was interesting for what wasn't said in public. Like...
Nov. 14 p Just a third of the way thru the school year, up at Big Otter Elem, after school teachers Pamela Douglas, Karen Knopp, and Stacy Marks resigned their positions as did the site coordinator Brandi McKinney.
Nov. 14 p Our elected Sch Bd reps blasted right thru accepting the resignations without a whimper or comment.
Nov. 14 p Sure sounds like there is some kind of rift at our most technology advanced grade school in the county
Nov. 14 p A couple months ago a teacher at that same school raised the hackles of many parents after allegations were raised that the teach shook the crap out of a student. Immediately the teacher was removed from the school for a couple weeks. Most feel, the teach was suspended during that time with the hopes that parents would forget about it.
Nov. 14 p When the teach returned, in two days time, Poof! gone again. In all, it's been close to two months with a costly sub filling in the position.
Nov. 14 p So peed are parents, an online petition was launched and several parents, grand parents, attended a Board meeting where all of em were forced into secret time if they wanted their thoughts known to the Board.
Nov. 14 p OK< that the background as best we can tell it.
Nov. 14 p On Monday, the 13th and at all Board meetings before, there has not been ANY action given the teach. There has been no vote to suspend, fire, put on probation or accepting a resignation... nothing officially has been done
Nov. 14 p So, after a couple months, it's a pretty good vacation for the wayward teach who must be receiving a full pay day. Adding to the cost overruns, a sub has to be paid.
Nov. 14 p A darn good job (vacation) if you can get it clickers!
Nov. 14 p the final snippit from Monday night... during a secret time to decide the fate of a Clay High School, after a long time away from the public, the Board voted in public to expel a student for 365 days.
Nov. 14 p Our guess is, that's the student who sent social media viral just before Halloween by sporting an assault style rifle on his shoulder and attached thoughts like: I cna't wait until tomorrow.
Nov. 14 p During that secret time, could they have been discussing the wayward teacher from Big Otter?
Nov. 14 p They shoudn't be. Anything other than discussing the student in question would most likely be tossed out in a court of law.
Nov. 14 p And now for this morning....
Nov. 14 p This morning the new Fall Class of Indictees appeared for Arraignment day before Judge Alsop
Nov. 14 p We'll provide the details on all 15 of em in the next Communicator but for now, here's a couple notes
Nov. 14 p Garin Osburn is a nice looking 36 year old feller. The guy is indicted on 6 counts each of Puter Fraud and Access Device Fraud.
Nov. 14 p The thievery charges don't sound too interesting until you realize, earlier this year, the guy used a debit card and stole from a local Cub Scout Pack. Cub Scouts!!!
Nov. 14 p I know, I know, everyone's innocent until proven otherwise BUT, stealing from Cub Scouts???? What a dirty cheap trick!
Nov. 14 p For number two, put your thinking hats on and turn the wayback machine to August, 2015.
Nov. 14 p Back then most of us were enjoying an evening BBQ under the canopy, when the scanner lit up. Something about an arrest gone real bad and some kind of huge explosion. Green Shirt bomb teams were brought into the county. Local Badges backed away from the scene and stood down until the calvary arrived.
Nov. 14 p Turns out, Denver Rucker was growing pot. When the Badges showed up the guns came out. Someone blasted a propane tank and KaBooooom rattled the Southern end of the county along Valley View Drive.
Nov. 14 p After recovering from his burns, Denver Rucker was in Court today via a wheelchair ride. The 69 year old responded, not guilty 14 times before Judge Alsop.
Nov. 14 p Rucker's trial is set for Feb 18th. His bond remains at $500,000.
Nov. 14 p Turns out, Badges don't like it when someone comes darn close to killing them.
Nov. 14 p Now, if pot was legal in 2015, Rucker would be a happy smoked up senior citizen today
Nov. 14 p Most of us old farts have gotten away from drugs. A bunch of us are still tempted by a chance at garnering some unearned cash.
Nov. 14 p Last Summer, right after the Great Wash Out in June, a bunch of people put their hands out for free goods and services. Some grabbed tons of new items, turned around and sold the goods in yard sales while others loaded their trucks up and headed to WalMart to redeem cash for the goodwill hand outs.
Nov. 14 p Thomas Holcomb is well known to local Badges. Nothing major , but often, Thomas winds up on the wrong side of the law.
Nov. 14 p Holcomb was indicted on Flood Fraud (we made up that term) for filing false reports with FEMA and state agencies.
Nov. 14 p If convicted, Thomas Holcomb is looking at up to 10 years on each charge.
Nov. 14 p We think there are several others being looked at . We hope so anyway. We hope so because we saw much greedy corruption with our own eyes right after the flood.
Nov. 14 p For those that haven't guessed, all the newbees in the court system told the Court, Not me Judge, I'm not guilty.
Nov. 14 p The newly reconstituted Clay County Development Corp held their first public Board meeting this afternoon. We're going to sleep on our findings before posting. That should come sometime Wed afternoon. Check back in then.

Nov. 14 a We've got some pretty good posting coming from last night's Sch Bd meeting.
Nov. 14 a Right now we're heading over to the Courthouse to take in Arraignment Day.
Nov. 14 a Posting should be visible after 1pm today. Check back please.

Nov. 13 p As for the shooter of Ronald L Boggs, whomever pulled the trigger, that person is still on the run. Who knows, he or she might be your next door neighbor.
Nov. 13 p As of 3 pm today, there were no arrests on file in the Magistrate Clerk's office.
Nov. 13 p At the old Courthouse, there is a downstairs outside door. That's the one used by the Clay Ambulance Service for entrance to their offices many years ago.
Nov. 13 p The door lock was smashed in sometime this past weekend. A new lock was installed mid day today.
Nov. 13 p Sheriff Triplett felt it wasn't a break in and said the old lock was not in good working order.
Nov. 13 p We think, it could very well be, since it was so cold this past weekend, members of our homeless community busted thru the door for a warm place to sleep.
Nov. 13 p One year and 5 days ago, all H broke loose over at Clay Development Corp. On the 9th of Nov. 2016, Director Pam Taylor made the facebook post that was heard around the world. It took her Board until Dec 23rd 2016 to make the obvious decision to fire the long time in charge family that ran CDC.
Nov. 13 p For the first time in years, actually, over a decade, Clay Development Corp (CDC) will hold a Board meeting in public. That comes tomorrow afternoon, 3pm, in the CDC building on Main Street.

Nov. 13 p Elvin Delner Frame, 84, see OBITUARY page.

Nov. 13 a On this gloomy, damp, Monday morning, we haven't heard of any arrests from Friday's murder. Will check at the Courthouse later today for updates
Nov. 13 a School Board meets tonight at 6pm. The agenda lists several resignations from Big Otter Elem's after school program. Those resignations include the site coordinator.
Nov. 13 a Motion day provides the local court system a chance to see where they are in all the cases that are on the books.
Nov. 13 a Motion Day was held last week before Judge Jack Alsop.
Nov. 13 a No shows included: Thomas Lee Rose, Winzell Gibson, Bobby Edward Lanham, Tom Stuck, Jason Henry, Billie Murphy, and Jeremy Salisbury
Nov. 13 a If you see any of those folks, please tell em, the Sheriff has pick up orders in your name.
Nov. 13 a This is the week before Deer Camp.
Nov. 13 a Whether you actually hunt or not, this is the week we put new tires on the four wheeler or side by sides, buy ammo and then go out back and blast away beer cans. We also head over to Wally World to purchase cold weather socks, long underwear, and overalls.
Nov. 13 a Around Clayberry, in the back of nearly every pick em up truck, there's an ATV at the ready to locate good hunting spots

Nov. 10 late late p Here's the MetroNews write up on this mornings murder.
Nov. 10 p Around 8:23 (my time) this morning, the scanner lit up with a 40 something male not breathing, then a pause, then, and he has a bullet hole in his chest
Nov. 10 p In any shooting incident, ambulance crews wait till Badges secure the scene.
Nov. 10 p Almost an hour later, we saw the first Blue and Gold cruiser go flying past Go Mart in Two Run with the blue lights on heading to the Clay County Dump Road.
Nov. 10 p By 11 am this morning, word on the street had it, that a 46 year old male was living under a rock overhang covered with a tarp and a shooter ended his life.
Nov. 10 p Spectators near the scene report a male and female were seen in the back seat of a cruiser heading off the hill.
Nov. 10 p With the courthouse closed today for Veteran's Day, hard to get any first hand info from criminal complaints.
Nov. 10 p Last night, there were right at a dozen people sleeping, living, on Main Street in downtown Clay.
Nov. 10 p This morning the temp stood around 32 degrees.
Nov. 10 p For anyone interested, Anderson Heights low income apartments has 4 or 5 open apartments for rent.

Nov. 10 a Better get a cup of coffee, we've got a bunch to talk about this morning.
Nov. 10 a Birthday wishes extended to Ethel Nichols of Wallback who will turn 100 tomorrow.
Nov. 10 a Think about it. During Ms Nichols life time, Civil War soldiers still walked this country. Sitting Bull was still alive. She's been thru 2 world wars and saw for the first time a radio, light bulb, pavement covering the mud, and men on the moon.
Nov. 10 a Wit all that under her belt, she's still perky and spry.
Nov. 10 a After The Communicator came out Tuesday, Clay Town Council held their Nov. meeting in the WaWa Plant. During that gathering, the Mel Gibson Look Alike brought to Council's attention the very serious problem of NOT informing wawa customers of Boil Water Order times.
Nov. 10 a During the discussions, Operator and Office Manager Dwana Murphy gave a light hearted explanation on less than stellar notices provided only a few customers. Explanations also came on the many times that the Boil Water Orders are only provided those immediately affected by the crud filled wet stuff.
Nov. 10 a As for a written policy for notification, Nope, they ain't got one or at least made no reference to such a document
Nov. 10 a When informed that a formal complaint had been written, Mayor Hubbard told the body, Good, we will follow any directive provided by the W Va Public Service Commission.
Nov. 10 a Secret times are not common during County Commission meetings.
Nov. 10 a True they get their heads together ahead of time but as far as secret time during public meetings, Wed morning's closed door session was a first in a long time, maybe years.
Nov. 10 a In addition to the three elected folks, 911 Dispatch Director Denise Holcomb and one time 911 center employee Bill Stephenson were included in the secret discussions
Nov. 10 a Afterwards, CCC Chief Greg Fitz said: No decisions have been made yet
Nov. 10 a That means, there was NOT an agenda listing for action on that date. Expect such an item on the next agenda
Nov. 10 a Also from Wed's gathering, the CCC accepted 911 Asst Director Tina Richards resignation effective a couple weeks ago.
Nov. 10 a Based on how much turn over there is at the 911 Center, we think there are serious management issues under foot
Nov. 10 a Thursday evening, over in Summersville, a bunch of folks , upwards of 40, met to discuss growing an ATV riding trail in the center of the state. The idea is to make something as successful as the 19 year old and growing strong, Hatfield and McCoy trail in the Southern end of the State
Nov. 10 a Clayberry is included in those plans with a 108 mile long trail "loop" mostly on Forest Land Management property out Lilly way. "Trailheads" (welcome center, trinket sales, drinks, etc) are planned for the Town of Clay and Gilboa.
Nov. 10 a IF, if, if, this comes to pass, having the riders come thru the municipality .. well, that could be a big boost for our economy. Based on the experiences down South along the Hatfield McCoy Trail, we could expect needs for repair shops, places to munch, places to sleep, and arts and crafts stores.
Nov. 10 a So far, an engineering firm has put together possible trail options in Clay, Fayette, Webster, Nichols, and Braxton Counties.
Nov. 10 a For the Hatifeld and McCoy operation, the annual budget is around $3.9 million dollars but brings into that area, close to $20 million new dollars. One speaker commented, about 60 percent of the riders are from out of state. That amounts to lots of new dollars in the struggling coal field economy.
Nov. 10 a Don't get too excited readers. It took Hatfield McCoy folks 10 years to get the first riding experience up and running down there. One optimistic lad thought, the first trail loop in thsese parts could open in just five years if if if everything came together without 'hitches".
Nov. 10 a More on the trail idea this weekend. Stop back then
Nov. 10 a Lots going on this weekend. Be sure to check out the EVENTS and ADVISORY pages for details.
Nov. 10 a Up at the Big Otter Community Center, music and dance tonight!
Nov. 10 a 32 degrees this morning at 6:30am.
Nov. 10 a Scanner traffic, 8:34 am this morning: feller not breathing with a gunshot wound to the chest.
Nov. 10 a Just another Friday morning in the Land of Little.

Nov. 9 p Everett “Junior” Rogers, 86, of Indore, see OBITUARY page

Nov. 8 p Grand Jury results are in. In brief...
Nov. 8 p Sean Thacker - Sex Assault 2nd Degree, Incest, Sex Abuse by parent
Nov. 8 p Garin Osburn - 'Puter Fraud x 6, Access Device Fraud x 6
Nov. 8 p Gary W Moore - transferring and receiving stolen vehicle
Nov. 8 p Randall J Taylor - Burglary
Nov. 8 p Phillip Burnside - Burglary x 2
Nov. 8 p Denver Rucker - Manufacturing Schedule 1 substance
Nov. 8 p Denver Rucker - Wanton Endangerment w firearm x 3; commission of felon with firearm; possession of destructive device; causing death or injury x 4; Wanton Endangerment involving destructive device
Nov. 8 p Rodney Mark Workman - Wanton Endangerment w/ firearm; domestic assault; person prohibited from firearm possession
Nov. 8 p James Jennings Ramsey - Failure to Register
Nov. 8 p John Eric Hunt - counterfeiting x 5; conspiracy x 2
Nov. 8 p Glenda Skaggs - counterfeiting x 5 ; Conspiracy x 2
Nov. 8 p Justin Lee Brown - B&E; Grand Larceny; Dest of Prop x 2; transferring stolen goods; obstructing an officer; fleeing; false statement x 2
Nov. 8 p Natasha Hudnall - B&E; Grand Larceny; Dest of Prop x 2; transferring stolen goods; obstructing an officer; fleeing; false statement x 2
Nov. 8 p There was one presentation brought by a private citizen that went nowhere
Nov. 8 p And there was one more.
Nov. 8 p How many of you know people that received Fed dollars after the June 23rd Great Wash? How many of those folks were never touched by the high water? How many of em took cleaning supplies, butt wipe, water , brooms, mops, and more and then took the goods over to Wal-Mart and traded it in for $$$?
Nov. 8 p The final indictment goes to Thomas Holcomb who is officially charged with Computer fraud and obtaining goods under false pretense
Nov. 8 p The reality is, Holcomb is charged with flood fraud
Nov. 8p That's one indictment. Wonder how many more are squirming in their seat about now?
Nov. 8 p All the new class of folks are suppose to show up next Tuesday, 9 am, to tell the Judge, I didn't do it

Nov. 8 a County Commission meets this morning beginning at 10 am
Nov. 8 a Need a job, check out the JOBS page for stream clean up work at $10 per hour
Nov. 8 a Greater Clay Long Term Recovery Committee has a couple jobs needing finished before they close their door. If you have a handi-man license, Greater Clay has a job for you
Nov. 8 a If you have an interest in what's really going on in County Clay, pick up a copy of The Communicator today.
Nov. 8 a Fall Grand Jury finished their work well after 4pm yesterday.
Nov. 8 a If all goes well, we plan to have the results posted around noon today. Check back then.

Nov. 7 p Around 3:30 today the Fall Grand Jury was still meeting behind closed doors. One lady commented, they probably won't be done today
Nov. 7 p Town Council meets this afternoon at 5:30 in the WaWa Plant on main Street.
Nov. 7 p The Communicator made it out the door today a little early. For those interested in what's really going on in Clayberry, The Communicator is your source for news and views
Nov. 7 p Yesterday we put a call to help a young family pay to get their gas service turned on before cold weather sets in.
Nov. 7 p Thankfully, we can report, the need is taken care of. You are appreciated
Nov. 7 p Looks like they will have their gas turned on by week's end.
Nov. 7 a NICHOLS, M. Sharon, age 78, see OBITUARY page
Nov. 6 p TImes are tough in Appalachia. While small segments of the economy have improved since W's financial melt down in 2007, for West Virginia, for Clayberry, that hasn't happened
Nov. 6 p We've got a mayday call.
Nov. 6 p With Winter coming on, here at home, we have a pregnant Mother of one in need. Her husband is looking for a job, but as you guessed, jobs are in very short supply.
Nov. 6 p For this family, and including a $60 past due amount, it's going to take about $115 to get their natural gas service turned on. Other needs are being met but this $115 is beyond their means.
Nov. 6 p We checked with various local social service agencies including DHHR and found out, there are no funds available to turn on gas service.
Nov. 6 p If you can make a donation to this needy family, now's the time before temps drop.
Nov. 6 p Just drop off your $$$ to the Communicator office. There is a slot in the door. We'll make sure that the $115 amount is paid to Mteer Gas. If you can mail something over, here's the snail mail address: Delta; 2278 Main Street, Clay WV 25043
Nov. 6 p Thanks in advance.
Nov. 6 a Not quite raining, not quite dry, welcome to the first Monday in Nov.
Nov. 6 a At least it's not snowing
Nov. 6 a We're digesting yet another mass shooting. Here's a case where background checks failed their mission and now we have more sad history for the nation
Nov. 6 a Speaking of sad, 368 days ago, with the help of knuckle draggers and Russia, Drumpf won the Electoral College. How's the year been? Seen any campaign promises kept?
Nov. 6 a Deadline for the next edition of the The Communicator is tonight around 5pm.
Nov. 6 a We're working on some interesting stuff. Like...
Nov. 6 a During the last Greater Clay meeting, Cheryl White put in writing serious complaints on how the organization has been handling pay outs. from what we could quickly read, Ms White has filed complaints with Govt regulators including the IRS against Greater Clay Committee actions.
Nov. 6 a What we read quickly? Yelp, as soon as the multi page info was handed out to Committee members, mouths fell open and calls for secrecy rang our around the room.
Nov. 6 a With the exception of a couple people at the table, it was demanded that the documents be immediately taken up and to be placed in a locked box for Executive Bd (secret time) discussion and action.
Nov. 6 a Full details in tomorrow's Communicator
Nov. 6 a

Nov. 5 p Karen (Chapman) Hutchens, 70, of Ivydale, see OBITUARY page

Nov. 4 a Leaf Peeper Report. This has been a very strange Fall. Instead of the leaves turning orange and red, now fully in Nov., 60% of the foliage remains green. With sunshine expected for Sunday, it should be a great time for a drive to the outback for great Fall colors. Enjoy before winter arrives.
Nov. 4 a River report. The Elk is running above Summer pool and should make for some fast kayaking tomorrow when the temp is suppose to reach 80 degrees. Might be your last chance to enjoy the beautiful Elk in 2017.
Nov. 4 a Tonight is Fall Back night. Reset those clocks.
Nov. 4 a The season is over for the Clay High Panther football team.
Nov. 4 a Last night's game against Webster was a barn burner right up to the end. When the dust settled, Webster got us, 8 to 6
Nov. 4 a For 2017, the Panthers earned 6 wins with 4 defeats.
Nov. 4 a Darn good year. Basketball gets underway in about 1 month
Nov. 4 a A bunch of us make a pilgrimage to Harbor Freight every couple months or so. The place offers cheap prices on most itemss, some pretty good home tools. Some of the stuff is darn right junk
Nov. 4 a For the ace cub reporter, the place is a gold mine for stuff he has absolutely no use for but none the less, when those monthly coupon catalogs arrive in the mail, the trip to Cross Lanes is a must
Nov. 4 a Some of those auto darkening welding helmets cost a couple hundred dollars. At Harbor Freight, with a coupon, helmets start around $35
Nov. 4 a Get this, Ebay has a $19 helmet The darn thing looks just like high dollar units and best of all, it works! That $19... that includes shipping.
Nov. 4 a Fall grand Jury convenes Tuesday, Nov. 7th. No one except the Prosecutor knows what's going to be presented but hopefully, a few more thugs will be taken off the streets.

Nov. 3 p Tonight is the final regular season football game for the Clay High Panthers. It's also Senior Night and those festivities should kick off around 7pm over at Schoonover / Bradley Field. Webster County is the opponent and should make for a tough tough game.
Nov. 3 p 101.7FM and 106.7FM plan to air the fun beginning around 7pm. For those that live afar, try listening on the internet by walking over to www.tunein.com and typing in WYAP.
Nov. 3 p Go Panthers!
Nov. 3 p 17 months ago, the Great Wash Out affected many in County Clay. Right after that disaster, a local group, Greater Clay Long Term recovery set up to assist in the restart efforts. At times stormy, Greater Clay has had its ups and downs.
Nov. 3 p Last night, the Committee voted to shut down the Main street office and lay off the two workers due to lack of $$$. Additionally, they will start liquidating their assets.
Nov. 3 p We mentioned ups and down, here's a down. Greater Clay was given many heating and cooling units for flood victims over a year ago. The units were suppose to be scratch and dent units but with a warranty. After an inspection earlier this week, turns out, the units are badly damaged and have parts missing or falling off.
Nov. 3 p Several social agencies were at the meeting last night and each said, nope, we don't want the units even if given to us.
Nov. 3 p One of the storage buildings for the HVAC units was charging $700 per month for rent. Greater Clay has been paying rent on the junker units for right at 8 months.
Nov3 p After spending all that $$$ on rent, the HVAC units will be junked.
Nov. 3 p Even with a dwindling memory, can't help but remember last Oct , during the Greater Clay meeting, where their Director told the Committee, we hope to have em installed by Christmas..... That was Christmas 2016.
Nov. 3 p Full details in the next Communicator.

Nov. 2 p Erna Wanda Acree, 87, of Clay, see OBITUARY page
Nov. 2 p Violet Murphy, 92, of Moorefork, see OBITUARY page

Nov. 1 late p At 4:30 today, long after the Town's Boil Water Order was put in place and after our online blast of pee poor performance by the Town, we received this email at 4:10pm: Boil water for whole system, main line break in town at 2 pm
Nov. a late p In thses parts, there are no major private sector employers and no big manufacturing jobs. County Clay has little to base an economy around.
Nov. 1 late p To change things for the good, a plan was conceived to grow tourism via a 150 mile long rail to trails hiking biking trail.
Nov. 1 late p The idea was for the trail to be the centerpiece for other upstarts like kayaking, rail riding, and horse drawn wagon rides as starters.
Nov. 1 late p Two months ago, a grant application was signed and delivered to the DEP, Abandoned Mines Land grant overseers. Word came to the county, everything looked good. Outside the county, those in the know also reported, they thought we would get the millions to purchase the dirt under the Elk River Railroad tracks, AKA, a hiking trail.
Nov. 1 late p Word came this afternoon, Clayberry was denied their grant request.
Nov. 1 late p Our centerpiece for growth, it's taken a big hit.
Nov. 1 late p About the only good that came our way is, that can be reported, the BDA still retains a lease on the Buffalo Creek Railroad spur line.
Nov. 1 late p It's a sad day in Clay.
Nov. 1 late p For the many emailers... we have not received an obituary for Chilton Nichols who passed awy on Friday Oct 27th. Sorry

Nov. 1 p Customers of the Town of Clay Water Plant are dependent on Plant Manager Drema Thomas to provide safe, drinkable wawa. We also depend on Ms Thomas to let us know when their product is rotten and or dangerous. State law requires Thomas to inform the public when a Boil Water Order is in place. WV PSC Judges have required providers to make EVERY attempt possible to inform customers when things go bad
Nov. 1 p It is our understanding, mid afternoon today a Boil Water Order was placed on Town of Clay Water customers.
Nov. 1 p As was the case a couple weeks ago, today, no such notice was provided the county's only locally owned newspaper, this website, nor the county's local radio station.
Nov. 1 p There is a pattern of not informing the public. SUch has been going on for years. Such practice is dangerous in intent and scope.
Nov. 1 p The Communicator plans to advance a formal complaint on this dangerous lack of performance to the West Virginia Public Service Commission on Thursday. If your health or a loved ones health is important to you, file a formal complaint and let's put an end to this disgraceful conduct of govt agency.

Nov. 1 p Mix wound up kids with a pound of sugar and costumes and you get a fired up night, Halloween.
Nov. 1 p For us big kids and the small fries alike, Halloween brings us all out for a night of fun
Nov. 1 p Such was the case last night. Based on scanner traffic, we heard no rotten stuff going on either
Nov. 1 p Greater Clay Long Term recovery Committee meets Thursday night at 6pm. Their office is in the old Starcher Furniture building on Main Street
Nov. 1 p With finances real tight, might be an interesting meeting
Nov. 1 p While walking around on the web, we came across a 2011 state report on all the efforts to clean up streams in the mountain State. Interesting reading especially page 7 and 8 on the Buffalo Creek Watershed group.
Nov. 1 p From the DEP, this: Patriot Guardens Golden Delicious Apple Project: This project was initiated by the West Virginia National Guard in conjunction with DEP’s Office of Special Reclamation and Office of Abandoned Mine Lands and Reclamation, West Virginia State University Extension Services, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the West Virginia Department of Agriculture, ERP Compliant Fuels and Pardee Natural Resources. As a catalyst and facilitator of Patriot Guardens, the West Virginia National Guard is working to enhance and diversify West Virginia’s economic development and recovery, maximize agriculture profitability, and maintain the state’s rural heritage. The project involves planting 100,000 apple trees on 500 acres in Nicholas and Clay counties, the latter of which is where the golden delicious apple was first discovered, in order to attract other related facilities to the area and to put displaced coal miners and veterans to work. The project received approximately $5.3 million in AML Pilot Project funding.
Nov. 1 p This is the project that CAEZ has been claiming for the last 18 months. It's the same project where at one public meeting, it was announced, upwards of 3/4's of all their seedlings had died.
Nov. 1 p $5.3 million!

Oct. 31 a Aging dulls dates, years, events and such. How about five years ago, 2012? Remember back then?
Oct. 31 a 2012 was probably the most rotten year for Clayberry ever. In the Spring, the Derecho blew thru the county (state, region) and wiped out utilities with lines staying down week after week for many. In late Summer, we lost our two State Troopers, Eric and Marshall.
Oct. 31 a Exactly five years ago right now, SuperStorm Sandy dropped a ton of snow on us in blizzard conditions across the East. Once again power lines were ripped down leaving us in the dark and cold.
Oct. 31 a MetroNews reminds us of the rotten year.
Oct. 31 a Sunday evening , on social media, a high school feller placed a pic of himself shouldering a weapon with words underneath reading Big day tmr at school! I can't wait!!
Oct. 31 a Parents went wild with Badges called to task... and rightly so
Oct. 31 a On second blush, it's Halloween, the gun wasn't pointing at anyone, and the wording was very vague.
Oct. 31 a We think the kid was messing around and made a dumber than box of rocks social media post with nothing more in the way of intent.
Oct. 31 a He's learning a tough lesson.
Oct. 31 a Tonight is the best night of the year, Halloween
Oct. 31 a You don't have to cook a dinner, send cards in the mail or buy a bunch of presents. Instead , we get to dress up in scary outfits and frighten little munchkins
Oct. 31 a Fun time begins at 6pm. Enjoy!
Oct. 31 a This is also the last night for the Halloween Maze over on Fola Road. See EVENTS page

Oct. 30p Need a job? See JOBS page today
Oct. 30p Here's the way we're getting it.
Oct. 30 p Late late last night a high school kid on social media posted a rifle toting picture and wording, " Big Day TMR at School!, I can't wait!!"
Oct. 30 p Calls went to 911, Green Shirts showed up at his house, and the CHS student was told to stay home.
Oct. 30 p Early this morning, Black Shirts showed up at CHS to comfort parents and students
Oct. 30 p The statement from the School system reads: “We immediately reported the concerns to the West Virginia State Police, and the State Police immediately investigated the matter,” a statement from the school system said. “Law enforcement determined there to be no threat to the school for Monday morning, but the State Police and local Sheriff’s Department did provide an additional presence at the school this morning. Clay County Schools takes every threat of this nature seriously, regardless of the intent of the individual making such a threat. “

“Clay County Schools places student safety and well-being as our top priority. We appreciate the swift actions taken by local law enforcement that allowed for the least disruption as possible to our school system today,” the statement said.

Oct. 30 p Pretty scary times and we ain't in Kansas anymore.

Oct. 30 a Jerry Wayne “Strawberry” Roat, 47, of Indore, see OBITUARY page
Oct. 30 a Emailers are reporting, Black Shirts showed up at Clay High this morning bright and early. Don't worry about em finding drugs. Back during Kenneth Tanner's years, he proudly boasted, no drugs were found.
Oct. 30 a Well... except when drugs were found and no public mention was made
Oct. 30 a The first two indictments are in for Drumpf.
Oct. 30 a Now he has to go into overdrive with his cover up smoke screen.
Oct. 30 a Here comes the best holiday of the year. This holiday requires no cards be mailed nor a big dinner nor do we have to be nice to kids.
Oct. 30 a Instead, for Halloween, we can scare the day lights out of the rug rats and grin while doing it.
Oct. 30 a Trick or Treat is Tuesday evening from 6 to 8pm
Oct. 30 a Over on 101.7FM, they plan to air the War of the Worlds program beginning at 8pm tonight.

Oct. 29 3:15p - Snow Flurpies on Powell Mountain
Oct. 29 4 p - Slushy snow showers on Peach Orchard Road
Oct. 29 10p Big gobby snow slush balls coming down.
Oct. 29 p For bald headed guys without a hat, felt like a flock of birds overhead unloading big time
Oct. 29p 10:30p Temps stands at 34 degrees
Oct. 29 p &&^^!! Winter is here.

Oct. 29 a For this rainy last Sunday in October....
Oct. 29 a With mentally challenged leadership at the top, Drumpf told the world, he's starting a new drug war. This time in the cross hairs is opiod addiction. Sounded good until we found out, that was big talk and no $$$, zero dollars was made available for the challenge
Oct. 29 a In secret, the House passed a new budget. There's a reason Republicrats do stuff in secret. About 99% of their efforts stink. For instance, this budget bill cuts spending on Medicare, Medicaid, the Affordable Care Act, Senior Services, CHIP Programs, Planned Parenthood, Veterans’ Services, SNAP, Agricultural Programs, workplace safety (OSHA), Coal Mine Safety, Consumer Products Safety, National Parks, and air and water pollution controls. Here's the skinny.
Oct. 29 a And did our Republicrat Reps vote to cut our thoats, Yes. Aye votes came from David McKinley (WV 1st) Alex X. Mooney (WV 2nd) Evan Jenkins (WV 3rd)
Oct. 29 a 9 months into his road to impeachment, we recognize Donny J's pattern. When something rotten is about to be made public, Donny throws up a smoke screen. For instance, the new drug war, tax cuts for the wealthiest 1% and new BS on who paid for the dossier.
Oct. 29 a What was that smoke screen covering this week? We found out Friday evening when word spread that Robert Mueller has received his first true bills, indictments, on the continuing Russian attacks on America
Oct. 29 a Can't you see em squirming in DC! Bet none of em were able to get any sleep with their cellphones going off every 30 seconds!
Oct. 29 a Other than rolling back much needed health, safety, and environmental laws, the mentally deranged leader with orange hair has accomplished zip
Oct. 29 a Whether in DC or Clayberry, dealing in secret is never good.
Oct. 29 a Locally, Monday evening our elected Board of Ed spent nearly the entire meeting behind closed doors.
Oct. 29 a For the Oct. 23rd edition at the Pentagon, even the public that wanted to say something , those folks were required to speak in hushed tones during a bogus secret time.
Oct. 29 a With a dozen or so parents on hand, center of attention was a Big Otter Elem teacher who allegedly shook the begeebees out of a student and is currently on suspension, away from the school.
Oct. 29 a In Clayberry, small things balloon when social media gets into gear. That might be the case here.
Oct. 29 a If the Teach decides to take the Board to Court instead of resign, should make for a few interesting days in Court. If the "open investigation" pans out into criminal charges, once again, some interesting court time may be coming our way.
Oct. 29 a During that same meeting, Superintendent Joe Paxton told the assembled, finances are in great shape and NO they did NOT finish the year (budget) in the red.
Oct. 29 a Everyone knows they're going to die but we hope for an exception.
Oct. 29 a That wasn't the case for the one and only Fats Domino who delighted us for over 60 years with his one of a kind sound..
Oct. 29 a Locally....
Oct. 29 a Our future is wrapped around receiving grant funds to acquire the old railroad tracks and turn it into a hiking biking trail. This week Mitch DeBoard made public, he expects to hear from the funder sometime in the first half of Nov. My my my, what a game changer that could be for the County of Little.
Oct. 29 a Friday night the Clay High Panthers continued a pretty good season (more wins than losses) by beating feeble Calhoun County
Oct. 29 a Our Middle School team has also had a winning season. On Saturday, in the Championship match up, the Mustangs went down in flames. Final score, Braxton 34, Mustangs 6
Oct. 29 a After a week of bright sunshine and warm temps, the weather changed to near freezing temps and rain.
Oct. 29 a The mention of snow is in the forecast for Monday. $$##@@!
Oct. 29 a It's not often when we see Clayonians stand up and take action. We did Monday night during that Board meeting, but that doesn't happen very often.
Oct. 29 a Here's a couple examples of why we remain sucking the hind teat.
Oct. 29 a County Clay can not make it into the 21st Century without dependable, high speed internet For the last two weeks we've asked clickers to take this speedtest which can be used to document how pee poor Fronter Tele Co management really is. To date, few have taken the five minutes needed to do the test.
Oct. 29 a The second way to enhance our chancs of receiving $$$ to build a new DSL service is to email bitter leters of dismal Frontier service to facilitator, Terry Martin. ( terrymartin@wvregion3.org)
Oct. 29 a As of mid week and after a three week begging campaign for such, only one email has been received
Oct. 29 a Keep sitting on your thumbs and complaining. Let's see how far that gets ya.
Oct. 28 p Coal is returning as soon as them D!!!! Demorats are removed from office
Oct. 28 p That D!!! Obama killed coal!!
Oct. 28 p For those dimly lit thinkers, you are wrong
Oct. 28 p St. Louis became the 47th American city to set a goal of getting all of its electricity from clean, noncarbon sources with a vote by local lawmakers Friday — a significant watershed given its long-standing ties to the fossil fuel industry.
Oct. 28 p St Louis is home base for the two largest coal headquarters in the world.
Oct. 28 p At high noon, the rain is starting in Clayberry.

Oct. 27 a On this last Friday of the month we have beautiful sunshine
Oct. 27 a Tonight the Panthers travel to Calhoun County for a football match up. The game begins at 7pm. That's right, 7pm!!!!
Oct. 27 a For those wanting to listen to the contest, head over to this website and type in WYAP.
Oct. 27 a Go Panthers
Oct. 27 a Tomorrow at 1pm, the Clay Middle School Mustangs are in Championship action against Braxton County with the contest happening in Summersville
Oct. 27 a WYAP plans to air that football game beginning around Noon:50
Oct. 27 a Want ta help get that on the air, donations appreciated. See Pete over at CLay Auto Parts
Oct. 27 a There's been much hype about Drumpf blowing the deadline for release of the JFK documents.
Oct. 27 a Here's the site for what is available. It's pretty interesting to read the documents
Oct. 27 a Trick or Treat night comes next Tuesday. The usual warnings are out there on everything from razor blades to poisons in candy treats. This year, there's a new one.
Oct. 27 a A couple day ago, wawa in the Two Run area turned yellow and then to brown.
Oct. 27 a That's an obvious sign that something is wrong, unhealthy for Town of Clay WaWa users. That same supply line continues on to the North under the auspices of Clay County PSD for their customers.
Oct. 27 a Still running thru the pipes, there has been no notice of poor wawa conditions from the Town Water Plant No emails, no calls, no written notice to the only local newspaper, clayberry website, nor the local radio station.
Oct. 27 a State regulators require such notices. The Town has routinely fluffed off their responsibility to the public
Oct. 27 a Notice is an easy thing to do.
Oct. 27 a Here's one more example of what's wrong with the place we call home and another reason to escape if you can before local government is successful in killing you with unhealthy wawa.
Oct. 27 a Pitiful!

Oct. 26 p Here's an update for the morning post concerning mailing letters of support for the need to improve internet service in the Land of Little: : Last week I had requested letters of support and individual reasons you, your business or agency needs broadband service. In speaking to one of you today, they got the impression needed letters from the 9 member combined committee. I need letters of support from everyone that would like to respond. These grants are community driven and the more emphasis for the need, the greater the chance for approval. Please email me the letters and address them to the Clay County Commission.
Oct. 26 p How about some court info
Oct. 26 p Cecil I. Walker Machinery Co. filed a complaint Sept. 11 in Clay Circuit Court against Ray Clearing Inc. alleging failure to pay.
Oct. 26 p According to the complaint, the plaintiffs allege that on Aug. 31, 2015, plaintiff Deborah Studaker sustained severe, permanent and disabling injuries when her vehicle violently collided with defendants' unattended tractor-trailer and caught fire. The suit states that Rowland had parked the tractor-trailer in the lane of travel on Route 4 in Procious and left it to make a delivery.
Oct. 26 p Not happening in Clayberry but student related suit: Larandi G. Compton is in third grade at Gilbert Elementary School and has never been assigned a personal aide to help with her disabilities, according to a complaint filed Sept. 6 in Mingo Circuit Court and removed to federal court on Sept. 27.
Oct. 26 p Relating to W Va news reports and getting sued: U.S. District Judge Irene C. Berger has dismissed a lawsuit filed by former doctor Michael Kostenko against CBS Evening News for defamation. Berger dismissed the lawsuit from the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of West Virginia. Berger wrote that the content on the CBS broadcasts was protected by fair report privilege, accurately reported on a matter of public concern and/or fairly reflected the statements and views expressed by Kostenko.

Oct. 26 a First some housekeeping please
Oct. 26 a Saturday is the Championship football game for the Middle School Mustangs
Oct. 26 a The local radio station hopes to broadcast the match up with Braxton County
Oct. 26 a To make that happen, it's takes dinero.
Oct. 26 a To make ends meet, 101.7FM needs to raise around $150.
Oct. 26 a If everybody works for free at WYAP, why do they need the $$$. Here's an example, this week, that non profit had to cough up $400+ to cover what's called, broadcast royalties. No royalty payment, you don't get to play music.
Oct. 26 a If you can help with a donation, see Pete at Clay Auto in Two Run
Oct. 26 a Number 2
Oct. 26 a Many in this county have little in the way of internet. Those that can even get slow poke Frontier DSL, often that doesn't work and is off for hours, days at a time
Oct. 26 a a Back in Sept a group gathered to come up with a work around plan to get high speed in Clayberry.
Oct. 26 a Called the Broadband Committee, they put out two requests.
Oct. 26 a One request takes just a minute to complete. That is, please complete this speed test so they can have accurate , truthful, data when they put in their grant request Monday afternoon.
Oct. 26 a The second thing they need is written letters of support for improved internet services.
Oct. 26 a As of Wed, and according to facilitator Terry Martin, ZERO letters of support have been received. Not one. Those letters can be in the way of an email. How about you, right now, stop playing on facebook or picking your nose and email Mr Martin at terrymartin@wvregion3.org
Oct. 26 a That should do it for the housekeeping this Thursday morning
Oct. 26 a The BDA is trying to grow tourism in this county. That effort includes: developing a 150 mile long hiking biking trail, kayaking on the Elk, railriding on the old BC&G RR spur, and a horse and wagon buggy ride for starters.
Oct. 26 a On the kayaking thang.... yesterday afternoon the BDA, a Braxton County rep, and the Mayor of Clendenin put their heads together to start a combined effort to grow and promote boaters in the Elk from Sutton to Charleston.
Oct. 26 a Their efforts are fledgling in nature but thank goodness, they're finally getting started
Oct. 26 a More info coming this afternoon clickers.

Oct. 25 p This site and The Communicator newspaper regularly complain about local agencies violating Sunshine Law AKA Open Meetings Law
Oct. 25 p The usual reason for violations is not due to the law being too complicated. Instead, the idea is to keep controversial decisions secret, to keep stuff away from those that pay the salaries, the taxpayer.
Oct. 25 p For instance, the Sch Bd went into secret time for most of Monday's not so public meeting. In addition to the Bd. behind closed door, anyone that wanted to talk to the Bd, they too had to go into a room that was not wheelchair accessible.
Oct. 25 p The unlawful part includs: no reason was given to herd the parents into secret time; the reason given for the Bd going secret, "personel issues", that too is an unlawful reason for such; and, then's there's the problem of using an non ADA compliant area
Oct. 25 p Such pee poor decisions by elected folks often gets them in trouble.
Oct. 25 p It wasn't that long ago that the Fayette Bd of Ed held a secret meeting on a Sunday away from the public and then made decisions during that secret and bogus meeting
Oct. 25 p When that Bd was challenged in Court, a Fayette County Judge tossed every decision made on consolidating that county's school system
Oct. 25 p Sunshine law is again ready to be front and center in a court case over in Nicholas County where Richwood Mayor Bob Baber was tossed from office during a Council meeting that didn't meet the muster of law.
Oct. 25 p Court cases and lawyers are very expensive
Oct. 25 p It's easy to keep down lawyerlery expenses bv simply following the law of the land.

Oct. 25 a On this last Wednesday in October, it's darn chilly with a light frost blanketing the hill tops
Oct. 25 a This morning, County Commission holds their second public meeting of the month beginning at 10am in the Courthouse
Oct. 25 a We've got an interesting Communicator on the news stands ready for head scratching time.
Oct. 25 a The lead story covers what happened when a number of Big Otter Elem parents attended Monday night's Sch Bd meeting where they made their thought known .... but only behind closed doors
Oct. 25 a Yelp, a dozen or so of em spoke their minds but only in secret.
Oct. 25 a With no choice given the assembled, crap like that only happens in County Clay
Oct. 25 a At issue is a wayward, student shaking, teacher's discipline issue
Oct. 25 a Parents vowed, if the teacher returns to the school, their curtain climbers would be kept home.
Oct. 25 a School administrators don't like the sound of that since it would affect Pentagon coffers.
Oct. 25 a Also from that meeting, School Super Joe Paxton told the assembled, his govt agency did NOT finish the last budget year in the red. Did not.
Oct. 25 a Also in this edition is the announcement of the familiar name on our new Black Shirt Deputy
Oct. 25 a just 80 cents and available now
Oct. 24 a Betty Moran Triplett, 77, see OBITUARY page
Oct. 24 a Dandy Sch Bd meeting last night.
Oct. 24 a Read all about it in Today's Communicator

Oct. 23 p Non profit WYAP is hoping to sportscast Saturday's Championship Football game between Clay Middle and Braxton County. See EVENTS page or wyap.com for details.
Oct. 23 p To do that, 101.7 FM is seeking sponsors for the match up. If you can help out and get the athletes on the air, see Peter Triplett over at Clay Auto Parts.
Oct. 23 p Go Mustangs!!
Oct. 23 p No updates until we get the Communicator out the door Tuesday afternoon.

Oct. 22 p Gary James Dawson, 50, of Duck, see OBITUARY page
Oct. 22 p Susie Miller, 83, of Indore, see OBITUARY page
Oct. 22 2017 On this date in 1962, U.S. President John Kennedy announced that Soviet missiles had been deployed in Cuba and ordered a blockade of the island. Back then, when we had a Prez with a brain, things cooled down and war was averted just 50 miles off our shore.
Oct. 22 p Pretty scary times today America. These days feels like those leading up to the Pearl Harbor bombing by Japan.
Oct. 22 p And, the Air Force is recalling to duty 1000 pilots .
Oct. 22 p The calm before the storm?
Oct. 22 p School Board meets Monday night. Here's the meeting agenda which begins at 6pm in the Pentagon
Oct. 22 p The very short agenda makes no reference to a disciplinary decision of secret time for a teacher.
Oct. 22 p If the stars align just right, we might get The Communicator out on time Tuesday.
Oct. 22 p Deadline for your submissions is tomorrow, Monday, around 5pm. There's your chance to spout off IF, IF, you're willing to put your name on it.

Oct. 21 p 22 years ago, with the Communicator barely making ends meet, the partnership of Terry Kerns, Lindy Myers and AW formed. For 20 years, most of which was without any pay, the trio worked to provide real news on what's going on in Clayberry as we called this place.
Oct. 21 p Lindy retired out 18 months ago. Terry Kerns retired in 2017 to Georgia to be with her grandson
Oct. 21 p The last 14 months have brought on new faces and new writers for the county's only locally owned and operated newspaper of choice
Oct. 21 p With Lindy , without fail, husband Paul was at her side every time they came to the office. Cold weather, hot weather, putting the paper together or for a BS session at the office, the dynamic duo was ever present.
Oct. 21 p Paul (and Lindy) got fired up when talking politics. Often the partnership was yelling back and forth as one side took on the other. It was a great time, every time!
Oct. 21 p Paul and Lindy were very strong community activists when it came to supporting their local school, H E White Elem. They worked long hours before each Ramp Feed to make the fundraiser possible.
Oct. 21 p Both were instrumental in the formation of community radio in County Clay. Lindy and Paul were some of the first volunteers long before 101.7FM. Prior to an FM station, The Communicator staff formed and ran an online only radio station, Clay FM.
Oct. 21 p Lindy passed earlier this year
Oct. 21 p Paul Alton Myers, Glen West Virginia, see OBITUARY page
Oct. 21p It's a sad day in Clay.
Oct. 21 a The stars did not align last night for the Panthers
Oct. 21 a 30 seconds into the match up with Shady Springs, you could tell, it was going to be a bad night for the home team
Oct. 21 a Final score, 39 for Shady Springs and 6 points for the Panthers
Oct. 21 a Got word in an email that HE White Elem is hosting a Fall Festival party this evening beginning at 5pm. Fun includes a haunted hike, refreshments and munchies.
Oct. 21 a We're sure the volunteers worked their butts off setting up the fun but isn't it a shame, after all that work, they neglected to let the public know.
Oct. 21 a For leaf peepers, the leaves are falling minus any of the bright oranges and reds. Maybe next year
Oct. 21 a River Conditions: clear wawa, warms temps but low height. Translation: anywhere you go on the Elk, there will be some portage.

Oct. 20 p John Eric Douglas, 30, see OBITUARY page
Oct. 20 p Robby John Douglas, 35, of Clay, WV, see OBITUARY page
Oct. 20 p While you're sitting there beating in the afternoon, how about some reading material
Oct. 20 p How many passengers come and go from the Charleston Amtrak station? Here's the answer.
Oct. 20 p Built over 100 years ago, the Charleston Train Depot is historic. Here's some background.
Oct. 20 p If you have any vacation time saved up, how about a Fall train trip. Here's a nifty website to handle those needs.
Oct. 20 p In the morning post we mentioned the planned rail rider tourism draw.
Oct. 20 p It's not like we're inventing the wheel. Turns out, in New York state, they've already got their ride up and running.

Oct. 20 a It's a big night for Clay High football when Shady Springs comes to Schoonover Bradley Field.
Oct. 20 a We're 3/4's thru the season with more wins than losses under our belts.
Oct. 20 a Go Panthers
Oct. 20 a For those afar, it's easy to listen via the web. Just go to www.tunein.com and type in WYAP
Oct. 20 a After last year's Great Wash Out, downtown Clay changed. Within weeks of the flood, new faces were in town. The street people carried their belongings in back packs and squatted in vacant buildings and along the river bank.
Oct. 20 a Being a clanish bunch, we figured from the git go, they were druggies
Oct. 20 a It didn't take long for break ins to increase many fold.
Oct. 20 a From the Clay Bank down river to the Pisgah bridge, the new people could be seen hanging out on street corners and supposedly making drug deals.
Oct. 20 a For many businesses, it was, is, a scary time.
Oct. 20 a Three weeks ago, Mayor Hubbard hired a part time night watchman to patrol the hamlet.
Oct. 20 a Dressed in a blue shirt, kaki pants and sporting a "security" badge, Danny Berry has been out on the streets after dark.
Oct. 20 a Berry is a security guy and not a gun toting Badge BUT!, it's fun to watch the druggies when he's heading their way
Oct. 20 a Take last night. As Berry was walking the street, Yes, walking, those that usually hang out around the old Henry Clay, they disappeared and stayed hid while the guy was patrolling
Oct. 20 a It was refreshing to see Berry actually on foot too.
Oct. 20 a You see and hear a lot more when pounding the pavement.
Oct. 20 a Maybe things just got better in the municipality. Time will tell
Oct. 20 a We keep talking about the "rail rider guy". An update
Oct. 20 a The feller's name is Larry McCraken and the official name of the new tourist draw is Buffalo Creek Rail Riders
Oct. 20 a We talked to Larry earlier this week.
Oct. 20 a He plans to have the prototype of the rail car built by Christmas and test it out on the BC&G RR spur line
Oct. 20 a The schedule calls for several of the cars to be built and ready for an April or early May grand opening.
Oct. 20 a If that happens as well as the new kayak livery service, that's two of the three prongs of our tourism economy in place
Oct. 20 a What's left?
Oct. 20 a We need a horse (s) drawn wagon ride to operate each weekend next Summer.
Oct. 20 a How about you?

Oct. 19 p Music and dance at the Big Otter Community Center has been a tried and true fun time since the 1980's. Week after week, year after year, the small band of people work their butts off scheduling entertainment, buying vittles, cleaning the place, cooking the food, and more.
Oct. 19 p After years of dedicated volunteerism, a couple of the long time Board members are retiring away from the Friday night workload.
Oct. 19 p To keep the community center open and the Friday night shows alive, a couple new volunteers are needed. How about you?
Oct. 19p Hard work Yes but worth it in every sense of the word.
Oct. 19 p If you can lend a hand, call Jim Ryan at 304 286 5523

Oct. 19 a Before Kenneth Tanner retired from School Superintendent duties, he launched a questionable campaign against new Federal regs. Remember that?
Oct. 19 a KT as we called the guy, told the world, this county will never follow Fed. guidelines coming down the pike on transgender bathroom use in the schools.
Oct. 19 a His plan was well received by local Bible thumpers.
Oct. 19 a So convicted was the KT lad, he told the assembled, I will quit my job before following the law of the land.
Oct. 19 a At that time, there was no mandate, no law, to do something by such and such a date. KT was reacting to a memo handed down from Washington.
Oct. 19 a Instead, it was his very own little media ploy to gain support on something that was unwinable, nor should it be winable. KT and the Sch Bd took oaths to follow the law of the land. Violating any law would be automatic grounds for removal from office
Oct. 19 a Fast forward three years....
Oct. 19 a Much broader than a school bathroom law but sort of related, "North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper reached a settlement with the American Civil Liberties Union Wednesday to allow transgender people to use public rest rooms that correspond to their gender identity."
Oct. 19 a Here's the article from United Press International.
Oct. 19 a By stepping down from his perch, Clayberry taxpayers averted another huge lawyer bill and additional public ridicule.

Oct. 18 late p All us old pot heads can't wait til we can legally smoke grass sitting on our front porch.
Oct. 18 late p In W Va it takes a MD to prescribe the weed.
Oct. 18 late p The State Pot Board is now offering an online survey for results to determine the amount of pot that will be needed to dull the pain from achy shoulders, knees, ankles, back, hang nails, sore throats, poison ivy and other serious medical problems.
Oct. 18 late p Take a few minutes and fill out the survey a few hundred times to make your voice count
Oct. 18 late p not to long ago, plans were laid to turn West Virginia into the potato capitol of the world. Agriculture Commissioner Walk Helmick was the master mind behind the million dollar taxpayer paid for project.
Oct. 18 late p For this county, the one person that picked up the reigns and ran with trying to grow spuds atop gob piles and strip mines was none other than, CAEZ Director, Connie Lupardus, Big Lup to many.
Oct. 18 late p Walt Helmick lost his top perch during the Nov 2016 election cycle. Now his potato project and others, are being tossed to the wayside. As far as selling the used equipment, doesn't look too rosy.
Oct. 18 late p Expect scrap metal priced bids on the equipment.

Oct. 18 p The plan is to get the railroad tracks from Dundon up, cleaned and ready for the rail rider group before winter gets here
Oct. 18 p Cleaning amounts to brush whacking, removal of a few small growing trees, and one section where a rock and mud slide has completely covered over the tracks.
Oct. 18 p Want to make some $$$?
Oct. 18 p If so, the BDA is taking bids on the clean up job. See JOBS page for the notice.
Oct. 18 p Deadline for submission is Friday Oct. 20th. Better hurry!
Oct. 18 p During the last School Board meeting, much time ws spent behind closed doors.
Oct. 18 p Without mentioning a name, we speculated, the secret time was discuss a teacher from the North and allegations that the person acted unprofessional toward a student. So far we haven't mentioned a name
Oct. 18 p With this next post, actually an online petition, the name becomes public
Oct. 18p Here's the online petition site and the many names of those willing to sign their name
Oct. 18 p As of Noon:30 on Hump Day, 89 petitioners have made their mark
Oct. 18 p With the incident, the T Shirt Lady, and Robert Belt's dumb bunny mouth, in each, lawyers are involved to guide the Pentagon.
Oct. 18 p In just three cases before the Sch Bd, we wonder, how much has been spent, invoiced, on lawyer fees in the last couple months
Oct. 18 p Bet it's a whole bunch
Oct. 18 p Here's a partial list of counties and their peak Fall foliage percentage: Berkeley (70%) — A good range of color can be found at Sleepy Creek Wildlife Management Area off Hampshire Grade Road.; Doddridge (75%) — U.S. 50 from Parkersburg to Clarksburg is a recommended drive. Mercer (75%) — U.S. Route 19 from Princeton to Gardner is scenic. Mingo (30%) — King Coal Highway is showing quite a bit of color. Monongalia County (65%) — Coopers Rock State Forest on the Preston-Monongalia border is still colorful. Morgan (60%) — Color is approaching peak just in time for the Berkeley Springs Fall Studio Tour—a driving tour of local art studios Oct. 21-22. The three-state panorama off W.Va. Route 9 and Detour Road is another good view. Logan (40%) — Blair Mountain is showing quite a bit of color. Nicholas (70%)— W.Va. Route 39 from Summersville to Gauley Bridge is a recommended drive. Ohio (55%) —The maples along W.Va. Route 88 through Oglebay Resort are showing good color. Ritchie (60%)—U.S. 50 from Parkersburg to Clarksburg is approaching peak color. Taylor (65%) —Tygart Lake State Park is beautiful now. The oaks are still green but other trees are showing oranges, yellows and reds.
Oct. 18 p For leaf peepers, try the New River Gorge for great oranges and reds

Oct. 17 a Before anything else, be sure to check out our advertisers that make this website possible.
Oct. 17 a If no one else tells ya, Thank You
Oct. 17 a 36 degrees this morning.
Oct. 17 a Here's a website that provides lots of great info and pics on the railroad years in Clayberry. For future reference, you might want to bookmark it
Oct. 17 a We've got a guy that's trying to build lightweight peddle powered rail cars to be used on the BC&G RR spur line. If all goes well, Elk Rail Riders will be up and running next Spring.
Oct. 17 a We received an email from the lad last night. He's in need of used bicycles so he can cabbage off the gears, chains, pedals, etc.
Oct. 17 a Can you help out? Larry's telephone number is 681-249-9322.
Oct. 17 a We're posting his want ad on CLASSIFIED.

Oct. 16 p Frost alert in affect for tonight. There goes the last of the Summer flowers and the green tomatoes.
Oct. 16 p In the last Communicator we made a passing reference of a teacher from the North receiving a two week suspension for inappropriate actions toward a student.
Oct. 16 p We think that suspension ended today and the person is back in the classroom.
Oct. 16 p Parents are reporting that the discipline came and went without a vote of our local Sch Bd.
Oct. 16 p That last part is true because the Bd made no decision in public during the last public meeting
Oct. 16 p An email just arrived that some of the parents have started circulating a petition for the teacher's removal from the classroom.
Oct. 16 p One person called to ask "What are you going to do about it????"
Oct. 16 p We're the scribes not the band leader
Oct. 16p If you want action, you the parents have to attend the next Sch Bd meeting, stand up, and express your thoughts.
Oct. 16 p The next Clay County Board of Education meeting is Monday Oct. 22nd, 6pm
Oct. 16 p There are ways to make $$ in the woods. Some dig ramps and yellow root during the Spring. Others harvest moss.
Oct. 16 p This is Hedge Apple season.
Oct. 16 p Got bugs in your house? A couple Hedge Apples in the house, basement, cellar is suppose to repel spiders, ants, roaches.

Oct. 15 p Elk Power had scheduled an outage for a few hours this morning. Get this... for the first time we can remember, they actually notified customers ahead of time via print, web sites, and local radio. Very nice!
Oct. 15p County Clay had a big success this week. That was Saturday's Kayak Float trip sponsored by the Clay Business Development Authority.
Oct. 15 p On Saturday, over 77 boats registered for the ride. It's estimated that upwards of another 20 came for the fun but did not register
Oct. 15 p With the temp around 80 and clear wawa second to none, for naysayers, you lost this one
Oct. 15 p Participants came from Tennessee, Ohio, and Virginia as well as from Southern West Virginia counties.
Oct. 15 p We have got our start in the tourism business with this event.
Oct. 15 p What good did it do? Where's the money?
Oct. 15 p You're way behind clickers
Oct. 15 p Every vehicle here for the Float Trip spent money on gas, beer, soda pop, bought concessions at Spread Park. That's fresh new $$$ into our economy.
Oct. 15 p They came, they had fun, and they spent money. Other than spending a couple bucks for toilet paper, it was all profit for those involved.
Oct. 15 p They would have spent more $$$ had tee shirts, caps, and trinkets had been available.
Oct. 15 p With all having a good time, they will tell their buddies back home. When they return, hopefully, the rail rider outfit will be up and running. Down the road the hiking trail and wagon rides will add a third and fourth reason to spend the weekend in the outback of Clay.
Oct. 15 p Speaking of keeping them overnight... plans are being laid to offer tent camping along the Elk. If we can keep overnight, they will dig even deeper in their pockets.
Oct. 15 p Saturday's event was a total success.
Oct. 15 p Clayberry has been discovered and this time, in a good way.
Oct. 14 a It wasn't but a few years ago that the Clay High Panthers went game after game, year after year, without a win. That was at the same time that the feeder school, Clay Middle, was going game after game with win after win.
Oct. 14 a Put another W on the books for the Panthers
Oct. 14 a Last night Clay High put it all over Lincoln County, 24 to 18.
Oct. 14 a That makes 5 wins this year and only 2 losses.
Oct. 14 a Go Panthers
Oct. 14 a Beautiful day coming our way today. Get out and enjoy the nice weather while we've got it! Check the EVENTS page for good things to do this Saturday.

Oct. 13 p For those wondering if there's enough wawa in the Elk for a float trip.
Oct. 13 p The answer is Yes!
Oct. 13 p Conditions for Saturday's Kayak Float Fest: river is clear, clean, and green, temp is suppose to be around 80 degrees and sunny, and the band and the munchies are suppose to be just as great
Oct. 13 p If you need livery services, meet you at the BDA building in Two Run between 10 and 11am. If you needing to rent a kayak, better call em now. Details on EVENTS page
Oct. 13 p Have some fun before the cold weather arrives
Oct. 13 p Need a job? See JOBS page today

Oct. 13 early a Tonight the CHS Panthers head down to Lincoln county for this week's football match up. Kick off set for 7:30pm
Oct. 13 early a The local non profit radio stations plan to air the contest. For those too far away to hear the FM signal, here's the online listening link.
Oct. 13 early a Speaking of Lizemores' 106.7 FM, a new antenna was properly installed and now that station reaches from the bottom of Holcomb Hill to Lizemore Elem
Oct. 13 early a With Drumpf boldly beating his chest and ready to hit the red button marked North Korea, here's some good reading on how much of the world would be destroyed with an all out nuclear attack. It's reaaal scary.
Oct. 13 early a If you would like to see the gun death mortality rates in the U S of A, click here.
Oct. 13 early a For a bunch of us, it's not the gun it's the nut pulling the trigger that needs regulated. Fareed Zakaria makes a darn good argument in the other direction.
Oct. 13 early a Even with Republicrats in charge of Congress, Drumpf hasn't been able to accomplish anything in 9 months. Nothing. Now he's come up with a scheme to dismember Obama Care on his own. Here's the sad details.
Oct. 13 early a The easiest thang would be to just change the name to IvankaCare and the nut case Prez would be happy hapy happy.
Oct. 13 early a Organized by the BDA, the biggy for the weekend is the first ever Kayak Float trip on Saturday. It's expected that as many as 50 foreign boats will get wet in the Elk .
Oct. 13 early a If that (or more) happens, it's an honest to goodness start for our tourism economy.
Oct. 13 early a They've even got a band set for Saturday afternoon beginning at 2pm at Spread Park.
Oct. 13 early a Full details on the EVENTS page
Oct. 13 early a Come out and enjoy the Fall colors floating down the Elk.

Oct. 12 p There's a lot of non profits around that do little or next to little.
Oct. 12 p An exception to that is the Salvation Army which really makes a difference
Oct. 12 p Each Christmas season that group goes the extra mile so the poorest of poor have something under the tree.
Oct. 12 p Information on this years' Angel Tree program is now provided over on the ADVISORY page.

Oct. 12 a First a couple notes
Oct. 12 a The Greater Clay Long Term Recovery Committee meeting slated for tonight has been canceled. No word yet on the new date
Oct. 12 a From the Health Dept. email bag: the Breast Cancer Diner at the elementary school has been canceled for this Saturday.
Oct. 12 a Sometimes the stars just don't align right. Such was the case this edition with the Communicator. After being a day late, the locally owned and operated newspaper, finally, made it out the door Wednesday afternoon.
Oct. 12 a Then, while trying to get the prescriptions and labels completed, the puter took a dump. We were unable to get the mailing all wrapped up until around 8pm last night.
Oct. 12 a During yesterday's County Commission meeting....
Oct. 12 a The CCC approved the retirement of long time and very dependable Clay Ambulance Service employee, Morgy Triplett.
Oct. 12 a Triplett told the group, he planned to volunteer at the Courthouse and the ambulance group in the future.
Oct. 12 a Town Mayor Jason Hubbard told the assembled, the municipality plans to offer training and organization for neighborhood watch groups soon.
Oct. 12 a During those discussions, Commissioner King reminded all, when Ivydale had such a citizen posse and while they (including Ernie Wide Glide Sirk), were out patrolling one night, Ernie's home was burglarized.
Oct. 12 a Lots of laughter was heard
Oct. 12 a For a number of years, the Gold Dome bunch has offered economic development grants (LEDA) to counties. Offering as much as $33,000 one year, the easy to qualify for grants, were welcome aids for counties like Clay
Oct. 12 a This year, our application was turned in late and we received Zip!
Oct. 12 a For the new year (2018), the deadline for submission is Dec something or other.
Oct. 12 a Taking no chances, yesterday, the Commission voted to apply for the grant and appoint the Clay Business Development Authority as the lead developer for the county of little.
Oct. 12 a With Charleston coffers dwindling, the LEDA grant will only amount to $14K in 2018
Oct. 12 a On this date in history:
Oct. 12 a In 1960, Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev removed one of his shoes and pounded it on his desk during a speech before the United Nations.
Oct. 12 a In 1964, the Soviet Union launched Voskhod 1 into orbit around Earth, with three cosmonauts aboard. It was the first spacecraft to carry a multi-person crew and the two-day mission was also the first orbital flight performed without spacesuits.
Oct. 12 a In 1973, U.S. President Richard Nixon nominated House Minority Leader Gerald Ford of Michigan for the vice presidency to replace Spiro Agnew, who had resigned two days earlier.
Oct. 12 a In 2000, 17 sailors were killed and 39 wounded in an explosion on the USS Cole as it refueled in Yemen. U.S. President Bill Clinton blamed the attack on al-Qaida leader Osama bin Laden.
Oct. 12 a In 2010, the U.S. government lifted a ban on deep-water oil and natural gas drilling for companies that obey stricter rules aimed at avoiding a repeat of the massive BP oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.

Oct. 11 p Marmell O’Brien, 88, of Dog Run, see OBITUARY page

Oct. 11 a County Commission meets this morning at 10am.
Oct. 11 a The Communicator arrives this afternoon, one day late
Oct. 11 a With Baby Drumpf at the helm, these are truly scary times
Oct. 11 a The U.S. military dropped 751 bombs on Afghanistan during the month of September, the highest number in five years, according to data recently released by U.S. Air Forces Central Command
Oct. 11 a Who do you believe? The Pentagon said Tuesday it is aware of reports that North Korea stole wartime operational plans of the United States ....
Oct. 11 a The calm before the storm? How about war planes flying over North Korea air space.
Oct. 11 a A U.S. Navy destroyer sailed near islands claimed by China in the South China Sea on Tuesday, three U.S. officials told Reuters, prompting anger in Beijing
Oct. 11 a Hug your kids. These are very scary times with an out of control mad man at the helm.
Oct. 11 a Even tho 219 miners are still dead, a little good news, The U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear former Massey Energy CEO Don Blankenship's appeal of a conviction stemming from a fatal 2010 mine explosion in Montcoal, W.Va.

Oct. 10 late p Kenneth Butcher, 91, of Clay, see OBITUARY page
Oct. 10 2017 Jody Lee Thomas, 41, of Ivydale, see OBITUARY page

Oct. 10 p As you can tell, the Communicator has been delayed one day. If all goes well, it will be on news stands by Wed afternoon.
Oct. 10 p Reason? We forgot Monday was a holiday and were unable to get the Magistrate Report until this morning.
Oct. 10 p Need a job? Got an escavator? See JOBS page now
Oct. 10 p You planning on doing something this coming Sunday morning, might want to change your plans.
Oct. 10 p There is a scheduled power outage on the 15th. See ADVISORY page now.
Oct. 10 p Time for a nap!

Oct. 9 p Forgot to mention something in the am post
Oct. 9 p Clay Lion's Club hosts Bingo every other Monday night with early games kicking off at 6:30.
Oct. 9 p Bingo proceeds go toward their CHS scholarship fund.
Oct. 9 A great way to spend your Monday evening!
Oct. 9 p Details on ADVISORY page now
Oct. 9 p Deadline for this week's Communicator is today around 5pm. Email over your goodies for Clayberry's almost award winning locally owned and operated newspaper of choice, The Communicator.

Oct. 9 a Although it's a holiday for most government workers, here in Clayberry, we have a couple public meetings on tap for this evening.
Oct. 9 a Tonight's Business Development Authority (BDA) agenda is loaded with important items affecting the county. Public meeting begins at 6:30 in the old State Road garage AKA BDA building
Oct. 9 a Also this evening is the School Board in the Pentagon on Gump Street. The lengthy agenda may answer questions on several occurrences since the last meeting or, everything could be kept secret. Meeting begins at 6pm
Oct. 9 a The elected Board has been wrestling with how to behave in public and staying within the bounds of the law. Last meeting included a lawyerly question and answer session on separation of church and state.
Oct. 9 a Since a mid July Federal Court decision, the Boardsters are trying to skirt under the legal wire when opening their meetings
Oct. 9 a At issue is a member of the Board opening the govt. meeting with a Christian prayer.
Oct. 9 a On August 14th, instead of an elected Govt rep starting things off with a prayer, they first asked for a Muslim prayer and then opted for a non elected employee to make the offering.
Oct. 9 a Following that meeting, Chair Dave Mullins went back to asking fellow Boardster Susan Bodkins to provide the prayer just before the formal opening
Oct. 9 a The next meeting was a little different with Bodkins being asked to do a prayer five minutes before the 6:30 start time
Oct. 9 a For the last meeting, without a nudge from Mullins, Bodkins burst into Christian prayer several minutes ahead of time.
Oct. 9 a The whole idea is to try and get around following the law of the land and big lawsuit. That law of the land is what they raised their right hand and swore to uphold after getting elected to office.
Oct. 9 a Should be interesting to see what they try tonight.
Oct. 9 a The big boy thing to do would be easy. Without fanfare, at 6:30pm Dave Mullins could simply, open the meeting for business
Oct. 9 a Some things are just too easy to be done

Oct. 8 p Rain finally came our way after 3 weeks of dust. That's a good thing but it's about the only good thing that came our way in the last 7 days
Oct. 8 p Badges were called for an incident on a Clay County school bus
Oct. 8 p The nation is trying to recover from a mentally deranged 64 year old. With nearly 60 dead in Nevada, immediately came calls, get rid of guns!!!!
Oct. 8 p Saturday morning a lady was blasted to pieces at the front door of her own home.
Oct. 8 p That was followed by the shooter getting mowed down after a high speed chase in Charleston.
Oct. 8 p In each case, it wasn't the gun nor the bullet that took lives, it was a mental health issue.
Oct. 8 p Saturday evening, over the scanner, came a report of shot being fired behind Gino's.
Oct. 8 p On mental health and lack there of, the White House baby sitters dropped the ball this week, said one TV talking head.
Oct. 8 p Who ever was assigned to baby sit Drumpf, that person should be fired.
Oct. 8 p While the baby was on his own, he told the world, there is no answer other than war with N Korea.
Oct. 8 p That's a place where we've been before and lost the battle as has other nations in the last 100 years.
Oct. 8 p While Bible thumpers are worried about LGBTQ issues, live in arrangements, and supporting the Govt telling you which prayer to recite during public meetings, attention needs to be diverted to restoring leadership in DC and adding $$$ for mental health care.
Oct. 8 p The % of West Virginians that voted for Drumpf , voted for a new bond issue. In both cases , those dumb bunnies fell victim to a massive ad campaign and out right Gold Dome official lies..
Oct. 8 p Very sad week in the Land of Little

Oct. 7 p Appalachia has lost two generations to out of control drug use.
Oct. 7 p Early this morning a young Jody Thomas opened her door and was blasted away.
Oct. 7 p This afternoon, shooter David Lanham had made it to Charleston in the lady's stolen vehicle where he was cut down by Badges after a high speed chase.
Oct. 7p Senseless loss continues over and over.

Oct. 6 p Last night we were glued to the Badge Scanner as we listened to the Feds come into the county and not for a social call.
Oct. 6 p We pooted out around 11pm and never heard of any arrest.
Oct. 6 p Sometime just before noon, a Fugitive from Justice was brought to Magistrate Court.
Oct. 6 p The white, 5'11' tall, 200 pounder, Robert William Eschelbacher is the guy and is as close a guess as we can make for the efforts of the US Marshall Badges last night
Oct. 6 p Today's your chance to have a say in Road Bond initiative. For this election, the electronic voting machines will not be used. It's back to paper ballots and pen.

Oct. 6 a No CHS ball game tonight. Might be a good chance to check out great music and munchies at the Big Otter Community Center. Tunes and dancing begin at 7pm
Oct. 6 a Need a Job? Weyerhaeuser is hiring. See JOBS page today.
Oct. 6 a Not sure what we going on last night on the scanner but posted below is what we heard.
Cot 6 a For river rats, up in Braxton County, they're hosting a Fall Float trip. With nice warm weather expected, might make for a great way to spend a Saturday afternoon
Cot 6 a The BDA's Fall Foliage Float trip is Oct. 14th. The Braxton thang would make a great warm up for our first ever Foliage Float
Cot 6 a River conditions: the Elk is very low making for some portaging for those kayaking in Clayberry this weekend.
Cot 6 a Leaf Peepers: County Clay is at 50% peak color. Right now mostly Sycamores showing their gold and yeller colors. Maples are just turning red on the tips. Beautiful is the word for the next several days.
Cot 6 a With rain predicamentated for Monday and Tuesday, include Clayberry in your weekend travel plans.
Cot 6 a The Lizemores radio station will be off the air part of this afternoon as volunteers change out the old antenna.
Cot 6 a Monday is a holiday for many Govt workers.
Cot 6 a Saturday is voting time for West Virginians. We get a say in how the state is going deeper in debt.
Cot 6 a Early voting period netted just a few more 200 voters. Pretty sad stats.

Oct. 5 late p Delena Dora Wheeler, 97, of Nebo, see OBITUARY page
Oct. 5 late p Something was going on tonight beginning around 8pm when US Marshall (s) entered the county with a radio check request; seeking Green Shirt Bass assistance, and to make no mention of details over the 911 scanner
Oct. 5 late p 8:47 p meeting up in one click or so
Oct. 5late p then "2 miles on the right"
Oct. 5 late p mention came of a nearby church. Response: I don't think there's one here
Oct. 5 late p 9:17 " I'm hanging back a little"
Oct. 5 late p mention of going back to where they saw a bunch of cars and a white van with lights on. "This ain't a very big hollow."
Oct. 5 late p Got any calls from this address? "I don't think so."
Oct. 5 late p 9:31 "Looks like a lovely little Lane... Someone's outside here."
Oct. 5 late p Around 9:40, it sounded like they were on a dead end road and turning around
Oct. 5 late p 10:36 Things sounded a little perkier with: park right here... I'm going down on foot... Keep your cell phone on
Oct. 5 late p Not sure which druggy they were after but at bed time, 11pm, nothing more was heard on the scanner.

Oct. 5 p Frontier DSL returned for most of the county today sometime around 2:30pm
Oct. 5 p Decades ago, back when Leonard Williams and Norman Wilson were community leaders, the Town of Clay installed parking meters on Main Street in downtown Clay.
Oct. 5 p Today those meters are looking tired with many already removed and not working.
Oct. 5 p During Tuesday's Council meeting, discussion turned to fixing the meters, replacing the meters, or removing them.
Oct. 5 p Mayor Hubbard spoke in favor of tearing out the thangs citing the high cost of replacement
Oct. 5 p From the peanut gallery came tones of, put em in around the Courthouse so all the big suit lawyers start feeding us $$$$.
Oct. 5 p No decision was made Tuesday night but we can expect the item back on the agenda in Nov.
Oct. 5 p A quick check on eBay shows several listings for Duncan meters in working condition. Some are selling for $50 with others northwards of $100
Oct. 5 p In front of the Courthouse, counting both sides of Main Street, there are spots for 17 meters.
Oct. 5 p Averaging around $75 each plus another $75 for a mounting base and metal pole and little more for installation, for all 17 money makers, that comes out to around $3000.00
Oct. 5 p If each meter brought in $25 from out of county / state wallets each month, you can see how quick the meters would pay for themselves and start bringing in revenue for the not so rich Town.
Oct. 5 p Before you get your shorts all bunched up, locals all know, without a Municipal Court, if you don't pay the citations, they can't do anything to ya. It's the foreigners that don't know any better and will feed the metal boxes.
Oct. 5 p Ahhhhh fresh new $$$ for the Town coffers.

Oct. 5 a No rain, No high wind. Snow? Nope? Mud slides? Nope
Oct. 5 a Around 8:30 this morning most everybody lost Frontier DSL.
Oct. 5 a Oddly, a few sections of the county never lost service.
Oct. 5 a Here's what ta do. Call Frontier and complain. That's the best way to get a job ticket sent out for repairs. Call now or may be several days until we are connected to the rest of the world again.
Oct. 5 a Wed afternoon around 3:30, a call went out for law enforcement for a school bus in front of the Pentagon.
Oct. 5 a The call went to the Bus Czar who was not available. Joan Haynie said she would come down to the bus.
Oct. 5 a A short time later the call went out to Sch Bd Prez, Dave Mullins
Oct. 5 a Not sure what happened or why Badges were called. No no no, Belt was not driving this bus.
Oct. 5 a You got an idea? Email us when Frontier comes back on
Oct. 5 a Yesterday we posted the speed test which actually reports slow poke speeds to the right people.
Oct. 5 a Last night a lady emailed to report, it ain't working.
Oct. 5 a If you're having similar problems, let us know.
Oct. 5 a Here's the link again.

Oct. 4 p Fred Allen Workman, 57, of Ivydale, see OBITUARY page
Oct. 4 p Just found a web based listing of bridges in County Clay. Looks like the oldest bridge still in use came around 1924. the Ugly Bridge site provides detailed info on conditions, construction materials, and a rating on how bad the span really is.
Oct. 4 p Most people check the speed of their internet connection once in a while. Other than making us weep, the check does little else
Oct. 4 p During last week's Broadband Council meeting held at the Big Otter FD, we learned something.
Oct. 4 p Service providers are required to report their actual speeds twice a year.
Oct. 4 p Here's the dirty little secret
Oct. 4 p Frontier does their mandatory test NOT during the business day nor in the evening when kids are sucking up bandwidth. Nope! Frontier does the mandatory tests at 3am on Mondays when most people are in bed or at least, away from the monitor
Oct. 4 p To get a legitimate report on actual speeds in Clay, that Broadband Council has set up a site where your speed is recorded with location, time, etc.
Oct. 4 p The newbee speed test site can be found here. Be sure to include your location so someone may actually see the truth
Oct. 4 p For those with super slow connection speeds, why don't you do the new test on a regular basis, how about every time you see it slow as molasses!
Oct. 4 p On the down side, the new speed test and getting the information to the right people, it's very clumsy and time consuming.

Oct. 2 late p Maxine (Asbury) O’Brien, 87, of Maysel, see OBITUARY page
Oct. 2 p Most of us have been watching TV and the coverage of the mass killings in Nevada
Oct. 2 p Expert after expert has went behind the mic expressing professional views.
Oct. 2 p Blame has been placed in every direction but one
Oct. 2 p It's not the bullets nor the gun.
Oct. 2 p No one is saying the real problem which is, mental health.
Oct. 2 p Sad in the U S A
Oct. 2 p Tuesday afternoon Clay Town Council meets at 5:30p
Oct. 2 p The biggy may be the announcement on who will be hired as a new part time Night Time Watchman.
Oct. 2 p Although Mayor Hubbard is not making his pick public, we asked just one question. Does the newbee have common sense?
Oct. 2 p Response from Mayor Hubbard: Yes
Oct. 2 p Frontier Tele Co is the sole provider of DSL service in most of Clayberry.
Oct. 2 p Almost every month, someone calls and says, Boy do we have a great new deal for you! Explanations come on faster better service and cheap price.
Oct. 2 p Many get duped by the sales pitch.
Oct. 2 p Keep two things in mind. 1) Frontier sales reps fib big time. And 2) the second you say Yes, I'll take it, you can NOT go back to your old plan.
Oct. 2 p When you say Yes, it's binding and there's no turning back
Oct. 2 p Beware!

Oct. 1 a At 7am this morning, the sun was out in full force but the temp stood at 37 degrees. You might as well start eating those green tomatoes, they ain't going to get red this year!
Oct. 1 a Kids watch sports and envy the pro players like in the NFL. Last week, a couple high school players in Texas took the knee during the national anthem and were immediately told to leave the field. Instead, many think, they should have been given an award for courage.
Oct. 1 a Long live the U S Constitution
Oct. 1 a Texas and Florida was wiped out by storms in Sept. Their recovery is also just getting started. Has anybody seen ANY media attention for those suffering Americans?
Oct. 1 a In Puerto Rico where there's many resorts for rich folks, wonder if those resorts are still operating while the rest of the island is going without the basics? Bet they are!
Oct. 1 a Without the hype, here's the facts on Puerto Rico.
Oct. 1 a It's now just a matter of time before Robert Mueller releases his findings and our dimly lit Prez and Vice Prez are charged with high crimes. When Robert Mueller’s report comes out, the Republican leadership will quickly huddle, and tell Trump that he needs to resign or face impeachment.
Oct. 1 a For thinking Americans, that day can't come quick enough.
Oct. 1 a Early last Summer, the impeachment process got underway in Congress.
Oct. 1 a Closer to home.....
Oct. 1 a After a couple weeks of drought, many wells and cisterns in Clayberry are dryer than a popcorn fart and there's no rain in sight.
Oct. 1 a Minus any discipline from his Badge employer that we know of, the black eyed Robert Belt appears to have withered the storm from poor mouthing and ready to continue on in life.
Oct. 1 a On Friday , a group from four counties gathered in Big Otter to discuss improving internet service in rural America. Made up of Commissioners, citizens, and other Govt officials, 99% os the discussion centered around, making improvements minus Frontier DSL in the picture. That's a good start.
Oct. 1 a By the end of this month, a planning grant application will be turned in for a little over $100,000.
Oct. 1 a It will take months on end for an answer followed by more months on end for that phase of the program to be completed.
Oct. 1 a When completed and after spending $100K + , the high dollar folks are going to put in writing: high speed DSL is non existent in County Clay, what Frontier says they're providing is a lie, and finally, Frontier management sucks for dead air.
Oct. 1 a With the new month here, so begins the next cycle of public meetings around the county
Oct. 1 a We expect Mayor Hubbard to announce his choice for a Town Badge ot Night Watchman.
Oct. 1 a We're not looking for pretty, of the muscles of Hulk Hogan, but, someone with common sense.

Sept. 30 p Pretty sad evening for the CHS Panthers last night
Sept. 30 p We never got out of the starting blocks
Sept. 30 p Final Independence 26, Clay Zip
Sept. 30 p True the wawa level is low but the Elk River is absolutely beautiful.
Sept. 30 p Whether you're driving a bike, car or boat, it's a great time to come visit County Clay.
Sept. 20 p Our Fall colors are just starting to show.
Sept. 30 p For even more color, Pocahontas County appears to be close to 30% peak color.

Sept. 29 a Olive Bullard Friend, 79, of Maysel, see OBITUARY page
Sept. 29 a River Conditions: This Friday morning, the Elk is clear as a bell if you can find the wawa. Levels are low and will require some portage.
Sept. 29 a The river condition link is posted over on the fishing page
Sept. 29 a Tonight the CHS Panthers head South to take on Independence.
Sept. 29 a If you don't mind the travel, looks like a great night for football action
Sept. 29 a For those that can't make the trip, if all goes well, 101.7FM will sportscast the game.
Sept. 29 a For far away listeners check out the match up online.
Sept. 29 a Go Panthers
Sept. 29 a Chilly 45 degrees this morning.
Sept. 29 a Clayonians scrimp by as cheaply as possible. Instead of whole house furnaces, many still heat with wood. Others use wall mounted vent free heaters.
Sept. 29 a Chilly willy this morning meant, we all had to turn the gas valve back on and start clicking the striker button to get the heat on.
Sept. 29 a We kept hitting the button a 100 times while all along, we knew, the Fall ritual was about to begin.
Sept. 29 a That ritual is, taking off the front of the heater and cleaning out the ball of cob webs where the pilot light is suppose to ignite.
Sept. 29 a Happens every year and right when you're in your shorts and turning blue

Sept. 28 p For every American male on Earth, this is truly a day for mourning and loss
Sept. 28 p The man that set the high water mark for burying the salami has passed.
Sept. 28 p Every month we grabbed his magazine for the cultural content of course and to see how many stars were noted on the top of the front cover.
Sept. 28 p Good bye Hugh.

Sept. 28 early a Several Vicky Perdue supporters showed up for Monday night's Sch Bd meeting.
Sept. 28 a At issue was Teacher's Aide Perdue wearing a Christian inspired T shirt to school.
Sept. 28 a The good intentioned evangelicals asked a bunch of questions including: Where did all this anti Christian effort start?
Sept. 28 a The skillful attorney answering the questions, replied, right here in West Virginia and years ago.
Sept. 28 a Soothing the crowd and making sure he got out of there alive, he prefaced everything with, check it out on the web.
Sept. 28 a Saving you some search time....
Sept. 28 a The event that that solidified the separation of church and state developed just one county over, in Richwood W Va during the outbreak of WW II when patriotism was at a fever pitch.
Sept. 28 a Barnette was a Jehovah Witness handing out religious literature in the bustling lumber town.
Sept. 28 a Appalachia hated (maybe still do) Jehovah's' because they refused graven images putting anything before God. Stuff like saluting the U S Flag and following along some other's prayer.
Sept. 28 a American Legion members, Town Badge Bert Stewart and a Black Shirt Martin L. Catlette rounded up the devoted church workers, and a mob, and with the help of a local MD, filled them with up to, 16 ounces of castor oil, bound their hands together, and marched them out of town.
Sept. 28 a Nearly killing the Barnette, a Federal case grew out from the outrage of a local Grand Jury coming back with, Heck , there ain't nothing wrong with the mob's actions. Shucks!
Sept. 28 a When the Barnette case was decided on Flag Day in 1943, the Big Robes in DC made it clear, religion is too important for Governments to administer.
Sept. 28 a Here's detailed reading on the persecution of the religious group and the improvement of religious liberties in West Virginia..
Sept. 28 a Here's the hard core reading .
Sept. 28 a From the online Appalachian History Book.
Sept. 28 a We also found the ACLU's guide on what can and can't happen relating the separation of church and state.
Sept. 28 a Before our eyes crossed from reading all the big words, we noticed a passage that may stir up another local question
Sept. 28 a Since Robert Belt's name and mouth made it around the nation last week, locals asked, why has he not been also disciplined by the Sheriff's office. Belt was wearing a uniform at the time of the demeaning homophobic rant to the high school student.
Sept. 28 a referring back to the Richwood Badge mentioned above and because he told investigators, Oh No folks, before I did those actions, I took off my Badge... So... I wasn't a Badge but rather a private citizen having some fun.
Sept. 28 a Here's the passage buried deep in that heavy duty reading: The U.S. Attorney argued that both Catlette and Stewart, as officers of the law, were required to maintain the peace and protect the Witnesses in the exercise of the rights and privileges secured or protected by the Constitution and laws of the United States. Their failure to do this, he contended, violated the color of law provision of the civil rights statute. Catlette's

defense was that he did not act under color of law, and that the government failed to show any statute of West Virginia under which he acted. Furthermore, Catlette claimed that because he removed his deputy sheriff's badge, he did not act as a law officer. During his testimony Catlette revealed that, while the Jehovah's Witnesses were being paraded through the streets, he took a man into custody. The judge asked him if he was acting as a deputy sheriff or a private citizen. Catlette replied he acted as a private citizen.

Sept. 28 a That acting as anything other than a Badge did not set well with the Robes.
Sept. 28 a For those that get peed at the thought of someone not saluting the flag or reciting the pledge: that too has also been decided and set in stone no matter what our dumb dory Prez has to day: There is no doubt that, in connection with the pledges, the flag salute is a form of utterance. Symbolism is a primitive but effective way of communicating ideas. The use of an emblem or flag to symbolize some system, idea, institution, or personality, is a short cut from mind to mind. Causes and nations, political parties, lodges and ecclesiastical groups seek to knit the loyalty of their followings to a flag or banner, a color or design. The State announces rank, function, and authority through crowns and maces, uniforms and black robes; the church speaks through the Cross, the Crucifix, the altar and shrine, and clerical reiment. Symbols of State often convey political ideas just as religious symbols come to convey theological ones. Associated with many of these symbols are appropriate gestures of acceptance or respect: a salute, a bowed or bared head, a bended knee. A person gets from a [319 U.S. 624, 633] symbol the meaning he puts into it, and what is one man's comfort and inspiration is another's jest and scorn.
Sept. 28 a Here's a Did You Know, up until Hitler stole this salute, Americans used the arm out straight and palm down to salute the U S flag. Isn't that interesting!
Sept. 28 a If you've read thru all this, you sure need to pick up the latest copy of The Communicator for all the local action. Thanks in advance.

Sept. 27 p Can a School System employee wear a T Shirt emblazoned with "I'm Going to Pray Anyway" on it?
Sept. 27 p Can a school employee or elected official tell anyone else to follow them in prayer?
Sept. 27 p Those answers and a bunch more in the latest Communicator
Sept. 27 p Pretty interesting County Commission meeting this morning
Sept. 27 p South of the Hartland bridge, the majority of Clayonians exist without municipal wawa.
Sept. 27 p During this morning's CCC meeting, we learned, the Pack Fork / Independence Road wawa line project, the one that has been in the works for 10 years, the project will break ground Oct. 15th. That's Oct. 15th of this year!
Sept. 27 p Also, Frontier Tele Co provides some of the most dismal internet service imaginable. At times, a lot of times, the DSL is unusable, unstable and non existent..
Sept. 27 p Fresh money is now available to improve internet service in the outback. A local committee has been formed to get in line for the money.
Sept. 27 p What do you think is the first thing coming our way? Is it new lines? New interfaces? New main switching stations? Tell Frontier to go screw themselves and start some new outfit?
Sept. 27 p None of the above.
Sept. 27 p The money will be spent doing a feasibility study. Somewhere upwards of $120,000 will be spent so the new report can tell us, Frontier stinks.
Sept. 27 p That new committee will get started this Friday up in the Big Otter Community Center
Sept. 27 p Down South, residents in the Camp Creek Bridge neighborhood have been doing without a safe bridge for years. Since last year, the old span has been restricted to foot travel only.
Sept. 27 p It was announced this morning, the new Camp Creek Bridge will open at the end of this month
Sept. 27 p The big thing now is to save our druggy culture by giving them shots of Narcan when they overdose. Often the injection is the difference between life and death. Ambulances show up, injections are made, the guy recovers, and then, he or she can enter the jail system on our dime.
Sept. 27 p How do you guess a squirt of Narcan costs?
Sept. 27 p Correct answer is, around $50 a hit.
Sept. 27p And finally from this morning, the Courthouse has secured enough grant $$$ to purchase new security cameras (28 total), new metal detectors, and new lighting for the old Courthouse.

Sept. 26 a Action packed School Board meeting Monday night. Full details in today's Communicator.
Sept. 26 a The journal of choice made the four county network by early afternoon today
Sept. 26 a 80 cents and worth a lot more!
Sept. 26 a County Commission meets Wed morning at 10am.
Sept. 26 a Public meeting and well worth a set thru

Sept. 25 p As of 2pm today, only 44 voters have showed up and cast their mark during early voting at the Courthouse.
Sept. 25 p Sad!
Sept. 25 a You never know what might happen or who might show up for a public meeting
Sept. 25 a Over the years, government agencies have had gazillions show up in protest or support of something controversial.
Sept. 25 a The School Board meets tonight at 6pm in the basement of the Pentagon. The agenda looks pretty tame.
Sept. 25 a In the last few weeks....
Sept. 25 a There was Dave Mullins comments on a Muslim prayer before a public meeting
Sept. 25 a There is the policy change by Joe Paxton away from Govt sponsored one kind only prayer before CHS football games to a moment of silence
Sept. 25 a There is the Robert Belt issue over very poor use of demeaning words toward a student
Sept. 25 a There is the story of a teacher being sent home after wearing a "Pray Anyway" T Shirt
Sept. 25 a With Drumpf spewing demented thinking on the Constitution, any or all of the just mentioned things could bring out the masses tonight.
Sept. 25 a Because so many in the county are lazy, uncaring or in a drug induced state of mind, tonight's gathering could be just another HoHum meeting where nothing happens
Sept. 25 a Full details in tomorrow's Communicator.
Sept. 25 a Deadline for Clay County's locally owned and operated newspaper is tonight around 5pm.
Sept. 25 a For those that don't know, Early Voting is now in progress at the Courthouse for the Road Bond issue.
Sept. 25 a A check over at the County Clerk's office reveals a very light turn out for the ballot initiative.

Sept. 24 p Been a heck of a week in County Clay. For instance...
Sept. 24 p After receiving a demand letter from the ACLU, the the Pentagon went into skeered shirtless mode.
Sept. 24 p Instead of just writing a truthful letter, something like, Gosh folks, no we didn't provided the mandatory training for our employee, they went into cover up time.
Sept. 24 p Instead of doing the right thang, they hurried up a bus drivers' sensitivity class.
Sept. 24 p Unfortunately, it's too late. This can easily turn into a 6 figure lawsuit. By during the sensitivity classes afterwards, they just added fuel to the fire.
Sept. 24 p During Thursday's Greater Clay meeting, for the first time, financial reports were discussed in public. The new attention was brought by Cheryl White who had done her homework ahead of time. . Boom Boom Boom, one after another, questions on travel reimbursements, wages, and the possibility of $$$ spent from the wrong line items, all came up
Sept. 24 p Most in the county know, it's going to take at least a couple years before we completely recover from the June 23rd Great Wash Out. Based on Thursday's meeting, it sure looks like, the Greater Clay operation that we know, it's going to end or at least change big time.
Sept. 24 p Now parents have to worry about listening to Donald Drumpf on TV.
Sept. 24 p This week his potty mouth included using S O B but spoken out, during prime time TV.
Sept. 24 p His embarrassment to the world continues and now he's using the potty language.
Sept. 24 p Maybe he's learning from Robert Belt
Sept. 24 p Hurry up Bob Mueller and get him out of there.
Sept. 23 a Here's something we don't get to say very often
Sept. 23 a The Panthers made it three in a row last night with a big victory of Liberty, 38 to 14
Sept. 23 a The weather even cooperated for Homecoming activities
Sept. 23 a 90 degrees expected for today
Sept. 23 a Get and enjoy it while its here

Sept. 22 p River conditions: For weekend boaters, the Elk is running low. That means you have to pick your areas of travel carefully or else you will portaging a bunch. Check out the FISHING page for the river elevation button for Clay.
Sept. 22 p Our mentally impaired Prez has given the thumbs up to the latest Republicrat plan to kill ObamaCare.
Sept. 22 p Truth is, the mentally challenged leader would sign off on anything as long as it doesn't include the word, Obama.
Sept. 22 p For those interested in finding out how the latest plan would affect millions of Americans and implode our health care system, click here .
Sept. 22 p Here's the timeline on how Dingle Dorf Trump has brought down this country to the level of teny tiny North Korea
Sept. 22 p Now for the big stuff
Sept. 22 p Cheryl White was elected to the local Board of Ed. She also is a volunteer rep with the Greater Clay Long Term Recovery Committee.
Sept. 22 p Last night during that Greater Clay meeting, Cheryl was front and center
Sept. 22 p Before the meeting White did her homework and crunched the numbers big time. As a result of her efforts, big info was made public. Stuff like huge outlays paid for mileage reimbursement.
Sept. 22 p Like.... Very high salary pay outs made to office workers who have a 10 to 2pm office hour schedule.
Sept. 22 p It was the first time, the full Committee was told the facts on high office salary and travel expenses averaging between $4200 to $5500 per month
Sept. 22 p Ms White's homework raised many eyebrows at the conference table.
Sept. 22 p As long as there's plenty of money in the back account, spending takes little attention.
Sept. 22 p Records now indicate, when you add up all the available money at Greater Clay, there's only $28,000 left. Much of that $28k is already ear marked for specific programs.
Sept. 22 p There's another problem.
Sept. 22 p There is a concern that earlier funding came from the wrong line item
Sept. 22 p That means, some of that $28,000 has to be returned to the correct program account.
Sept. 22 p When that happens, that makes even fewer dollars to keep the office open
Sept. 22 p Attempts were made to cut the office staff back to four hours per day in an attempt to stretch existing $$$$. That effort failed.
Sept. 22 p Another effort was brought forth for the non profit agency to adopt W Va Open Meetings Law.
Sept. 22 p That important topic was tabled citing, they only want to adopt some parts of Open Meetings Law
Sept. 22 p Complete details in the next Communicator
Sept. 22 p Our guess and a guess only... Some time in the next couple weeks, the Executive Board will meet and hash out what $$$ are left in the coffers.
Sept. 22 p Our guess, that amount will be under $20,000 or less.
Sept. 22 p Another guess... dollars will be so tight, the two Greater Clay office workers will be laid off in short order.
Sept. 22 a With great weather predicamentated for the next three days, lots of stuff going on this weekend in beautiful Clayberry
Sept. 22 a Tonight's a special night over at the CHS Football game. It's Homecoming night. With dry conditions ahead, looks like the queens won't bury up to their knees walking across the field.
Sept. 22 a Kick off is set for 7:30. Go Panthers.
Sept. 22 a WYAP-LP plans to sportscast the game for those that can't attend. Here's the online link for those that can't pick up 101.7 on the FM dial.
Sept. 22 a For around 30 years, each Friday night, volunteers over at Big Otter Community Center have hosted a music and dance fun fest. They're back again tonight. Good food too. Music begins at 7pm
Sept. 22 a Solomon's Secret, the locally produced outdoor drama, will make perform this weekend over at the Dundon Campground. Good way to spend some family time in the great outdoors. See EVENTS page for details
Sept. 22 a The BDA's new kayak livery service fires up again Saturday morning. With temps expected to be the 80's and Fall colors just starting to show, it's a great time to take in the Elk River. Make your reservation today. See ADVISORY page.
Sept. 22 a If you're more of a sit down Bingo playing fanatic, good opportunities to make some $$$$ this weekend. See EVENTS page.
Sept. 22 a Update coming on last night's Greater Clay meeting later today. Be sure to check back for a very interesting post.
Sept. 22 a Finally for this morning post, get out of the house and do something. Sunshine coming our way and a temp around 82 expected.

Sept. 21 a Today's the last full day of Summer. Fall officially comes our way around 4pm tomorrow.
Sept. 21 a With weeds piling up and grass getting tougher and tougher. Glad Fall's here
Sept. 21 a Formed after the 2016 Wash Out, the Greater Clay Long Term Recovery Committee (GC) was formed to help with flood relief.
Sept. 21 a Their by-laws require a once a year annual meeting to be held. During annual meetings, by-laws can be changed and citizen reps can be added along with regular business. That's going to take place tonight at 6pm sharp in their Main Street office in the old Starcher building.
Sept. 21 a With money dwindling and needs still coming in, might make for an interesting meeting to attend
Sept. 21 a Let's go back to the Robert Belt story.
Sept. 21 a Word on the street has it, Belt was suspended for five days after allegations surfaced that Belt used demeaning words aimed at a gay student that rides his school bus. Doubling the black eye on Clay, Belt is also a Black Shirt Badge. Many in the county are voicing, he's got to go from both public positions.
Sept. 21 a Other than the original written statement provided by Superintendent Joe Paxton, nothing has come from the Pentagon. They have been silent.
Sept. 21 a That will change Monday night during the next regular School Board meeting. Any decision made on Belt has to be approved (or changed ) by the Board with the vote coming in public
Sept. 21 a Team Paxton gets by with a bunch of crap when the public or national attention in this situation, ain't watching.
Sept. 21 a With all eyes on em Monday night, bet the Pentagon and the High School are in high gear trying to get their act together.
Sept. 21 a Here's an example of fearing a big time lawsuit or other court action...
Sept. 21 a Normally, the Pentagon is lax in following West Virginia Sunshine Law. Often their public meeting agenda does not comply with the three business day in advance agenda posting.
Sept. 21 a For the upcoming meeting, they have to be on their toes, the Agenda was posted yesterday before noon.
Sept. 21 a Our elected leaders really don't have a worry unless outside forces come into play
Sept. 21 a That happened when the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) entered into the fray with their first volley, a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) demand letter.
Sept. 21 a With the big suits involved, bet the heirachy is eating Rolaids and making sure every t is dotted and every i is crossed.

Sept. 20 p There's other stuff going on other than hating Belt.
Sept. 20 p For instance...
Sept. 20 p Appalachia is eat up with opiod abusers compliments Big Pharma. County Clay is smack dab in the middle of the mess with stone heads on every corner.
Sept. 20 p Crafty lawyers are working on a lawsuit which if successful, would fund abuse centers and skill training.
Sept. 20 p Last week during the County Commission (CCC) meeting, it was announced that this county was successful getting in the lawsuit effort.
Sept. 20 p We have a skirmish of sorts at the Courthouse between the Circuit Court Judges and the CCC.
Sept. 20 p Judge Facemire penned a letter to the three up front folks telling them they need to fund coffee and snacks for sitting jurors.
Sept. 20 p Mention was made in the letter that the CCC covers the cost of coffee and snacks for visitors of the CCC meetings and jurors need the same treatment.
Sept. 20 p In years past, the Sheriff's office has covered the cost of munchies. In this year's Circuit Court Budget, $210 was put in that line item to cover the HoHos and Ding Dongs. All but $17 has been spent out of that line item and this fiscal year is just getting under way.
Sept. 20 p That $210 is about the same amount that was budgeted for last year.
Sept. 20 p On another note, the CCC does not supply coffee to the public. Instead, out of their own pockets, personal pockets, coffee and once in a while, snacks, are available
Sept. 20 p In small town America, even the little things like politics, can add up to an argument.
Sept. 19 p Need a job?
Sept. 19 p Town Mayor Jason Hubbard is needing a certified Town Badge for part time duty.
Sept. 19 p When we talked to him a few days ago, he confided, he's only received a couple resumes.
Sept. 19 p He also provided, if a certified Badge is not found, he MAY consider a person with good common sense to serve as a night watch person.
Sept. 19 p See JOBS page now
Sept. 19 p Here's your chance clickers! Finally a job in County Clay.
Sept. 19 a After last year's Great Wash Out, a group banded together to provide assistance to locals in need. Named The Greater Clay Long Term Recovery Committee, received tons of $$$ and went to work providing for locals
Sept. 19 a As required by their By Laws, GReater Clay, will host their annual meeting (and munchies) Thursday evening in their Main Street Clay office digs.
Sept. 19 a For those that don't know, Greater Clay moved into the old Starcher building four months ago with office hours 10am to 2pm Monday thru Friday.
Sept. 19 a Now 15 months into the effort and checking account running low, no one will guess if the non profit agency will be around for a second annual meeting.
Sept. 19 a One of those below mentioned online petitions to oust Robert Belt from bus driver and Badge duties now has over 700 signatures
Sept. 19 a Solomon's Secret is a locally produced outdoor play with performances each Fall around the time of the Apple Festival.
Sept. 19 a For those that want to enjoy an outdoor setting and performance over at the Dundon Campground, check out the EVENTS page for final showings this coming weekend
Sept. 19 a Court cases take time to "mature". Some take years before a settlement comes. Others never get settled
Sept. 19 a Last Fall several FEMA benefit fraud cases entered Court systems around West Virginia. While we haven't heard any findings from those cases yet, something is worth noting.
Sept. 19 a Here's in Clayberry where many signed up for benefits and some of those were actually never flooded to begin with, none have surfaced in Circuit Court.
Sept. 19 a We hope that changes soon.

Sept. 18 a The Robert Belt controversy went full throttle last Tuesday when social media lit up the wires.
Sept. 18 a We got wind of the controversy on Monday Sept. 11th and asked about school policy during the last Sch Bd meeting. Check out the Communicator for the insight
Sept. 18 a Now six days into the we're madder than H battle, a quick internet search shows the broad reach around the world.
Sept. 18 a Not sure how big the Friendly Atheist web site is but they have coverage
Sept. 18 a Online petitions are exploding. This petition site is demanding Belt get axed from both his School Bus Driver job and as a local Badge.
Sept. 18 a Even the Republican Dirty Tricks site has opened up on the lad.
Sept. 18 a Zoom Info presents a history of one costly court case that involved Black Shirt Badge, Robert Belt.
Sept. 18 a Here's thefollow up on that case where Stump Morton got the crap beat out of him by Belt 9 years ago.
Sept. 18 a The LGBTQ Nation site is also providing info.
Sept. 18 a Making it tougher for leadership to keep the guy on either payroll, last Friday, the ACLU went to work by seeking info.
Sept. 18 a With a full page on Belt, Clay County West Virginia is famous again and not in a good way.
Sept. 18 a Keep something in mind, the victim nor the School System has released any info to document what was actually said. While we've heard Belt has been suspended for 5 days, we have nothing to back that up other than about a gazillion emailers and callers.
Sept. 18 a We're in the second week of the news cycle with no end in sight.
Sept. 18 a The 2017 Big Apple Fest is now in the history books. It will not go down as the biggest bestest festival but it was certainly a fun time to come home and see our friends and family members.
Sept. 18 a For the Ace Cub Reporter.....
Sept. 18 a A lady came up and told him: Boy aren't you having a good week!!
Sept. 18 a What?
Sept. 18 a She continued: Yelp, last week you were the most hated guy in the county and now it's Belt with that title, the most hated.
Sept. 18 a How refreshing.

Sept. 16 p David D. Hoffman, 80, of Ivydale, see OBITUARY page

Sept. 16 a Not going to believe it but last night the Panthers put it all over Valley Fayette, 37 to 8. That makes back to back wins and three wins so far this season.
Sept. 16 a News cycles peak and then drop.
Sept. 16 a Robert Belt's demeaning remarks toward a Clay High student made public landfall Tuesday Sept. 12th.
Sept. 16 a By Wed afternoon, social media was in high gear and the telephones at the Pentagon were ringing off the hook. Some callers were told, these calls are being recorded.
Sept. 16 a By Thursday morning, word on the street had it, Belt had taken a voluntary, "few days off."
Sept. 16 a Later in the day came rumors that Black Shirt Badge Belt, also the offending School Bus Driver, had been given a five day suspension from his driving duties plus an order to take sensitivity training
Sept. 16 a We know Belt was not driving big yeller later in this week, but, as for the official reason, the Pentagon has said nothing.
Sept. 16 a After five days, the news cycle was slowing to a crawl.
Sept. 16 a Until now
Sept. 16 a Many folks in this county and around the nation hate the letters, ACLU.
Sept. 16 a Private agency ACLU is the largest lawyerly group in the land. They are also the most litigious group with many many suits making it to the Big Robes in DC. The ACLU has made a difference in most civil rights cases for decades. They are the move and shaker for following the Constitution.
Sept. 16 a On Friday Sept. 15th, the ACLU officially entered the fray on Belt's demeaning words against a high school bus rider.
Sept. 16 The group mailed certified Freedom of Information ACT (FOIA) demands. One went to the Pentagon and the other to Sheriff Triplett
Sept. 16 a With new info, the news cycle should pick up again and this time, the public out cry should grow even more.
Sept. 16 a Why Triplett? Robert Belt was in uniform with his Badge in place, while driving the bus.
Sept. 16 a There are legal ramifications to wearing the Black Shirt even when off duty
Sept. 16 a Here's the link to the ACLU of West Virginia website.
Sept. 16 a Here's the link to their FOIA request heading to the Pentagon.
Sept. 16 a Here's the link to the FOIA request mailed to the Sheriff's office
Sept. 16 a Go ahead and take a few minutes to read over those demand letters.
Sept. 16 a See the problems? The FOIA's make the demand to the wrong person.
Sept. 16 a How can the foremost agency on civil rights be so dumb bunny as to NOT check to see who is the current Sheriff and School Superintendent? Dumb Dumb Dumb
Sept. 16 a Not sure how that affects the FOIA request but it sure looks bad for the Suits in Charleston
Sept. 16 a As of yesterday afternoon, Belt was dressed in uniform and on the job during the Big Apple Festival
Sept. 16 a This morning, TV-3 picked up on the incident.
Sept. 16 a Public rage is important to change. We're hoping social media, phone calls, and emails start increasing once again.
Sept. 16 a But....
Sept. 16 a So far, all we're going on is rumor.
Sept. 16 a There have been no public statements from the victim nor family members.
Sept. 16 a There has not been any official word from Joe Paxton nor the Board of Education
sept 16 a And this. Because the ACLU asks for info, that does NOT mean they will pick the incident and take everybody to Court. The FOIA only shows an interest

Sept. 15 p For those planning to ride the Elk Saturday or better yet, use the new Livery service, river conditions remain at Summer pool. That means there will be some portage. Our maples have just a tinge of range showing right now.
Sept. 15 a This County of Little has one big event annually. Called the Apple Festival, downtown Clay fills up with well wishers and fun stuff to do. The Big Apple is in progress right now. Weather wise, 75 degrees and sunshine.
Sept. 15 a For those that only visit this site when something rotten happens, there's more to Clayberry than just a hand full dumb arss's.
Sept. 15 a Come see for yourself what makes Clayberry "Remotely Beautiful".
Sept. 15 a Speaking of web traffic, this web portal normally receives around 2000 visitors during each week day. On Tuesday that count jumped to 21871. On Wed we reached 17801 hits. Yesterday, that number was 20,565.
Sept. 15 a We thank each one of you for walking over here.
Sept. 15 a We've got a new company getting off the ground tomorrow. Called the Elk River Kayak and Livery service, if you would like to try out the Elk River via a kayak, such, including a tandem unit, are available by reservation. For those that have their own boat and just need someone to take em to an access point, see the ADVISORY page and call Dave at 304 880 5103 for your reservation. . Fun starts Saturday at 11am
Sept. 15 a Let's get back to Clayberry's newest black eye, Robert Belt
Sept. 15 a Early yesterday, word came that Belt had taken a few days off voluntarily.
Sept. 15 a Yesterday afternoon, word seeped out that Bus Driver Robert Belt had been suspended for five days and ordered to take sensitivity training.
Sept. 15 a Whatever the case, there is nothing posted on the Clay County Schools website nor noticed provided this site, the local newspaper, The Communicator nor the local radio station, 101.7FM
Sept. 15 a The School System is doing a wonderful job of tamping down the black eye but has fallen short on damage control to our just getting off the ground, tourism industry.
Sept. 15 p To Lodge your complaint of support of public employees demeaning kids in a captivated situation, the contact number and email address are listed just below.
Sept. 15 p Clay High football action continues this evening when the Panthers take on Valley Fayette in away field action. ATTENTION: There's something new. The game begins at 5pm sharp.
Sept. 15 a 101.7FM plans to air the match up beginning with a pre game show around 4:50pm.
Sept. 15 a For those unable to attend, WYAP-LP radio can be heard online. Here's that link.
Sept. 15 p

Sept. 14 p For those around the world that are interested in the alleged bad mouth of Clay County School Bus Driver and local Black Shirt Badge, why not do the right thing and give the people in charge a phone call
Sept. 14 p Clay County Schools Superintendent Joe Paxton 304 587 4266.
Sept. 14 p We have a Bus Czar named Jarred Fitzwater who is responsible for the training and actions of bus drivers. His tele is also 304 587 4266
Sept. 14 p Over at Clay High the Principal is Crystal Gibson. The Vice Principal is Allen Tanner. Both can be reached at 304 587 4226
Sept. 14 p The local School Board has oversight over the entire operation and its 20+ million budget. They also approve all hiring and firing of friends and neighbors and discipline of wayward dumb bunnies
Sept. 14 p The President of the local Board is Dave Mullins who can be reached at 304 587 7666
Sept. 14 p Other members of the School Board include David Pierson 304 587 7220
Sept. 14 p Morgan Triplett 304 587 2282
Sept. 14 p Cheryl White 304 587 9995
Sept. 14 p Susan Bodkins is the fifth member of the Board but we are unable to find her telephone number
Sept. 14 p The email address for the School System is claycountyschools.org@gmail.com
Sept. 14 p You will notice the schools' website , mentions their mission statement: The mission of Clay County Schools is Caring, Commitment, and Success.
Sept. 14 p Mr Belt is a local Sheriff's Dept Deputy. When this f-a-g-g-o-t incident allegedly occurred, Belt was in uniform and wearing his Badge.
Sept. 14 p It might be a good idea to call Sheriff Triplett and let him know your thoughts on using demeaning language while in uniform. That tele number for the Clay County Sheriff's Dept is 304 587 4260.
Sept. 14 p Early this morning came word that Driver and Badge Robert Belt was taking a voluntary leave of absence.
Sept. 14 p Here in the outback, leaders often try to slide past sticky situations by sending the offender home until the heat dies down.
Sept. 14 p Your telephone calls and emails will help insure this problem is fixed once and for all.

Sept. 13 p Professional news organizations stay on the safe side when it comes to slanderous reporting. Names are with held untilt here's some kind of confirmation. That's not the case with social media which blares out any rumor coming down the pike and make it sound like fact.
Sept. 13 p Until now, this site has not identified the Clay County School Bus driver that uttered the f-a-g-g-o-t ridicule to a local student. We chose the innuendo route until now.
Sept. 13 p Raw Story is an international news portal visited by 1000's daily.
Sept. 13 p Today around Noon, Raw Story posted a story pointing the finger at Robert Belt as the bus driver in the cross hairs for all the world to see. When you walk over there, be sure to check out the comments section near the bottom of the story.
Sept. 13 p Sadly we report, as this steamer rolls along, we may receive another black eye as big as the Pam Taylor story last Nov 9th..
Sept. 13 p Now, we can say Belt is also a Black Shirt Badge and still on the job there and the school bus....
Sept. 13 p Our School Board nor the Pentagon's Joe Paxton, are hired to protect employees.
Sept. 13 p Instead, from the time the student gets on the bus to the time he or she gets home, the kid is suppose to be in a safe haven, a place neutral and devoid of the crap the kid may have went thru Sept. 5th.
Sept. 13 p Instead of saying, we investigate, Team Paxton should have removed Belt from the safe haven of a school bus. That should have happened as soon as High School leadership was given notice of the incident.
Sept. 13 p Leadership is required to err on the side of the child.
Sept. 13 p Part of Joe Paxton's job, Sch Bd Chair Dave Mullins and all the Boardsters jobs, is to be an advocate for those in their charge.
Sept. 13 p That was NOT done!
Sept. 13 p Instead, the benefit of doubt was given the Badge wearing, figure of authority.
Sept. 13 p While investigating, the target child continues to be exposed to the sensitive situation while Belt drives the bus. Kids on the captivated environment of a bus may now think it's OK to call another child a Faggot.
Sept. 13 p Instead of being prudent, the Pentagon and the School Board dropped the ball in the worst way.
Sept. 13 p The only real question should be, was the child protected? The answer is No.
Sept. 13p Heads need to roll from Clay High leadership right on up to the top of the dog pile.
Sept. 13 p For those wanting to lodge a complaint or comment, the High School's telephone number is 304 587 4226. The tele # for the Board of Education is 304 587 4266.
Sept. 13 p At the Pentagon, the correct names to ask for are, Superintendent Joe Paxton and or Bus Czar Jarrod Fitzwater. We're looking up School Board President Dave Mullins tele # now.
Sept. 13 p These are sad times in County Clay.

Sept. 13 a County Commission meets this morning at 10am
Sept. 13 a Great societies do better when secrets are kept to a minimum. Monday night, during the Sch Bd's secret time, there is little doubt, they spent their 45 minutes discussing how to handle and tramp down public information on the bus driver allegations of using demeaning language against a student and admonishing the kid with words of going to Hell if he doesn't change his ways.
Sept. 13 a The incident is suppose to have taken place on Sept. 5th. Monday was the 11th. That 6 day time span was plenty of time to retrieve the bus video from the Pentagon's data base (server). A couple things could have happened.
Sept. 13 a The bus did not have a recorder or the recorder was turned off
Sept. 13 a The recorder worked but the stream was so damning, it was erased, lost, or otherwise, unusable
Sept. 13 a The recorded evidence was so damning, a recording from a different date was substituted to clean up everything for the Pentagon
Sept. 13 a Or, finally, nothing happened.
Sept. 13 a Was a video played during the Board's secret time? We don't think so.
Sept. 13 a What was done was type up a boiler plate, bullet proof , statement to stem the tide of public ridicule.
Sept. 13 a Here's Joe Paxton's grammar riddled public statement that was provided to TV-3 on Tuesday Sept. 12th) : "In response to the media's request for a statement, please know that administration is prohibited from going into detail regarding these preliminary allegations. I can state that administration is investigating the allegations, and will do so thoroughly, all while complying with applicable laws and policies that govern the process. Administration always takes allegations of this nature serious, and in doing so, administration takes the investigation serious versus rushing to pre judgment."

"Regardless of the outcome of the investigation, please know that all of our employees are expected to provide a safe and welcoming learning environment for all of our students. As the Employee Code of Conduct mandates, the school system expects all of our employees to exhibit professional behavior by showing positive examples of communication, fairness, and language. Also, as required in the Code of Conduct, the school system expects all of our employees to maintain a safe and healthy environment, free from harassment, intimidation, bullying, and free from bias and discrimination."

Sept. 13 a Such statements are written., No off the cuff stuff with mistakes can be made. Paxton had to start the news cycle off with a tamp down effort.
Sept. 13 a Based on social media response and with many knowing how the Pentagon does things, the statement is doing little to squash the public's demand that change be made.
Sept. 13 a The next step is for costly attorneys to make their appearance.
Sept. 13 a That step can be eliminated if Team Paxton would come out of the backroom and do the right thing.
Sept. 13 a The weight of a court proceeding and the ridicule that comes with such on a high school kid, that shouldn't happen. It doesn't need to happen. Taxpayers should not have to pay those costs out of Levy funds!
Sept. 13 a Instead, it's time for our elected leaders to do the right thing, step up, and do so quickly.
Sept. 13 a That BS about a lengthy investigation,.... they have witnesses after witness from the bus riders.
Sept. 13 a Multiple first hand eye witnesses work every time.
Sept. 13 a What also works is a willingness to do the right thing. No not discipline for running over of a guard rail, but a willingness to to what's right even if the employee is a strong friend of the administration.
Sept. 13 a Here's the tough one clickers...
Sept. 13 a The ridiculed child might have to step forward. He shouldn't have to since Team Paxton is sworn to uphold the law, but sadly, the teenager may have to take a pounding for the right thing to happen
Sept. 13 a While this incident is taking place front and center, other incidents may be sliding under under the bus.

Sept. 12 p After a long 36 hours of labor, The Communicator made it to news stands across the four county region.
Sept. 12 p Our lead story gives insight on the dismal 2017 standardized test scores for our wittle rug rats..
Sept. 12 p All the news and views plus the latest breaking news on a facebook based internet sensation where a local school bus driver is said to have called a CHS student a "faggot" and "You're going to Hell".
Sept. 12 p During Monday night's School Board meeting, the question came up: What's the policy on school system employees addressing students with such demeaning words.
Sept. 12 p The answer from Superintendent Joe Paxton will cost you 80 cents.
Sept. 12 p Since details were put on Facebook, the normal, Off With His Head remarks are everywhere.
Sept. 12 p TV-3 provided a 5pm opening volley on the topic.
Sept. 12 p The first of the Big Apple carnival rides are being set up in prep for Thursday night's opening evening of family fun.
Sept. 12 p You might notice over on the ADVISORY page, the new Kayak Livery Service will be up and running this Saturday. With dry, warm weather, expected as well as the river to be up a couple inches, you better get your reservations in early. For those wanting to rent a kayak or double kayak, boats are limited and you really aught a reserve em now.
Sept. 12 p Good luck Elk River Kayak Livery Service.
Sept. 12 p Also mark your calendars for the end of the season, Fall Foliage Tour on the Elk slated for Oct 14th. That info is available on the EVENTS page
Sept. 11 p Dana (McKinney) Miller, 84, see OBITUARY page
Sept. 11 a Not so long ago, each Dec., old timers would tell the history of what it was like here in the states during the bombing of Pearl Harbor. Those folks have gone on and only textbooks are left to tell the varnished story
Sept. 11 a 16 years ago this morning, America was scared. We grabbed our kids and held them tight. We called family members and friends and checked on them
Sept. 11 a Around 10:00 am on this date in 2001, the call went out to the White House and Congress, a fourth plane is heading toward DC, and Get Out Now, Get Out Now!!
Sept. 11 a 16 years ago this morning, a County Commission meeting was scheduled. When the Ace Cub Reporter walked in, Commissioner Jimmy Sams yelled out, They crashed another into the second Trade Center.
Sept. 11 a On TV, Peter Jennings remarked as he watched the first two buildings go down, that looks just like when buildings are imploded, demolition.
Sept. 11 a The third tower, a tower that was not touched in any way by a jet, also imploded within itself.
Sept. 11 a Everything, everybody, was quiet. Back then there was only one TV at the Courthouse to watch.
Sept. 11 a The only other public TV was at the Henry Clay Hotel. There , even the drunks stared in disbelief.
Sept. 11 a In 2001, there were not many TV's in public schools nor instant communication via cell phones. While teachers got word of the attacks on the country, students didn't have a clue what was going on until after they got home. There was no early out on Sept. 11 2001
Sept. 11 a None of the kids in school today were there during the worst attack on America. For them, it's just another history book passage.
Sept. 11 a For us old farts today, like the Pearly Harbor rememberers of old, 9/11 remains a special day and a quiet one.
Sept. 11 a To see the contradictions on what really happened 16 years ago, click 911 Truth.

Sept. 10 p School Board convenes Monday evening at 6pm sharp in the Pentagon. A lengthy agenda includes filling a bunch of vacancies from teachers to coaches.
Sept. 10 p Also for Monday night, the BUsiness Development Authority will hold their monthly meeting with a 6:30pm start time. Interesting on the list is mention of "pedal cars"
Sept. 10 p We think pedal cars is reference to those rail riders vehicles that might create a heck of tourist draw.
Sept. 10 p A few weeks back a feller showed an interest in growing such a ride on the BC&G spur line.
Sept. 10 p Here's a link to those pedal car rides out in Oregon. It sounds like, there are three operating rail rides in Oregon. When we talked to those folks, they are booked solid. It's a money maker and we could have such an operation in the near future.
Sept. 10 p Rumors were circulating that bad stuff was going on within the Greater Clay Long Term Recovery Committee. Chair Larry Cole says, that ain't happening. Full details in Tuesday's Communicator.
Sept. 10 p By mid week, the Big Apple will be in high gear.
Sept. 10 p Mark your calendars for Thursday Friday and Saturday for great family fun second to none.
Sept. 10 p So far, weather wise, there's just a 40% chance of the wet stuff for the opening night fun.
Sept. 10 p Deadline for Communicator submissions is Monday evening around 5pm. Email yur stuff now

Sept. 8 p Not going to believe it but the Panthers put it all over Roane County tonight, 26 to 14 That score roared back in forth like a see saw during the first half. Great game!
Sept. 8 a Tonight the Panthers take on Roane County over at Schoonover Bradley Field with a 7:30 start time.
Sept. 8 a With beautiful weather predicamentated, it's a great time to come out and support the home team.
Sept. 8 a Go Panthers
Sept. 8 a For those that can't attend in person, 101.7 FM with TG Griffith behind the mic will handle the play by play and color over the web. Here's the connection link.
Sept. 8 a How about links that will eat up work time and offer some very interesting historic info on Clay County railroads...
Sept. 8 a Bill Bright owns the Elk River Railroad which runs from below Clendenin into Gilmer Couny.
Sept. 8 a From american-rails.com, here's a fine remembrance of the Buffalo Creek and Gauley RR.
Sept. 8 a Here's a broader history on railroads in the Mountain State.
Sept. 8 a Here's some excellent reading on the history of the rail between Dundon and Gassaway.
Sept. 8 a Like to build a model of the old BC&G RailBus?
Sept. 8 a Hands down, here's the best pictures we've found on Rail Bus A.
Sept. 8 a And finally, detailed plans and pictures from newspaper articles on the original rail bus .
Sept. 8 a After you've wasted an hour of company time looking at history, the question comes, why all the hype on a rail bus?
Sept. 8 a The old BC&G railroad tracks heading thru the valley up to Widen will remain when the new hiking biking trail is created on the old main line tracks.
Sept. 8 a Damage by last year's Great Wash Out, FEMA plans to repair all the damage from the storm including bridge replacement.
Sept. 8 a When (if) that happens, the spur will be strong enough to handle tourist ride featuring a railbus.
Sept. 8 a Couple that with a guy that is currently working to create a "rail rider" draw and Clayberry will be back on the map and in a good way.
Sept. 8 a Enjoy the beautiful weather this weekend.

Sept. 7 late p Betty Lea Chapman, 80, of Ivydale, see OBITUARY page

Sept. 7 more a Town Council met Tuesday afternoon. Under the direction of newbee Mayor Jason Hubbard, the town operation has stabilized and even improved in many areas
Sept. 7 more a For at least 8 years, after Fran King secured $200,000 for the repairs, the Town StreetScape project has been on hold. On the 5th, Team Hubbard announced, the StreetScape project is back on track. Officially, the thang has been changed to allow for more sidewalks and less in t he way of benches, period lighting and $500 trash cans.
Sept. 7 more a Now, all the free loot (no match needed) will be used to rebuild sidewalks with brick trim from the Farm Store, on both sides of Main Street up to Rite Aid on the river side and up to past NAPA on the other side.
Sept. 7 more a From local funds, Council will begin installing new fire hydrants on that same stretch of need.
Sept. 7 more As for the nice to have park bunches, nice looking lights and expensive trash cans, Hubbard said they will apply for more $$$ a little later.
Sept. 7 more a Before anything can happen, Main Street will be ground down and repaved.
Sept. 7 more Expect deep deep grinding from the State Road to allow for a proper sidewalk height to pavement height as required by grant guidelines.
Sept. more a With a tourism push now in progress by the BDA, the new sidewalks will make for a better experience for new faces in Clay
Sept. 7 more a There has been another change in downtown Clay. Since the 2016 Great Wash Out, several, many, homeless people have been squatting in vacate buildings and living on the river bank in tents.
Sept. 7 more a There's nothing unlawful about the new faces until they started robbing and looting to maintain their drug habits.
Sept. 7 more a From the Clay County Bank down river, there are times when sleepy little Clay looks and feels pretty seedy.
Sept. 7 more a On the 5th, Town Council voted to budget $8000 for a part time Badge for the municipality. The $8K was found in an unused money market account ($5400) and a little more from the original StreetScape account ($4900).
Sept. 7 more a Hubbard: We have to take our town back... It's the right thing to do ... It [ a Badge] will give us a beach head.
Sept. 7 more With agreement from in attendance Council person, Denise Holcomb, JP Helms, and Josh Shamblin, the Mayor will begin looking for a Blue Shirt immediately and make a hire.
Sept. 7 more a In this State, a Mayor has full authority to hire a Badge.
Sept. 7 more Interested? Better see Jason Hubbard today.
Sept. 7 more a Full details from Tuesday's Town Council meeting in the next Communicator.
Sept. 7 more a For those sworn on Facebook to boycott County Clay's locally owned and operated newspaper of record, if you go over to a Go Mart late late at night, no one will see you making the purchase. Maybe asking the clerk to put the thing in a plastic bag might help keep things quiet and make you feel better.
Sept. 7 a 47 degrees at 7 this morning. The first of the Sycamore leaves are starting to turn yellow
Sept. 7 a How about something very important clickers.
Sept. 7 a The financial future for Clayberry depends on receiving and operating the old Elk River RR rights of way as a hiking biking trail.
Sept. 7 a Before that can happen, the BDA has to receive grant funds to cover the acquisition cost.
Sept. 7 a The deadline for the grant was Sept. 1st. The BDA application was accepted including a little over 50 letters of support. 50 support letters is OK but not good. Out of the entire four county run of the tracks, just 50 ?
Sept. 7 a The funders have extended the time on accepting our letters of support to Sept. 14th.
Sept. 7 a This site has a bunch of out of county and state clickers. Many of those left the state years ago to find work. A letter of support from you all expressing the importance of locally grown jobs, that would be wonderful.
Sept. 7 a Send your letters of support to the Clay County Business Development Authority; PO Box 57, Clay West Virginia 25043 . For those adverse to using a pencil and paper, the email address is bdaclayco@yahoo.com
Sept. 7 a Take a few minutes and do something good for the County of Little.
Sept. 7 a Thanks in advance.
Sept. 7 a As a follow up to Tuesday's post, this.
Sept. 7 a That Gold Bond lady on TV, she's lying thru her teeth!!!

Sept. 5 p After 13 days of travel, the wifey returns to Tall House Wed morning at 8am.
Sept. 5 p It's been a long ordeal to get the place back in a condition close to what the place looked like 15 days ago.
Sept. 5 p These home duties are a new learn for the bald headed fat guy.
Sept. 5 p Like....
Sept. 5 p Little Tootsie Rolls were piled up everywhere. After a few days, the hardened artifacts are easy to vacuum up. The first few minutes of sweeping went well, the wittle doggie clumps disappeared clunk, rattle, suck, clunk, clunk, rattle, suck, etc.
Sept. 5 p Unfortunately, after a few minutes of use and the sweeper warmed up, so did the smell of droppings.
Sept. 5 p So far, two cans of Lysol has not cut thru the effervescence.
Sept. 5 p Preparing for the reunion....
Sept. 5 p There's a lady on TV that proclaims, Gold Bond lotion will make everything 20 years younger in a mere two weeks.
Sept. 5 p She had a lotion for necks, face, legs, everywhere. The lady looked beautiful.
Sept. 5 p Being ever so clever, and hoping for a big reunion with the returning wifey, the Ace Cub Reporter purchased a couple bottles of the miracle rejuvenator.
Sept. 5 p For that new look, first was attacking the wrinkles and sags on his face. Then came that saggy bat wing skin on the back of the arms.
Sept. 5 p And then the thought came, makes you 20 years younger.
Sept. 5 p Hmmmmmm...
Sept. 5 p For the last five days, Gold Bond has been applied in a place where much rejuvenation is needed.
Sept. 5 p For now a good night's sleep before trying out the Gold Bond lady's promise.

Sept. 4 p Town Council convenes Tuesday at 5:30 in the Town's WaWa Plant on Main Street. On the agenda is mention of a Town Badge. It is an action item.
Sept. 4 p The Mayor is correct, the municipality needs a police presence but if he's thinking about the guy we think he's thinking about, Lord help us.
Sept. 4 p Also Tuesday night, the Central Appalachia Empowerment Zone (CAEZ) is holding their annual meeting, dinner, and bragging session, over at the Campground beginning around 6pm. Free food is involved with that public gathering.
Sept. 4 p Now for the real story
Sept. 4 p One week ago today, social media lit up with fiery words over our School system changing policy and removing prayer before football games at Clay High. Back and forth the postings went with each adding more fuel to the fire of Christian hate.
Sept. 4 p By School Board time on that same Monday, August 28th, TV-3 aired some quotes from Superintendent Joe Paxton which mentioned that one person talked to the Board about prayers being proclaimed over the School's PA system and, was such legal?
Sept. 4 p In response to that one person, policy changed. Poof! All gone were the govt sponsored prayers according to Joe Paxton. When was that decision made? Was it done in secret time? Was a decision made in secret time without the public knowing?
Sept. 4 p Who is that one person that spoke to the Board? Glad you asked.
Sept. 4 p Remember Superintendent Kenneth Tanner? He's the guy that quit his top perch after boxing himself in a political corner that he couldn't get out. While at the helm, KT also led a charge to stop a new transgender bathroom policy that came, was coming down, from DC. The new law was never implemented but with firm conviction, Tanner told TV cameras and a packed School Board meeting, he would never follow the law of the land, no matter what!
Sept. 4 p While stirring the kettle of hate, KT was also telling the world, heck with the law of the land, it didn't apply in Clayberry. At one point, KT said he would quit his job before following the law.
Sept. 4 p We are glad Kenneth Tanner has such a strong backbone and courage but both just mentioned issues, can not, could not be won.
Sept. 4 p Tanner must have forgotten back then, when he rasied his hand to be sworn in as Superintendent, the only thing he pormised was, he would adhere to the State and National Constitution.
Sept. 4 p Enter our new Superintendent, Joe Paxton. This leader wants to stir no waves. He wants no controversy. He does his job behind the scenes and uses the most artful wording to further reduce public outcry and finger pointing.
Sept. 4 p Before Paxton signed on as Superintendent, he told some of his Boardsters, if you hire me, we will follow the law of the land and School System Reps providing prayers on the school PA system, that will stop.
Sept. 4 p Enter the Ace Cub Reporter who has been a pain in their hind ends for years.
Sept. 4 p During the last couple years, the guy has been particularly successful in uncovering and printing egregious act after egregious, back door act, in School Board land.
Sept. 4 p With Paxton's fondness to staying away from getting his hands soiled, Paxton had to come up with a way to keep his teat out of the wringer on the topic of separation of church and state. He knew, if the public found out that he was the guy that stopped the practice, he would be a one term Superintendent. Gulp!
Sept. 4 p Brother Joe and members of the School Board came up with a two prong plan to get over, around, under this separation of church and state hurdle established back in 1964 by the Big Robes in DC..
Sept. 4 p One: Since the Bd. can get by with more back room crap in secret time without Communicator reporting, the Mel Gibson look alike has to be brought down . How to do that? Get the good Christians riled up at the Ace Cub Reporter. Get em to start calling for a boycott of the paper, tell em to stop reading the only locally owned and operated newspaper in the county.
Sept. 4 p Two: To keep Paxton from getting wrinkles in his Shirt or his hair messed up, quietly lead everybody to believe, the bald headed, fat, reporter is the bad guy. Start the rumor and then stand back and grin as it starts to steam rolling.
Sept. 4 p It was a darn good 2 prong plan but, .... it didn't work. Many in Clayberry remembered all the other church and state battles in the last 20 some years, and they know, the law of the land must be followed. It's a bitter pill to some but, the Constitution has to stand.
Sept. 4 p So who was that one guy that complained to the Clay County School Board in secret?
Sept. 4 p The correct answer is, Superintendent Joe Paxton.
Sept. 4 p More to come....

Sept. 4 a Happy Labor Day Clay
Sept. 4 a For those interested...
Sept. 4 a What is the distance between the rails on the BC&G RR?
Sept. 4 a Correct answer is 57 inches
Sept. 4 a How wide is a rail?
Sept. 4 a Where it is not worn away, a rail is 3 inches wide.

Sept. 3 p RIVER CONDITIONS; As of 3pm Sunday, the Elk is clear as a bell, and running at Summer pool. No mud coming into tributaries at this time. Labor Day would make a great time to come kayak the Elk
Sept. 3 a This is the final day of Summer. For most all of us, its been a good season with gardens producing like crazy.
Sept. 3 a Tomorrow is the one day out of the year that working class America gets off from work.
Sept. 3 a Hope you take advantage of it. Like...
Sept. 3 a Harbor Freight has a 25% off coupons for Labor Day.
Sept. 3 a The big who done it post comes Monday as well
Sept. 3 a Poor Drumpf. As the noose tightens and Mueller inches closer and closer, he has no place to go
Sept. 3 a If he bails out now, he would not have any pardon power for his family and other criminals
Sept. 3 a If he waits in office for impeachment, the embarrassment would be great
Sept. 3 a Poor Drumpf
Sept. 3 a Texans are just now finding out how dismal Fed aid is for the common man. The fine print will become clearer as the weeks go on.
Sept. 3 a Here in Clayberry, now 15 months after the Great Wash Out, we know the ropes
Sept. 3 a We also know how much waste went on. How much of the good will handouts went to the wrong people and all the tossed in dumpster food stuffs that spoiled for lack of refrigeration
Sept. 3 a The Texas disaster is affecting the nation with higher gas prices.
Sept. 3 a Refineries and other chemical producers located in Texas because the place is not regulated by state agencies. Their philosophy is, the good corporate owners will make sure we're all safe.
Sept. 3 a Already showing up, the environmental disaster is just now surfacing
Sept. 3 a On the home front , with the wifey gone for another 2 1/2 days, the learning curve is steep
Sept. 3 a Like, for 36 years, he's heard, PUT THE SEAT DOWN!!!
Sept. 3 a With her out of the Tall House, the seat's been up for 10 wonderful days. The mellow yellow color is growing thick.
Sept. 3 a Until 3 am this morning
Sept. 3 a With a couple beers under his belt and about 1/2 of a watermelon in his belly, the lad couldn't make it all night without a trip to the boys' room
Sept. 3 a With eyes half closed and only one night light on, the Mel Gibson look alike made it down the stairs, around the corner, into the nearly dark throne room.
Sept. 3 a Everything changed when his hind end touched down in the mellow yellow liquid.
Sept. 3 a After a few %%$$#### words, the struggle began to get topside and recover from the disasster
Sept. 3 a It's time for the return of the wifey
Sept. 3 a Enjoy your weekend clickers.

Sept. 2 early a The CHS Panthers got the stuffin's beat out of em Friday night, 32 to 13
Sept. 2 early a With rain coming down most of the day, the field was saturated. During the actual game, nearly no wet stuff coming down.
Sept. 2 early a With some clad in shirts reading, "Panthers Pray" and others emblazoned with "I'm Gonna Pray Anyway" T's, Paxton's change to a moment of silence went smoothly.
Sept. 2 early a The shirts were exactly what protesters should have done. When the many prayed out loud, that is and has already een 100% legal.
Sept. 2 early a TV-3 made their way to the football mud bath and provided pretty much uneventful coverage.
Sept. 2 early a Truth is, Panther games never started with prayer until last season. It was not an issue until Superintendent Joe Paxton made the change to a lawful display last night. That decision was never discussed during a public Sch Bd meeting nor was it ever listed as a reason for going into secret time, and there was never a vote in public for the change in policy. Never!
Sept. 2 early a Five days ago, the TV-3 coverage included: one individual complained to the Board and that started the action to come in compliance with a 54 year Supreme Court decision.
Sept. 2 early a On social media, poster after poster pointed the finger at the devil loving, communist, Muslim, Ace Cub Reporter, as the culprit.
Sept. 2 early a For those interested in the real truth, the real story behind what happened in Sch Bd land, and who is that one person really is, check back Monday.
Sept. 2 early a The collusion will amaze you. As for the validity of Monday's post, you can take it to the bank!
Sept. 2 early a Enjoy your three day weekend one and all.
Sept. 1 early a Welcome to the new month and FRIDAY!!!
Sept. 1 early a No Big Otter Community Center music tonight.
Sept. 1 early a Tonight the CHS Panthers take on Braxton County in the first home game of the season. Kick off is set for 7:30pm. With rain predicamentated for all of today and into the night, this could turn into a mud bath over at Schoonover / Bradley Field
Sept. 1 early a Community radio WYAP and WTUB will air the contest with pregame coverage around 7:20.
Sept. 1 early a Here's the online listening link.
Sept. 1 early a In light of the recent announcement by Joe Paxton that the Sch Board decided to stop govt endorsed prayer before the game, there should be interesting antics in the stands, field and anywhere they can read from their copy paper.
Sept. 1 early a The plan is for everyone to receive a copy of a Christian only prayer so it can be recited during the moment of silence. Well at least that's the normal stand and deliver response from those that want the Govt to tell em what to believe in and pray.
Sept. 1 early a Honestly, the Mel Gibson look alike does not do FaceBook. Period! However, people from around the world cut and paste dumb bunny posts and email em to us. Like...
Sept. 1 early a Many of the dimly lit FaceBook regulars are spewing out good Christian Hate and as they bad mouth this messenger (Mel) over the changes. Some of these social media posts are hilarious and worth a mention
Sept. 1 early a First.... Last Nov 9th, CDC Director Pam Taylor made the post that was heard around the world. She's the one that spouted off the racist remark about Ms Obama De Bama as "the ape in high heels"
Sept. 1 early a Between her and the then Town Mayor, they set the county back 100 years.
Sept. 1 early a Ms Taylor (and sister Wanda) have been active this week on the web..
Sept. 1 early a From Ms Taylor: All he has done for Clay County is made it bad publicly and make our Town look ignorant but the people still buy his paper.
sept 1 early a He has made us look bad
Sept. 1 early a He has made us look bad
Sept. 1 early a Head scratch... head scratch...
Sept. 1 early a Other FaceBook posts were equally dumb as a box of rocks but had grammer so bad, we're not going to take the time to try and figure out their insulting message
Sept. 1 early a On another note, seems a W Va Green Shirt had trouble keeping his zipper in the up position, from TV-8, Busted.
Aug. 31 early a A quick look down Main Street would leave some thinking, gosh, what a sleepy little place. Heck, there's even empty parking spots!
Aug. 31 early a First looks can be very deceiving. Let's get you up to speed
Aug. 31 early a A couple weeks ago as the School Board meeting was ready to open up, a smirking Bd Chair, Dave Mullins, looked over to the Ace Cub Reporter and asked: You ready to do a Muslim prayer? When a Yes was heard, Mullins asked a tried and true Pentagon official, Joan Haynie, to perform a Christian prayer.
Aug. 31 early a Not sure what prompted Mullins but, what that amounted to was mocking the second largest religion on the face of the Earth.
Aug. 31 early Over in Gilmer County, that seat of govt just lost a costly civil case. There, an elected official used unChristian thoughts to berate a gay couple seeking a marriage license. No West Virginia county has extra funds to pee away on lawyers, court costs, depositions and the like. Gilmer just did it.
Aug. 31 early a In addition to the big taxpayer pay out, a public apology was ordered as well as training on how to behave in public. Here's the write up.
Aug. 31 a From TV-8, first word came today on some Wayne County students who refused to include "under God" while reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.
Aug. 31 early a Surely to goodness there's another side to this opening volley since no one is required to do the Pledge in school or anywhere else. That battle was decided in 1964. The issue is settled.
Aug. 31 early a Part of the Battle.... Right after WWII, the Biggest Robes in DC said likewise after a Nicholas Badge and community members literally tar and feathered a family of Jehovah Witnesses before marching them down the main drag in Richwood. Issue? They would not say the Pledge of Allegiance in school.
Aug. 31 early a Now back home in Clayberry...
Aug. 31 early a Beginning Sunday Aug. 27th, Facebook lit up with postings over Govt reps telling CHS football game attendees to stand, take off their hats, and follow along with a Govt approved prayer.
Aug 31 early a The reality is, should some Jew, Buddhist, or say, Muslim, offer a prayer, all H would break loose.
Aug. 31 early a Trump loving Bible thumpers could not keep it in check. To Facebook they did run.
Aug. 31 early a On Monday, TV-3 aired quotes from Superintendent Paxton which made it clear, after a complaint was brought to the Board, a change of policy was made and now a moment of silence will be offered instead of a prayer.
Aug 31 early a The natives are not happy.
Aug. 31 early a TV-8 was in Town Wed to talk with Superintendent Joe Paxton who was unavailable.
Aug. 31 early a Let's see now, a Board decision was made on adults leading prayer during school activities..
Aug. 31 early a When was that discussed during a Board meeting?
Aug. 31 early a When did the Board vote in public on such a decision.
Aug 31 early a Did all the Board members even know what was coming down the pike?
Aug. 31 early a Did we miss something this controversial in our newsy coverage?
Aug. 31 early a We don't think so.
Aug. 31 early a Did the Board think this could go unnoticed?
Aug. 31 early a Under the covers, things are brewing in the Land of Little.
Aug 31 early a This place goes thru separation of church and state convulsions every five years or so.
Aug 31 early a There's always a a few Bible beaters that show up, spout off and then feel better about themselves.
Aug 31 early a When the dust settles, the Constitution stands. Trump or no Trumpy, it has to stand.
Aug. 30 a Happy Hump Day Wed morning
Aug. 30 a The Communicator made it out the door Tuesday afternoon. It's a 20 pager with some pretty interesting info you won't find anywhere else.
Aug. 30 a This edition also introduces the new addition to the Communicator team, Heather Wilmoth, who will be providing meeting coverage in upcoming editions.
Aug. 30 a Social media can be a good thing and push change.
Aug. 30 a An example of a good push came Nov 0th 2016 and 8:07 am when Pam Ramsey Taylor posted her now infamous ape in heels tirade
Aug. 30 a More often than not, social media is the purveyor of rumor and mean spirited diatribe
Aug. 30 a One old lady told us, I know it's true cause I read it on Facebook.
Aug. 30a Lordy Lordy Lordy
Aug. 30 a We don't do Facebook but via email, do receive the juicy and often dumb bunny stuff from that platform
Aug. 30 a As of yesterday afternoon, Facebook was still going strong on the prayer before CHS football games topic.
Aug. 30 a To read the official announcement from a reputable media outlet, here's TV-3.
Aug. 30 a The big question on social media remains, who's the person that complained to Superintendent Joe Paxton.
Aug. 30 a Read all about that issue and a whole bunch more in the latest, bestest yet, Communicator.

Aug. 29 p Steven Naylor, 49, of Glen, see OBITUARY page

Aug. 28 p This message comes to you from the land of thick tomato, cheese, and bacon sandwiches. It's also a place where you have to lock your vehicle or face a seat load of squash. In Clayberry, gardens are fully mature.
Aug. 28 p It's a great time to be a gardener
Aug. 28 p Trying to cross their i's and dot their T's, the BDA is holding a special meeting tonight.
Aug. 28 p 10 days ago came new of the new hiking biking trail and a $25 million grant to make all that happen
Aug. 28 p To Mack sure everything is kosher, tonight's meeting is to OK pursuing those funds.
Aug. 28 p Tonight the Sch Bd meets in regular session. Their agenda includes many votes to approve teachers retiring, quitting, and even a band director heading off to pasture. Big changes continue in County Clay.
Aug. 28 p Sounds like The Communicator is in the cross hairs of social media dumb bunnies over last edition's coverage of Sch Bd prayer offered before public meetings.
Aug. 28 p It's the usual mix of those without knowledge spouting off.
Aug. 28 p one of those social media elite's posted: I have never purchased The Communicator and don't plan to.
Aug. 28 p Boy, will that hurt sales!
Aug. 28 p And of course the call comes to boycott this site and the local newspaper.
Aug. 28 p From Elbert Hubbard: Genius may have limitations, but stupidity has no such handicap.
Aug. 28 p As has been the case in earlier boycott efforts, that drives up sale galore. Might want to get your paper early before their all gone.
Aug. 28 p Full details in Tuesday's paper. Deadline for submitting stuff to the paper is today around 5pm.
Aug. 28 p No updates till we get the paper thang to bed early in the morning.

Aug. 27 p River Report: Elk is at Summer pool, clear as a bell, and ready for your water adventure. River Access maps are at various stores in the county including Clay Go Mart.
Aug. 27 p The new guy starting the Elk River Kayak service will be up and running Saturday Sept. 16th. Read all about that in the next Communicator.
Aug. 27 p One week after learning that the BDA is poised to receive a 114 mile hiking biking trail that can serve as a platform for our tourism economy, things are more upbeat.
Aug. 27 p During this week's Commission meeting, all of the folks in the front were upbeat and offered various ways we can capitalize on the new draw.
Aug. 27 p How can we screw it up? it's easy and has been done before.
Aug. 27 p Always, when something good is about to happen, someone, someones, angle a way to get good for themselves first.
Aug. 27 p Our guess, with $25 million at stake for the purchase of the trail, some greedy %%$$#### turd will demand money for their pet project or their own pocket and blow the entire deal.
Aug. 27 p We hope that doesn't happen but, be warned, it's in the process right now.
Aug. 27 p We've got around 9600 people in the county. The call went out for letters of support for the new hiking trail project. Of all the people in Clay, just 32 letters of support have been received.
Aug. 27 p Pitiful!
Aug. 27 p Truth is, maybe we don't deserve this opportunity.
Aug. 27 p More in Tuesday's Communicator.
Aug. 27 p It's been four days since the lady of the house skedaddled on vacation time.
Aug. 27 p She left behind one message, don't let anything happen to the nine pound poop machine, Bella
Aug. 27 p Turns out, for one ounce going in, four exit the other end. No not over in some far corner, but smack dab in the middle of the living room, kitchen and worst of all, the tiny backroom that houses the Ace Cub Reporter's puter and files.
Aug. 27 p Back there, after four days, it is unsafe to walk around bare foot. Back there, even with two fans running full blast, it's Thanksgiving for black flies.
Aug. 27 p The peeing problem has been solved. Just don't give her anything to drink. Works like a charm.
Aug. 27 p Those tootsie rolls deposits are another issue.
Aug. 27 p Clayberry, there is a problem.
Aug. 27 p Mark Twain had a dog comment: “If you pick up a starving dog and make him prosperous he will not bite you. This is the principal difference between a dog and man.”

Aug. 26 p Della Eileen Mullins, 95, see OBITUARY page

Aug. 25 p The Boil Water Order issued by the Town of Clay Wed morning for Pierson Lumber South, it has been lifted as of 1:20 today.
Aug. 25 p It's a very special time of year for the Mel Gibson Look Alike.
Aug. 25 p Wifey has left the building for a two week vacation out west.
Aug. 25 p Unfortunately for the poodle left behind, it's time to enjoy life.
Aug. 25 p Poor poodle!
Aug. 25 a With Fall in the air, tonight is the season opener for Clay High Football action. The away game with Gilmer kicks off at 7:30 and can be heard on 101.7FM and 106.7 FM in Lizemores
Aug. 25 a To make the entire season available on the radio station, 4 more sponsors are needed. If you can help out, see Peter Triplett over at Clay Auto Parts.
Aug. 25 a There's several ways to listen online. here's the link.

Aug. 24 p This site has been pushing for people to mail in letters of support for the proposed Hiking / Biking trail.
Aug. 24 p Guess how many letters have been received? As of Thursday mid morning, only 7 letters have come in.
Aug. 24 p With a response like that, we don't deserve any more than what we've got, and that's zero.
Aug. 24 p One more time; mail your letter of support for our future to : Clay BDA; PO Box 57; Clay West Virginia 25043
Aug. 24 p Better yet, with the deadline being Friday, slide your letter of support under the BDA door in the old State Road Garage building in Two Run
Aug. 24 p Let us tell you how bad the druggy crime is in Clayberry.
Aug. 24 p Last Friday , scanner listeners heard the call for an ambulance to respond to a guy with an injury beside the Farm Store and near a truck there.
Aug. 24 p Sounds normal enough but the rest of the story goes...
Aug. 24 p Behind the Farm Store is a Town of Clay sewer system pump station. The place has odors a plenty! The injury occurred after a guy hooked up a come along in an attempt to lift and steal one of the log pumps from the structure.
Aug. 24 p With too much pressure on the come along, the thing broke sending the cable and hook into the thief.
Aug. 24 p That's how bad it is today in Clay.
Aug. 24 p We need jobs in the worst way.

Aug. 23 p From the Town of Clay: Boil Water Order issued for customers South of Pierson Log Yard.
Aug. 23 p BOIL IT FIRST
Aug. 23 p Major wawa line bust just below the Pierson office building.
Aug. 23 a Something was completely different during this morning's County Commission meeting
Aug. 23 a Lasting nearly an hour, things were upbeat.
Aug. 23 a Making everything public about the new hiking biking trail, the Commission as well as many in the peanut gallery realized, the new tourist draw will be a game changer for the County of Little
Aug. 23 a To handle kayaks, bikers, hikers, horse riders, rail riders and horse drawn carriages, there are going to be new jobs and new businesses
Aug. 23 a Everything from growing new campgrounds, to restaurants, to bike repair shops, tee shirt and trinket shops came up
Aug. 23 a One new note came up during the meeting. The old ELk River RR tracks and ties will be removed within 18 months!
Aug. 23 a One of the assets we now have and need to keep is the non profit radio station in Clay as well as the one down in Lizemores. Both can aid greatly in marketing for the hoped for tourist growth
Aug. 23 a One way that 101.7FM stays alive is selling sponsorships during sportscasts of Clay High sports.
Aug. 23 a The first varsity game comes this Friday.
Aug. 23 a To have your name or business name and particulars mentioned 4 times during each match up, the fee is $50 for the whole 10 game season.
Aug. 23 a TG Griffith is back behind the mic this year providing great play by play and color.
Aug. 23 a How about it America, now's the time to get our athletes on the air for their good deeds.
Aug. 23 a WYAP's tele is 304 587 8353 and leave a message. Their email address is wyaplp@hotmail.com
Aug. 23 a For those willing to support a good thing and live within the county, stop by Clay Auto and talk with Pete.
Aug. 23 a Go Panthers!

Aug. 22 p Echo McCallister, 73, see OBITUARY page

Aug. 22 a We start today's posting with some very sad news.
Aug. 22 a 90 year old Johnny Woofter was a walking talking history book for everything that happened in the county. At 90, Woofter as he was called by most, kept a sharp memory second to none. 6 weeks ago, the guy was at the Communicator office in good spirits.
Aug. 22 a Woofter told a tale of how he started making money at an early age. Back when he was a kid, the Town of Clay had wooden plank sidewalks. After all the drunks stopped fighting and rolling around each Saturday night, Woofter would crawl under the board structure and pick up all the change that spilled out of their pockets.
Aug. 22 a Mr. Woofter passed away Monday morning.
Aug. 22 a With his passing goes a heck of a nice guy and a big chunk of our history.
Aug. 22 a Condolences extended.
Aug. 22 a We tried that eclipse thing yesterday. as far as going dark, seeing stars, dogs going crazy, none of that happened in Clayberry.
Aug. 22 a Instead, other than getting a heck of a neck ache and sun burned head, the eclipse came and went without much to remember
Aug. 22 a This site broke the story yesterday on a bright future that may be coming our way compliments the insight of Bright Enterprises.
Aug. 22 a Some are already bad mouthing the idea of growing the tourism economy with a 114 miles long hiking biking trail.
Aug. 22 a First a couple other notes from Friday's meeting where the announcement was made public
Aug. 22 a Frank Jorgensen and his boss, Bill Bright, are business men. The company has coal holdings out the wazooo. They know the market.
Aug. 22 a Frank made it clear, as far as they can tell, coal ain't coming back any time in the near future.
Aug. 22 a Instead of waiting 50 years for mining to resume, they're going to make money right now by getting rid of some assets.. AKA the Elk River Railroad.
Aug. 22 a Instead of bad mouthing the deal, the question is, the scare is, how can we screw it up??????
Aug. 22 a Other opportunities have come and gone from this county. It wasn't but around 20 years ago,we had a real chance at landing a juvenile correctional center in Clayberry. One of our Senators said in public, it's yours for the taking. It didn't happen and wound up in Kanawha County.
Aug. 22 a That would have been a good job base.
Aug. 22 a What normally happens is, our local Bluebloods ask, what's in it for me? If they can't get their paws on the loot, the shut down the effort. That's happened over and over.
Aug. 22 a There was a time when we had four or five people in charge that could make or break, stop or start, a business.
Aug. 22 a Here's the deal. The BDA will receive 114.8 miles of railroad line minus the rails and ties which will be recycled. The remaining gravel bed will be a hiking biking trail. It will become BDA property.
Aug. 22 a Couple that with the new guy now forming a kayak livery business, another guy considering some kind of rail rider attraction on the left in tact, Buffalo Creek RR spur line, and yet another guy considering a horse drawn carriage ride, BAM!, we've got a real tourism draw. That's a draw that many in the county can benefit from.
Aug. 22 a To get the hiking biking trail to happen, the BDA needs letters of support. Not some big long novel but typed up, two or three sentences expressing: 1, your support of the hiking biking trail and 2, it is needed to keep Clayberry from blowing away in a dust storm. Sign it, provide your Clay County address and mail it to: BDA / Rails to Trails Project and mail it to: Clay BDA; PO Box 57; Clay West Virginia 25043
Aug. 22 a County Commission meets Wed morning at 10 am.

Aug. 21 a Here goes with the news that will change County Clay for the good, for decades to come.
Aug. 21 a Bill Bright is a very wealthy guy these days. That wasn't always the case. In the beginning, Bright started printing post cards and place mats with beautiful images from around the state. The public relations products became an instant hit. Bright's one little printing press turned into a huge operation based in Summersville West Virginia. In addition to promoting the state big time, he made $$$$.
Aug. 21 a With that success and millions in his pocket, Bright Enterprises grew and grew. His diversification included 114.8 miles of railroad track and vast coal holdings. The Elk River Railroad was born. That purchase included the Buffalo Creek and Gauley Railroad spur line. All in all, 70 miles of the line are in Clayberry.
Aug. 21 a To grow our new tourism based economy, we need control, access, or own some of those tracks to run a steam train, rail bus, rail rider or other vehicle to make money.
Aug. 21 a Frank Jorgensen is Bill Bright's right hand man. Jorgensen is also a promoter of West Virginia's worth. 25 years ago, Frank was actively working to secure the Central Appalachia Empowerment Zone (CAEZ). Since way back then, Jorgensen has been active in this county at every corner. He has a vision and is in a position to get things done.
Aug. 21 a Friday at 1pm a meeting was held in the BDA office in Two Run. At the meeting were elected leaders, BDA members, reps from the Town of Clay, Clendenin, Braxton County, and Frank Jorgensen.
Aug. 21 a They told no one about the huddle. Some how, some way, the Ace Cub Reporter found out about it and showed up.
Aug. 21 a Jorgensen's remarks lasted over an hour. In a nutshell, the entire three county long Elk River Railroad line will be given to the BDA, to be turned into the nation's 9th longest rail to trail tourist attraction. The rails and ties will be taken up to make up to a 200 feet wide easement usable for horseback riding, hiking, biking, and cross country skiing.
Aug. 21 a There is one exception and that's the 19 mile long BC&G RR spur line which will remain in place for a scenic trail attraction.
Aug. 21 a In 1983 the Feds came up with a law that states something like, when RR's abandon a line, they can't sell it in small tracts to individuals. Instead, the corridor must remain intact in case, down the road, a railroad might be needed in the future.
Aug. 21 a Bright is a business man and ain't making this huge gift for free.
Aug. 21 a Selling 114.8 miles of old rails will realize millions for the guy in recycled metal sales.
Aug. 21 a To sweeten the pot, $25 million from an Abandoned Mine Lands account are available for the purchase of the easement by the BDA
Aug. 21 a To get that $25m grant, the paperwork has to be turned in by Sept. 1st of this year.
Aug. 21 a Announcement of who gets the loot will come by mid Oct of this year.
Aug. 21 a The Grant requires that all moneys MUST be spent within 3 years.
Aug. 21 a Jorgensen was at the secret huddle Friday because he needs something from us to make all this possible. He needs letters of support from the three affected counties, Clay, Braxton and Gilmer.
Aug. 21 a Our future literally depends on this rail to trail project.
Aug. 21 a You can make a big difference.
Aug. 21 a Write a letter of support addressing it to the BDA / Rails to Trails Project and mailing it to: Clay BDA; PO Box 57; Clay West Virginia 25043
Aug. 21 a Deadline for submission is Friday August 25th.
Aug. 21 a This is our chance clickers to actually get something started in Clayberry
Aug. 21 a Before you start saying, the BDA will screw this up, here's a note.
Aug. 21 a Other than signing on the dotted line, Bright Enterprises will fill out the lengthy grant application process.
Aug. 21 a With big money at stake, rest assured, Bright will properly fill the thing out and make the deadline of Sept. 1st.
Aug. 21 a A bunch more info coming tonight.
Aug. 21 a In the mean time, let's go burn our eyes out lookin at Mr Sun

Aug. 20 p Monday afternoon the entire nation will get mooned.
Aug. 20 p Here's why scientists are so excited.
Aug. 20 p And with any big event, some business cashes in on the hoopla. For example...
Aug. 20 p A solar eclipse was a scary thing not so long ago. Mom's would gather the kids and close the drapes
Aug. 20 p Myths would be passed around of the child blinded for life or another one where the kid looked at the eclipse and grew fangs or something
Aug. 20 p With kids off school and just getting off buses during the brightest part of the solar event, careful out there

Clay Schools will close down Monday before noon.
Aug. 20 a We know that because kids told us as much
Aug. 20 a A quick check on the School's website yesterday, it says zip, nothing, ninguno about school closure
Aug. 20 a Over on the State Bd's website, it's without an update as well
Aug. 20 a One person told us that Sarah's robo call was gobblede goop full of popping and cracking
Aug. 20 a It is a pitiful thing that a $20m a year govt agency operation does NOT keep the taxpayers up to date one way or another.
Aug. 20 a We've got a huge announcement coming Monday afternoon if the sun spots don't shut down the internet
Aug. 20 a Before that announcement, some history
Aug. 20 a Around 24 years ago, the Business Development Authority reformed under the auspices of the County Commission. Norman Wilson was elected Chair of the group
Aug. 20 a The first two projects of that new agency included: get a steam train back in Clay for tourist dollars; and two, build river access points so foreigners could better enjoy the Elk. Six access points were built and signs went up. The DNR put in another couple ramps, one at King Shoals and another at Queen Shoals.
Aug. 20 a Ann Anderson was the project chair for the rail ride. After several months of research and effort, turned out, a steam train was way to costly for our meager wallet not to mention the high cost of insuring such a ride
Aug. 20 a Another issue was securing the BC&G RR spur line to run on. At the time as is now, Bright Enterprise owns the whole rail system.. Back then there was still a possibility that the railroad would be put back in use hauling coal from Bright's coal holdings.
Aug. 20 a During that learning period, the BDA and others went to the Central Appalachia Empowerment Zone (CAEZ) for support and assistance. After a couple sit downs, Bright Enterprise rep Frank Jorgensen made a presentation. Although upbeat in spirit, in a nutshell, Mr Jergensen said, we're not interested in giving up the rails and you guys don't have the $$$ to make it happen anyway.
Aug. 20 a Off to the side, all by himself, Roger Nutter from Nicholas County started his effort to grow a train ride in the county on the old BC&G RR line.
Aug. 20 a Way up at Swandale, Nutter purchased a "jitney" or "rail speeder" and set up a camp site there. On weekends, Nutter gave rail rides with the jitney. Word spread and things grew. That was in 2005.
Aug. 20 a Roger and a small band of supporters approached the CAEZ in search of funding for a scenic train ride. They wound up with a small diesel engine on rubber tires followed by a larger diesel over electric engine and a couple cabooses.
Aug. 20 a Instead of continuing that direction, Team Nutter got saddled with developing a trackside campground in Dundon.
Aug. 20 a With his death, Nutter's dream of having a steam train ride, it too died.
Aug. 20 a The CAEZ ended up with the campground which sets (for the most) idle most of the year. Team Nutter erected a lodge building shell at the campground which would have served as a meeting place, gift shop, and center for a train operation
Aug. 20 a Five or eight years ago, local Mitch DeBoard got active with cleaning up Buffalo Creek and turning it into a classy trout stream. That morphed into doing something with the BC&G RR spur line which runs right beside Creek.
Aug. 20 a A lease was signed with the BDA and Bright Enterprises for local use of the 19 miles of rail. That was a major step forward, we had permission to be on and around the tracks.
Aug. 20 a Three years ago, the right of way was cleaned up. Tons of local money and support came to Clayberry
Aug. 20 a Several of the still standing railroad trestles were planked with board making for easy, safe access by bikers and hikers.
Aug. 20 a During the 2016 Great Wash Out, all the improvements were washed into the Ohio River. Huge rail bridges were knocked off their foundation. In other places, all the gravel ballast and ties were washed away leaving nothing buy hanging rails in several places
Aug. 20 a By June 24th 2016, there was little left to rebuild from. With everything gone, everything was different. The wind left out sails. We were screwed.
Aug. 20 a Behind the scenes, plans changed from building a scenic train ride to pulling up the rails and having a walking trail.
Aug. 20 a Without a train, rail, ride, County Clay's tourism future would be greatly diminished. No big ticket item, few would come for the little things we offer.
Aug. 20 a We left out a lot for sure, but that's what we remember from the last 25 years and the efforts of growing tourism in a place where there are no jobs for the average person on the street.
Aug. 20 a The big announcement comes Monday afternoon and it's major to say the least.
Aug. 20 a If you don't burn your eyeballs out watching the eclipse of a life time, stop back tomorrow for something special.

Aug. 19p Edward Clark Cruikshank, D.D.S., 74, see OBITUARY page

Aug. 18 p For those that think our thugs never get convicted or spend time in the slammer....
Aug. 18 p This morning, Judge Facemire was on the bench running in tall gear.
Aug. 18 p It didn't take but a couple hours to get a bunch of cases ready for trial or for a plea to be worked out
Aug. 18 p Christi McCune's plea will be accepted on August 30th
Aug. 18 p Justin Brown is set for trial on Sept. 6
Aug. 18 p With a mental competency test OK'd, Jeffery Neal will accept a plea deal at 9:30 on Aug. 30th
Aug. 18 p Justin Blankenship is the guy that often appears in our Badge Blotter. You might remember him as the lad that always wears that goofy grin and covered with tattoos. For this morning, Justin sat down in the chair and sprawled out , almost laying down and looking away from the Judge as if he didn't give a rat's padukey about anything. Blankenship has not accepted a plea deal
Aug. 18 p Prosecutor Samples offered 27 million times drunk driver Danny Nicholas a plea deal and it was accepted. Nicholas will take his plea Aug. 30th
Aug. 18 p A Gary Moore refused his plea deal and goes to trial Sept. 6th
Aug. 18 p Travis Connally will enter his guilty plea Aug. 30th as well
Aug. 18 p Ditto for Daniel Craddock
Aug. 18 p There seems to be a big screw up in the Adrion Thompson case where paperwork from the Magistrate is missing or otherwise none existent. Pros Samples, " Have to figure out what's going on."
Aug. 18 p Then there was the notorious Zachery Daniels.
Aug. 18 p Daniels has been in court enough to know, you aught not pee off the Judge.
Aug. 18 p Within five seconds of going up front, he did something. With his back to the peanut gallery, we couldn't see what he did.
Aug. 18 p Judge Facemire did and immediately slid to the front of his red leather chair and firmly said, "IS THERE A PROBLEM!!!!! ... I'll REVOKE your bond [right now]!!!!!!!
Aug. 18 p What ever got happened, made the Court very unhappy. Trial date is set for Sept. 6th
Aug. 18 p Daniels thought he had everything by the short hairs and was ready to head back out the door.
Aug. 18 p Didn't happen.
Aug. 18 p Instead, Black Shirt Robert Belt held up a new warrant for domestic battery and Daniels was taken into custody for the brand new charges
Aug. 18 p Harold David Morton , "Stump" to the rest of the world, has been back in Orange since getting arrested 2 Friday's ago.
Aug. 18 p His attorney, the Waynster King, managed to raise the Facamire hackles as he tried to delay the hearing till later in the day
Aug. 18 p Facemire, "He's NOT getting out on bond!"
Aug. 18 p After an 11 am hearing, Stump remains behind bars until an August hearing where the Judge commented, I could raise your bond requirements!
Aug. 18 p Remember last Jan when Mike and Lindy Carper's flooded out home was burglarized by Okey Hodge, Rachel Larch, and Joshua Burdette?
Aug. 18 p All three of those folks will go to trial Sept. 12th.
Aug. 18 p In less than 2 hours, the wheels of justice moved right along.
Aug. 18 p August 30th and Sept. 6th are going to be very busy days in Circuit Court land
Aug. 18 p Have a nice weekend one and all

Aug. 17 p Sam Eugene Daniels, 51, of Bomont, see OBITUARY page
Aug. 17 p Today's the first day back to school.
Aug. 17 p Not sure how things went inside the buildings but getting the ankle biters to and from school, ... scanner listeners are having an interesting afternoon with kids in the place, on the wrong bus, buses in the wrong place and more.
Aug. 17 p Organization is not on the mark so far.

Aug. 16 p Need an old Jeep? Check out the ADVISORY page today
Aug. 16 p River Report: For those thinking about playing hooky and taking off from work for kayaking the Elk, beautiful day lots of sunshine but the river is up above Summer pool by about 12 inches and is milky in color.
Aug. 16 p The Communicator made it out the door Tuesday afternoon. It's a pretty juicy one this time around and well worth just 80 cents
Aug. 16 p Two things rile up Clayonians like none other. One is just the mention of "zoning". The second hot button for this county is separation of church and straight.
Aug. 16 p Just the mention of that second item and all the independent churches rise up and go crazy.
Aug. 16 p During Monday's Sch Bd meeting, something changed.
Aug. 16 p Pick up the newest Communicator for all the details
Aug. 16 p Based on his words on Monday, there is little doubt that Donny J is a full blown white supremacist
Aug. 16 p Scary as Drumpf is with his finger on the red button, it's no match for what he can do to our nation with that kind of thinking.
Aug. 16 p Scary times for sure and he's only been around 200 days.
Aug. 16 p He's got to go. Hurry up Bob Mueller

Aug. 14 a On this soggy Monday morning, we'd like to take a moment to thank all those that regularly email over tips, thoughts, notices and such.
Aug. 14 a We also get another type of email.
Aug. 14 a Here's a partial from one that arrived just a couple days ago: I read your paper for local news but remember thats all you are selling. I will not be renewing my subscription in sept...your political posts will be causing more of us to do the same..you talk like Obama walked on water and Trump is the devil
Aug. 14 a Other emailers know how to get our attention. Here's another thought provoking clicker with : Perceiving that you are an ultra-leftist, liberal, pinko, ACLU-loving Dumbocrat, I have been highly entertained by your attacks on our great new president via your website as he begins to "drain the swamp" and otherwise keep each and every one of his campaign promises. It is so refreshing to have a true leader once again in the People's House in Washington!......
Aug. 14 a It's those emails that keep us going strong and growing.
Aug. 14 a Thanks to all our emailers. You are appreciated.
Aug. 14 a No new posts til we get the real newspaper out the door sometime Tuesday afternoon.

Aug. 13 later p Forgot to mention the real slimy crap during this morning's weekly wrap up.
Aug. later p Gov Justice spent his life as a Republicrat. That's up until 2 years ago when he changed his registration to Demorat. Two weeks ago, Big Jim, as Prez calls him, changed his affiliation back to Repub.
Aug. 13 later Why? We couldn't figure it out..... until now
Aug. 13 later p West Virginia's Manchin family spent decades as registered Republicrats. That all changed when A James Manchin sought room at the public feeding trough. Since the 70's, Manchins have been Demorats albeit , Demorats in Name only, "DINOs".
Aug. 13 later p That's the background in a nutshell.
Aug. 13 later p MSNBC broke news Friday that our Senator Manchin will be appointed to one of Trump's cabinet level positions. During normal times, most would say, well, great, Smokin Joe movin on up! It would be great to have a pro coal guy in charge of the Dept of Energy for instance.
Aug. 13 later p These ain't normal times.
Aug. 13 later p When Justice changed party's, that made him a dirty rotten slimy puke to many Demorats.
Aug. 13 later p Now, if Manchin gets the nod to become a Cabinet appointee, in West Virginia, when a Senator vacates his seat, the Gov gets to appoint a replacement.
Aug. 13 later p In 2017, there is little doubt that Republicrat Justice would replace Demorat Manchin with a Republicrat.
Aug. 13 later p With the slim majority currently in the Senate, adding one Repub would swing the balance so all of America would experience loosing Medicaid, reductions in Medicare, the loss of insurance coverage, plus giving the rich fat cats a huge tax reduction.
Aug. 13 later p Knowing all that as being true, IF IF IF our Joe Manchin leaves his seat in the Senate, that puts him in the same slimy boat as Gov Justice.
Aug. 13 late p the Orange Headed Prez is scheduled to make his announcement sometime Monday.
Aug. 13 late p We're hoping Senator Manchin sees thru the smoke and puts the interest of West Virginians and the nation, first.

Aug. 13 p This morning, WYAP played a tune called, All God's Children. The message is inclusion of course . But, after learning of the White Supremacist attack in Virginia Saturday, we're having trouble following thru with that song's message.
Aug. 13 p We are fortunate this today that we're not in a war with with North Korea and or Venezuela.
Aug. 13 p With dimly lits in charge of this country and North Korea, these are truly scary times.
Aug. 13 p Can't you just see Donny J sitting there staring at the red button and the Generals yelling, don't do it, don't do it, sir.
Aug. 13 p This was the last week before school starts up for 2017-2018. Parents drug their snot lickers to big box stores for the mandatory, new pair of shoes, jeans and tees
Aug. 13 p School system employees took advantage of the last few days of Summer break with last day vacation efforts.
Aug. 13 p The best part of being a teacher (July and August) is all done for another year.
Aug. 13 p Monday evening the School Board meets at the Pentagon. Agenda items call for voting Crystal Gibson in as the next Principal at Clay High. Her new Vice Principal is Allen Tanner.
Aug. 13 p Also Monday evening, the Business Development Authority holds their monthly public meeting. It's a big night for Clayberry as the volunteer Board decides who will be receive govt funding and start the county's first Kayak Livery, rental, service for Clayberry.
Aug. 13 p It's our understanding that three folks are in the running for the start up service.
Aug. 13 p 40 years ago when the first guide service started over on the New River, people laughed and said, what a joke, what a waste. Today the Gorge outfitters are the key to the tourism based economy in that region of the state.
Aug. 13 p Over here, the ground floor opportunity could be just as fruitful.
Aug. 13 p With about 6 weeks of the river season ahead of us, our county could see results in short order.
Aug. 13 p We've got our fingers crossed!
Aug. 13 p While we're talking pipe dreams.... Clayberry needs of a real, in business, shade tree lined campground along the river bank. Not a place for long term motorhomes but, a place weekenders can pitch a tent, cook out, and take care of the personel sanitation needs.
AUg 13 p Nothing fancy, just clean and neat. About the only espense would be some kind of restoom facility, a few picinic tables, trash cans, and good signage.
Aug. 13 p For those with river front property, start making plans now for that home based money maker business.
Aug. 13 p Deadline for Communicator submissions is tomorrow around 5pm. Email over your chatters, classifieds, newsy, announcements right away please.

Aug. 13 p DR. SANDRA S. CHISAR, see OBITUARY page

Aug. 12 a Mike Lanham has the most arrests and convictions in County Clay history.
Aug. 12 a Iron Mike as he likes to be called got out of prison several months ago and has been living in Roane County
Aug. 12 a In early July, the guy got arrested on battery charges and once again, housed in Central Regional Jail. That lasted a couple weeks before all charges were dismissed
Aug. 12 a Full details in Tuesday's Communicator
Aug. 12 a Stump Morton has been jailed on our dime for his felony caper of breaking into the Catholic Church and swiping tools followed by stealing from a nearby porch.
Aug. 12 a Stump got out of jail a few days ago.
Aug. 12 a It didn't take long for him to be picked up on home confinement violation.
Aug. 12 a He's back on our dime folks.
Aug. 12 a Full details in the next paper of record, The Communicator.

Aug. 11 p From the email bag: Last regular season day for the Clay County pool is Saturday August 12. The pool will not be open during the week of August 14-18. Pool will be open Saturday, August 19, all day, and there will be a party with live band, "TEN FEET TALL" that evening.
Aug. 11 p River report: AS of 11am Friday, the Elk is clear as a bell and just about at Summer pool. Great conditions for playing in and or on the Tiskelwah. See ya in Remotely Beautiful, Clay County West Virginia, this weekend.

Aug. 11 a Note: Goofed up some of the News page this morning. Trying to straighten things out now
Aug. 11 a Don't forget about Big Otter Community Center tonight where you can boot scoot the night away along with digesting great munchies along the way.
Aug. 11 a We try to stay on local news as much as we can but
Aug. 11 a When the dimly lit Orange Headed Prez says, we are now locked and loaded which is said this morning, that's scary. Real scary.
Aug. 11 a There has never been a good war and ready to make another mistake right now.
Aug. 11 a 200 days in his Presidency, many of us wondered what would happen if some crisis came on his watch. We now know, it's worse than could have been imagined. Diplomacy has not been in the mix.
Aug. 11 a Gather the family close and start saying your prayers. With two dismal leaders in charge of the war buttons, this could be the end of things as we know it.
Aug. 11 a Local....
Aug. 11 a Here's how it works clickers.
Aug. 11 a Some Govt agency comes up with a great idea, finds a few million tax dollars, and sets out on a good mission. Somewhere along the way, down the food chain, the dandy idea turns to yuck, and you guessed it, the much needed service runs off the track.
Aug. 11 a What we're talking about is the new Health Right mobile dental lab that services 6 counties in W Va.
Aug. 11 a What a wonderful idea and in a place (Clay) that is in need of adult dental care.
Aug. 11 a When the service was ready to go, the Charleston Newspaper made it their front page article.
Aug. 11 a The pull behind three chair dentist office has been seen in Clayberry a few times in the last several weeks.
Aug. 11 a Here's the problem. There's not been even one announcement of the service in this county. No mention of services offered, dates for the county visit nor a schedule of ANYTHING.
Aug. 11 a Without people knowing about it, the number of customers will continue a downward spiral
Aug. 11 a Then it runs off the track
Aug. 11 a In a few months, the Govt will look at the numbers and say, Hey, maybe we don't need it to visit County Clay. We'll remove Clay from the rotation and spend more time in the counties where there's a bigger need.
Aug. 11 a If there was ever a place that needed such services, it's our 342 square miles.
Aug. 11 a We lose out again because local and state leadership dropped the ball by NOT letting the public know.
Aug. 11 a With few customers, that makes life easier for those in charge.
Aug. 11 a Your tax dollars at waste once again
Aug. 11 a Pitiful!

Aug. 9 p Pretty interesting County Commission meeting this morning. Here's a couple notes
Aug. 9 p Getting in step with our tourism economy, the Commissioners agreed to allow a river access point to be built behind the Courthouse. Mitch DeBoard plans to donate dozer time and labor to cut the path down to the Elk.
Aug. 9 p If that gets built along with a new point behind the Library, the county will be in good shape from Duck down to the Hartland bridge.
Aug. 9 p There is a problem South from the Hartland Bridge to the King Shoals access point, That's a long stretch without a public place to enter or exit the Elk River.
Aug. 9 p If anyone knows of an old county road down to the river, please let the BDA know so it can be included in the push to grow a new economy
Aug. 9 p By the way, The Communicator donated a bunch of river access maps and is distributing them around Clay, Kanawha, Calhoun and Nicholas Counties.
Aug. 9 Now back to the CCC meeting.....
Aug. 9 p For those wanting wawa from the new Pack Fork extension project, bids were recently opened and guess what? The bids came in low, $487K low. Plans are being put together to add new stuff to the project like, generators, cleaning of tanks, pump station upgrades, and such, to use up that $487K bonus.
Aug. 9 p How bad off is the county budget? This morning it was announced, the County owes $274,452. to the Jail Authority. How are they going to pay the debt?
Aug. 9 p No answers were given.
Aug. 9 p For those way out Harrision way and in need of wawa. according to the CCC, Birch River PSD is working to get or plan or get started on, supplying potable wawa to Whetstone which is out past Harrison West Virginia.
Aug. 9 a 54 Degrees in Clayberry this morning.
Aug. 9 a Yesterday the Orange Headed Prez diverted attention from the Russia investigation by alarming the world with words of war. News media had to follow his dimly lit words. Thus, his diversion covered one news cycle.
Aug. 9 a While Donny J is saber rattling on North Korea and how scary it is for a country to have nuclear fire power, there's only one country on Earth that has actually used the big bomb and that's us
Aug. 9 a Today is remembrance day for Japanese.
Aug. 9 a On this date in 1945 the U S A dropped an atomic bomb on Nagasaki instantly vaporizing thousands and thousands. The civilians that made it thru the blast suffered to their last breath from nuclear poisoning.
Aug. 9 a Also on Japan, a couple days ago, we lost the original Godzilla.

Aug. 7 later p Gordon “Butch” Moore, 72, of Lizemores, see OBITUARY page
Aug. 7 p County Commission meets Wed morning at 10am. Big long agenda too.
Aug. 7 p To grow touristism
Aug. 2 p Kayak report: As of 5pm today, the Elk river has a good flow about a foot above summer pool. That means, kayak portaging should be greatly reduced. River is running beautiful green too.
Aug. 2 p With light rain expected on Friday, take off work tomorrow, come kayak the Tiskelwah and have some Summer fun!
Aug. 2 p Town Council met last night with all elected officials in their chairs.
Aug. 2 p For nearly two decades, the Log Factory has cost more to operate than it brought in. Over the years, thousands of dollars from the Town and WaWa accounts were merged over to sewer to keep it afloat. From the git go, the plant was built twice too big for the customer base.
Aug. 2 p Being twice too big meant chemical costs, labor expense, and certifications were very costly.
Aug. 2 p Since taking office, Mayor Hubbard made a special effort to reduce Log Factory costs. So far, half the plant has been shut down. That resulted in a lower classified operator being needed to run the stink factory.
Aug. 2 p Last night Hubbard made public, the $1000's per month electric bill has been cut in half.
Aug. 2p With that smaller size, from now on, only a Class I operator will be needed there. Class I operators are much easier to find and retain.
Aug. 2 p For those drinking frog pee out Blue Knob, if all goes well, the best case scenario, construction could begin this Nov on the wawa line extension project in that neighborhood.
Aug. 2 p Central Appalachia Empowerment Zone (CAEZ) also met or at least tried to meet Tuesday night.
Aug. 2 p Didn't happen due to lack of quarrel, I mean quorum.
Aug. 2 p Even with gatherings held every other month now, not enough Boardsters showed for their August meeting.
Aug. 2 p Of all the County Clay reps on the CAEZ Board of Directors, NOT one was on hand.
Aug. 2 p Before each CAEZ Board meeting, the group's only functioning committee, Eco/Dev, holds their gathering. Without a need for a quorum with that group, from their time around the table....
Aug. 2 p Long time Office Manager and organizer, Michelle Bodkins, is now working just part time for CAEZ.
Aug. 2 p Director Big Lup is always the star of CAEZ. Here's a couple zingers.
Aug. 2 p A couple months back, Gov Justice vetoed a bill that would have added ATV trails around the state. During a County Commission meeting just after that veto, a peed off Big Lup told the CCC, that she had been in contact with others and they planned to take on the Gov in Court.
Aug. 2 p Tuesday night, a terse Lupster said, she never said ANY of that and where that story got started, she had no idea.
Aug. 2 p We do
Aug. 2p Also, from a month ago, the official CAEZ story was, in the three small apple orchards planted for the CAEZ last year, all the trees were dead in one patch, half were dead in a second plot, and the brush was so tall, no one knew how the third Nicholas County orchard was doing.
Aug. 2 p Last night , again from Big Lup, No Sir!, 75% of the trees are alive and well!
Aug. 2 p Things are so peachy keen in the apple orchard business, considerations are being made to change crops over to Lavender plants.
Aug. 2 p Lavender is a Mediterranean plant and thrives in absolute dry locations like a strip mine bench which is what the CAEZ is trying to grow their trees on. In our region, Lavender will not thrive in those beautiful hedge rows which make for easier picking and resale.
Aug. 2 p CAEZ managed to be in charge of those $15,000 home loans (grants if you want to tie up everything with a lien). Lup brought her Board up to speed with, none of the loans have been executed yet, Lup, "It's taking a little longer."
Aug. 2 p Finally, the CAEZ claims to be a part of a proposed ATV trail which is being drawn up to include Clayberry. Over the months, the report has always been, everything is moving along.
Aug. 2 p Tuesday night, Lup provided, trail landowners are happy happy happy and everything is once again, moving along just fine , thank you very much.
Aug. 2 p Side note. We think, much like Donny J, Big Lup thrives on getting her name on this website and The Communicator website.
Aug. 2 p She should be smiling now.

Aug. 2 a Yes Sir re Bob, The Communicator is once again on news stands across the four county region.
Aug. 2 a 80 cents is the asking price for all that Clayberry knowledge
Aug. 2 a Full update on last night's CAEZ and Town Council meeting comin this afternoon

July 31 p 36 years ago August 1st, Nada Mullins Waddell said, I do.
July 31 p It's been down hill for her ever since.
July 31 p Do you remember what you were doing in 1979 when the last total eclipse of the sun was visible?
July 31 p Professor Arron Metz at West Virginia State said he tried watching the event thru the bottoms of Coke bottles. That didn't work and instead burned his retinas severely.
July 31 p For others, they remember their Mother herding them indoors while reminding of ole superstitions.
July 31 p Here's a NASA link for the August 21st Eclipse.
July 31 p The absolute best place to view the total eclipse of the sun, Carbondale Illinios.
July 31 p That's it until we get The Communicator to bed early Tuesday.

July 31 a Clay County Board of Health meets today at high noon in the conference room of the N H Dyer building
July 31 a Sign of Fall: this morning, the first school buses were seen going down the road.
July 31 a America spends over $500 billion a year on public elementary and secondary education in the United States. On average, school districts spend $10,314 for each individual student....
July 31 a Stats from WalletHub website: Of all the public schools, West Virginia ranks 49th among the states and DC. As for quality of education, we come in 50th of all the states.
July 31 a Full write up in Tuesday's Communicator
July 31 a Time is now to email over your announcements, chatters, classifieds and such
July 30 a We provided a write up on Johnny Woofter in the last Communicator. The guy's been feeling a little on the sickly side during the past couple weeks.
July 30 a Today is Woofter's 90th birthday. The best of belly button wishes.
July 30 a Clayberry escaped yesterday's flash flooding. Most of the wet stuff stayed to our North. Eight counties have been declared in a state of emergency areas.
July 30 a With the rain gone and temp in the upper 50's, this morning feels like Fall in the Appalachian Mountains of home.
July 30 a Enjoy the nice weather, family and friends

July 27 p Roy Fitzwater 90, see OBITUARY page.
July 27 p Our county needs a nice gentle rain for about 12 hours to refill cisterns, wells and wash the muck off vehicles and dogs.
July 27 p That might not happen , at least the nice and gentle part.
July 27 p National Weather Service has us under a Flash Flood Watch as of 8pm tonight.
July 27 p Predicamentators are calling for nearly an inch of rain before 10am Friday morning along with thunder boomers.
July 27 p Be careful out there clickers.
July 27 p Such dire warnings send a chill up our backs as we think back on the Great Wash Out just 13 months ago.

July 27 a A couple weeks ago, the County Commission held discussion on building a river access point behind the Courthouse and the possibility of providing pay raises to three long time 911 Dispatch employees including Director Denise Holcomb.
July 27 a During yesterday's CCC meeting, the two topics were not brought up
July 27 a Shelly Capito has been the darling of politics since she first ran for office. A lot of the original thrust came from her Dad, Arch Moore, who served three terms as W Va Gov before going to prison for heisting funds.
July 27 a Now voted into the U S Senate, keep something in mind, Capito was the deciding vote on the new rounds of screwing people out of insurance.
July 27 a On Tuesday, it was Capito's vote to continue that made the difference.
July 27 a Without our little darling sucking up to Little Donny, the repeal of ObamaCare would be off the table.
July 27 a When your family members are tossed out of their nursing home, when those kids no longer have WIC stamps for food, and Seniors go without Medicare, you can thank Shelly Moore Capito.

July 26 p Ninette Parsons, 72, of Clay, see OBITUARY page
July 26 p Want to ditch those curtain climbers for a few more days this Summer? See the ADVISORY page post haste.

July 26 a During Monday's Sch Bd meeting, Superintendent Paxton apprised the world, it's official, Clay High Principal Melinda Issac resigned her job effective the second week in August.
July 26 a The unhappy camper is returning to a former position outside the school system.
July 26 a It was one year ago when former Superintendent Kenneth Tanner backed himself in a corner over getting Issac a Pentagon position. When KT told em, I'll just quit if you don't do as I ask, the Board all but said, Don't let the door smack you in the butt.
July 26 a Standing up for an employee is wonderful. When you know the majority of the Board is against you, well, that was a dumb move for KT.
July 26 a With KT retired out, just one year after the skirmish, Ms Issac has bailed.
July 26 a Who's going to be the next CHS Principal? Bids are out now. The norm would be for the VP, Crystal Gibson, to move up followed by the Gibson's slot to be filled by Bob Morris.
July 26 a Our speculation tends toward, Morris staying put and Allan Tanner rising to the VP administration slot.
July 26 a Just a guess clickers and we'll know the truth sometime in early August.
July 26 a With no humidity in the air, it's a nice morning.
July 26 a Get out and have some fun today!

July 26 early a The vast majority of breeding couples in Clayberry depend on Welfare insurance for everything from meds to doctor visits.
July 26 early a Every Senior in the county receives insurance thru Social Security (except railroad and post office retirees) via Medicare
July 26 early a How many have a loved one in a nursing or assisted living home? Almost all of those folks have their monthly bills covered by Medicaid.
July 26 early a Each and every version of the Republicrat Obama Care repeal law includes defunding major portions of Medicaid and Medicare.
July 26 early a Senator Capito walks and votes in lock step with every Republicrat Prez. She is a sure vote for whom ever wants her nose stuck up their you know what.
July 26 early a Yesterday, Capito showed her true colors and voted to bring Obama Care repeal (actually a tax cut for the wealthy one percent) up for a vote.
July 26 early a With more repeal votes coming today, there has never been a more critical time to stop what you are doing and call, text, email, tie a note to a rock, Capito with a demand to stop her chicken shirt crap that will destroy families and friends and send us back to 19th century health care standards.
July 26 early a Her website provides all the contact info.
July 26 early a Action is needed now clickers.

July 25 p Jerry Calvin Bird, 70, of Clay, see OBITUARY page

July 25 p The BDA has a job for you
July 25 p The agency is hiring an independent contractor to open, operate and management a kayak rental and livery service. Pretty sweet deal considering it's a ground floor opportunity with no competition and and and
July 25 p The BDA is offering an interest free financing package to the right operator
July 25 p See JOBS page for details. Deadline for submission is less than a week away.
July 25 p A few years ago a Kanawha County feller showed interest in a similar proposal but bailed out after hearing, a license and insurance would be required of an operator
July 25 p Somewhere back there, a local showed for a meeting expressing interest but also bailed out saying something along the lines of: I'n not interested if that ace cub reporter is going to be watching me.
July 25 p Neither feller has been back to the BDA
July 25 p We hope the new search brings better results for our future.
July 25 a From the email bag: Lost in Two Run Area a little black bag with 6 or 7 mini disc and a remote in it. Could have possible been left on the back of the car and drove off with them on the trunk. Please call 304-618-9757 or 304-618-9758 Or return to 256 Center Street. They have our gospel music on them for our gospel group. Please and Thank you.

July 24 a From the email: Happy 10 yr wedding anniversary 7/26 to Telenia And Dennis Koch all the way in Columbia SC from Clay County West Virginia......love friends and family we miss you guys !!!!!!!!....... and Happy Birthday Telenia 7/26
July 24 a Had a feller stop by the office yesterday. He's having a problem bringing up the Sch Bd link we post before of their public meetings. Turns out, on one of our puters, everything comes up just right. On a second puter, nothing happens when you click the meeting agenda link
July 24 a Tonight at 6pm, the Sch Bd meets at the Pentagon. Here's the link to that agenda.
July 24 a Hope it works for you.
July 24 a There's no mention of accepting the resignation of Clay High Principal, Melinda Issacs.
July 24 a It's our understanding that Issacs is heading back to a previous job after turning in her resignation late week.
July 24 a Often, the Pentagon adds agenda items the day of the public meeting. Such actions are not allowed by State Open Meeting Law but our Boardsters do it anyway.
July 24 a One of their Ethics Commission rulings says specifically, the Board may NOT add to an agenda the day of the meeting.
July 24 a For example, the Board was so anxious to accept the resignation of CMS Principal Anita Stephenson, just before their meeting, the item was added and voted on..
July 24 a So much for the public being informed.

July 23 p Donna Sue (Nottingham) Kovach, 72, see OBITUARY page

July 22 8pm Lots of thunder boomers moving thru the county right now. Heavy rainfall expected tonight
July 22 8pm Flash Flood Watch in affect thru Sunday evening.
July 22 8pm Be real careful ou there clickers.

July 22 a With white hair going in all directions, ole Kelly Fulkerson turns another page today. The best of birthday wishes extended to the West Sider turned Elk River Rat.

July 21 a In the way of stuff going on...
July 21 a Country Fried will be playing up at Big Otter Community Center tonight beginning at 7pm.
July 21 a Yard Sales around every turn in the road.
July 21 a Pool's open as is the Elk for fishing, swimming, boating
July 21 a Hard to believe but, we know, when the hostas start to bud, Summer is over done. They're budding now
July 21 a Jobs are hard to come by in Clayberry. If you get one, better try hard to keep it!
July 21 a Last night, Clay Town Council held a Special meeting to do some hiring.
July 21 a Tyler Reedy resigned as Log Factory in Chief on Wed.
July 21 a Council voted to hire Jason Adkins to replace Reedy. While Jason learns to whip the logs into compliance, Miles Slack will provide leadership
July 21 a While Slack is running herd on the turds, I mean logs, the Town needs some Street Dept help. Last night Council hired Derrick Nutter for those part time duties.
July 21 a After the meeting, Mayor Hubbard called up the lucky lad and spread the good news.
July 21 a Instead of hearing a Great big Thanks! and when do I start?, Nutter turned down the job.
July 21 a Back to the drawing board for Town Council.

July 21 early a Ethel “Murt” Virginia Nelson, 67, of Harrison, see OBITUARY page

July 20 p There's a bunch of charities out there. Some are worthwhile while others are bogus
July 20 p Here's the 20 worst.
July 20 p To check out your charity of interest, here's Charity Navigator
July 20 p Here's their watch page.
July 20 p Tidbit: Judge Facemire was on the bench a couple days back and commented on the cost of justice
July 20 p According to the Robe, a few years back, a study revealed, an hour of Court costs around $900 per hour.

July 20 a With garden production in full force, the Farmer's Market this morning might be a great place to shop for quality goods. Buy Local!
July 20 a Little Donny, the President of the Electorial College, has been on the job for exactly six months today
July 20 a During each whistle stop he boasted, fixing Obama Care would be easy, that he would fix it and tons of things like the great wall of the USA on Day One.
July 20 a To make things easier for him, his party controls the House and Senate. Not one Demorat is needed to pass ANY legislation.
July 20 a After six months on the job, his swamp has done nothing except expose his Russian handlers and controllers.
July 20 a And still, the lowly few that still support the Orange Headed leader, they think he's the best thing since canned soup.
July 20 a The country going to H in a hand basket has been a phrase for some time.
July 20 a It truly is with the new administration.

July 19 p Communicator made it to news stands across the region Tuesday afternoon.
July 19 p For our loyal prescribers, it's coming to you a day late.
July 19 p Yesterday morning a whirlybird chopped down a power line which rendered our puter based mailing list and our online postal forms out of reach. The paper went out this morning via the USPS. Sorry for the delay
July 19 p Doubling the troubles of publishing a newspaper, tele and DSL was off Monday night when the ace cub reporter does his end of the typing.
July 19 p That outage on Guy Mullins Road was caused when a State Road brush cutting tractor chopped up the telephone company switch box at roadside
July 19 p Despite all that, a 20 pager made it out the door Tuesday.
July 19 p Pretty good edition with coverage from Monday's sentencing in front of Judge Jack Alsop along with the story on a criminal pushing and punching a mentally challenged lady before entering her home.
July 19 p Pretty sad day for Clay
July 19 p Jonny Woofter's got a belly button day coming later this month. He turns 90 on the 30th. We unburied a couple old pictures of the lad from 1954 for this edition.
July 19 p Monday night the BDA held a special meeting where they gave the green light to purchase river access signs for the Elk River. Currently there are 8 public access points in Clayberry.
July 19 p We're at 97 degrees at 2pm today. It is sweltering. Nice time to head to the pool or Elk River

July 17 a Bright sunshine and temps around 90 today. Summer time at its best
July 17 a Clay County Business Deve>

Transfer interrupted!

ial public meeting tonight at 6pm as they try to jump start the Elk River tourism business

July 17 a Communicator hits news stands tomorrow afternoon. Deadline for submissions is today around 5pm. Classifieds, Obits, Chatters, Newsy items, email em today please

July 14 p Thunder boomers are rocking Clayberry this afternoon
July 14 p Available during Saturday's Farmer's Market: Green peppers, hot peppers, cabbage, squash, cucs, potatoes, and honey, to name a few

July 14 a The Kids Count annual survey is considered rock solid
July 14 a From the latest edition...
July 14 a West Virginia is ranked 43rd in the nation in terms of kids' well being.
July 14 a Last year we were ranked 39th. In 2014 W Va stood at 37th in the nation.
July 14 a See the trend?
July 14 a 25% of our rug rats live in poverty.
July 14 a 29% of those families have less than secure employment
July14 a We ranked 43rd in overall well being
July 14 a So, got kids?
July 14 a The best place to raise those curtain climbers is New Hampshire
July 14 a We've got the solution for West Virginia's woes. Instead of the Legislature continuing their effort to beat us further in the ground, why don't they annex us with New Hampshire.
July 14 a They could name us, West Hampshire.
July 14 a Problems solved.

• July 13 p A couple days back we floated a notion that something was up with Anita Stephenson resigning from the school system.

• July 13 p We deduced that from several coffee house stories plus the resignation was quickly placed on Monday's Sch Bd meeting agenda at the last minute.

• July 13 p To add to the hype, we ended with a great big Hmmmmmm.....

• July 13 p Anita Stephenson called to say, there is nothing salacious about the resignation that in fact, she had taken a job in Calhoun County.

• July 13 p Glad to hear from the former CMS Principal and the best of luck to her.

• July 13 p But....

• July 13 p To leave a cushy principalship 6 months before retirement time in Dec., to then take a job demanding a long drive on curvy roads, and the sudden inclusion of an agenda item at the last minute.

• July 13 p We stand by our great big Hmmmmmmmmmmmm.....

July 13 a Greater Clay Long Term Recovery meets tonight at either 6 or 6:30pm. We don't know which. The meeting will be held in their Main Street digs across from the radio station in the old Starcher Bldg
July 13 a This morning, the new class from the Summer Grand Jury will stand before Judge Facemire and say, Nope, I didn't do it Mr Robe!
July 13 a There's suppose to be a certain amount of dignity and respect Court proceedings.
July 13 a Not so long ago, a skinny guy was in the peanut gallery when his name was called during a Arraignment Day. Instead of walking to the front and saying something like, Yes Sir....
July 13 a From the back of room came, Yo Judge, That be me!"
July 13 a After peanut gallery hushed giggles and a big smirk by the Robe, a more respectful attitude was demanded and received.
July 13 a Back in April, the Solid Waste Authority held their annual Spring clean up day.
July 13 a The recycling and junk removal event is well received with tons of tires, metal, trash, and road side pick ups hauled away.
July 13 a How much does such an event cost?
July 13 a During last night's Solid Waste meeting, the best they could figure, including some grant funds, the one day affair had a price tag of around $10,600 plus some change
July 13 a 20 tons of junk metal was removed from our creeks, Elk, and side roads.
July 13 a As for having another one this Fall, funding is not available.
July 13 a As for hosting the annual event next Spring, that too might be a long shot.
July 13 a Full details in Tuesday's source for news and views, The Communicator
July 13 a In the way of growing tourism in the county, the County Commission is considering a new river access point behind the Courthouse.
July 13 a Ditto for a plan being developed to have another access point beside the Clay Library.
July 13 a Suppose to be a hot one today, find a shady spot and stay put.

July 12 later p Justin Benjamin O’Brien, 34, of Clay, see OBITUARY page

July 12 late p So. You're in an elevator. It screws up and you start to drop.
July 12 late p Any truth to jumping up as you hit and everything will be OK.
July 12 late p The correct answer is, No Way. Here's the truth.
July 12 late p As for West Virginia always near the bottom in every poll, the local joke was, Thank God for Mississippi.
JUly 12 late p We can't use that joke any longer.
July 12 late p Here's a quick overview of us against the nation. Here's the close details on W Va being the worst place for business with the Republicrats at the helm in Charleston.
July 12 late p For those still in need of someone ready to cut your grass, weed whack and such, the Woodsy ad on the JOBS page is not updated with a working tele #.
July 12 p Summer Grand Jury was busy yesterday. Here's the list of True Bills.
July 12 p Justin Brown B&E, Grand Larceny Destuc of Property x 2, Conspiracy, Receiving and transferring stolen vehicle
July 12 p Larry Cobb Strangulation x 2, Domestic Battery x 2, Domestic assault
July 12 p Jeffery Neal Wanton endangerment with a firearm x 2
July 12 p Justin Blankenship Grand Larceny
July 12 p Danny Nicholas Domestic Battery 3rd offense
July 12 p Gary Moore Transferring and receiving stolen vehicle
July 12 p Travis Conley B & E
July 12 p Daniel Craddock Wanton endangerment with firearm, Malicious wounding
July 12 p Natasha Hudnall B&E, Grand larceny, Destruc of property x 2, Conspiracy, Receiving and transferring stolen vehicle
July 12 p Zachary Daniels B&E x 2, Conspiracy x 2
July 12 p Adrian Thompson B&E x 2 , Conspiracy x 2
July 12 p Jeremy Salisbury Fleeing, altering manufacturers serial number or ID mark, Possession of stolen vehicle
July 12 p Rodney Workman Domestic Battery 2nd offense, Malicious wounding, person prohibited from possessing a firearm.
July 12 p With the new list in hand, all those charged will appear before Judge Ric Facemire Thursday morning at 9am.

July 12 a Forgot to say Happy Birthday wishes to Dave Derby and Mike Mullins.

July 12 early a Yesterday afternoon, the Mel Gibson look alike was screwing around with this site and managed to destroy the home page. We're working to restore that entry page this morning.
July 12 a County Commission meets this morning at 10am.
July 12 a The Solid Waste Authority meets this afternoon around 4:30 in their Main Street Clay digs.
July 12 a Both are public assemblies and worth the time sitting in the peanut gallery
July 12 a The county has one public library. It's located in downtown Clay on a small lot. With that plot of dirt, there is barely room to park three cars. As for expansion, outdoor activities, no way.
July 12 a Last night during the Library Board meeting, it was announced, the white house just up river from the Library has been donated to the Library in memory of Cora Mullins.
July 12 a Boardsters are discussing tearing down the wood structure to make room for additional parking and a river access point for small wa wa craft.
July 12 a We've got a new smiling face at the book spot. Olivia Hubbard was hired as a part time worker for about 19 1/2 hours per week.
July 12 Summer Grand Jury convened yesterday.
July 12 a If all goes well, we'll provide the new list of inductees late this afternoon.

July 11 p Last night there were two public meetings on tap. We chose to attend the BDA meeting instead of the Sch Bd gathering.
July 11 p This morning, over at Go Mart, we heard that the School Board approved the immediate resignation of Anita Stephenson. That action was NOT listed on the Board agenda posted last week online.
July 11 p Anita was the long time Middle School principal who was replaced by Leslie Pierson Goe. During that time, a couple months back, Stephenson was voted off the island with a Dec 2017 retirement date.
July 11 p As a 12 month employee, Anita was moved over to the High School for teaching duties and kept her 12 month contract and income.
July 11 p That made Goe and Stephenson on the payroll with principal salaries
July 11 p Getting all her salary, all Summer long, and without any pesky curtain climbers to worry about, why would anybody resign?
July 11 p We think there's a bunch more to this story and are hopeful such comes out over the next few days.
July 11 p In the mean time, one big Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm...

July 11 a The basement conference room, kitchen, HVAC, and storage areas of the Clay County Library were flooded big time during the June 2016 Great Wash Out. The Library volunteers are still trying to get everything back together.
July 11 a Now a foundation wall is listing to starboard meaning, big big expense to repair.
July 11 a Today at 4:30, at the Library, the Board meets for their public meeting. Agenda items include a bunch of time on getting the flood repairs completed.
July 11 a Just made public, Clay High will receive $1.4 million FEMA bucks to repair athletic property. Metro News made the $$$ public.
July 11 a Last night the Business Development Authority (BDA) held their public meeting where a bunch of interesting stuff was put on the table. Like....
July 11 There a darn good chance that FEMA will cover repair costs on the Buffalo Creek Hiking Trail. That pathway is along the railroad rights of way of the old Buffalo Creek and Gauley Railroad.
July 11 a Because the tracks were in poor condition, the BDAers felt getting a tourist steam train up and running, well. the cost was just too great. Therefore they set their sights on having a walking, biking, horseback riding trail.
July 11 a With FEMA coughing up millions to replace bridges, rails, and ballast, all of a sudden, there is a chance that County Clay could once again have steam engines or at least a rail bus drawing in tourists from around the region.
July 11 a Everything is still a long shot but at least there is hope coming our way
July 11 a One of the problems with all that mush is, the BDA does not own the easement nor tracks. The BDA does have a legal lease on the 20 mile long spur line.
July 11 a Back several months ago, there was street talk that the owner of the whole shebang may have an interest in donating the place to the county but with a caveat. In exchange for giving the place away, the owner would take up the rails for scrap value.
July 11 a No rails, that's great for a hiking trail but then there's no chance of ever having a scenic ride here on the home front.
July 11 a Now on the street, strictly speculation mind ya, behind the scenes there is a new effort to gain the property without the scraping of the tracks, bridges and such.
July 11 a Say your prayers that the latest rumor becomes reality
July 11 a With a train ride in place coupled with Elk River boating and fishing, we might see a turn around for future generations.
July 11 a Speaking of the beautiful Elk River...
July 11 a A couple months ago, the BDA voted a motion to help finance a kayak livery service for the Elk.
July 11 a Last night VISTA worker Rachel Spencer made a presentation to get something started later this Summer
July 11 a The BDA was receptive to the plan. So interested, they plan to hold a Special BDA meeting next Monday to get the ball rolling.
July 11 a Keep your fingers crossed clickers. This is about the third attempt at such a proposal and maybe this one will take off.

July 9 p Got a School Board meeting Monday night at the Pentagon. Here's the agenda for the 6pm start time.
July 9 p The Business Development Authority (BDA) also meets on monday but at 6:30pm. With a bunch of storm damage still to deal with from last year's Great Wash Out, might be an interesting meeting to attend. The BDA meets int he old State Road garage in Two Run.
July 9 a With a date change, we missed last week's Town Council meeting . $$##@@!!!
July 9 p Wed morning is the next County Commission meeting. 10am is the start time for that public gathering.
July 9 p Wed at 5:30 is the Clay County Solid Waste Authority meeting in their office digs on Main Street across from the old Henry Clay Hotel. And Yelp!, they've already got their meeting agenda posted on the front door of the meeting house.
July 9 p Thursday evening the Greater Clay Long Term Recovery Committee meets beginning at 6pm
July 9 p Remember Vince Golosow, AKA Tattoo Vince? Those that have been in these parts for 15 years or so will remember Tattoo Vince as the shooter (killer) of Judd Reid (body found in Pisgah) and maybe an accomplice in the death of Christian Dawn Starcher Seabolt.
July 9 p Here's the write up from the Roane Reporter and second more wild side piece from a web portal.
July 9 p Golosow set up a business in Two Run before murdering Mr Reid. Called the Gypsey Jew store, most felt the place was a cover for drug sales.
July 9 p That building is now occupied by the Communicator staff and operation.
July 9 p When the Communicator moved in , the missing girl had not been found.
July 9 p In the downstairs is a long, skinny lookin forced air furnace.
July 9 p When they first turned the thang on, it was reaaaaal stinky.
July 9 p And then the notion came, what if Vince stuffed the Seabolt girl in there!
July 9 p Being the chicken shirts they were (are) , no one would go to the basement for the longest time.

July 9 a Pretty nice listing over on the JOBS page.
July 9 a From the scanner, we have a man clad with just boxer shorts on has been seen walking along side the Interstate.
July 9 a 11:29am "After I get done on Blue Knob, I'll take a pass at the underwear guy."
July 9 a Stuff to make you grit your teeth....
July 9 a Robert Murray owns the largest privately held coal mine in the world. According to Mr Murray, there no such thing as clean coal technology. It's a hoax.
July 9 a Little Donald says millions of unlawful votes were cast in Nov 2016. After an exhaustive study, in the entire state of Iowa, he was right. One mentally unstable lady tried to vote twice.
July 9 a Off With Her Head!!!!!!!!!!!
July 9 a To insure a far right majority on the U S Big Robes, 14 million secret dollars were spent to get Gorsuch appointed to the Supreme Court.
July 9 a Often on TV are images of private citizens getting the stuffing's beat out of um for taking pictures of Badges during arrests and such.
July 9 a A full one half of the country is now bound by Appeals Court decisions across the land. That decision says, Badges are public officials at work, and therefore, ANYONE can snap away.
July 9 a Enjoy a beautiful Sunday afternoon in the Appalachian Mountains of County Clay.

July 7 p Let me tell ya a story.
July 7 p This county lives on grants. For decades, non profits and govt agencies thrived on small grants known as "Budget Digest Grants". Those dollars made the difference for many fire departments and such. When the Republicrats took over the Gold Dome four years ago, they removed all the Budget Digest $$$ in the account.
July 7p And then....
July 7p Every county in the state can receive Lead Economic Development (LED) grants. LED amounts were upwards of $32,000 per year. Also from the Gold Dome, the LED funds were to help grow and or maintain local programs. For the past several years, the CAEZ was awarded the LED funds. While CAEZ controlled the $$$, Clayonians never saw any improvements here in Clayberry.
July 7 p In 2017, the Business Development Authority (BDA) was awarded the LED funds. Their plans included upgrading Spread Park, hiring a part time grant writer, and upgrading the BDA office space allowing it to be rented out providing the BDA sustainability funds.
July 7 p Our BDA and County Commission just found out, they applied for the grant too late, after the deadline.
July 7p Then they found out, instead of around $30K, the newest grant would have provided just $14K.
July 7 p Then came word that no LED grants would be awarded this year. None, according to Mitch DeBoard
July 7 p %%$$##!!!!
July 7p We don't know for sure but, our guess, our elected Republicrats removed those funds too.
July 7p Before the county folds up and blows away, this weekend, we've got a nice Festival coming our way.
July 7p Known as the Elk River Fest, there's a bunch of cool offerings coming our way including fireworks Saturday night around 10pm . Center for the fun is the new and improved Spread Park.
July 7p Full details over on the EVENTS page. Hope to see you there.
July 7p Don't forget to get out to Big Otter Community Center tonight for great music and dance.
July 6 a We've got a pretty good Communicator this time around. Front page coverage includes several interesting lawsuits involving Clay County businesses
July 6 a Also, be sure to check out the Blotter on page 18 for the details on Stump Morton's latest allegations of Grand Larceny done in nothing but black spandex shorty shorts.
July 6 a Clayonians love fireworks. Nothing brings out the crowds like BOOMS and streaks of light in the night sky.
July 6 a This Saturday's Elk Fest now includes a Fireworks display at 10pm.

July 4 a The Best of Independence Day wishes to you and yours on this slightly overcast Holiday
July 4 a While we're screwing off instead of typing on the newspaper, a couple notes.
July 4 a Seniors, if you're interested in Farmer's Market coupons, Clay Development (CDC) has em at the ready. See ADVISORY page
July 4 a We've got the complete Elk Fest Schedule over on the EVENTS page
July 4 a Want to make some $$$ during the Fest, vendor space is still available
July 4 a Want to make some other $$$ during the Fest?
July 4 a There a bunch of cash payout prize money available too. As of last weekend, only a couple contestants had signed up to compete meaning, it might be pretty easy to put some jingle in your pocket next Saturday.
July 4 a OK, back to typing on the paper.

July 3 a Before taking the July 4th break ...
July 3 a One lawyer stands out as "the go to guy" for criminals in the hot seat. For decades, John Mitchell Sr got more off the hook than anyone else
July 3 a Mr Mitchell's funeral will be held Wed. See OBITUARY page
July 3 a Tuesday is the normal day for publishing The Communicator. With the holiday tomorrow, the rag of record has been delayed one day. Check out all the news fit to print and then some, Wed afternoon.
July 3 a Due to the holiday, it's not too late to email over your info.
July 3a For those thinking there's going to be some big fireworks display in downtown Clay, forget it, not going to happen nor is there a parade, carnival, or anything else
July 3 a The Pool is also shut down on the 4th.
July 3 a The river is open for business
July 3 a

July 2 a Welcome to the Summer time four day weekend.
July 2 a It's time for picnics, family reunions, trips over to the Elk, or a motorcycle ride thru the mountains.
July 2 a Yesterday, our local IGA was selling watermelons by the boat load along with hot dog buns, paper plates and such.
July 2 a This is the beginning of a new fiscal year for the state.
July 2 a We're now finding out for sure what dismal changes the Republicrat Legislature crammed down our throats.
July 2 a Here's a link to a complete list of law and rule changes they put on the books
July 2 a Much of the stuff was a waste of time but there was one bill that went into law that makes sense.
July 2 a We've always thought, if you screw up, get a felony after your name, do your time, your transgression is over and you're ready to start life again.
July 2 a In this state, that's not true.
July 2 a In West Virginia, that youthful indiscretion hangs on forever and the loss of rights is forever. That changed with the new year.
July 2 a For non violent felons, the new law allows that conviction to be changed on the books to a misdemeanor. As a misdemeanor, voting and gun rights are returned to the now straightened up person. Without that felony conviction, many more job opportunities are available as well.
July 2 a They got something right this year. Thank you Demcrat Delegate Mike Pushkin for your hard push.

June 30 a Five years ago this morning, with the temp already close to 100 degrees, most in the county and many in the state woke up to no electric, no communications, and dwindling wawa supplies
June 30a We had lived thru winter conditions without power but that did not compare to 100 degrees and roads impassable, no A/C anywhere, and prospects of many days, weeks, without power.
June 30 a That was five years ago today after the 15 minute "Derecho" roared thru the county and sent back into the 18th century
June 30 a Johnny Woofter has been in these parts for decades. He's often seen sitting in his Buick on Main Street keeping an eye on everything.
June 30 a Did you know, as a kid, Woofter once road his bike all the way to Charleston and back?
June 30a How about, did you know, Woofter was double promoted while in Clayberry schools (graduated in 1943) and won the Spelling Bee one year. That award included a trip to DC and a hand shake from FDR . The guy he beat back then was Walter Schoonover
June 30 a And here's the gran slam. Johnny Woofter married when he was 8 years old. That story will be in the next Communicator. 80 cents and worth every penny

June 29 late p Five years ago today, the was no power in Clay. No tele, no DSL.
June 29 late p We were cut off from the rest of the world.
June 29 late p Driving was next to impossible due to the number of trees and power lines down
June 29 late For the lucky few with portable generators, purchasing gasoline was also hard to come by. The couple stations open for business, Badges had to be called to maintain order
June 29 latep Temps remained around 100 degrees for 9 days straight.
June 29 late p With those temps, lack of wawa, and food in short supply, life was dangerous on June 29th 2012.
June 29 late p Late late in the afternoon, for just 20 minutes or so, high winds ripped thru the county and state during the Derecho. When the rain and wind died down, out county laid in ruins.
June 20 late p Derecho was a weathercaster term most of us had never heard of.
June 20 p Many of us went over a week without electric. Some went well over 2 weeks with juice
June 20 late p Tough time. We were very lucky no one died during and after the Derecho made its way thru Clayberry.
June 29 a Bad news first.
June 29 a Black Shirt Tyler Caruthers is leaving the County Clay Sheriff's office this Friday. Without any chance of making a living here, he's heading to better pay (at least $4 per hour more just to start) over in Nicholas County.
June 29 a For us, that means, we have remaining, Sheriff Triplett, Robert Belt and now in training, Ryan Thomas who will be away from service for another couple months.
June 29 a No one can blame Caruthers for seeking greener pastures and better $$$
June 29 a The process of finding Badge candidates takes months. Once a candidate is hired, he (or she) too has to be sent for training. Once trained and after they get a little experience under their belt, we can expect the process to start all over again when they find better paying employment elsewhere.
June 29 a Since last year's Great Wash Out, many new faces have been in Clay. No not the Guard, FEMA, SBA, Salvation Army, folks.
June 29 a The new young faces we're talking about are street people. The ones carrying back packs, sleeping in tents just across the river, the ones wearing toboggans and walking around in a purple haze.
June 29 a In addition to those faces, locally we have our own druggies on every corner and pilfering in every neighborhood in order to support their habits.
June 29 a Clayberry is eat up with the drug culture. We have truly lost an entire generation. The war on drugs failed many years ago as we continue to think drug use is anything less than a mental condition.
June 29 a A couple days ago, there was a Town Hall Meeting on Drug Abuse (heroin) in the Health Dept building. Two DEA officials were on hand with info, speech, power point presentation, lots of munchies and drink was at the ready. Such sessions cost a bunch of money to put on.
June 29 a Guess how many parents, grand parents were on hand for the meeting.
June 29 a The correct answer would be zero.
June 29 a The Clay Health Dept was in charge of of the much needed info Town Hall meeting including the process of letting the public know about it.
June 29 a In addition to jailing the young people not working, ditto for informing the public.

June 28 a This morning beginning at 10am, the Clay County Commission will conduct its last meeting for this fiscal year.
June 28 a Public meeting and always worth taking the time to watch em in action.

June 27 late a Need a job? The U S Census Bureau is getting ready to hire.
June 27 late a See JOBS page now

June 27 a If you've been around Clay more than a day or two, you'll remember Joyce White from down in Bomont.
June 27 a Back when Linky Poo decided H E White Elem wasn't worth keeping and the Board voted unanimously to shut down the rural school, a band of neighbors formed to save the school. Local hearings were held where Boardsters thumbed their noses at the notion, community schools were worthwhile. It took $15K in attorney and court fees before Judge Charlie King ordered the school to be reopened. Joyce White was a part of that effort
June 27 a During the notorious days of the Clay Ambulance Authority, Ms White was at the helm handling the back door stuff including a vote to dedicate $50K for attorney fees to defend the Authority's feeling, they did not have to follow Open Meetings Law.
June 27 a During those days 20 years ago, Joyce was very active with the Clayberry Republicrat Committee. At one point she served as Chair of the group.
June 27 a Joyce White, 73, see OBITUARY page.

June 26 p We've got a new business opening today in downtown Clay. Called Ronda's Attic, the store is located in that little blue building across from Clay Apartments. The What Not shop is open 10 to 5 Monday thru Saturday's. Ronda's got a deal going, buy $10 worth of stuff and you get a bag of goodies.

June 26 a Tonight brings the final meeting of the fiscal year for the Sch Bd. Their agenda is posted and includes a short list of year ending duties.
June 26 a Sometimes, just when you think a short list will be without interest, something changes
June 26 a For this year and a new State budget in place, never know its affect on life in Clayberry.
June26 a Meeting begins at 6pm at the Pentagon.
June 26 a If you know something going on , that's more than we do.
June 26 a For those wanting to enjoy the Elk via a kayak this Monday, the stream is still very muddy and running well above Summer pool.

June 25 late p Buckshot Butcher, see OBITUARY page
June 25 late p thanks PT for emailing over the Obit.
June 25 p We haven't heard a word on Widen Days or even if it is going to be held this year. Not a peep. Please email if you have up to date info.
June 25 p People are asking, why didn't you post Buckshot Butcher's Obituary.
June 25 p Answer: we haven't seen one yet.
June 25 p Weather casters issued a flood watch Thursday evening for County Clay which was scheduled to last thru June 23rd.
June 25 p The 23rd marked the 1 year anniversary of the Great Wash Out of 2016
June 25 p Keep in mind a "watch" is far different from a Weather Service "warning". None the less, Clayberry got all jittery just at thought of the possibility.
June 25 p Events were canceled
June 25 p True the Elk River was high and muddy enough to plow, Saturday and today were perfect sun filled days with low humidity.
June 25 p This week we saw the rebirth of Clay County Development Authority (CDC). By laws were brought up to date. The annual meeting was held and no one threw rocks or got in someone's face.
June 25 p With the fresh start, it's now time to fill Board positions with capable, thinking people.
June 25 p Interested in helping the county grow? CDC Board applications are available in their office
June 25 p We know, we know, a lot of people lost nearly everything or everything, one year ago this weekend during the flood.
June 25 p But! truth is, millions of dollars came into the County of Little from the Feds.
June 25 p For instance, we need jobs and new money for this place to grow. Before the flood, plans were in place to tear up the old railroad tracks and create just a walking trail up Buffalo Creek. That would be OK but in no way would a trail generate the tourism dollars a steam train could generate.
June 25 p Since the flood and just now coming together, it looks like several million FEMA dollars are on the way to reconstruct the tracks, ballast, and bridges.
June 25 p With several miles of the right of way to be rebuilt, the chances of building some kind of scenic train ride are better than ever.
June 25 p 24 years ago when the BDA was first formed, the first two projects were, create river access points and build a steam train ride.
June 25 p Four access points were built by BDA volunteers and DNR constructed two more but the train was just too costly.
June 25 p Now, with Federal help, we might get lucky this time around.
June 25 p With a train and or rail car ride, access points for boaters and fishermen, Spread Park serving as a hub for the activities, and the right promotion, we might just have something to build on
June 25 p Enjoy the nice weather one and all.
June 23 p Big Otter Community Center will be closed in prep for the storm
June 23 p No Farmer's Market Saturday due to the planned storm tonight.
June 23 p At 4:30 today, the sky is blue, it's windy, and humidity is high.

June 23 p With a couple inches of rain expected tonight and Saturday, Clayonians are a bit jumpy
June 23 p Like,.... the Big Otter community Center will be closed tonight due to the expected weather coming our way
June 23 p For those hardy souls willing to get out in the wet stuff, each Friday night, Shoney's in Flatwoods, offers an all you can eat prime rib buffett for $15. Darn good beast and a great way to fill up on the good stuff and in a cheap way.
June 23 p For everybody else, be careful out there tonight

June 23 a Tonight there's a special memorial service to remember the 2016 Great Wash Out. The activities will be held on Courthouse Square and begins at 6pm
June 23 a 365 days ago this morning we awoke to a heavy rain with thunder rolling thru the mountains. That was all over by 9 or so that Thursday morning.
June 23 a Most thought, that was it for all the bad weather that TV heads had warned us about.
June 23 a Boy we're we wrong.
June 23 a In the middle of the afternoon, all H broke loose. Streams rose quickly. Wawa covered the side roads by 5 pm. In some sections of the county, like going out Peach Orchard Rd, the pavement was destroyed and completely gone.
June 23 a Many said the Great Wash Out was the 1000 year storm. Of course in 1988, that was suppose to have been the 1000 year flood. Ditto for 1962 which wiped out Charleston.
June 23 a For many days in a row, first responders, med crews, fire depts were at 120% capacity and beyond. Fed crews came to our rescue with food and wawa supplies
June 23 a Communications was severed for many as well as power. The same held true for 9 other counties in the state hard hit by the June 23rd storm.
June 23 a Best of all, neighbors went to work sorting out the mess and assisting those around em. Many churches provided the Christian help talked about every Sunday morning
June 23 a Floods are bad but there is a good side too
June 23 a Most of the creek side junk, trash, diapers, hot water tanks, bottle and such, washed into the Mississippi and beyond. Many unsightly shacks, sheds, and other dilapidated buildings were washed away. Ditto for falling down bridges.
June 23 a Now one year later, County Clay has received millions in relief. It's the most $$$ ever to enter the county. New pavement, bridges, signs, rebuilt school property and more
June 23 a We also saw the dismal side of life.
June 23 a After a few weeks, most realized the massive short comings of those Federal programs like FEMA
June 23 a We found out the fine print can make those FEd $$$ not worth the paper they're printing on.
June 23 a And, we saw the welfare mentality of many as they grabbed relief supplies and sat by the road selling the goods for profit. Other loaded up truck loads of supplies and took em to WalMart demanding a refund.
June 23 a Greedy B!!!!!!!! came back load after load and took many times more than they and their neighbors could possibly use.
June 23 a The year of rebuilding is now behind us. Now 10am, just like one year ago, the sun is coming out and the rain is gone. Like last year, Clayberry is under a Flash Flood Watch with a couple inches predicamentated for the next 24 hours.
June 23 a We're waiting and watching the skies.
June 22 p We'll provide a little beefier posting late tonight but for now...
June 22 p The annual CDC meeting convened at 2pm today. Although one Sister from the old guard was in attendance, saying zip, she said nothing and left before the meeting was completely over. Ditto for one time Board Prez Eunice Thompson.
June 22 p No rocks were thrown nor harsh words were exchanged. For the 12 + around the conference table and the dozen more in the peanut gallery, all seemed to in lock step with their purpose being, we're sick of the old family clan empire and change will come today.
June 22 p It did
June 22p Are you sitting down?
June 22 p Had Honcho Commissioner Roswall made it very clear, the new CDC will abide by Open Meetings Law or else have funding removed.
June 22 p All Board meetings will be noticed and open to the public
June 22p How refreshing!
June 22 p With those around the table arm in arm, by law changes were unanimously approved. The new by laws strike from existence the general membership committee but leaves in place an annual meeting like today's gathering.
June 22 p 30+ years ago, Clay Development was a fairly new social service provider that actually did something more than enrich those in charge.
June 22 p With no coup attempt today, it feels like, the much needed senior citizen safety net agency is back on track and ready to serve.
June 22 p We're hoping that gut feeling comes true
June 22 late a Getting hungry?
June 22 late a If you were heading over to CDC for their Thursday free lunch, forget it
June 22 late a The free lunch will not be held today as the group prepares for their annual meeting at 2pm
June 22 late a Did anybody say honey?
June 22 late a If you're looking for fresh honey, Warren Mullins is in attendance at the Farmer's Market at the Courthouse this morning.
June 22 late a He's go about 15 gallons of fresh honey bee droppings all bottled up and ready for your taste buds.

June 22 a Clay Development Corp ooozed with absolute corruption for years
June 22 a No, no one ever went to jail, but you could plainly see it at every Board meeting and every annual meeting of the agency.
June 22 a Absolute power and control is the only way the Ramsey Clan could control the purse strings and authority
June 22 a First they assembled their team of Yes people. If one of em showed a brain of their own, the trouble maker was thrown off the island
June 22 a Edmund Eagle was tall skinny old fellow that was put on the CDC General Membership and Excessive Board Committees as a place sitter. Everything was going just fine until he started asking questions during meetings.
June 22 a When that happened, all the Ramsey minions were put to task and Mr Eagle was tossed aside. Asking questions was a real no no.
June 22 a Meeting after meeting, people was tossed aside, one by one. Maintaining power requires such.
June 22 a Board Chairs were also subject to such castration.
June 22 a Ernie Wide Glide Sirk was one that comes to mind. Sirk came to power when the Ramseys' felt they needed someone new at the top. That was going just fine until Wide Glide started checking the books.
June 22 a Another was a Herschel Shamblin who had gonads enough to take the whole CDC Empire to Court not once but twice. Picking an incompetent attorney doomed his attempt to straighten out the Dark Empire
June 22 a It was fun to watch the removal process during General Membership meetings. It was a well oiled process
June 22 a Suction filled members were given written scripts and given hand signals for when to speak. The minions sat with their purse in their lab. When pointed at, the purse was opened and from written paper came exactly what they were told to say to oust the offending wayward person.
June 22 a Worked every time for years.
June 22 a During one Board meeting, three reporters were told to leave the meeting, that the meetings were no longer open to the public. Green Shirts were called to remove one of the reporters.
June 22 a What was his transgression? He reported on what was going on.
June 22 a To make sure that bald headed guy never showed up again, during a General Membership meeting, when the purse's were opened, a script came out which stated, since the newspaper is a full profit company and profit is made from CDC reporting, newspaper people could not attend those annual meetings.
June 22 a Just so happened that June afternoon, the Mel Gibson Look Alike had his full tax return in hand. Showing the entire goup a zero profit for the previous year, didn't matter, off with his head came the rallying cry.
June 22 a Letters were mailed out informing the Ace Cub Reporter he could never again set foot on CDC property. Other Charleston based newspapers were also told to stay away from CDC proceedings.
June 22 a Absolute power often leads to corruption.
June 22 a The CDC throne and drones was toppled last year in Dec.
June 22 a How did it happen? Media from around the nation got involved after a racist posting by CDC Director Pam Ramsey was posted on social media. On Dec 23rd, she and her family clan were tossed from power
June 22 a That was the best Christmas present this county has ever had.
June 22 a Since Dec., state regulators have been working to get the much needed social service agency out of the swamp and back on the straight and narrow.
June 22 a Today is the annual membership meeting of the CDC. It is during those once a year gatherings that wrongs can be righted.
June 22 a After some hesitation, current CDC place holders did the right thang and opened the meeting to the public. Behind the scene, there was worry that the old guard would stage a coup if they knew when the General membership meeting was being held.
June 22 a Doing the right thang, the new leadership let in the Sunshine depsite the threat. Doing any less would be as bad as the old leadership had practiced for so long.
June 22 a Today's meeting begins at 2pm in the CDC building on Main Street. We don't know what will happen at this writing but we hope it is the beginning of a new day in Clay.
June 22 a Henry Doherty: A great man is one who can have power and not abuse it
June 22 a Malcom Forbes: Those carried away by power are soon carried away.

June 20 p Olive Virginia Nicholas, 97, of Clay, see OBITUARY page
June 20 p Believe it or not, The Communicator made it out the door on time today.
June 20 p Our front page article provides an update on Clay Development Corp. Pretty good info with more changes in the works this Thursday.
June 20 a For a measly 80 cents, you will be fully informed on the happenings in beautiful Clayberry.
June 20 p Enjoy
June 20 p Good news for WYAP radio listeners.
June 20 p The Steve and Mike Show returns to 101.7FM in the morning around 8am.
June 20 p For those that want to tune in via the web, please bookmark this link.
June 20 p Community radio at its best. Welcome back Steve and Mike

June 20 a The best of West Virginia birthday wishes to ya
June 20 a For many, today is a holiday where we celebrate statehood
June 20 a If all goes well, The Communicator will be available around 3pm today
June 20 a Then, it will be a holiday for us too

June 19 late p Anna Mae DeMoss, 85, of Clay, see OBITUARY page
June 19 p Mabel Emogene Samples, 80, see OBITUARY page
June 19 p Overnight many in the county without power or communications. Such was the case with the ace cub reporter.
June 19 p Everything appears back to normal now with sunshine and high humidity blanketed the county.
June 19 p Right now we're busy typing and organizing tomorrow's Communicator. If you have something you'd like to submit, now's the time to email it
June 19 p California has the highest number of scenic byways, 66, which is 22 times higher than in Connecticut and Delaware, the states with the lowest at three each.
June 19 p Nevada has the lowest daily price for camping, $25.67, which is 2.6 times lower than in Rhode Island, the state with the highest at $67.00.
June 19 p Florida has the lowest price for a three-star hotel room, $52.00, which is 3.2 times lower than in New Hampshire, the state with the highest at $165.67.
June 19 p Vermont has the lowest number of car thefts per 1,000 residents, 0.28, which is 15.6 times lower than in California, the state with the highest at 4.37.
June 19 p West Virginia is ranked 28th highest for Summer destinations.
June 19 p South Carolina has the lowest gasoline prices followed by Alabama.
June 19 p We had a chance to drive to Pocahantas County yesterday and visit a place that knows tourism is their cash cow.
June 19 p Even in little Durbin, the place has hanging flower baskets, colorful banners, and decorated trash receptacles. In the restaurant, welcome center, grocery store, etc., the workers have been taught to smile, answer questions, and make the tourist feel at home.
June 19 p Such has been working in Pocahantas County for decades
June 19 p Here in Clayberry, we're just being discovered as a close to home spot for biking and wawa activities like kayaking.
June 19 p We've got a long way to go but, look around, the people are already here.
June 19 p Let's not blow it. Tourism is our future.

June 16 a On Dec 23rd, regulators came to Clay Development Corp and removed from duty the whole famn damily leadership team. Since then, nearly 6 months ago, oversight groups have been in place to straighten out the long under the radar social service provider.
June 16 a Yesterday, we had a chance to interview new head honcho Yvette McGlothlin
June 16 a Most all the programs offered by the old administration remain today.
June 16 a As far as assembling a new Board of Directors, that's been slow going as well as adding new offerings. Keith Wray serves as the Board President. Steve Hubbard is also on the Board.
June 16 a Sounds like, until a long due financial audit is complete, CDC is in a holding pattern.
June 16 a Financially, the agency is making their monthly bills as needed. A big pay out is being made to repay Medicaid for improperly billed or not billed services. The payment plan is being met monthly.
June 16 a Word on the street has it, under the old guard, the social service provider was nearly broke and in serious dire straits.
June 16 a CDC by laws require an annual meeting where by law changes can be made. With many of the by laws poorly written and others down right stupid, out of date, expect changes during next week's annual meeting followed by placement of a full Board of Directors
June 16 a Here's the problem.
June 16 a Current management has concerns , the old guard, the family clan, will attend the annual meeting and make an effort to return the old guard to power during a coup.
June 16 a Even with that concern in hand, Ms McGlothlin agreed that the CDC annual membership meeting will be a public event to be held June 22nd beginning at 2pm in the CDC office building.
June 16 a From around the table, it seemed like all were finally in agreement, a good dose of sunshine is the only thing that will restore confidence in the CDC operation.
June 16 a If you're interested in renting the flower shop space in the CDC building, the group is considering using the area for CDC programs
June 16 a County Commission announced Wed., Putnam Aging, which operates the Nutrition Site in Two Run, will be walking away from the contract to feed senior citizens.
June 16 a CCC told the public, CDC, Clay Development, will be taking over the nutrition site contract come the end of Sept 2017.
June 16 a From our gathering with CDC staff, that's not a done deal yet.
June 16 a In fact, the two groups have not as of yet, sat down and held a meeting.
June 16 a One thing is for sure , if CDC (actually the AAA program) takes over the Nutrition site feeding program, that operation will remain in the Two Run building.
June 16 a Reason? The kitchen in the CDC building is not big enough to handle the needs.
June 15 a Clay Roane PSD meets tonight at the Procious WaWa Plant beginning at 6:30pm. Public meeting and everyone welcome.
June 15 a Clarita Evans is the sister of retired bus driver, Mike Evans. Clarita's daughter , Presley, is trying to win a four year free ride scholarship to college.
June 15 a According to Mike Evans, today is the last day to online vote for the kid.
June 15 a How about we do something nice today. Take a second and vote for Presley Fisher.
June 15 a Very interesting County Commission meeting yesterday. Near the end of each gathering, Commissioners provide reports or updates from around the county. The interesting one came from Fran King who also serves on the CAEZ Board of Directors
June 15 a From the Gospel of Fran....
June 15 a CAEZ is still working on a proposed ATV trail for a five county region that includes Clayberry
June 15 a CAEZ planted 3000 apple trees last year to start an orchard. A report given during the CAEZ meeting revealed on plot one , all the saplings died; on plot two about half the saplings died off; and the third plot with trees might be OK. That's if you can see the tiny shoots under the tall weeds.
June 15 a CAEZ is looking for someone to brush hog the rock strewn apple orchard which is located in Nicholas County
June 15 a Mott's Apple Company has an interest in purchasing apples if they ever grow
June 15 a To keep deer away from the trees, there is one strand of electric wire fencing.
June 15 a County Commissioner Greg Fitz commented, there's no electric near the orchard to meet the demands of the fence
June 15 a And finally from Fran's report, the CAEZ Campground is at full capacity this year and booked solid.
June 15 a Ahhhhh... full capacity?
June 15 a The Fitz lad questioned Big Lup's full capacity and said this morning, there were just two campers at the place. Fitz felt Lup must have meant, the campground is ready for full capacity.
June 15 a And finally, according to Fran, the sparsely attended CAEZ Board meeting went into secret time to discuss the top secret ATV trail.
June 15 a After the meeting we asked Ms King about that secret time. She provided, it last 15 or 20 minutes and she didn't remember any votes taken.
June 14 a As of the end of May, the County Commission owes over $193,000 in past due jail bills.
June 14 a Last month's bill alone was $43,000
June 14 a Bills are fine if you have the $$ to pay em
June 14 a We don't
June 14 a County Commission meets this morning at 10am
June 14 a Over the last two weeks, Spread Park has changed from a tall grass and brush filled place to one we can be proud of.
June 14 a Even the brush over the bank toward the Elk has been cleared away. Porta Potties have been put in place until the flush jons can be repaired. Electric service has also been restored there
June 14 a Funding for the improvements come via a state grant (LED) awarded to the Clay County Business Development Authority. This is the first year the BDA has had the money in a long time.
June 14 a For several years before 2017, that grant was awarded to CAEZ.
June 14 a Clayberry never saw the $$$ when CAEZ had control of it.
June 14 a Big Lup may dispute that last statement but it's absolutely accurate
June 14 a That aughta bunch her shorts up.

June 13 p Clayberry is under a Flash Flood Watch until 7pm. Be careful out there clickers and keep an eye on the creeks .
June 13 a This morning's showers is doing a good job filling cisterns and refreshing area gardens
June 13 a Fayetteville has benefited from tourism for several decades. In the 70's they saw the handwriting on the wall and knew they had to broaden their base.
June 13 a Over the weekend, the ace cub reporter was over in Fayetteville for dinner at Gumbo's on Main Street. Watching out the windows, vehicle after vehicle sported kayaks, canoes, rafts. Cyclists were also a plenty not to mention the number of travelers there just to take in the scenery, shopping and good vittles.
June 13 a County Fayette got it right in the second half of the 20th century. Now it's our turn
June 13 a Here at home, have you noticed the number of canoes and kayaks on the Elk?
June 13 a Without much in the way of leadership, despite all our shortfalls, America is discovering the Elk and maybe even Lake Sampson
June 13 a That's a base we need to grow and do so real quick
June 13 a Last night the Sch Bd met and approved a bunch of changes.
June 13 a Stuff like...
June 13 a Eric Legg is the new Middle School Asst Principal
June 13 a Scott Ramsey is the new Middle School Football and Basketball coach
June 13 a The 23 item agenda went without much in the way of discussion. Just boom boom boom and the work was done
June 13 a Near the end of the meeting, secret time came.
June 13 a After the time behind closed doors, something was different.
June 13 a It was as if something didn't go right, something was said or done or not finished.
June 13 a After adjournment, instead of bugging out, quiet talk came
June 13 a Dave Mullins quietly talked to Ms Bodkins followed by the others.
June 13 a Sorry folks , this time around, Mullins was not loud enough to hear complete thoughts, only bits and pieces.
June 13 a Whatever the problem, Dave Pierson appeared to be the most peeved and left to the side.
June 13 a Something is up
June 13 a Last Friday Stump Morton was lodged in Central Regional Jail charged with a felony.
June 13 a We now have the criminal complaint on Morton
June 13 a To tell the truth, it's hands down the most confusing complaint we've read in 23 years of reporting
June 13 a No, not Belt or Caruther's propensity to miss spell
June 13 a No, not run on sentences
June 13 a Absolutely over the top mixed up info
June 13 a We'll have the material in the next Communicator and you can try to figure out what's going on.
June 13 a Names mentioned in the complaint include Tommy Young, Murder Mountain, Brittany Stephenson, Venida Young, and Stump.
June 13 a As best we can figure, sounds like $7,050.00 worth of high quality hand tools were stolen from Murder Mountain but later discovered in the back of a vehicle elsewhere and Stump was seen driving the KIA followed by trying to sell the stuff
June 13 a It's a mess clickers but full details in the next newspaper of record, The Communicator
June 13 a It's chigger season. Here's a good link on the tiny rascals and how to handle the Summer critters.
June 13 a The first Road Runner cartoon first aired in 1949 and was called the Fast and Furry-ous. Has Wile E Coyote ever caught the Road Runner? The correct answer is Yes, in 1966.

June 12 a Change: Clay County's Farmer's Market will now be open on Thursday mornings in addition to their usual Saturday affair
June 12 a Best baby sitting business in the county: Clay County Swimming Pool
June 12 a A lot of people are making fun of the Donald including Smirnoff Vodka. Pretty cute.
June 12 a Business Development Authority convenes tonight over in the old State Road garage. Here's their agenda.
June 12 a Pretty lengthy agenda tonight for the Sch Board meeting to be held at the Pentagon including disciplinary action for an employee.
June 12 a That discipline is probably from a bus driver incident before school let out.
June 12 a
June 10 a James Michael “Mike” Ramsey, age 64, see OBITUARY page
June 10 a Not sure if Mike was addicted to watermelons like some of us but he was sure appreciated
June 10 a Long after the good melons were gone from our local stores, Mike would head back to Clayberry with a monster 40 pounder for the Ace Cub Reporter.
June 10 a Mike and the watermelons will be greater missed
June 10 a Condolences extended to the Ramsey family and friends
June 10 a In the way of a couple updates....
June 10 a Mark Workman left the hospital Monday. Workman is the lad that was shot several times by his Father after a domestic skirmish. Regional news outlet reported that Workman would be arrested once leaving the hospital.
June 10 a As far as we can tell, Workman is a free man so far
June 10 a Millions watched Thursday's Senate Hearing with Comey front and center
June 10 a The question is not if but when will Donny J be impeached
June 10 a With the Orange Headed Prez proclaiming, he would be happy to testify before Congress, bet his attorneys cried!
June 10 a From that Thursday hearing came a great line: Who will rid me of this troublesome crease?
June 8 p Tuesday's Town Council meeting was well attended. Many in the peanut gallery are Blue Knob Road residents and were there because they had heard there was a hold up in getting the water line extension project up and started.
June 8 p At issue was acquisition of a small parcel of land for an easement and site for a booster pump station. The spot needed is along Route 4 in Maysel near the mouth of Blue Knob Road.
June 8 p Behind the scenes, Mayor Jason Hubbard offered the land owner $6000 for the needed spot while the owner felt $10,000 would be a fair asking price
June 8 p During Tuesday's meeting, the landowner was there when discussion ensued.
June 8p Prior the meeting, the guy lowered his asking price to $8K
June 8 p Mayor Hubbard would not budge from his $6K amount. Neither would Council who voted down a motion to pay the $8K
June 8 p After the vote to reject the $8K, back and forth they went.
June 8 p After waiting 20+ years for "city" wawa, those in the peanut gallery appeared to be getting impatient with Council and the Mayor. Drinking frog pee is not a great way to have a life.
June 8 p With each volley of "it's time to make some progress", Hubbard said, let's not do this. let's stop this. Instead, let's turn this over to an attorney and the court system
June 8 p Most everyone in the room knew, court cases would delay construction for at least the Summer months and maybe to the end of 2017.
June 8 p The difference between the offer was just $2000. Lawyers and court fees are expensive, certainly well over the $2000 catching point. Hubbard wasn't budging
June 8 p Finally, senior Council person, Joyce Gibson, turned and asked the guy, would you take $7,000.
June 8 p Reluctantly, Eugene accepted
June 8 p Motion was made and passed to pay $7K for the much needed parcel.
June 8 p The hurdle was overcome thanks in no small part to the statesmanship of Joyce Gibson

June 7 p It took a while but the county's newspaper, The Communicator, is now available and heading to your mail box even as we type. Our lead covers serious charges against one of the newer business leaders in the own of Clay.
June 7 p Greater Clay is suppose to gather for a public meeting Thursday evening in the Lion's Club building on Main Street. Start time is around 6pm as far as we know
June 7 p As far as we know?
June 7 p Greater Clay does not adhere to Open Meeting Law nor do their by laws require em to.
June 7 p Tuesday evening CAEZ gathered for their every other month public meetings.
June 7 p Their Eco / Dev Committee (the only active committee they've got) started their meeting around 4pm. With just 3 members present, it was the same rehashing of long shot projects and those never quite done , or done on time
June 7 p CAEZ Director Connie Lupardus told the timy group she had some news to provide during the 6pm full Board meeting.
June 7 p Sensing something interesting might be a buzz, Board Chair Michael Martin asked, Can't you give us a hint at least? Is it something with the ATV trail?
June 7 p Nope came the response from Big Lup
June 7 p Keep in mind, both the Eco / Dev meeting and the following, full Board meeting, both are public meetings held in public space and the CAEZ By Laws say they will abide by Open meeting Law.
June 7 p Yet, when her Board Chair asked for a teny tiny hint during the Eco /Dev gathering, Nope not even a hint. Sure seems like growing an ATV trail would be something an economic development committee would have an interest in.
June 7 p Our guess, the ace cub reporter attends the Eco Dev meeting but rarely sits thru the full Board meeting. Instead of that, Mel Gibson runs over to the Town Council meeting which begins at 5pm and usually goes beyond the 6pm, CAEZ start time.
June 7 p An adult behaving like a child with no end in sight.
June 7 p With about 24 days left, under the Gold Dome in Charleston, West Virginian's are still waiting for the new year budget. The business of costing the taxpayer each day our Legislature convenes, it's starting to add up
June 7 p In Washington, we're getting closer to impeaching the Orange headed Prez.
June 7 p All the while, Donnie J spews out, this is a witch hunt and there's nothing to it!

June 6 p Delays Delays Delays
June 6 p The Communicator is NOT coming out this afternoon due to issues on our end of the production
June 6 p As of right now, looks like, sometime Wed afternoon the paper will be on news stands and to mail boxes around the nation

June 5 a Happy Birthday Editor Emeritus, Terry Kerns
June 5 a The Communicator comes out Tuesday. Deadline for submissions is this afternoon around 5pm
June 5 a Now that West Virginia is a medical pot state, from the fact retriever web portal:
June 5 a The word “canvas” is related to the word “cannabis.” Historically, canvases were made of hemp
June 5 a Scientists have found that a marijuana compound can freeze and stop the spread of some types of aggressive cancer.
June 5 a Both Thomas Jefferson and George Washington grew hemp on their plantations. The British crown even ordered the colonists to grow the plant
June 5 a Since 2015, marijuana has become the fastest growing industry in the U.S. If marijuana becomes legal in all 50 states, the industry will become larger than the organic food market
June 5 a The first item sold over the Internet was a bag of marijuana over 40 years ago. Stanford students used Arapnet (an early form of the Internet) to buy weed from their counterparts at MIT
June 5 a Marijuana is the most common illegal drug used in the United States. Approximately 100 million Americans have tried marijuana at least once, and more than 25 million have smoked it in the last year
June 5 a Those fun facts and a bunch more in tomorrow's Communicator.

June 2 a It's not often we can hype up a new business in Clayberry.
June 2 a Joanne Lee is opening a sewing, mending, general alterations business.
June 2 a Great!
June 2 a Her tele # is 330-671-4862
June 2 a 6 or more years ago, a group banded together to organize the Clay County Farmer's Market. One purpose was to support local growers and the second was to give tourists some place to lighten their wallets each Saturday.
June 2 a Over the years the day of the market and the faces have nearly all changed. At best, the market has had limited success. Garden plots do not produce enough to provide quantities of sellable items and as for tourists, we don't have much of that either.
June 2 a Last year's flood wiped out Farmer's markets in Clay
June 2 a Today at noon, the 2017 version of the Market will be organized upstairs at the Courthouse in the WVU Ext office. Public is invited of course.
June 2 a In the USA, there are right at 63,000 coal mining jobs while wind / solar jobs account for a little over 1/2 millions pay days.
June 2 a Yesterday, the mouth piece of Russia, Little Donnie, made public his decision to walk away from the Paris climate agreement. The original idea for joining the voluntary accord was so this country could have a hand in the decision making process
June 2 a With us out of the picture, the Don has put us in a corner by ourselves leaving Russia and China in the leadership spots for future decisions
June 2 a With the rest of the world scratching their heads, Russia is grinning from ear to ear.
June 2 a Another sad day in America. It's mind boggling at the very least.
June 1 a Happy first day of June. The sun's out and the pool is open
June 1 a W Va is the 45th worst place for job opportunities
June 1 a W Va has the 44th worst starting salaries
June 1 a Our unemployment rate is the 46th worst in the USA
June 1 a Our Median Annual Income (Adjusted for Cost of Living) is the 49th worst in the land of plenty
June 1 a As far as how many hours we have to work per week, not quite so bad, we rank 36th
June 1 a W Va ranks 36th in the average commute time in minutes
June 1 a For Job Satisfaction, W Va ranks 46 worst.
June 1 a If you care to read any more on our dismal state, just click here. Get out your hanky.

May 31 p Morning post has been updated. Please reread.
May 31 p Many are still convinced and waiting for Big Coal to return to West Virginia.
May 31 p While there may be a small up tick in the next few years, reality is, coal will never provide the 200,000 jobs it did 50 years ago in West Virginia.
May 31 p So what do you want, coal and or usable wawa?
May 31 p One Federal Judge just decided, clean water is more important than coal works in County Clay.
May 31 a This early morning stuff if rough on us that need our beauty sleep.
May 31 a With sleep still in our peepers, sometime after 3am this morning, the scanner lit up with Green Shirts on the scene calling for a Medical Examiner. Still half asleep, the corpse was taken over to the local funeral home.
May 31 a Yesterday morning, maybe 5am ish, Badges were called to a shooting scene. There Mark Workman was laying with around four wounds before being helicoptered to a hospital. Fog played a big factor in finding a place for the bird to set down.
May 31 a Metro News had less sleep in their eyes and provided this online report: HARTLAND, W.Va. — A Clay County man was shot multiple times by his father after allegedly making threats to kill him. According to the West Virginia State Police, Mark Workman was staying at his father’s home in Hartland. His father, also named Mark, had not been at the house for at least four days.

The shooting happened around 4:30 a.m. in Hartland. The father told troopers when he arrived, his son was holding a shotgun and threatening to kill him. The father pulled out a .22 revolver and fired multiple shots. Troopers said the father will likely not face charges as he acted in self-defense. The younger Workman was flown to Charleston Area Medical Center General Hospital with unknown injuries. If he survives, troopers said he will face criminal charges. He had been previously charged and was not allowed to possess a firearm

May 31 a Decades back students believed teachers during the last week or two of school when they screamed, you all be have yourself ! I can still change your report cards!
May 31 a That doesn't work today. Kids are sharper and know, the last couple weeks of school is just a holding time filled with movies, picnics and other screw off stuff.
May 31 a Tomorrow's the last day, half a day, for students still sitting in desk chairs around the county.
May 31 a The best baby sitting service in the county is the Clay County swimming pool which starts its normal, 6 day a week operation tomorrow.
May 31 a Parents, they're all yours for a couple months.
May 31 a For those looking for the Greater Clay Long Term operation, they've moved into downtown Clay in the old Starcher building on Main Street.
May 31 a Yard Sales begin Thursday in County Clay. Check out EVENTS page today.

May 30 a After a nice three days off from work duties, we're down to the last couple days of May.
May 30 a Check out the ADVISORY page for details on the start of the Farmer's Market
May 30 a No other public meetings that we know of this week
May 30 a 11 days ago, Clayberry made regional news after a candid camera was found in the CMS girl's locker room. CMS students are all aware of a fellow student who admitted to the act.
May 30 a During last week's Sch Bd meeting, the head honcho told the assembled, nothing really happened, no evidence
May 30 a With parents talking about the caper during the holiday weekend, the reality is, the incidence appears to have vanished. All gone.
May 30 a IF no pics were recorded on the GoCam, IF no pics were spread on the web, IF no emails were passed around, the act was certainly unlawful.
May 30 a Many parents with school age kids were on hand for that Sch Bd meeting but not one of em asked a question. Not one.
May 30 a Sad

May 28 p This holiday weekend, it's a quiet time for Clayonians.
May 28 p No special activities, no parades, no nothin except to be happy we're still here with family and friends around for hot dog roasts and sitting on the porch when it's not raining.
May 28 p For most of us, Monday's a holiday off from work.
May 28 p For the rug rats and all testing done and movies and parties the prime activities in school land, most have already said good bye for another year. The buses will run and teachers will show up, but for all intents and purpose, education is done for another year
May 28 p While at home watching the boob tube news cycle, our man Donny J seems to jump from the hot grease to the fires. Ditto for his son in law, Jarrod
May 28 p Before the Trumpster took off to offend 5 countries and the Pope, he turned in his proposed budget for the new fiscal year.
May 28 p He seems to have forgotten his promises to NOT mess with Social Security.
May 28 p As for funding for a great wall, Nope. He did include major cutbacks in food stamps to the very most needy, the Meals on Wheels program that serves seniors and vets, and Humongo cuts in Medicaid funding.
May 28 p All the while, reducing taxes on the top 2%.
May 28 p With Russia running the oval office, got to love Little Donald.

May 26 p Ransford Ira Rogers, 78, see OBITUARY page
May 26 p From Mr Parks and Rec, Don Jarvis, The Clay County Pool will Open at 12pm Saturday May 27,Monday May 29 and day after schools close for summer.
May 26 p After 14 years (at least) in the Clayberry School system, the CHS Senior Class graduates on Saturday.
May 26 p For those wanting to watch the activities in the school gym, here's the live link from the Pentagon website.
May 26 p Fewer jobs, a monster flood last year, during the last 7 years, County Clay's population has dwindled down another 500 people.
May 26 p Earlier today, in the middle of the afternoon, Badges and Badgemobiles of all stripes were positioned in Stump Morton's yard in Maysel
May 26 p Over the scanner came many calls for vehicle information via plates and registration.
May 26 p The evidence is mounting that Donny J and his team are in bed with the Russians. For many of us, the only question is, when will Team Trumpster be forced out of the White House?
May 26 p If you wondering about who is line for succession. Here goes.

May 25 a From the National Weather Service: Flash Flood Watch for portions of southwest Virginia and West Virginia, including the following areas, in southwest Virginia, Buchanan and Dickenson. In West Virginia, Boone, Clay, Kanawha, Lincoln, Logan, McDowell, Mingo, Northwest Fayette, Northwest Nicholas, Northwest Raleigh, and Wyoming. Through this evening Saturated terrain from previous rainfall and additional rainfall expected pose a flash flood threat through this evening. Flooding of creeks, streams, and poor drainage areas are expected. Water is likely to cover roads, especially in low lyings areas.

May 24 a Politicians can be artful with their word smithing.
May 24 a Slick Willy and his I did not have sexual relations with that women comes to mind foremost followed by what is the definition of "is"
May 24 Many parents are really peed after the reports of a candid camera found in the girls' locker room at the Middle School.
May 24 a The incident came up during Monday night's Sch Bd meeting at the Pentagon. With several parents in attendance only one lady asked a question. Her inquiry sought info on whether the camera was a self contained, images stored in the unit or if the go cam style device transmitted the compromising shots via the web or to a lap top puter.
May 24 a Lots of people in the peanut gallery and only one question. That's the way they like it.
May 24 Back to crafty wording..
May 24 a Here's a quote from Superintendent during that Monday public meeting:...We have not seen any evidence of anything that show amy improprieties what so ever involving Middle School students.
May 24 a Read it again and again.
May 24 a Monday's Charleston Gazette provided: Officials are investigating at the school level, trying to confirm or not that the device was placed, was placed by a student. "We believe at this point, the incident involved a student," Paxton said.
May 24 a Common feelings on the street indicate a male student as the culprit but...
May 24 a Crafty wording leaves the door wide open.
May 24 a If it turns out that a teacher or other responsible adult located the device in the girl's locker room, boy oh boy are the parents going to go ballistic.
May 24 a Sheriff Donny Triplett came into office Jan 1st of this year. So far he hasn't made any major mistakes nor has he looked stupid in the media
May 24 a We must have a new Sheriff in County Clay.
May 24 a That same May 23rd, page 2, Charleston Gazette reporting references a Sheriff Mike Slack. They didn't mention Top Badge Mike Slack once but rather, four times in the article.
May 24 a For one brief period in time, Clayberry had a Miles Slack for Sheriff but that was over 6 years ago.
May 24 a Rain and gloom in the forecast for today. Stay dry if you can.
May 24 a Darn good reading in the latest Communicator.

May 23a Sometime this afternoon, the latest, bestest yet Communicator will grace news stands across the region. 80 cents and worth every penny
May 23 a Ft page covers the hidden camera found in the Middle School locker room last Friday.
May 23 a Barbara Schamberger has been a defense attorney in the county for many years. During her time her she even made a run for County Commission not so long ago.
May 23 a Schamberger's late breaking news on having her law license yanked can also be found in this edition.
May 23 a Enjoy
May 23 a Wed's County Commission meeting was moved to Thursday at 10am.

May 22 late p Hattie Merle Summers, 91, of Wallback, see OBITUARY page
May 22 p It was 13 months ago when Clay Middle School made regional news after a near massacre shooting incident. Back on April 20th 2016, CMS students had completed a walk thru and plan to wipe out teachers and a custodian at the School.
May 22 p Fortunately, the caper was discovered before it could be carried out
May 22 p Today parents are outraged over a small "go cam" being placed in the girls' locker room at the Middle School.
May 22 p The camera was discovered Friday according to one parent of a girl that used that locker room. Also from a parent comes: a report that the male student had been caught and is now looking at a year's suspension; and, all the female students were brought together on Friday for a meeting.
May 22 p TV-8 has brief coverage of all the allegations
May 22 p The local School Board convenes tonight at 6pm at the Pentagon.
May 22 p Might be a great time to come and ask questions during the public meeting.
May 22 a Lot of postings on the ADVISORY page including the upcoming Farmer's Market info
May 22 a Health Bd meets today at 4pm in the NH Dyer Building on Main Street.
May 22 a Due to reduced property values and many taxable buildings washed away last year, Our tax base has gone way down.
May 22 a During recent public meetings, mention came of reduced collections from the School and Library EXCESSIVE LEVIES.
May 22 a Tonight the School Board is scheduled to meet at the Pentagon beginning at 6pm. Big long agenda too.
May 22 a Deadline to Tuesday's Communicator is today around 5pm. Email over your stuff right away.

May 21 a Rosalie Ewing, 84, see OBITUARY page
May 21 a Norma Lea Samples, 82, of Procious, see OBITUARY page

May 20 a Very tough yesterday in Clayberry. 73 year old killed on a four wheeler.
May 20 a Last night emergency service crews responded to a motorcycle wreck.
May 20 a Beginning around 9:45 last night lots of thunder, lightning, and heavy rain covered County Clay.
May 20 a Power went off for many.
May 20 a Looks a great day to get out of the house and have some fun. Beginning at 11am, nice car show up in Big Otter

May 19 a or every intent and purpose education stopped in the Clayberry School System weeks ago. Between field trips, movies, and other diversions, the school year is over long before the last day of the year in June.
May 19 a Today is the official last day of school for Clay High seniors. Thinking they know everything there is to know, they're out of there!
May 19 a at 11:15 this morning a bunch of emergency service crews and Badges responded to an ATV wreck near the top of Hansford Fork.
May 19 a Lots going on this weekend. Everything from dancing and music up at the Big Otter Community Center to a big time car show fundraiser Saturday. Yard sales around every corner too.
May 19 a Lyndon Metheney died earlier this week. Lyndon was the exception to the rule. True he got in trouble with the law more than once, Metheney had a different attitude. He was jovial. Like....
May 19 a During one trial he was all dressed up to the nines as he entered the Courtroom. When he saw the ace cub reporter he turned and said: Why don't you get my picture today when I'm all cleaned up!
May 19 a We wish wish we had now.

May 18 a Lyndon Baines Metheney, 51, of Clay, see OBITUARY page

May 17 a Got an update on the lead story in the current Communicator
May 17 a We reported , every bit of the Isaac Murphy criminal case has been put under lock and unavailable to the public. That info was accurate with both Circuit Clerk Mike Asbury and Magistrate Clerk Trish Triplett both citing notice from a Circuit Judge to that matter
May 17 a Yesterday we talked with Clerk Triplett who said she received correspondence from Judge Facemire's office informing: Both Triplett and asbury had misunderstood the written correspondence wrongly. In fact, only one part of the case a Court order, had been sealed away from the public. The public records are now, once again public info.
May 17 a We'll have a complete update in the next Communicator as well as details from the criminal complaint.
May 17 a On their third try, Town Council was able to muster a quorum and hold their May meeting. From that gathering a couple observations.
May 17 a During the last 7 months, Town finances have been scrutinized with employee overtime and spending put on a tight reign.
May 17 a After that change in management, Town finances are back in the good and that's after purchasing a dump truck and pick em up truck to complete an already purchased Chevy truck and escavator.
May 17 A Last night the Mayor told the assembled, Town and WaWA finances are in good shape.
May 17 a A new $1700 printer scanner fax was ordered last night
May 17 a The Town's Log Factory has been a massive screw up since inception. As soon as it went on line, Town leadership finally realized, the facility was twice too big for the customer base. Twice too big provides twice too much in operating costs.
May 17 a The operating costs are greater than what comes in each month.
May 17 a Since the beginning, Mayor's have said, we need to cut the plant in half.
May 17 a That was all wasted talk until three months ago when Mayor Hubbard talked to the right people and low and behold, he was able to shut down half the Log Factory. Since then, operation costs have shrunk big time
May 17 a Last night, the new administration is working to once again have a working dried residue (poo) baggin system.
May 17 a Shifting gears....
May 17 a How's your Prez doing Clayberry?
May 17 a Mr Shooting from the Lips has managed to bury his administration and destroy the prestige of the White House in a matter of just four months,
May 17 a Since day one, Donny J has been all about lies and cover up. During the last week, it's all coming together to bury him. His dumbarss actions are now stacked up to the point, even his staunchest Republicrat supporters have little choice but change the Great Ship of State
May 17 a From the beginning he told us, I don't need any stinkin security briefings and he already knew all he needed to know about counter terrorism
May 17 a Can you say impeachment? Of course and hopefully before he gets us into a new war
May 17 a With his around the trip ready to take off today, impeachment proceedings could come none too soon
May 17 a Trump is the guy that openly told voters, he would ban ALL muslims from this country
May 17 a Tomorrow when he gets to the Islamic nation of Saudi Arabia, he will try and tell the muslims, what a great bunch of people they are
May 17 a Watch for the oil spigot to tighten latter this week
May 17 a We are in a a heck of a mess Clayberry.

May 16 late p Benjamin Seth Butler, 32, see OBITUARY page
May 16 late p Virginia Samples Gandee Boggs, 92, of Clay, see OBITUARY page
May 16 a Gladys Gross, 84, of Procious, see OBITUARY page
May 16 a For our watermelon eatin buddy out in Ohio, get quick wishes comin your way from your buddies in Clayberry.
May 16 a Condolences extended to Steve and Beth Butler for the loss of their son, Ben.
May 16 a Town Council has tried twice this month to convene a meeting without success
May 16 a This afternoon at 5:30, Council will try again to have their monthly public meeting
May 16 a Need a job? Kroger is hosting Job Fairs this Saturday.
May 16 a See JOBS page now

May 16 a From Dollar Store Inc: Dollar General’s newest store at 1326 DIXIE HWY in Dixie is now open! In its new location, Dollar General will offer area residents a convenient new place to shop for everyday essentials at low prices. Dollar General will celebrate the store’s official grand opening on Saturday, May 20 at 8 a.m. with free prizes and special deals. Additionally, the first 50 adult shoppers at the store will receive a $10 Dollar General gift card and the first 200 shoppers will receive a Dollar General tote bag with complimentary product samples, among other giveaways. Dollar General stores offer convenience and value to customers by providing a focused selection of national name brands and private brands of food, housewares, seasonal items, cleaning supplies, basic apparel and health/beauty products. Traditional Dollar General stores employ approximately six to 10 people, depending on the need. Anyone interested in joining the Dollar General team may visit the Career section at www.dollargeneral.com.

May 16 a Flowers blooming, gardens planted, and mud holes all dried up. 47 degrees this morning with 90 degrees expected this afternoon. Ditto for Wed.
May 16 a If you can screw off this afternoon, do it.
May 16 a Enjoy!

May 15 a A bunch of old gray headed and no haired remember the downfall of Nixon due to criminal activities followed by Regan's Ollie North secret weapons deal.
May 15 a Nixon bit the dust for continuing his lies. Regan survived by telling America, Gosh this is bad and I will clean house which he did.
May 15 a Neither of those two Presidents scared this country like Donny J is doing.
May 15 a Neither Nix nor Regan had the mental illnesses our current office holder is displaying
May 15 a With Little Donald in the While House and that round pudgy guy in charge of North Korea, these are very scary days in the U S of A
May 15 a Speaking of the Don and less than stellar leadership.....
May 15 a Last Thursday night's post including info on an outrageously mad Connie Lupardus potty mouth tirade on the Mel Gibson Look Alike.
May 15 a Just like Trumpy when the media speaks the truth and not the way he likes it, Big Lup took to Social Media with: Well I really stepped into it last night after a meeting!! Mr Waddle (the Little Bald Guy with the Little Man Syndrome) baited me and I fell for it which caused more drama. I just want people in the county to know (which I am sure most do) that the communicator (and the little bald guy) IS NOT a friend of Clay County. I don't see how poking fun at citizens or misinterpreting (basically lying) what is said at meetings is a way to treat your county. CAEZ of WV board and staff has worked very hard to assist businesses .....
May 15 a Lup went on for several paragrahs highlighting the many many accomplishments of the CAEZ.
May 15 a Other than the Pentagon grabbing CAEZ money for a preschool program and the building of the Clay Fitness Center owned by the Pentagon and closed to the general public, raise your hand if you see great progress for County Clay compliments the CAEZ's 20+ years at the trough
May 15 a No , charging volunteer flood workers $350 per week to stay in their flooded out campground building, that doesn't county.
May 15 a The weeks is starting off just grand!

May 13 a Lawrence Denver Truman, 75, of Lizemores, see OBITUARY page.

May 12 a No rain right now but we're still under the Flash Flood Watch until late tonight.
May 12 a At 8 this morning, everything was very quiet with no breeze. Feels like the lull before a big storm
May 12 a It wasn't quiet last night during the Greater Clay Recovery group meeting held in their office beside Spread Park.
May 12 a Much time was spent on donated heating and cooling units that have been setting in storage since last year. There appears to be around 20 units, some like those self contained units found in hotel room walls, awaiting GC to get work orders in place and get em installed.
May 12 a While Director McDonald said the hold up is due to a needed inventory of equipment on hand, it felt different. If felt like behind the scenes, there was a tempest ready to explode.
May 12 a We reported two months ago, that GC was going to move their office from Spread Park into Tom Dawson's old body shop building in Two Run. That ain't going to happen now because GC found out, that building does not have a rest room.
May 12 a The group's Executive Board selected Ashley Truman to replace Director Rhonda McDonald beginning May 22nd.
May 12 a That Director change, finding a new office space, and making the move, has to all happen before the end of this month.
May 12 a Now for the juice
May 12 a CAEZ Director Connie Lupardus (Big Lup) was spitting fire after the GC meeting. You could see the daggers in her eyes!
May 12 a Lup is peed big time over recent newspaper coverage in the latest Communicator where we reported she was far less than truthful with the County Commission while she was explaining the future of a proposed ATV trail for the county.
May 12 a She was even more peed that we reported her words about her and other agencies talking about taking the Gov to Court over his veto of a Legislative bill that would have allowed those ATV trails.
May 12 a How peed? Big Lup loudly dropped the S*** bomb while in the GC meeting house. Loud enough for all those around her, they turned and stared with their jaws dropping open.
May 12 a Lup strongly disputed our reporting on the part about her suing the Gov.
May 12 a The Ace Cub Reporter replied, Well, Yes you did.
May 12 a That didn't help matters one bit. Nor did it help when Big Lup was reminded, that CCC meeting coverage was aired in its entirety on the local radio station for all to hear.
May 12 a Big Lup stormed out ready to smoke a couple cigs and regroup.
May 12 a Whenever Lup stops stomping her feet, the Ace Cub Reporter's birthday is in June. In the way of birthday presents, he wears a medium shirt and likes cabby caps for his balding head.
May 12 a Also from the GC meeting and maybe related to the just mentioned HVAC units setting in storage.
May 12 a While Big Lup was being loud mouthed and dumb, one time case manager and currently a member of the GC committee, Cheryl White was taken into the Director's office for a meeting with the Director.
May 12 a No we didn't hear any screaming nor yelling, but during the regular GC meeting, Cheryl and hubby Dave asked a bunch of questions on installations, lack of installations, the HVAC units themselves and the like.
May 12 a Not ready for a great big Hmmmmmmmmmm but something was going on
May 12 a Turning that page...
May 12 a A couple weeks back during a CCC meeting, word came that $1.4 million would soon be available for flood survivors for home stuff like raising the home out of the flood plan, buy outs or demolition . For Clayberry, the contact person for the new funds is Stacy King in the Courthouse.
May 12 a That sounds great. This county needs all the help it can get.
May 12 a Last night during the GC meeting, Ms King made public something new
May 12 a Problem. To get that $1.4 million, the county has to come up with match money. For every free dollar coming in, the County Commission has to cough up $1 of its own.
May 12 a Without any local funds to make the match, see the problem?
May 12 a Maybe that match part is why Kanawha County turned down the grant dollars.

May 11 p FLASH FLOOD WATCH now in affect thru Friday evening. Issued by the National Weather Service around 7 tonight. From the NWS: .... The combination of saturated soils from previous rain fall, along with additional rounds of showers and thunderstorms this afternoon and evening, as well as again on Friday, will create the potential for flash flooding. * Showers and thunderstorms with heavy downpours can lead to fast rises on creeks and streams.
May 11 p Be careful out there clickers.

May 11 a Tonight the Greater Clay Long Term Recovery Committee meets in their building beside Spread Park. The public is encouraged to attend.
May 11 a Last night the season ended for the Clay High Panthers when they failed to score a run in Sectional Tournament play up in Lewis County.
May 11 a It's 106 days until football season gets under way at CHS.
May 11 a Here's an update from yesterday's County Commission meeting.
May 11 a Trying to make ends meet in the new fiscal year, the Library Board asked the Commissioners for support of the county's only public library. The CCC said they could continue paying the insurance on the building but that's all.
May 11 a Commission President Greg Fitzwater said finances are in dire straits with the jail bill (most of it, way past due) over $200,000 in the red.
May 11 a A couple years ago, the Library Board asked the voters of Clayberry to approve an Excessive Levy tax to keep the Library open.
May 11 a During the CCC discussions, the Library Manager told the gathering, that Levy was suppose to bring in around $75,000 per year.
May 11 a That ain't happening. Due to property devaluation after the flood and many buildings washed off the tax books, this year, the total expected from the Levy will be just $35,000.
May 11a Making things worser, the funds that come in each month go thru the Pentagon and they won't turn loose of the money
May 11 a Totaling around $15,000, the Pentagon has kept the monthly Library allotment for themselves.
May 11 a During yesterday's meeting, the Library Board made it clear, that dilemma was NOT just an oversight. Many past due notices have been sent to the Pentagon without a response.
May 11 a It's not the first time the School system has held on to $$$ that belong to someone else.
May 11 a Since the Levy inception, the tightwads on the hill have been very difficult to deal with.
May 11 The Pentagon has the largest budget in the county and they want more, more that doesn't belong to em. Pitiful.
May 11 a For those with gray hair and us with no hair, we're seeing history repeat itself.
May 11 a In the early 70's, it was Nixon and Watergate. Those two words nearly brought the nation to our knees.
May 11 a Today we're in the early stages of Trumpgate.
May 11 a As in '73 when Nixon started firing those close to knowing the truth about illegal dealings, Trump is following in the same footsteps.
May 11 a This time it's much scarier. This time, we know an enemy of this nation has infiltrated the highest levels of Washington, affected the last election, and even been present during secret military and security briefings
May 11 a As Nikita Khrushchev said in the early 60's, America will fall without a shot being fired..
May 11 a These are scary times.
May 11 a Since we know, every word from Donny J's mouth is an out right lie, as in '73, thank goodness for the hard working media!
May 10 p After the June Wash Out, a govt program came along to clean out creeks and the Elk River. The relief workers were, are, paid, 11 to 14 dollars per hour.
May 10 p Need a job? Contrary to what's being passed on the street, some openings are currently available in that program.
May 10 p Contact # is 304 296 8223 extension 28

May 10a This morning around 10 am the Clay County Commission meets in regular session. Big long agenda sure to be of interest to many.
May 10 a Last night the Panthers lost to Herbert Hoover in second round Sectional Tournament action. Now in the consolation round, tonight at 6pm, the Panthers are back up in Lewis County.
May 10 a It's do or die tonight for what could be the tournament finale.
May 10 a Go Panthers
May 10 a Clay County's leading news source made it to the stands Tuesday afternoon.
May 10 a The above the fold story provides insight into the Isaac Murphy arrest with a pretty good interview with Samantha Young.
May 10 a Do you use Spread Park for family reunions and such? Better read our latest edition for changes in the reservation policy.
May 9 a Town Council is convening a reschedule meeting Tuesday at 5:30 in Town Hall, AKA WAWA Plant. Noticed one agenda item mentioning criminals in the lower end of Main Street and brought to Council's attention by the USPS. Might be interesting
May 9 a Last night, in sectional tournament play, the Panthers beat Nicholas County 11 to 9. Only one error in the entire contest by the Panthers. Might be their best game of the season!
May 9 a Sectional play continues tonight at 6pm when the Panther do battle with Herbert Hoover at Herbert Hoover. Weather might be a problem tonight.
May 9 a That's not too far to travel so come out and support the Panther's tonight.
May 9 a For that can't, the link to listen online is down below.

May 8 a Eager gardeners often start planting before the last frost date. This morning with temps around 32 degrees, many of the uncovered plants bit the dust. Time to replant
May 8 a Sectional tournament action begins this afternoon for the CHS Panthers.
May 8 a Around 5pm, the Panthers take on Nicholas County up in Weston.
May 8 a You can hear the play by play on 101.7FM or on the net.
May 8 a We know of a couple public meetings tonight.
May 8 a Agenda items for the 6:30 meeting of the Business Development Authority (BDA) include a bunch of topics including the use of $473,000 in FEMA $$$ to repair the Buffalo Creek Trail.
May 8 a School Board meets over at Clay High tonight beginning at 6pm according to the online agenda. Votes come tonight on all kinds of resignations and hires.
May 8 a Which are the best and worst place for working Mom's? Guess... it ain't West Virginia.
May 8 a We're starting work on Tuesday's Communicator. This edition will include lots of criminal complaint reports.
May 8 a Classifieds, Chatters, newsy items, all due today around 5pm.
May 8 a Enjoy the sunshine today.
May 6 p Barbara Rae Welch, 64, of Clay, see OBITUARY page

May 5 p Not sure about the weather but there's a bunch of fun going on this weekend in County Clay.
May 5 p Big Otter Community Center has great music and vittles tonight in the Northern end of the county. Put on your dancin shoes and have some fun.
May 5p Tomorrow is the county wide yard sale event. The annual BDA sale is a great way to get rid of your junk and put some change in your pocket. In edition to the County sale, there's a bunch more listed on the EVENTS page.
May 5 p Richwood brags about their ramp feed but , hands down, the best cooked ramps can be found at the annual H E White Elem Ramp Feed this Sunday. Once again, check out the EVENTS page.
May 5 p A week ago tonight, the criminal stuff ratcheted up. First came Issac Murphy making regional news for his confrontation with Samantha Young acros the road from the Clay Go Mart. That was followed up more bad press for the county with the shooting death of Craig Holcomb and then two Black Shirts punched out while trying to do their job out Blue Knob way.
May 5 p And then and then, back to that Issac Murphy caper, all criminal info was sealed away from the public's prying eye. One big Hmmmmmmmm..
May 5p Frontier alert, making a full six days, the ace cub reporter remains without a connection to the world. No DSL and a phone line so scratchy, it too is unusable.
May 5 p Until that gets corrected, few web postings. Sorry.
May 5 p Take the kids for a ride, hug the wifey, roast a weenie, or whatever it takes to enjoy the weekend

May 4 p This morning we speculated about what went on yesterday afternoon out Blue Knob way when the call came across the scanner, Officers Down.
May 4 p Our guestimates were pretty good but here's a portion (paraphrased of course) from Glenn Abbott's criminal complaint: Black Shirt Caruthers, and Process Server Gary King went to execute a mental hygene petition... Badges entered Abbott's house ... after telling him what they were going to do ... Abbott ran at both Badges and knocked them both out the front door and punched King in the face several times... Black Caruthers sprayed Abbott which didn't have any affect. Abbott then struck Caruthers in the face.... Officers were able to cuff Abbott and take him into custody.... Both Caruthers and King were transported to the a hospital with multiple injuries ...
May 4 p Full story in the next Communicator.
May 4 p Serious business clickers and something that could happen to any Badge.
May 4 p Changing gears just a little.... many in this county often blast out, you can't do a thing with this county, nothing will ever change in these parts, and if you don't have the right last name, you can't get anywhere. Others provide, with the right name, things are different. Having mentioned all that....
May 4 p Last Friday Issac Murphy was involved in a Two Run incident involving Samantha Young. That criminal action has been on every TV channel, newspaper, and this website. Follow up interviews with Ms Young have also been aired.
May 4 p Don't go looking for a criminal complaint on the allegations. The complaint and ALL info is not available.
May 4 p According to Magistrate Clerk Trish Triplett and Circuit Clerk Mike Asbury, all information has been sealed away from the public a couple days ago. Both Courthouse officials added they could not discuss it in any way, shape, or form.
May 4 p When the ace cub reporter asked, which Circuit Judge signed the order, not even that can be made public.
May 4 p Mike Asbury and assistant Jill Caruthers have been on the job for 19 years. During their time in the Circuit Clerk's office, both agreed, they have only seen adult matters sealed a couple times.
May 4 p Sometimes we don't listen to those old-timers. Maybe we should.
May 4 p We can remember a time when a Grand Jury provided an indictment on Randy Schoonover. That indictment was sealed until arraignment day.
May 4 p We can easily understand the felony nature of that matter and what the one time Senator may have done between the felony announcement and arraignment day.
May 4 p FYI Still no Frontier DSL service at the Ace Cub Reporter's home. That outage came on Saturday. That makes five days without internet.
May 4 p This morning Frontier rep Auria went thru the usual queuing crap and finished with, Yelp, on track to receive repair service on May 12th.
May 4 p Staticy tele line and internet that only works about five minutes a day, that's what makes Clayberry so wonderful and such a fine place to try and operate a business. Got ta wuv the place.

May 3 p Craig Douglas Holcomb , see OBITUARY page
May 3 p When you hear, "Officers Down" followed by "Medics Needed Stat!!" It's down right scary. Cold chills run up your back.
May 3 p Before 5pm today, that's what came across the scanner
May 3 p As best we can piece it together and without confirming with the Top Badge, here's what we're throwing at ya
May 3 p Before 5pm today, Process Server Gary King and Black Shirt Tyler Caruthers was at Glen Abbott's residence on Blue Knob Road. When Abbott opened the door, with King standing there, Abbott went off and run over King followed by doing likewise with Caruthers.
May 3 p Mr Abbott is a big boy
May 3 p Badges of all strips came to the scene post haste
May 3 p Both King and Caruthers were taken to a hospital to be checked out.
May 3 p When we got first word, the part about being "runned over" , sounded mucho bad.
May 3p Abbott is in the slammer now
May 3 p We'll try to get a firmer story on Thursday
May 3 p Between Craig Holcomb's death and Issac Murphy's arrest, and now this, Clayberry is once again in the spotlight and not in a good way
May 3 p Getting smashed tonight by Braxton in Sectional Tournament action, the season is over for the CHS Lady Panthers.
May 3 p TV-8 has a good follow up story on Issac Murphy dragging his girlfried from his car. Here tis.
May 3 p With a repair ticket in hand since Sunday, Frontier SL remains out of service about 99% of the time for the ace cub reporter.
May 3p When we asked Frontier, the rep said repair crews will be there May 12th .... or sooner if they have the time.
May 3 p Pitiful!
May 3 a Still no Frontier DSL on the home front for clayberry updates. Until those guys restore service, limited updates.
May 3 a For the first time in years, decades really, the Clay County Senior Picnic takes place today over at Spread Park. The place is freshly mowed compliments the BDA and ready for Summer picnics, reunions, and more. See EVENTS page
May 3 a Don't forget, this Saturday is the county wide yard sale time. That's something the BDA started a few years back and is a great way to get rid of some junk and make $$$ doing it.
May 3 a If you check out the TV-3 website, they've got an updated segment on last Friday's head scratcher Issac Murphy girlfriend dragging incident.
May 3 a Last night's Sectional Tournament play didn't go so well for the CHS Lady Panthers. The Lady P's went down in flames, 9 to 1.
May 3 a Now in the loser's bracket, today at 5pm, it's do or die time for the Lady Panthers. Our team is traveling to Braxton for the match up. Ranked number 2 in the conference, Braxton is going to be hard to keep up with.
May 3 a Non profit radidio, WYAP-LP, will air the contest with TG Griffith behind the mic. The pre game show should kick off around 4:50pm.
May 3 a Go Lady Panthers

May 2 p Some postings are very sad. This is one of those.
May 2 p Craig Holcomb was a born and bred Clayonian. He had support from a Mother, Dad, and family members. His early years was filled with vigor and a love for the outdoors.
May 2 p By his late teens, Craig was in trouble with the law. His first real run in came several years ago when Badges caught him with meth making materials while riding on an ATV. His time in prison did not benefit him. after much of his time was served, while out on probation, Craig whizzed hot. Back to prison he went.
May 2 p Once completely out of the prison system, Holcomb appeared to be keeping his act together . That was until last Winter when he made front page news after the shooting of Billy Belnap along Blue Knob Road.
May 2p Still in the hots from that encounter, TV-8 and TV-3 are reporting on the death of Craig Holcomb in the Sissonville neighborhood of Kanawha County.
May 2p Most details are of course sketchy right now. One is not. Without a doubt, for sure, the prison system, the one that is suppose to reform offenders, it isn't working.
May 2 p It's yet another very sad day in Clay.
May 2 p From an early TV-8 report penned by Bob Aaron: Kanawha County deputies said a man who was facing multiple charges and out on bond shot and killed himself in a bathroom following a pursuit by deputies. Multiple crews responded to what deputies said was a domestic incident Tuesday morning on Call Road in Sissonville. Original 911 reports in the incident said a third party called 911, saying a woman was held against her will. Sgt. B.D. Humphreys of the Kanawha County Sheriff's Office said the man was facing multiple charges, but was out on bond. Humphreys said when a deputy arrived at the scene, the man yelled at him and then ran back inside the house. The deputy then asked for someone to check the back door of the residence. Deputies then saw the man fleeing through the woods and started a foot chase. During the foot chase, deputies lost sight of the man in the woods. Fearing an ambush or barricade, deputies started to check surrounding houses to check on the safety of residents, Humphreys said. Deputies said the man was found in one of the surrounding houses and then shot and killed himself in a bathroom when confronted by law enforcement.

May 2a Lots of outages around County Clay.
May 2a Power lines down out Triplett Ridge with service trucks working the area this morning. Suppose to have the juice restored around 6pm today.
May 2 a Frontier DSL outages here and there as well.
May 2 a Damage caused by high winds and lots of rain Monday mid day. Weathercasters are calling up to 50 mph winds this afternoon. If that predictions comes true, look for more outages tonight.
May 2 a Sectional softball action this afternoon when the Lady Panthers play down at Herbert Hoover High School with the opening game at 5pm. If we win, the Lady Panthers will play a second game tonight. If we loose, the runner up game comes Wed afternoon.
May 2 a WYAP is ready to air the contests EXCEPT, there is no power nor DSL at the transmitter shed.
May 2 a Unless something changes, 101.7FM plans to tape the game, games maybe, and air on Wed.
May 2 a No Clay Town Council meeting this afternoon. Several of the elected have schedule conflicts. The gathering has been rescheduled for next Tuesday, May 9th.
May 2 a As for updates to this site, the ace cub reporter is without DSL at the home front where most of the postings originate.
May 2 a This post comes via the Exede satelite internet service at the office. Expect few updates until services return to normal.
May 2 a Last Friday morning, over the scanner came word of some kind of car incident involving two males. Sounded like a regular ho hum deal. TV-3 reported last night something a little different: A man turned himself in Monday after he was accused of dragging his girlfriend several feet with his car during a domestic dispute. West Virginia State Police say it happened Friday night near the Go Mart store in Clay. That’s when troopers say Isaac Murphy was caught on surveillance backing up as his girlfriend was standing inside the car door. She was airlifted to a Charleston hospital and has since been released. Murphy is charged with malicious wounding and being held on a $100,000 cash bond.
May 2 a Finally, it's vacation time for the Mel Gibson look alike. Wifey has left for the beach.
May 2 a Ramps are back on the stove!

May 1 p Raining like crazy and strong winds around Clayberry. Best guess, today's home game ain't goin to happen.
May 1 p There's a new Dollar Store set to open in Dixie. That outfit has NOW HIRING SIGNS posted in the windows. Might be an opportunity if you're interested.
May 1 a Weather this afternoon looks stormy, wet, and with winds over 30 mph.
May 1 a That's not too conducive for the Panther's 5pm baseball game
May 1 a If the game's a go, WYAP-LP 101.7 FM will rebroadcast it around 9pm tonight. For those afar, here's the audio link on the web.
May 1 a Frontier DSL is behaving a little stronger this morning. Updates while we can clickers. With the blue light now flashing on the modem...
May 1 a Was thinking about something from last Wed's County Commission meeting. That was right after the Gov provided the veto pen to Legislation that would have provided support for an ATV tourism trail thru the center part of West Virginia.
May 1 a For the past many months, CAEZ Director Connie Lupardus (Big Lup to many) has reported on an initiative to grow such a five county ATV trail which could include County Clay. State funding is in place for a very preliminary engineering study.
May 1 a For that CCC meeting, CAEZ Director Big Lup was in attendance.
May 1 a After Linky Poo read from a Gazette article citing the veto decision by Big Jim, a handsome lookin feller in the peanut gallery asked Big Lup for an update
May 1 a Without hesitation and sounding legit, Big Lup reported: That decision will have no affect on what we're doing.
May 1 a Gosh, doesn't that sound strong and official
May 1 a It isn't.
May 1 a Having not fallen off the turnip truck yesterday, Commissioner Fitz came back with: You mean, the engineering part [isn't affected].
May 1 a Much more sheepishly and knowing her intentional deception was caught, Big Lup, Yes
May 1 a Reminding those that know , a lot like Donny J, that's the trouble with the Director. Only alternate truth is in her. Her misguiding words have to be taken with a grain of salt.
May 1 a No not once or twice but on a regular basis comes the misleading statements.
May 1 a Like...
May 1 During the last CAEZ Eco / Dev meeting, Lup told the assembled, they plan to erect fencing on their Dundon campground property to prevent nearby Little League participants from parking over there.
May 1 a Because the fence posts were already in place and stretching both sides of the drive ways, a couple hundred feet, when we reported on that meeting, we called it a BIG fence
May 1 a Furthering her cause of misleading statements, on Lup's facebook post: .... Recently there was an article in the so called "newspaper' the 'Communicator' that I said I was not allowing parents to park on our Campground - that part is true - we cannot allow parking inside the gate on our property / but I never said we were going to erect a BIG fence to keep people out! Our reasoning for not allowing parking is that, same as the field, we were flooded and the grounds are entirely too wet and muddy for parking! The guys that are caretaking the grounds have worked tirelessly to try to get the grounds back in shape for future use! The fence is to keep people on the DRIVEWAY and not on the grass we are trying to get to grow! It seems that Mr Waddle tries everything in his power to undermine anything in this county that can be productive for the citizens! ....
May 1 a The fence is there, parents are scrambling to find a parking spot, and the Director is ranting about the definition of "big".
May 1 a "Under mining the county" is a gross distortion of the media providing current and timely info in this County of Little. In the same boat as Little Donald, the truth just ain't in her.
May 1 a Such deception from Big Lup is a BIG problem for Clayberry.

April 30 p Sorry for the slow updates. Frontier DSL has been a fritz this weekend. Service was mostly off and when it was on, it lasted five minutes and it crapped out again. When we called this afternoon for repair, the guy said, Yelp, I can see you've had a bunch of disconnects, boy that's unacceptable, and repairs will be done by May 12th. Got ta love em !
April 30 p Updates as soon as the blue light comes on again.

April 28 p Willard Eugene Jones, 69, of Clay, see OBITUARY page
April 28 p Wilmer Paul Estep, 74, of Clay, see OBITUARY page
April 28 p Christmas, birthdays, both are bigly for kids.
April 28 p For the 200+ signed up for Little League, tomorrow is the big day. With a completely new field, Saturday is the opening day for 2017.
April 28 p For details, See EVENTS page
April 28 p Friday night, Panthers v Webster
April 28 p Bottom of 7th, 2 outs, score is tied at 7 all.
April 28 p Batter gets beaned and takes first
April 28 p Next batter line drives the ball to center field
April 28 p Panthers wins 9 to 8
April 28 p A great night for Panther baseball!!

April 27 a Lola Butcher Given, 92, see OBITUARY page
April 27 a When the people elect a person to serve, the Constitution makes it very difficult to remove them from office. No matter how big a dummy they are, once elected by the people, they're there until the next election
April 27 a Federal and State Code provide a process for removal but it's rare when an official is tossed.
April 27 a Here in Clayberry, we've now got a guy wanting to do just that. His focus of attention is none other than, Prosecutor Jim Samples.
April 27 a We've got the details in the current edition of County Clay's near award winning paper of choice, The Communicator.

April 26 p Cletis O. Fugate, 57, of Bickmore, see OBITUARY page
April 26 p Willard Eugene Jones, 69, of Clay, see OBITUARY page
April 25 p Harland (Doc) Walls, 83, of Widen, see OBITUARY page
April 25 p County Commission meets Wed morning at 10am.
April 25 p The Communicator made it out the door this afternoon in rare form. This time around there's a bunch of color pictures.
April 25 p Lead story provides the details on why Stump Morton wound up in the slammer last weekend.
April 25 p There's also a big screw up in the reporting. Principals in the article are the Green Shirt Badge, Steven King who's with King Wrecker Service, Stump, and a Louis Koch.
April 25 p Somewhere in the typing, the ace cub reporter switched the Steven King name with Louis Koch name and wound up printing Steven Koch was with Stump Morton during the caper
April 25 p Steven Koch is NOT mentioned in the Badge report.
April 25 p Louis Koch is.
April 25 p Even with that blunder on our part, there's a bunch of interesting reading in the latest edition of Clay County's newspaper of choice.
April 25 p Did we mention that Greater Clay Executive Director Rhonda McDonald is resigning from that posiiton? Did you know Greater Clay case manager Cheryl White is stepping away from that job? How about, Greater Clay is moving from its Spread Park office base?
April 25 p All of that and more is in that Communicator.
April 25 p Tuesday afternoon the Lady Panthers short gamed Valley Fayette 9 to 0 during the first game of the double header. That makes their season with 14 wins and 9 losses
April 25 p The Panthers will be action Wed evening beginning at 5pm over at Clay County Park.
April 25 p 101.7FM will be delay broadcasting the game beginning around 9pm if all goes well. The online listening link can be found here.
April 25 p Do you know why the Panther baseball games are not done in real time? Out at Clay County Park there is no land line to use and cell phone service in the press box comes and goes. It's a quirk of the place.

April 24 4pm We don't know if the 5pm Lady Panther game has been canceled due to rain or not. BUT, 101.7Fm will not sportscasting that match up
April 24 4pm Instead, WYAP will attempt to broadcast Tuesday's Lady Panther v Valley Fayette game , 5pm, Schoonover Bradley Field.
April 24 p No School Board meeting tonight
April 24 p Suppose to be a CHS Softball game this afternoon beginning at 5pm. Heavy rain this morning but Bradley Field may be dry enough for action.
April 24 p 101.7FM will sportscast the affair if it happens. To listen online, try this link.
April 24 p FYI We got to see retired School Boardster O Gene King last Friday at a Senior Citizen Olympic held down in So Charleston.
April 24 p Gene had his wits about him, was jovial, and appears to be having darn good retirement years.
April 24 p Communicator comes out Tuesday afternoon. Deadline for submission is tonight around 5pm. Email over your stuff right away
APril 24 p One of the more interesting items were publishing this edition is a call out for those willing, wanting, to sign a petition to remove our Porsecutor from office.
April 24 p If that doesn't get you to cough up 80 cents for a paper, nothing will!

April 23 a N. Keith King, 91, of Lizemores, see OBITUARY page

April 21 late p The county wide BOIL WATER ORDER has been lifted.

April 21a The Lake Sampson Fishin Derby is one of the well done youth events in the county. Rain, snow, or shine, dress appropriately and get the kids out of the house Saturday. See EVENTS page
April 21 a Also on Saturday is the once a year haul off the junk day. There's no excuse, none, for you to have a junked up yard, barn, porch nor side road. It's not very often that the govt comes up with a good program and this one happens tomorrow. See Communicator for details.
April 21 a Don't forget, tonight, the Big Otter Community Center is offering a fun spot for good food, dance and music. See ADVISORY page for more
April 21 a What would happen if some dummy decided Clayberry was worth hosing down with some chemical like anthrax? Local emergency leaders decided to set up a mock drill yesterday to try out their contingency plans.
April 21 a Over at the High School, govt workers from all stripes of life was on the payroll with booths set up, forms at the ready. Outside, law enforcement was on hand as well as the State Road and an a Clay Ambulance.
April 21 a Such drills are expensive to put on.
April 21 a While everybody was set to test their plans at the temporary demonstration site, the biggest problem was, there were nearly zero volunteers to act as guinea pigs for the place. Organizers even offered a $50 prize to a lucky volunteer.
April 21 a 15 minutes into the POD, there were zero guinea pigs to be seen. Zip.
April 21 a There was another problem too
April 21 a With no one in the CHS hallways except paid workers, management decided, no one should get a glimpse of the place. No members of the press were allowed in.
April 21 a That no media allowed attitude came after free ads were placed in area news outlets seeking people to show up.
April 21 a It was top secret. We know why. With all those tax dollars wasted there, who would want evidence of the affair?
April 21 a During a real emergency, wouldn't leadership want the public to be familiar with the layout of an emergency facility? Not so in Clayberry.
April 21 a Being first hand familiar with white powder showing up at our door step, would Clayonians really drive to the High School or would they more likely, zoom down to CAMC for real treatment?
April 21 a On second thought, Crap! If it was anthrax, we would be squirtin' blood out our ears and nose within 60 minutes!
April 21 a During the 2016 CDC blow up , some doo doo mailed a white powder laced envelope to the Communicator office. After opening the thang, law enforcement including US Postal Inspectors were called.
April 21 a The USPS Badges came into the office without gloves and breathing filters. We asked, why don't you have protective gear on? Reply: If it was anthrax, you would be foaming at the mouth and already dead!
April 21 a So much for POD centers.
April2 1 a Maybe a temporary morgue plan would be more appropriate.
April 21 a Just another head scratcher in the County of Little.

April 20 a the BOIL WA WA ORDER that went in force yesterday is extended thru today. Don't drink the stuff for a while longer
April 20 a After a couple tries at getting this right and being dead wrong, we THINK, the Greater Clay group will meet tonight in their Spread Park office beginning around 6pm. Their website does not list meeting date, time or agenda.
April 20 a Also tonight is the Clay Roane PSD monthly meeting down at the Procious WAWA Plant. The 6:30 meeting agenda is on our ADVISORY page.
April 20 a Many talking heads are reporting on a rogue lab techy in Boston falsifying drug evidence which resulted in many bogus convictions. Thousands of cases have now been tossed.
April 20 a Not that long ago, W Va had the same scandal when Green Shirt chemist, Fred Zain was a key figure in sending many to prison. Zain's actions ruined the life of many wrongfully convicted people. Follow up civil cases cost this state millions in settlements.
April 20 a Such uncoverings are the strongest reason for taking the death penalty off the books forever.
April 20 a If you haven't looked, those baby eagles are really growing.
April 20 a If you watch for a few minutes, it's interesting to watch the two take a dump. The barely walking eaglets back up to the edge of the nest, often flapping their tiny wings to keep balance, and blow the white stuff four feet overboard.
April 20 a This morning they're feasting on fresh trout.
April 20 a Must be issues with Frontier this last 24 hours. DSL is very slow. Sorry for the short post.
April 20 a Sunshine today and 75 degrees. Enjoy if you can.

April 19 late p Arthur E. “Mule Skinner” Smith, 79, of Harrison, see OBITUARY page
April 19 late p Terry D. Traub Sr., 64, of Maysel, see OBITUARY page
April 19 late p Some weeks it feels like we just post bad news.
April 19 late p This is another one of those weeks
April 19 p Forgot something this morning. IF you are a Roane Countian and a customer of Clay Roane PSD, the BOIL WATER ORDER applies to you as well.
April 19 p We've mentioned in The Communicator a couple times the story of a one time Clayberry school teacher, Crystal Samples. Ms Samples is a very sharp person with a great personality. She has been the court system for at least 6 years after getting busted on drug charges , 37 felonies comes to mind.
April 19 p After whizing hot at least three times, on Monday, Crystal Samples was sent back to prison looking at another five year sentence. Very sad situation. Crystal's life and future is now a wash out.
April 19 a Don't forget, if you live in Clayberry, today and tomorrow, BOIL YOUR WA WA first. See ADVISORY page now.
April 19 a With a 50 / 50 shot at dry weather today, what's your plans?
April 19 a A good plan would be getting ready for the once a year, County wide Recycling Day event held over at the Pierson Log Yard this cmoning Saturday. See EVENTS page for details on what is acceptable
Apirl 19 a Look around the yard, sheds, porch, barn and we bet you'll find a truck load over left over winter junk.
April 19 a If you like politics and are interested in a complete break down of 2016 Election results state by state, here's the site for you.
April 19 a For those just curious about West Virginia's break down, click right here.
April 19 a Despite Record Collections, 52,062,499 Filers Paid No Income Taxes in 2014
April 19 a With schools closed down and turkey humters in the woods stalking a big gobbler, we're having a very quiet week in Clayberry.
April 19 a Phillip Burnside from Ivydale manages to get in law troubles ona pretty regular basis. His most recent escape involved stealing three rolls of toilet paper from a neighbor's home.
April 19 a This time around it was a new fangled security camera that reported to the home owner in real time.
April 19 a The ace cub reporter has learned a thing or two in the last couple day about breaking wind after eating several messes of fried ramps. Related to the olfactory sense, here's one on conditional response.
April 18 a Oscar Mack Hamrick, 87, of Triplett Ridge, see OBITUARY page
April 18 a D. Paul Friend of Akron, see OBITUARY page
April 18 a Helen Lee Orndorff, 78, a resident of Duck, W.Va. , see OBITUARY page
April 18 a Shelba Lynn Boggs, see OBITUARY page
April 18 a John D. Stone, 94, see OBITUARY page
April 18 a Yesterday's Panther v Brighton baseball game was canceled due to rain
April 18 a The county wide (nearly) BOIL WATER ORDER begins Wed am. See ADVISORY page for details
April 18 a Clay Roane PSD convenes their monthly Board meeting Thursday, 6:30 pm, at the Procious WAWA Plant. See ADVISORY page for agenda
April 18 a According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor, employment in the coal industry has declined from 259,000 jobs in 1979 to around 53,000 in 2016.
April 18 a Here's a pretty good write up on the evil ways of Donny J. The White House is desperate to keep secret all that’s destructive to the nation
April 18 a We are in prime Ramp season. Along the byways are enterprising folks set up to sell bundled of the Spring tonic. For us lard butts, that's the easiest way to enjoy a couple messes of the natural cure all.
April 18 a After 35 years of life with wifey and a like amount of Ramp aroma during those years, it all came to a head Sunday evening, night and early am.
April 18 a For the ace cub reporter, Monday morning, beside him in bed was no one.
April 18 a After a few scratches , digs, and a trip to the bathroom, there was the sweetie under a quilt on the couch.
April 18 a That part about letting sleeping giants lay is true this time around.
April 18 a Thinking maybe she was sick, quietly came, Honey are you sick?
April 18 a All H broke loose when her peepers came alive.
April 18 a "You STUNK up the bed all night!!!... When you breathed on me, IT ALMOST MADE ME SICK!!! ...
April 18 a Not understanding the gravity of the moment, Mel Gibson grinned. Bad move.
April 18 a Arising from the couch and with her finger pointing, I am washing the sheets, quilt, pillow cases and Lysoling the mattress! .. If YOU think you're going to sleep in MY bed tonight, you're dead WRONG! ... YOU ARE DISGUSTING!!
April 18 a Not falling off the turnip truck last week, the five messes of cleaned ramps are going in the freezer for later consumption, when the effervescence has faded. Maybe in Jan would be good.

April 17 a This Monday morning is gloomy looking with showers coming here and there
April 17 a If though school if out, the Panthers will take on Brighton New York in baseball action at 11am, IF the rain holds off, out of Clay County Park stadium.
April 17 a IF the game happens, 1017.7FM wil rebroadcast the match up beginning at 7pm tonight
April 17 a Here's the online link for internet listeners.

April 14 a Rug Rats were suppose to make up a snow day today instead of the first day of Easter break.
April 14 a Thru the magic of deep thinking, kids get out at noon today for the start of the 5 1/2 day break.
April 14 a They're all yours parents!
April 14 a Quietly, the Business Development Authority called for an emergency meeting last night at 7pm.
April 14 a The agenda calls for one thing.
april 14 a What really happened was, the BDA received their 75% of FEMA money , around 470,000+, and needed a place to deposit it or at least a place for safe keeping.
April 14 a At issue is whether the BDA will accept the $$$ under the current FEMA contract terms.

April 13 a Last night the Lady Panthers held an early lead and went on to beat Nicholas County in softball action. The final, 6 for Clay, Nicholas, 5
April 13 a Great ball game too
April 13 a Our Govt has a way of screwing up programs. What at first sounds great, after a second look, things aren't as they sounded. For instance, what sounds like a bunch of $$$, well, more often than not, instead of the $$ going to the needy participants, much is consumed by management, consultants, and other overhead expenses.
April 13 a Operated by several different groups over the years, we've had a WorkForce WV program in the county a long time. In the current configuration, and as presented yesterday during the CCC meeting, the program is set up for 16 to 24 year olds, offers job skill training (that's the stuff they should have learned in high school); and about 36 weeks of paid employment.
April 13 a Sounds pretty good at first blush.
April 13 a By peeling back the layers and based on the last ten years of experience, many times, instead of being on the job for 36 weeks, the youthful workers wind up in days of classes. For the "employeer", instead of getting a job done, the kids are off somewhere else.
April 13 a If you're interested in the WorkForce WV program, call the County Clerk's office for contact info.

April 12 a County Commission meets this morning beginning around 10am. See what makes Clayberry so different. Attend a public meeting.

April 11 p The Communicator is now on newstands across a five county region of West Virginia
April 11 p Lead story covers 2 more males that slipped thru the criminal court cracks
April 11 p Need some work? Check out the JOBS page for the latest opportunities
April 11 p The Lady Panthers went down to Roane County, 9 to 8

April 11 a After typing most of the night away, looks like the next edition of knowledge will be on the news stands across the region later this afternoon.
April 11 a After two weeks of rain and cold weather, if the sunshine holds, the Lady Panthers will be on Schoonover / Bradley Field this afternoon at 5pm ish for great softball action.
April 11 a Come out and support the home team.
April 11 a 101.7FM will be broadcasting the match up with TG Griffith's pregame show going live around 4:55
April 11 a Here's the online listening link.
April 11 a Go Lady Panthers!

April 10 a Elda Campbell is Dave Derby's Mother in law.
April 10 a On Tuesday Ms Campbell turns 100 years young.
April 10 a Happy Birthday!!
April 10 a For us taxpayers, it gets pretty confusing down at the Legislature.
April 10 a One day it sounds like something will become law followed by an about face on the following day
April 10 a Delegate Shirely Love gets us up to speed with his latest Update column now posted on the ADVISORY page.

April 9 p The Town of Clay Boil Water Advisory has been lifted
April 9 p School Board meets Monday night, 6pm, in the Pentagon. Here's the link to their web portal.
April 9 p That knob on the side of your toaster, does the knob adjust minutes or crunchiness. Here's the answer.
April 9 p Is it really costing taxpayers $500,000 per day to guard Melanie?
April 9 p And finally , how dangerous is it to take a bath or shower in a thunder storm?

April 7 p Delegate Shirley Love's Legislative Update column is now posted on the ADVISORY page
April 7 p No one has told us any different so, the BOIL WATER ORDER continues for the Town of Clay, Two Run, Maysel, and Hartland. For your own safety, boil it first
April 7 p Food give away Saturday. See ADVISORY page
April 7 p House and Senate dealings are pretty ho hum until a Clayonian goes ballistic on the floor of the W Va Senate. Take a look see for yourself.
April 7 p First we bomb rebel forces and last night we bombed government forces? Who's side are we on? And, the bigger question, what's the plan and where is this going?
April 7 p For those that haven't heard, that airport, the one we missiled with $300 M in munitions, the runaways weren't hurt and Syria had planes flying today.
April 7 p Does anybody else think that's odd, maybe too odd to believe?
April 7 p Could all that have been orchestrated to divert from the ongoing failures of Mr T??
April 7 p For Putin to be successful and get his way in the USA, he has to give a little for his buddies in the Oval House.

April 6 p It didn't tale long for the Trumpster to start hitting the button
April 6 p Tonight's 59 missiles added up to about $300 million in tax dollars
April 6 p No one has said so far but the question is, what was the purpose of the American attack? Regime change?
April 6 p Without a Congressional authorization or vote, is our missile attack legal?
April 6 p Back in 2013, before going after Assad, Obama asked Congress for an authorization.
April 6 p He never got the OK for war
April 6 p Just as he tweets off the cuff, was tonight's attack premature? Will Russia be launching soon?
April 6 p It's a very scary time in the nation tonight.
April 6 p Prayers are in order.

April 6 9:45am BOIL WATER ORDER in place for the Town of Clay, Two Run. Maysel,and Hartland. Boil it first!!
April 6 p Got a correction from the morning post.
April 6 p The Greater Clay meeting is NOT tonight, the start time is NOT 6:30, and Rhonda is still with the non profit.
April 6 p The meeting is set for next Thursday, April 13th with a 6pm start time. Ms McDonald remains a part of the group and serves as the Excutive Director.
April 6 p Other than that, the morning post was perfect.

April 6 a Mary Eloise Pierson, age 102, see OBITUARY page
April 6 a Over a month ago, a huge rock slide closed Elkhurst Road near the Hartland bridge.
April 6 a From the State Road email bag:Co.Rt. 5, Elkhurst Road, will be closed to thru traffic starting April 11. No traffic will be able to go through job site.
April 6 a Tonight around 6:30 the Greater Clay Long Term Recovery Group will convene a public meeting. If you're trying to find the meeting agenda on their website, forget it, nothing posted.
April 6 a Director Rhonda McDonald resigned her perch to take a paying job in Charleston. Replacing McDonald is Larry Cole.

April 5 a Suppose to get up to 78 today with bright sunshine. For us procrastinators, it's time to get out the weedeater.
April 5 a For us trashy folks, before getting out the lawnmower, it's time to gather and pile up the winter debris and get yourself ready for the once a year, trash removal day coming later this month. See EVENTS page.
April 5 a Got any tax refund dollars left? Not going to believe this but, over on the CLASSFIED page is a S-10 4x4 pick em up truck for $900. And, it runs!
April 5 a There's still Federal $$ available for studies, engineering reports and such. The funds to actually do a project are much harder to lay your hands on.
April 5 a Last night during the Eco/Dev meeting of the CAEZ, Director Big Lup said the effort to grow an ATV trail thru Clay, Webster, Fayette, and Nicholas Counties continues. Currently, cooperating landowners are being located.
April 5 a Tourism, the only hope we have of growing our Clayberry economy
April 5 a During that same meeting, Boardster Linda Rhodes reported that Shentel Communications plans to erect a new cell tower up on the hill behind the Town of Clay.
April 5 a The Town of Clay has been a sputtering mess for decades. One of their big boat anchors has been the Log Factory. The facility has drained Town $$$ for going on 20 years.
April 5 a Back when Council was OKing the place, the engineer told em, the Log Factory was designed for 600 customers. Here's the problem, the town only has half that number of customers.
april 5 a Paying for the over capacity is very costly.
April 5 a Last night during the Town Council meeting, Mayor Hubbard apprised all, he had received permission from the DEP to shut half the plant down.
April 5 a That notion has been discussed during the entire life of the plant but no one ever followed up to get permission
April 5 a Hubbard did and according to the clerk, the power bill has already gone down..
April 5 a In the real world, it's common for vehicle logs and fuel bills to be kept for everything with four wheels. Get this, the Town has never done that.
April 5 a Now they are compliments a vote by the current administration.
April 5 a We hardly ever say it but, progress continues in the Town of Clay.
April 4 p Wanita Gray, 78, of Clay, see OBITUARY page

April 4 a Little Donald is celebrating 75 days in office today. The country is still waiting for him to full fill any of his campaign promises. Welcome to disarray in America.
April 4 a For our clickers from around the nation, this county has but one municipality. The town, Clay, has around 500 occupants and 38 businesses.
April 4 a Town Council meets today at 5:30. With Mayor Hubbard making a strong effort to operate the town in an above board operation, Council meetings are pretty interesting
April 4 a For over 20 years, Central Appalachia Empowerment Zone (CAEZ) held public Board meetings once a month. Around 99% of the time, the Boardsters from the five county service area showed up like clock work and conducted business. As 2016 was ending, with Boardsters much older now, some passing away, and others too sick to attend, changes were made.
April 4 a For 2017, Board meeting were reduced to every other month.
April 4 The CAEZ meets this evening, in the Courthouse, with the first meeting starting at 4pm followed by the full Board at 6pm.
April 4 a Public meetings are a great place to witness what's right and wrong with Clayberry.
April 4 a In the way of records, one lad has more Clayberry criminal misdemeanor charges than anyone else. Coming in at over 60 of em for mostly assault and battery, Mikey Lanham is a danger to society.
April 4 a His latest transgression was for beating the H out of Houston Bullard at the Exxon station in Maysel a couple years back. For that fight, Iron Mike earned his first Felony and over a year in the slammer.
April 4 a Mike Lanham is now a free man again. Be on notice clickers.
April 4 a Let's talk lower than a snake's belly....
April 4 a Sometime on Sunday, thugs broke into a Maysel church food pantry and swiped goods.
April 4 On Sunday, there were of course people coming and going from the church.
April 4 a Had the criminals knocked on the door and asked for food, there's no doubt, they would have received bags of vittles. Instead, they chose to break into the facility
April 4 a How pitiful!
April 4 a Badges were on the scene Sunday. Word came that the bad guys were also seen at the closed down car wash in Teaberry Turn, also in Maysel.
April 4 a Two men and one woman had been camping at the top of Dobbinespeck Hill for three days prior to the criminal activity. Staying under a plastic tarp strung between trees, the trio is now gone. Left behind in the hasty departure is half a truck load of trash along with clothing items.
April 4 a So far, no arrests.
April 4 a also over the weekend, thugs stole a Jeep parked in the school bus parking lot below Schoonover Bradley Field. Additionally swiped were bus radios.
April 4 a As of Monday at 3:30, Sheriff Triplett knew of no arrests in that caper.
April 4 a If you see a nice looking white, hard top, CJ Jeep, loaded down with druggies, you might want to call the Sheriff's office right away.

April 3 a It's not often that a Clayonians hits the top mark in a good way. It's happened now
April 3 a Loita Butcher from the Northern end of the county was named Director of W Va Dept of Corrections Friday evening. Hip Hip Hooray!
April 3 a Delegate Shirley Love's Legislative Update column from Friday is now posted on the ADVISORY page as is notice of an upcoming food giveaway.
April 3 a We're one step closer to joining the 28 other states and WAshington DC that have legalized in way or another, the nectar of the Gods, pot. The next vote comes today.
April 3 a And finally for this Monday morning, today, our House of Idiots are planning to vote on messing with state taxes.
April 3 a There might be a reason why West Virginians purchase huge quantities of pain killers.
April 3 a New study shows us as the 50th out of 55 least healthy people in the nation.
April 3 a Time to stop this morning posting stuff and grab a HoHo and a Ding Dong for breakfast.

April 2 p Most of are consumed watching the circus with Little Donald as ringmaster.
April 2 p While that farce is going on, we're overlooking the disaster now in progress otherwise known as the Legislature in Progress.
April 2 p For those interested in keeping up with the Republicrat attempts to set the state back 100 years, here's a great link, LegiScanWV.
April 2 p The Senate aims to take $79 million from the West Virginia school system budget.
April 2 p That's a big chunk of change. For County Clay, that amounts to around $230,000 in cutbacks. Such an amount would certainly mean lay offs and cutback in the educational process like we've never seen.
April 2 p To solve the budget woe, the Republicrat Legislature recommends that local School Boardsters just raise Levy rates.
April 2 p Sounds pretty simple up front.
April 2 p But, at least our local Boardsters know, if they raise the Levy by another $230,000, not a one of em would have a job come next election cycle.
April 2 p Number one is always keeping your elected job but, without the rescheduled $$$, the school system as we know it would end.
April 2 p Senate Bill 609 has already passed the Senate. If that 609 becomes law, what's it going to be, raise taxes and loose your Boardster job or let the system go to H in a hand basket?
April 2 p Pretty good week for public meetings coming our way.
April 2 p We'll do our best to keep you posted.

April 1 a Welcome to April. The rain continues this morning.
April 1 a Don't forget to check out the EVENTS page for stuff to do today.
April 1 a For those ready to plant cabbage, Sizemore Greenhouse has it
April 1 a As for healthy people in Clayberry, we've got more than our share of obesity, disease and lazy-itus. As a matter of fact, health wise, we're near the bottom of the pack.
April 1 a It's been 100 days of pure H for Little Donald. His approval ratings even among his own fan base, well, they've tanked.
April 1 a Fortunately, for thinking people anyway, that means fewer of his poorly thought out changes will be put on hold.
April 1 a While speaking of Russia's ways, who said, "It is a riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma,"
April 1 a That Churchill back in the 30's and his word ring true even today.
April 1 a Here's a few memory joggers from CNN that you need to know.
April 1 a The only question remaining, how long before Donny J resigns or is impeached from office.
April 1 a Many guess, by the end of Summer. Adding to that speculation, many suggest VP Pence's entangled with Russia will send him packing as well.
April 1 a That leaves Paul Ryan in the Prez slot .
April 1 a Gulp!

March 31p Big time rain drenched the county most of today. About as soon as tonight's baseball game was canceled, the sun came out and blue skies returned.
March 31 p Lady Panthers' play Saturday at noon over at Schoonover Bradley Field.

March 31 a Didn't go so well for the Panthers last night as the Nicholas County team left us in the dirt, 10 to our 5
March 31 a It's raining right now.
March 31 a If the weather cooperates, Webster County comes to Clay County Park this evening at 5:30 for a match up with the Panthers. Bring your umbrella just in case but come out and support the home team
March 31 a For those too far away to attend, tonight around 9pm WYAP-LP will air the taped sportscast beginning around 9pm. The online link makes it easy to listen from afar.
March 31 a Today is the 100th day in office for Little Donald. There has never been a more unprepared guy holding the top office. Never have so many scandals and now possible jailable offenses, have come in such a short period of time
March 31 a Speaking of jail time...
March 31 a When you get arrested, you're suppose to get to trial or at least a hearing right away. There's rules in place to insure such actions.
March 31 a As mentioned a week ago on this site and with details on the front page of the latest Communicator, here in Clayberry, three males have been sitting in Central Regional Jail for a year or longer without benefit of court action.
March 31 a $48.25 is the cost for incarcerating a person in W Va.
March 31 a Henry Earl Stutler was jailed April 11th 2016 while waiting for a pretrial required mental evaluation. To get an evaluation, it's normal for the Judge to order the Prosecutor to write up the paperwork and start the process. To date, his jail tab adds up to over $16,000.
March 31 a Why so long? Someone forgot to draw up the request for the test.
March 31 a James Clifton Rogers has been in the slammer since Oct 23 , 2015. That 17 months or around $24,000 on the taxpayer tab
March 31 a Finally Scott DeWayne Barker was incarcerated on Feb 5 2016 on an indictment over DUI 3rd and such. Barker was lost in the shuffle when his attorney, Kevin Duffy lost his lawyer license. Up to three days ago, Mr Barker cost the county over $20,000.
March 31 a When you add it all up, that over $60,000 that could have better been spent here in the Land of Little.
March 31a Money is one thing but there's more.
March 31 a For Barker, Stutler, and Rogers, they've lost a year or so of life while waiting for the failed criminal justice system to do their job.
March 31 a Commissioner Fran King brought forward these three shortcomings after a County Commission meeting. This site and Communicator newspaper brought them into the spotlight
March 31 a On Tuesday, Judge Jack Alsop brought the three bad guys to Court.
March 31 a For Rogers and Barker, after exceeding the three terms of Court requirement for a fair trial, they were released. They are free men.
March 31 a It is possible that new charges COULD be brought. Although that's possible, it ain't the norm.
March 31 a Mr Robe ordered the Prosecutor's office to do their job and write up the order to get Henry a mental evaluation. While waiting, he's back in jail on our dime
March 31 a For those three, it's been a cluster with the finger pointing at the Prosecutor's office and Judges for less than stellar performance.
March 31 a We asked Circuit Clerk Mike Asbury if the Judge went ape shirt mad, turned blue around the gills, threw rocks or otherwise dressed down the Prosecutor's office. Asbury said none of those things happened.
March 31 a Your tax dollars at work.

March 30 p Ooooooops. While the official schedule reads that the Panther ballgame this afternoon will be at Nicholas, it ain't. Today's 5pm game will be held at Clay County Park and Stadium.
March 30 a The High School is having a devil of a time getting baseball and softball games in this year. The Panthers are trying again this afternoon over in Nicholas County beginning at 5pm.
March 30 a Here's the link page to listen online.
March 30 a Tuesday was arraignment day for the new class of indictees.
March 30 a Billie Murphy and Kristi McCune (forgery, uttering, conspiracy) were no shows Tuesday and are now in deep doodoo with the Judge. Bench warrants were issued for both
March 30 a In every case, when you go before the Court, the Judge orders a whiz test.
March 30 a On Tuesday, Patrick Morris (not the one over at the power company) was unable to pee. To jail he did go.
March 30 a At our expense, Morris (grand larceny, burglary, DUI 3rd) was brought back on Wed for a second try at providing around 2 tablespoons of the yeller liquid. Darn Darn Darn. Still unable to go.
March 30 a A cotton swab test in the mouth was administered and low and behold, who would have believed it, he tested hot for drugs. Mr Morris will spend his days in the slammer.
March 30 a Kelli Eagle did whiz but did so hot enough to burn the bottom out of the glass beaker.
March 30 a Everybody that did go before Judge Jack Alsop Tuesday plead not guilty, they didn't do all those bad things.
March 30 a Might as well turn em loose right now and save a bunch of $$$
March 30 a , In the way of an update, on Wed., Robert Patterson (burglary we think, Nov 2016 grand jury) entered a no contest plea for his transgressions. No contest is equal to a guilty plea
March 30 a Also on Wed, Jonathan Stephenson entered his plea as did Jockwin Schoonover.
March 30 a For those three, sentencing is set for May 15th.
March 30 a A bunch of us have several email addresses to check daily. The go to program to handle automatic checks of several email addresses has been outlook express. OE has been the bestest software out here for years.
March 30 a When they came out with Windows 7, 8, and 10, the OE software no longer worked.
March 30 a For those that like the functionality of OE, there is a substitute that works on the newer 64 bit operating systems.
March 30 a For a look see and secure download of the replacement, called "oeclassic", walk over there.

March 29 later p Dennis W. Triplett, 91, see OBITUARY page
March 29 p Phillip C Triplett, see OBITUARY page
March 29 p While ranting about the dumb bunnies down in the Legislature, we forgot to mention, the Senate has given the green light to increase gasoline taxes by 33%, from 20.5 cents per gallon to 30.5 cents per gallon.

March 29 a The Communicator made it out the door Tuesday afternoon. For this edition, if you want to know the details on the new class of indictees, what the Town is up to, and insight into Clay Roane PSD's vote to raise wawa rates, it's all there for you.
March 29 a Weather is not cooperating with the CHS Baseball and Softball programs. Next stab at getting a game in comes Thursday afternoon at 5pm
March 29 a By the way, rain is in the forecast for Thursday
March 29 a Happily we report that this is the last day for the Legislature to bring out more rotten laws for consideration this year.
March 29 a For us old pot heads, a medical weed bill has made it over another Senate hurdle and is poised for a full Senate vote. Great!
March 29a If you like the idea of increasing water pollution in the State, Yelp, the Senate is doing that as well.
March 29 a In this state, when you have an agency that reports on our dismal educational system and poor test results, what do you do?
March 29 a The correct answer is get rid of the agency. Problem solved.
March 29 a God bless those elected leaders. The've really got it together .

March 28 p Tonight's CHS PAnther game has been canceled.
March 28 a The Communicator should be on news stands across the region mid afternoon
March 28 a If the weather cooperates, around 5pm today, the CHS Panthers will take on Roane County out at Clay County Park in Maysel
March 28 a WYAP will air the contest around 9pm on a tape delay basis so the kids can hear their own efforts
March 28 a To listen, just click away right here.
March 27th 3pm Tonight's Lady Panther ball game has been canceled.
March 27 2pm: Tonight's Lady Panther softball game has been delayed with a new 6pm start time. Field conditions and a light rain are the problem.
March 27 p Over on the CLASSIFIED page was a listing for a couple english bull dog puppies for free. Feeling that the listing was a scam, we removed it. Thanks for the alert from our clickers.
March 27 p Thinking of ramps? See EVENTS page now

March 27 a For the last four days, the Ace Cub Reporter has been screwing off. That explains the lack of postings. Now getting ready to spend the night typing the Communicator, still not much in the way of an online post.
March 27 a Lady Panther Softball this afternoon beginning at 5pm over at Schoonover Bradley Field. All that's if the weather cooperates. WYAP's broadcast schedule is now posted onour ADVISORY page.
March 27 a For those afar, you can listen online by clicking this link. After you connect, bookmark the link that works for you and your electronic device.
March 27 a Paper comes out Tuesday afternoon. Deadline for your submissions is this afternoon at 5pm. Email your classifieds, chatter, notices, etc right away
March 27 a Someone asked, what happens to all the old CURRENT NEWS posts. Nothing is thrown away. Just click on the PAST NEWS button for everything online in the last many years.
March 27 a How about that Little Donald. Our Russian Prez seems to have everything under control.
March 27 a From his own lips, “On day one of the Trump Administration, we will ask Congress to immediately deliver a full repeal of Obamacare,” Over and over Donny J told us, getting rid of ObamaCare will be priority one
March 27 a The Don now says, he's done with TrumpCare and ready to move on to the next promise, tax reform. Of course that means, he's ready to give breaks to the wealthiest and break it off in the average guy on the sreeet.
March 27 a Hasn't gone so well for his Muslim ban nor his appointments to cabinet posts.
March 27 a Donny told us, getting that Ban was important for the security of the nation. After two failed attempts, all of a sudden, we don't hear a word. What happened to that urgent need?
March 27 a Maybe the only hope we have is for all the Russian connections to be made public and the Trumpster walks away.
March 27 a Keep your fingers crossed America.

March 23 p Lawrence David Ferrebee, 70, see OBITUARY page
March 23 early a Happy to report, the W Va Music Hall of Fame is honoring Clay County's very own, John and Dave Morris.

March 22 p New indictments are public. Those caught include:
March 22 p Woodrow Cutlip Wanton Endangerment with firearm, destruction of prop; discharging a firearm within 500ft of a dwelling
March 22 p Ann Marie Cavender Welfare fraud x 7
March 22 p Okey Hodge, Rachel Larch, Joshua Burdette: Dest of prop, conspiracy, burglary, and attempted
March 22 p Billie Murphy Forgery x 2; Uttering x 2, False pretense x 2, conspiracy x 2
March 22 p Christie McCune Forgery x 2 uttering x 2; false pretense x 2; conspiracy x 2
March 22 p Matthew Stewart Wanton endangerment with firearm x 3; person prohibited from having a firearm; kidnapping x 3. grand larceny
March 22p Zachary Boggs Sex assault 2nd degree
March 22 p Summers Landers Grand Larceny
March 22p Jacob Young Malicious wounding, wanton endangerment with firearm x 2; person prohibited from possessing a firearm
March 22p Bufford Brown, Connie Brown: possession Schedule I
March 22 p Patrick Morris Burglary, grand larceny; driving revoked 3rd offense
March 22 p Jay Jones B&E
March 22 p Cliff Salisbury Driving revoked 2nd offense; DUI causing bodily injury x 2; Crash causing death or injury
March 22 p Jeremiah Eagle, Kelli Eagle: Failure to appear; destruction of property, conspiracy, child abuse creating risk of injury x 2, attempt
March 22 p Should be a busy time next Tuesday during arraignment day

March 21 p Shirley "Shirl" Lee Burnside, 84, of Ivydale , see OBITUARY page
March 21 p We had our wires crossed during the morning post. When the paperwork is all typed, will post the results of Today's Grand Jury.
March 21 p Town Council convened a special meeting Tuesday where they voted in unanimously, the new year's budget. According to their CPA, there's going to be $7000 less in the way of revenue in the 2017-2018 budget year.
March 21 p The Mayor felt that loss was due to the number of homes, buildings, that were lost during the June 23rd 2016 Great Wash Out.
March 21 p Clay County PSD buys their wawa from the Town of Clay. The PSD had a big time leak in the storage tank behind BA House's residence. Drained the thang they said.
March 21 p The PSD asked Council to forgive them of their debt of the wasted liquid
March 21 p This evening, in an unanimous vote of all in attendance, Council said Nope, you got ta pay us.
March 21 p Life can now return to normal Clayberry.
March 21 p State Road Gurus in Charleston are once again allowing the local workers to frequent Tudor's for their mid morning snack.
March 21 p Seems, even an irate female bus driver can't take away the state law mandated 15 minute breaks.

March 21 a In the way of news, it's a pretty dull time in Clayberry. In the mean time....
March 21 a Town Council will convene a Special Meeting today at 5:30 to vote in a budget for the new year. Public meeting.
March 21 a The local radio station will be broadcasting tonight's Lady Panther v Braxton softball game if sportscaster TG Griffith gets to feeling better. Game begins at 5pm at Braxton. To listen online tap this link. Go Lady Panthes!
March 21 a The station still needs sponsors to get all the games on the radio. Interested? Drop off your info to Clay Auto Parts in Two Run. Thanks.
March 21 a County Commission meets Wed morning at 10am.
March 21 a Thursday morning, in the upstairs Courtroom, Spring Grand Jury gets under way. With all the Badge work in the last 3 months, might be a big load of em this time around
March 21 a While we're sitting around waiting on the next dumb thing to happen, the Eagle Cam is back live. Mrs Eagle already has one egg in the next PA next. Be sure to turn up your speackers to hear the squaking.
March 21 a Also, to burn up even more broadband, how about a live look at the Great Horned Owl.
March 20 a This morning we've got some bright sunshine and moderate in temperature.
March 20 a That great weather is just in time for Spring Baseball and Softball over at Clay High
March 20 a The local radio station plans to air a bunch of the boys and girls contests on 101.7FM. To do that, it's going to take some sponsors. If you can help get our athletes on the air, the asking donation is $50 for the entire season. Easiest and quickest would be to drop off your donation over at Clay Auto. Thanks from the volunteers at YAP radio.
March 20 a First game for sportscast comes Tuesday afternoon (away ) beginning at 5pm
March 20 a Go Panthers! Go Lady Panthers!
March 20 a Lots of talk on Little Don's fscal budget, the one that benefits the very richest and screws the rest of us, if you would like to read it for yourself, here's the poorhouse link.

March 19 a Travis Welch, 32, see OBITUARY page
March 19 a Rose Ann Garrett, 55, Lizemores, see OBITUARY page
March 19 a For years this site and The Communicator have referred to the Town of Clay Sewer Plant as the Log Factory
March 19 a A couple months ago the Mayor called for creating a list of people interested in employment. We've been promoting that list of names since back then.
March 19 a That list includes: Log Factory Operator. After receiving resumes from actual timber cutters and sawmill workers, the Mayor called and requested we let readers and clickers know, what we mean sewer plant employees.
March 19 a It's been a tough week for those of us that try to live in this county. The elected and appointed leaders in County Clay have been at it again .
March 19 a Over at Clay Roane PSD, Thursday night, the appointed leadership voted unanimously to seek a rate increase. Amounting to round 18%, that means, a bunch more customers will be unable to pay their monthly wawa bill and in short order, we discontinue service.
March 19 a That PSD is short on funds partly due to pay outs from the June Great Wash Out. When FEMA finally reimburses the PSD, they will be a cash cow. We don't think that factored into the decision to raise rate.
March 19 a Town Council heard the first discussions on adding a B&O tax and or User fee and or Municipal Sale Tax on the backs of those that work, deal, live inside the hamlet limits.
March 19 a Years ago, a Mayor had a good idea when he wanted to add parking meters in downtown, in front of the Courthouse. His idea, and still a good one today, when all those high dollar Suits come for Court duty, have them feed the meters. No not that nickel and dime stuff but rather make it 25 cents for every 30 minutes!
March 19 a Why not grab some out of county $$$ before adding new taxes on those that are already struggling.
March 19 a Our County Commission started budget negotiations with Dept heads this week. Most Dept heads understand the upcoming shortfalls coming our way. One didn't.
March 19 a Prosecutor Jim Samples took five hours or so of time to explain his desire to have a $72,000 budget increase to feed additional employees.
March 19 a That shortage of funds amounts to at least a $50,000 cutback in taxes during the 2017 - 2018 budget year. To make things worse, many of the home, vehicle, out building losses after the Great Wash Out, those reductions haven't even showed up on the tax records yet. Those losses will show up for the 2018 - 2019 fiscal year.
March 19 a That means , not even counting the $150,000+ unpaid jail bill, if we make thru the next 12 months, the following 12 months will be worser. And Yes, worser is a word cause we just used it!
March 19 a On this wet gray Sunday morning, while we're talking doom and gloom, one more plea. If the local non profit radio station doesn't raise a whole bunch of $$$ in short order, it will be gone by mid Summer. No more local info, no more sports coverage from Clay High sports, and one less totally independent source for the news that main stream corporate news forgets to tell us.
March 19 a If you can help em out, please walk over to www.gofundme.com and lend a hand. Thanks

March 17 p Clay Roane PSD Boardsters took the advice of their CPA and passed a motion to seek an 18% rate increase for their customers.
March 17 p Their last increase was realized in Feb 2016. 13 months ago
March 17 p On the good side, the PSD's wa wa loss rate dropped to 7% last month
March 17 p By the way, in the way of side information
March 17 p Last night before the Clay Roane PSD meeting, the Office Manager confirmed, everybody there received a Christmas bonus in December 2016.
March 17 p The unlawful bonus amounted to $150 after taxes.
March 17 p Of course the PSD didn't list "Christmas bonus" on the agenda four months ago.
March 17 p Crystal provided, their accountant told em to list the Christmas bonus as a one time pay increase.
March 17 p During the last 20 years, various engineers and contractors have been paid to establish a "telemetry" radio network which would allow the office to monitor tank levels from afar. The idea has always been, to easily monitor the tanks and keep them from overflowing
March 17 p Over the last 23 years of the Communicator, we've seen no less than three upgrades on the telemetry network
March 17 p Last night, during the meeting, if came to light, Nope! the telemetry does not work and the days (years) of overflowing of the storage tanks was a big reason for the water loss.
March 17 p Clay County pays out a bunch in jail bills. Feb 2017's jail bill amounted to $22K and that was a "light" month for incarcerations
March 17 p Currently the County Commission is behind in jail payments to the tune of around $150K.
March 17p One thing that adds to the bill is paying the $42.25 per day bill to prisoners that ought not be in Central Regional Jail (CRJ)
March 7 p Like, James C Rogers has been in the slammer since Oct 2015. He has never been to court. The hold up seems to be, the arresting Badge (Ware) was fired and there's no one around to follow up on the case.
March 17 p Henry E Stutler has been house at our expense since April 11th 2016 as well as Scott D Barker. Neither inmate has been to Court. Instead we're paying their lodging and meals.
March 17 p Besides being an injustice to the accused, the sloppy courtmanship is very costly to the County of Little.
March 17 p Things aren't getting any better in Clay. It is estimated, in the new fiscal year, County Clay will receive $50K+ less in tax revenue due to homes and property lost during the Great Wash Out plus the Fola Coal company moving taxable equipment out of Clayberry.
March 17 p With the wifey coming back today at 5pm, it was a short day at the office for the Ace Cub Reporter
March 17 p Important clean up details included picking up doggy poo piles, sweeping, and doing something more than licking off the dishes.
March 17 p News wise...
March 17 p Our local Delegate, Roger Hanshaw, he's the guy that says, if it's good business it's good for the people, made the Gazette again. That guy is a lead sponsor of a new law that reduces regulations on oil and gas industry storage tanks.
March 17 p The very profitable oil and gas industry who has been represented by Hanshaw's law firm, wants the roll back of regulation
March 17 p To H with clean water!
March 17 p W Va has the 48th slowest internet rates in the nation. Who ever is in the 50th position must still be using a string and two cans.
March 17 p It's plain and simple, govt cannot tell students what bible to use nor administer religion on the govt dime. Mercer County Board of Education just got sued for doing that very thing.
March 17 p Have a nice weekend.

March 15 p Bobby Ray Stone, 68, of Clay, see OBITUARY page
March 15 p Clay Roane PSD meets Thursday evening at 6:30pm. Their public gatherings are held in the Procious WaWa Plant.
March 15 p Item VI e calls to vote for a rate increase.
March 15 p Might be a great time to talk to your appointed PSD leadership
March 15 p The Communicator made it out the door Tuesday afternoon. Pretty good edition chucked full of local content and more.
March 15 p Lead story provides the quotes from the last Town Council meeting where they briefing discussed implementation of user fees, B&O taxes, and such.
March 15 p This also might be a great time to talk the elected officials at Town Hall.
March 15 p Wifey's been gone four nights so far.
March 15 p Did you know, after four days of not flushing the jon, you can get flies on the ceiling even when the outside temps start out at 13 degrees.
March 15 p The local non profit radio station is trying to raise enough $$$ to keep the station on the air by doing an online plea for support. It would be a real shame if a local non profit went under after so many years of hard work.
March 15 p Also using an online approach in an attempt to get the Gold Dome crowd to realize how important local fire departments are to each community in the state, you might want to lend a hand over there too.
March 15 p Thursday's weather report calls for more moderate temps reaching into the low 40's. All of us are ready for Spring temps once again.

March 13 p It's tough for a non profit to stay alive in County Clay. Such is the case for non profit, WYAP-LP FM radio in downtown Clay. The tiny radio station has set up a gofundme campaign to raise the $6000 it takes to stay on the air for another 12 months.
March 13 p You can use this direct link to get over there or type in wyap when you get to gofundme.com .
March 13 p Often people don't understand how important local assets are until they're gone.
March 13 p No updates until we get the Communicator to bed late tonight.

March 13 p Forgot to mention in the early am post, the Business Development Authority meets tonight in the old State Road garage building in Two Run. Here's the posted agenda.

March 13 11am TV-3 is reporting upwards of 6 inches of snow may be coming our way tonight.
March 13 11am When you walk over to the National Weather Service website, they report, maybe a half inch of the white stuff tonight.
March 13 11am With The Communicator planned for Tuesday , if there is 6 inches of snow on the ground, the paper may be delayed. Check back for details... if that happens.
March 13 a When you see Joe Murphy today, tell him, Happy Birthday!

March 13 early a Tonight at 6pm, the Clayberry School Board meets up at the Pentagon. Looks like a pretty full agenda including the hiring of a truancy officer. Up until now, those responsibilities have gone to one of the Pentagon side kicks to the Superintendent.
March 13 early a If you're interested in having a say in next year's school calendar, there's a before the meeting public hearing beginning at 5:30pm.
March 13 early a For the Ace Cub Reporter, a vacation came early.
March 13 early a Mrs Wifey left Tallhouse for a few days. He's got five days to leave socks laying everywhere, let the dog crap wherever she wants, leave the TV blasting all night, leave dirty dishes in the sink, and fart out loud.
March 13 early a Ahhhhhh... Life is good!

March 12 a Cold but plenty of sunshine today. Great !
March 12 a From the last couple days....
March 12 a That school bus driver that put the Clay State Road crew on notice, a second thought...
March 12 a It's true, there's many stories on lazy State Road workers with their shirt pocket sewed on upside down but there's another truth. Come next winter when there's a foot of snow on the ground or a big tree blocks the road, there may be a slight delay in response time.
March 12 a The ace cub reporter knows about such fallout.
March 12 a After peeing off Leonard Williams with the power company many years ago, there was a big storm that knocked out the juice. After all the neighbors had their power restored, the Mel Gibson look alike stayed in the dark.
March 12 a First the lad delivered a happy note in the Elk Power Co door slot. The next day he followed up with a picture of the home to remind Leonard "My Good Buddy" Williams where the place was located. After several days of darkness, an office worker noticed the stack of notes & pictures, and sent out the crew to reset the breaker on the pole. Took the guy about 20 minutes to get everything back to normal.
March 12 a Pay backs can be H in Clayberry.
March 12 a We've got a need America. The local Little League ball field was 99% washed away last June. Volunteers have been busting the hump to rebuild the facility. Much of the work is done. But, another $50,000 is needed to get the costly back stop fencing purchased and erected. With the season opener coming in April, if you can help em out, now's the time.
March 12 a During Feb's beggin campaign, this site received enough in donations to replace all three desk top puters with much newer (refurburished) units. We bought em from the guy over on the Classified page. The things are working great and for just $100, hard to beat! That guy, Scott, told us last week, he has just 8 or 10 more available and then he's quitting the repair business for a while. Need a puter? Now might be a great time to upgrade.
March 12 a Communicator comes out Tuesday if all goes well. Now's the time to email over your classifieds, chatters, event notices and such.
March 9 later a Wed afternoon the Town of Clay's Boil Water Order for the Maysel area was lifted. It's safe to drink the stuff
March 9 later a Does anybody know anybody that actually drinks Clay water?
March 9 a Tonight at 6pm, the Greater Clay Long Term Recovery group convenes their meeting at 6pm. The agency is housed in the brick building beside Spread Park.
March 9 a Clayberry has less than 10,000 residents and very few businesses. Overall, we are poor as church mices. How poor?
March 9 a Word on the street has it, we're so poor, the local Catholic Church is shuttering its doors in the near future. During last year's Great Wash Out, that facility and their many volunteers were well used by those in need. The full time on the job Risen Lord Church will be sadly missed.
March 9 a Yesterday we posted about the local school bus driver ratting out the State Road crew for buying biscuits over at Tudors. In a tit for tat response, the State Roaders raised questions about school bus drivers that only work a few hours daily but are paid as full time employees.
March 9 a That hour or so of work in the morning and the same for the afternoon run, that's been a burr under the saddle for many for years.
March 9 a Other counties in W Va require bus drivers to work other school system duties between bus runs. One of those is Kanawha County where drivers fill in others with many duties.
March 9 a In still other counties, drivers don't receive that overtime pay for extra runs until they've worked a full 40 hours.
March 9 a The lady driver that started the bad mouthing of our local State Road crew may have opened a can of worms that will come back and bite her and her fellow drivers in the you know what.
March 9 a Others in the county are expressing outrage over the Pentagon hiring retired Superintendents as sub teachers. For the taxpayer, that double and triple dipping is a little hard to swallow.
March 9 a Most in the county feel the two aging retirees will be put in management slots or soon to be created slots.
March 9 a The good ole boy club keeps marching along.
March 9 a Speaking of the school system, the gurus under the Gold Dome don't like when the world can plainly see the state's failing schools. For this county, H E White Elem made the F list in Nov 2016.
March 9 a Instead of fixing the schools, the problems, with their infinite wisdom, the vote is in to do away with the A to F rating system.
March 9 a What's next for the Charleston crew? Clayberry and state school systems fail miserably on standardized test. No matter what the spin, when upwards of 80% of the kids are unable to do grade level math, no what time it is? It's time to do away with those blasted, humiliating, standardized tests.
March 9 a Got ta love em all!

March 8 a In this county, most everybody is related to somebody else. When you bad mouth someone in a crowd, most likely, someone in the crowd is related to the person getting the tongue lashing. Equally as true, there are ramifications, fall out, for every word put out in the public sphere.
March 8 a With that being said, here's our story.
March 8 a A female County Clay school bus driver fired off an email to State Road management a couple days back. The center of her statement: She was upset that local State Road workers spent morning time over at Tudor's Biscuit World instead of fixing potholes.
March 8 a That correspondence struck pay dirt in short order. One day later, our local State Road guys were told: you can not go to Tudor's for your morning biscuit.
March 8 a For those outside of the area, Tudor's is the place for the morning pit stop. For many, year after year, decades, the day doesn't get started until after a Ron, Mary B, or other concoction involving a biscuit, egg , combination.
March 8 a Those State Road guys ain't too pretty to look at but they know how to respond.
March 8 a That group fired off a notice to the Pentagon, they ain't too happy with bus drivers being paid full time wages and then spending only a couple hours behind the wheel and the balance of it, also over at Tudors.
March 8 Pay backs are H and the war is on
March 8 a Changing gears...
March 8 a This county has but one municipality. There, there's less than 40 businesses. For those struggling for a profit, not a day goes by that some group, kid, senior citizen comes in asking for a donation for their cause. Keeping their doors open and people employed is hard to do in the Land of Little.
March 8 a Last night Town Council met. Darn good meeting with progress being made with every agenda item.
March 8 a And then . And then, as things were closing down, during discussion time...
March 8 a Mayor Hubbard told the assembled, the next fiscal year is going to be tough due to a smaller tax base amounting to around $7000 and still dwindling.
March 8 a Council person Josh Shamblin suggested a "user fee" for those employed in the hamlet. For those that don't know, a "user fee" is an amount taken from employees weekly to help cover the cost of local government. With many working at minimum wage, another couple dollars taken as a deduction, that hurts.
March 8 a As soon as the Pentagon workers plus employees in the three schools within the town boundaries get word of this notion, it ain't going to be pretty. Ditto for the second largest employer based in the Town, Clay Development Corp and all the Courthouse workers.
March 8 a In response to that Shamblin inspired idea, Mayor Jason Hubbard has a couple ideas to put on the discussion table.
March 8 a The Mayor advanced adding a municipal tax on everything sold within town borders and / or a business and occupation tax, B&O tax.
March 8 a Mr Mayor said they may add those mentions to the next meeting's agenda but , "I haven't decided."
March 8 a For our long time Communicator readers and clickers of this site, you will remember other stabs at adding a B&O tax by Town Council.
March 8 a During both attempts we can remember, the Mayor and Council barely escaped the meeting house with their scalps.
March 8 a During the last packed house hearing, some businesses plain simply said: you add that tax and we will just go ahead and shut down.
March 8 a Here's the icing on the cake folks.
March 8 a Mayor Hubbard apprised Council that Poopy Holcomb approached him about serving as a Town Badge. Hubbard made it clear to the Poopster, the Town has $0 budgeted for law enforcement BUT BUT BUT
MArch 8 a Maybe some of the new tax revenue could be used to pay Mr Holcomb's wages, fuel, bullets, spike strips, sirens, gallons of pepper spray, new uniforms from Charleston Tent and Awning, etc
March 8 a There's a reason why many folks donated to this site a couple weeks back.
March 8 a Having a place where you can get instant, up to the minute, smart mouth news on local happenings, it's very important.
March 8 a THank you again for your support of independent news and views.

March 7 p James A. Duffield, 85, of Ivydale, see OBITUARY page
March 7p The Rev, Jimmy, or Catman Duffield, was one of our real characters in the county
March 7p He was well known for his lengthy telephone conversations which always began with: Hey! How are ya?
March 7 p After an hour or more listeners would come up with cleaver ways to get off the hook. One elected official told: I would knock on a door frame real loud and tell the Rev, some one's at the door, I have to go.
March 7 p Another guy reported, instead of ignoring the ringy dings, when his wife was mad at him, his wife would answer the phone and even if he was out in the garage, she would bring the cordless there and start grinning as soon as the hubby said Hello.
March 7p Even if he was in a deep conversation on some important topic like "the old home place", as soon as Jimmy needed to do something else, abruptly, "Well, I got ta go, See ya" and then came a click

March 7 a What a gloomy wet morning.
March 7 a Great Clay Long Term Recovery Group has several committees working for the county. One of those is the emergency response committee which thinks there may be several medical people in the county willing to help out during a crisis. To get a handle on the resources availableand those willing to help, they've put up an online survery form. Check it out right here.

March 6 p Town Council meets Tuesday afternoon at 5:30. Their posted agenda looks pretty mundane until you get to the last item which includes the resignation of Tine Goode
March 6 p Ms Goode spent a lengthy secret time with Council last month. After that closed door session, Council voted to reduce Goode to a part time worker.
March 6 p About one month ago, Mayor Hubbard started gathering resumes for all the Town positions "just in case" a need came about.
March 6 p Guess that was pretty good thinkin on the Mayor's part
March 6 p We've got something very serious clickers. Something that may unhinge the county.
March 6 p Over at Connie's Restaurant, they're talking about stopping their meat loaf sandwiches.
March 6 p For those that love a mustard covered meat loaf meal on two slices of white bread, this is very serious.
March 6 p Better get over their tomorrow with your picket signs or something else will be gone from Clayberry.
March 6 p Is there anybody out there that thinks Little Donald has his wits about him?
March 6 p Didn't think so.

March 6 7:45a From the Town of Clay: Boil water advisory for upper Maysel customers only, experiencing low or no water, please boil. Thanks (Pump kicked out)
March 6 a Don't take a chance, boil it first... ahhhhh, then let it cool.

March 5 a Partying hard has a way of turning bad real quick. Friday night there was a shooting in Clayberry. Metro News has a pretty good write up.
March 5 a Wed evening the Lady Panthers were in regional basketball action. That was the same day the storm came thru and took out utilities. non profit 101.7FM came back on the air Friday evening around 6:45pm. We think, as of right now, all juice has been restored in County Clay.
March 5 a 101.7FM plans to air an encore of the Wed game tonight around 7pm.
March 5 a Shirley Love serves in the House of Delegates and represents a big chunk of the county below the Hartland bridge.
March 5 a Delegate Love can be heard each Friday morning around 9am with his Legislative Update program. YAP radio will air the current program at half time during tonight's encore ballgame.
March 5 a Sunshine today and moderate temps. Get outside and enjoy the day.

March 3 a Many many in the county remain powerless after Wed's rain, hail, wind, and flooding.
March 3 a Sections we know about are those out Triplett Ridge to Dille; sections of Porters Creek; and the Lizemores neighborhoods.
March 3 a 101.7 FM remains off the FM dial because the non profit's transmitter is housed out Triplett Ridge. No electric out there, no good stuff on the FM dial. The internet broadcast remains alive and well.
March 3 a Every once in a while, IX web hosting, the people that serve up this website, have to install new stuff , upgrade their software, and such. Last night, just when we wanted to add a bunch of stuff , clayberry was unavailable. Sorry about that clickers but that outage should be over for another 12 months or so.
March 3 a Basketball season is over. The Middle School Boys' team lost just one game this season and went on to become Conference Champs. The High School boys went out of playoff action after just round of Sectional Tournament play.
March 3 a Our Lady Panthers had a pretty good season with many wins. In post season play, the Lady Panthers went home after getting thumped big time by Lincoln High School some place near Clarksburg. From the git go, Lincoln moved ahead and only extended the score as the quarters wore on.
March 3 a Due to that power outage, WYAP 101.7FM has been off the FM air since around 11am Wed. They raised enough $$$ to pay the broadcast royalties for the Regional game but only the internet listeners could hear it.
March 3 a Electric providers are telling customers it could be a few more days before service is restored. As soon as that happens, YAP radio will air the contest.
March 3 a This site will let you know before that happens.

March 1 later p Around 9:45 this morning, the National Weather Service told West Virginia, a big chunk of the state will be hit with high winds, rain, hail, and stream flooding. At 10:15 on the money, the hazardous weather took hold of Clayberry. Trees went down as did power, internet, and tele service.
March 1 later p For much of the county, utilities returned in just a few hours. Not so for many like those out Triplett Ridge thru Harrison, those folks remain powerless.
March 1 later p One tape recording on Mon Power's office line told callers, it may take 3 or 4 days to get everything up and running
March 1 later p As for tonight's Lady Panther Regional Tournament, the game continues.
March 1 later p Here's the problem, the local radio station's transmitter sets out Triplett Ridge way and without electric. That means there will be NO sportscast tonight on 101.7FM nor 106.7 FM down in Lizemores.
March 1 later p The only way to listen to the game in real time is to listen online, on your puter or cellphone. Here's the link to listen online
March 1 later p Their plan is, to record the match up and replay it Thursday or Friday evening, whenever power is restored to the transmitter site.
March 1 later p For those that haven't look, snow and much cooler temps are in the forecast for Friday.

March 1 p It's do or die tonight when the Lady Panthers travel to Lincoln High School for the Regional Tournament. Action begins at 7pm with TG Griffith doing a pregame show around 6:50.
March 1 p Go Lady Panthers!
March 1 p Very special thanks to those wanting to keep our High School athletes' good deeds on the air. Money is now available to pay the $$##@!!! broadcast royalties plus gas money and a hot dog for TG. Thank you
March 1 p Today's the last day for this site's online beggin campaign. We'd like to thank everyone for their support. Your generosity is muchly appreciated.
March 1 p One last time for anyone wanting to donate, our snail mail address is: Delta; 2278 Main Street; Clay WV 25043
March 1 p Over the next few days, as the new gear comes in, we'll provide updates
March 1 p Fellers, usually yard sales aren't of much interest to us. Check out the EVENTS page for an offering that's tailored for the shade tree crew.
March 1 p By the way, the latest Communicator is pretty darn good this edition.

March 1 a From the National Weather Service: Showers and thunderstorms likely, then showers and possibly a thunderstorm after 1pm. Some storms could be severe, with large hail, damaging winds, gusty winds, and heavy rain. High near 70. Southwest wind 14 to 18 mph, with gusts as high as 39 mph. Chance of precipitation is 90%. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.
March 1 a The severe thunderstorm watch remains in affect thru 1pm today
March 1 a The hazardous weather prediction hangs around til 7pm tonight
March 1 a Be careful out there today
March 1 a The Communicator made it out the door Tuesday afternoon. 20 pages of interesting stuff on Clayberry. Pick one up today
May 1 a Enjoy!

Feb. 28 a We're putting off our own beggin plea for a day. Something else has come up that's important
Feb. 28 a Wed night the CHS Lady Panthers are in Regional Tournament action. For the local radio station to air the match up, they have to pay $125 in broadcast royalties to some greedy athletic commission.
Feb. 28 a With the station broke, they need some help to get our Lady Panthers on the air for the contest.
Feb. 28 a Year after year, at his own expense and with his own cell phone service, Sportscaster TG Griffith travels to away ball games without fail.
Feb. 28 a In addition to the $125 fee non profit WYAP would like to give the guy $40 for fuel and a court side hot dog for his trip to Lincoln High School outside of Clarksburg.
Feb. 28 a Total amounts to $165 to get the girls heard around the world. The total amount has to be raised in time for TG to give it to the officials before game time (7pm) Wednesday night.
Feb. 28 a If you can help WYAP out, drop off your donation to Peter Triplett over at Clay Auto Parts in Two Run.
Feb. 28 a Thanks and we'll get back our own begging campaign after this new need is met
Feb. 27 a Clayberry often gets short sheeted
Feb. 27 a Right after the flood, FEMA reps said they're the greatest thing since canned soup. They weren't and in many cases, pay outs if at all, the dollars were much less than needed
Feb. 27 a Businesses found out, FEMA does nothing for the business community
Feb. 27 a With all the tangled web of fine print, ditto for SBA loans
Feb. 27 a Flood insurance? That only pays off bank mortgages, protects the banking industry.
Feb. 27 a Last month word came of a new $15,000 loan for survivors. In great big print, the circulars advanced the loans as free money as long as you keep the house for the first five years.
Feb. 27 a Many people signed up for the forgivable, $15,000 loans
Feb. 27 a Now those folks are finding out, it ain't $15K.
Feb. 27 a Details in tomorrow's Communicator

Feb. 26 p Brenda Kay Hayes, 69, of Clay, see OBITUARY page
Feb. 26 p Let us tell you a story from a little over 6 years ago.
Feb. 26 p Kenneth Tanner had just been selected Clayberry School Superintendent replacing Larry Gillespie who had retired. At one of his early Board meetings, KT presented to the Board an agenda item calling for the Board to hire Gillespie as a substitute teacher.
Feb. 26 p The vote did not go as KT expected. Instead of the normal unanimous Yes, Dave Mullins, Gene King, and Morgy Triplett teamed up and voted No. Gillespie had been turned out to pasture. Dave Mullins was the ring leader of that coup back then.
Feb. 26 p Fast forward to Feb. 27th. The Sch Bd plans to convene a meeting down at H E White Elem. On the agenda is once again, hiring Gillespie as a substitute teacher. We're curious to see if wounds have healed or if a behind the scene deal has been cut or if Mullins has the support for another coup.
Feb. 26 p Also listed for a vote is none other than County Commissioner Jerry Linkypoo to work as a substitute teacher. Talk about double dipping!
Feb. 26 p The elected body will also vote on a new Assistant Superintendent. We've got our bets on long time Associate Superintendent, Joan Haynie for the position.
Feb. 26 p If our guess is correct and if a pay hike is included, Ms Haynie may not retire out of the system at the end of 2017 as rumors have it
Feb. 26 p Our annual begging campaign has been in full force for one week. We'd like to thank all those that have donated to the cause of keeping this site alive and well, for another 12 months. Thank you
Feb. 26 p Truth is, contributions are down this year. We're still in need of replacing a couple items including the aging Olympus camera. Last winter during a chilly willy Christmas parade on Main Street, the camera (and the ace cub reporter for that matter) locked up and the images were just blue and red lines across the screen. If you look online, used e-510's still command almost $300.
Feb. 26 p Couple that with increases in web hosting fees... We need your help. Snail mail your donation to: Delta; 2278 Main Street; Clay WV 25043
Feb. 26 p We noticed on Friday, gas prices in Cross Lanes stood at $2.09 per gallon. All of em including Exxon. Today up in Clarksburg area, regular fumes were in the $2.10 price range.
Feb. 26 p The closer we got to Clayberry, the price kept increasing.
Feb. 26 p During the last couple days of Feb., we can expect temps to be more winter like.
Feb. 26 p A note for all us old potheads...
Feb. 26 p Colorado is a land where pot is legal to consume. In that state, their now talking about allowing home deliveries to made. What a great idea, order a couple pizzas, some Doritos, and a three fingers of pot and never have to leave your house!
Feb. 26p 24 states have made pot legal in one way or another. In each state, pot taxes are helping ease budget woes to the tune of gazillions. Sadly, Little Donald may be taking a second look.
Feb. 26 p The Communicator comes out Tuesday afternoon. Deadline for submissions will be around 5pm Monday. Email ASAP.

Feb. 25 p On Friday it was 76 degrees with bright sunshine. Tonight snow flurries are in the forecast as well as near freezing temps. %%$$###
Feb. 25 p The big news of the night, the Clay Middle School Mustangs put it all over Webster County, 41 to 23. The Mustangs are now the Central West Virginia Athletic Conference Champs.
Feb. 25 p That's the first Championship for the Mustangs in about 12 years!
Feb. 25 p The Clay High Panthers are down for the season after Herbert Hoover narrowly sneaked past em in sectional tournament action. The final, Herbert Hoover 66, Clay 36.

Feb. 24 p The good news. Tonight, the Clay Middle School Mustangs beat Summersville, 32 to 22. The Mustangs now move into the championship game set for Saturday night beginning at 8pm over at the Braxton Armory. Go Mustangs!!
Feb. 24 p The not so good news... Tonight, the Lady Panthers put up a H of a fight for 3 1/2 quarters but went down in defeat to Lewis County, 69 to 61. Their Sectional Tournament action isn't over yet. The Lady Panthers play again Tuesday night when they take on Lincoln. Go Lady Panthers!

Feb. 23 p Looking for work? Slurry Pavers is hiring. See JOBS page now
Feb. 23 p Greater Clay Long Term Recovery Committee met this evening. From that gathering....
Feb. 23 p As the group grows, it's taking more than volunteers to keep the doors open. The Executive Board is looking at hiring and paying a Director position. The Excutive Board decision will be made public during the next regular meeting of the committee on March
Feb. 23 p That same Board hired their first case manager in the last couple weeks. The newbee is Cheryl White.
Feb. 23 p A volunteer is has been doing a bunch of running around for the group will now receive mileage expense for her efforts.
Feb. 23 p The whole idea is to make to turn the place into a well run business to better serve the needs of Clayberry.
Feb. 23 p And finally from the public meeting, CAEZ's Big Lup has been a no show during the past many Greater Clay meetings. She's going to be axed from the group.
Feb. 23 p Hoppy Kercheval has a pretty good write up on what the Legislature is doing to county school systems across the state. Big changes are on the way.
Feb. 23 p Remember when the Legislature regulated that the taxpayer would know how the local school is doing? Yell you do, each school was graded A to F. That's going to be done away with,
Feb. 23 p So are those annual standardized tests. Those are the ones that keep revealing how poorly are kids are being prepared for the real world.
Feb. 23 p Over the last 12 months, this site has provided up to date info on important stuff like..
Feb. 23 p Day to day coverage of the June 23rd Great Wash Out
Feb. 23 p The back door effort by Commissioner Linky to form his own organization to grab long term recovery $$$$ from another group
Feb. 23 p Local Election results
Feb. 23 p Sure can't ignore the pitiful wording of long time CDC Director Pam Taylor which cost her her job
Feb. 23 p Sprinkled in between the big stuff, clayberry.org has included a bunch of the stuff that makes our County of Little so very special
Feb. 23 p If having this poorly worded, misspelled often online vehicle available 24 hours per day, 365 days a year, if that's important to you, we need help keeping it alive.
Feb. 23 p Your donation will help keep it up and running for another 12 months.
Feb. 23 p To mail in your check of support, the snail mail address is: Delta; 2278 Main Street; Clay, WV 25043
Feb. 23 p For all those that have already donated, thank you big time.
Feb. 23 p For those sick and tired of seeing this beggin campaign , sometime early next week, we'll be done.
Feb. 22 late p Elsie Lou Vance, 84, of Lizemores, see OBITUARY page
Feb. 22 late p It was a heck of win tonight for the Lady Panthers. In Sectional Tournament play over in Summersville, the Lady Panthers put it all over Nicholas County, 60 to 30.
Feb. 22 late They move up one more tier this Friday night. Not sure of who they'll be playing nor where but, the next round comes Friday around 7pm for sure.
Feb. 22 late p The Lady Panthers never trailed during the match up.
Feb. 22 late p Go lady Panthers!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Feb. 22 p We keep talking about the Clay High basketball teams but, from the email bag: The boys basketball team at Clay County Middle School started CWVAC tournament play this week. They played Geary Tuesday night and defeated them by a score of 59-13. This sets them up to play in the semi-final game on Friday at 6:30 p.m. at the Braxton County Armory versus Summersville. We want to invite all of Clay County to the game to help support these young men. They finished the regular season with a record of 15-1 and were Western Division Champions. Win or lose they have represented themselves, the school, family, friends, and the county very well this year. If the Mustangs win on Friday night, they will play in the championship game on Saturday night at the Braxton County Armory @ 8:00 p.m. Shawn Krajeski
Feb. 22 a County Commission meets this morning, in the Courthouse at 10am sharp.
Feb. 22 a Suppose to be in 70+ today. The only question is, when will Winter return and how bad will the snow fall be?
Feb. 22 a Last night the Panthers played their last basketball game of the season. With only four wins this year, last night continued the run of L's. Nicholas smashed us, 98 to 82.
Feb. 22 a The much more successful Lady Panthers are in the second round of sectional tournament play tonight at 7pm. That game will be over at Nicholas High. Go Lady Panthers.
Feb. 22 a Back to the Panthers.... Saturday night the Panthers enter sectional tournament play down at Elkview Middle School will they will mix it up with Herbert Hoover HS. Action begins at 7pm sharp.
Feb. 22 a Got a guy over on the CLASSIFIED page selling Dell puters for $100.
Feb. 22 a After raising a little $$$ during our annual beggin campaign, we purchased one of used units.
Feb. 22 a Hey! Not bad at all! Darn thing came ready to go and is running great.
Feb. 22 a When we talked to the seller, he told us, he has others ready to go and at bargain basement pricing.
Feb. 22 a With at least one more puter needed as well as a new used camera and a reaal need to pay the web hosting bill for another 12 months, can you help us out.
Feb. 22 a If you think having a 24 hour per day instant source of info on poor wittle Clayberry, how about helping us out.
Feb. 22 a The snail mail address for the donation is, Delta; 2278 Main Street; Clay WV 25043
Feb. 22 a For those that have already contributed, thank you
Feb. 21 early a It was a heck of win last night when the Lady Panthers put it all over Braxton County. From the git go, the Lady Panthers had it together. Final score 64 to 42.
Feb. 21 a With that win, the LP's move along in sectional tournament play Wed evening . Not sure who they'll be playing yet.
Feb. 21 early a The Panthers play tonight.
Feb. 21 a Bruce Bird has been in the court system since being a teenager. Last year he was put away for decades for his part in a machete point robbery of two convenience stores in the area.
Feb. 21 a Mr Bird has since filed a Badge brutality lawsuit against two local Green Shirts.
Feb. 21 a Monday's Charleston Gazette has the story.

Feb. 20 p One of our strongest rivalries happens when Braxton County comes to Clay High
Feb. 20 p Such is the case tonight when the Lady Panthers take on Braxton in sectional tournament action beginning at 7pm sharp. Go Lady Panthers
Feb. 20 p 101.7FM and 106.7FM will be airing the contest beginning around 6:50. FOr those unable to attend in person, here's the online listening link.
Feb. 20 p So why can't you attend? It's about 64 degrees outside and no rain!
Feb. 20 a Suppose to get up around 70 degrees today. Old-timers called this unseasonable weather, pneumonia weather.
Feb. 20 a Little Donald has been front page news since since losing the public vote in Nov.
Feb. 20 a His school boy words and actions have a way of captivating media outlets.
Feb. 20 a Here on the home front, our own Republicrat leadership in Charleston has also been on a tear. Everything from removing taxes from the rich to raising sales tax to the highest in the region are all fair game and in the works.
Feb. 20 a Our DINO Gov is right in there tossing clean water and air requirements to the wind. Over and over during the campaign, he told voters, raising taxes is NOT in the picture. He's now at the forefront of doing that very thing.
Feb. 20 a If you think all that crap is in the name of growing jobs, you would be wrong. The idea is to make the rich richer.
Feb. 20 a Our own Delegate provided, if its good for business, it's good for West Virginia.
Feb. 20 a That too is a crock of you know what. Forty years ago, that was called trickle down economics. It didn't work back then for Regan, and it won't work in the 21st century.
Feb. 20 a Speaking out against such evil is not the popular thing to do these days.
Feb. 20 a This site and The Communicator newspaper have been doing such for decades.
Feb. 20 a Nails in the driveway, rock throwing, punches to the face, having hot coffee thrown in your face, such comes with the territory.
Feb. 20 aWe need help to keep this independent outlet alive and growing.
Feb. 20 a THis is our annual online begging time. So far, we've raised around $300.
Feb. 20 a We appreciate each and every donation.
Feb. 20 a For us to buy new puters, software, and a camera, it's going to take more help. How about you?
Feb. 20 a Please send your hard earned donation to: Delta; 2278 Main Street; Clay WV 250443
Feb. 20 a Thanks in advance.

Feb. 17 a Dave Walker has been helping the Lion's Club do eye screenings for all the wittle school system curtain climbers. We had a chance to talk with Walker Thursday afternoon.
Feb. 17 a Walker made public, his plans to run for Linky Poo's commission seat. We asked twice and he said Yelp both times.
Feb. 17 a One year from right now, the 2018 campaigns will be in high gear once again.
Feb. 17 a Little Donald has been in office two days less than a month. Each day has been stormy and riddled with poorly thought out actions and statements. As for accomplishments, other than being the embarrassment of the world, there haven't been any.
Feb. 17 a We've had dumbarss's in power before. But, when the questions deal with: Mr Prez, did you have contact with Russia before the inauguration and did you cut a deal to undermine existing law? .... it gets real scary.
Feb. 17 a Donny J's "fine tuned machine" is nothing of the kind. Organization does not exist in the While House.
Feb. 17 a Now that we've peed off about 2/3 rd's of the locals, it's time to ask you to dig in your pocket and cough up your hard earned bucks to help keep this site alive and providing daily info on what's right and not so right in beautiful County Clay, Clayberry.
Feb. 17 a For our band of misfits, we have never had a new computer to work with. Instead for 20 some years, we've traveled to W Va State Surplus and purchased used units. The ones in use today are stamped, 1999. They are on their last leg.
Feb. 17 a To continue for another year, we need to replace current equipment plus make software upgrades.
Feb. 17 a Can you help us out? If so, please mail your donation to: Delta; 2278 Main Street; Clay WV 25043
Feb. 17 a Thanks in advance.

Feb. 16 a There have been tons of basketball games in the last three weeks. CHS's regular session is just about done. It's time for placement games. Tonight the Panthers are in LKC action with Ritchie County. With similar records this season, it should be a good match up for the home court game. Tip off comes around 7:30pm Go Panthers. The listen link for the WYAP-LP game is listed below.
Feb. 16 a We've had some great B Ball action. Last night , the Lady Panthers earned a hard fought W. Two nights ago, the Panthers played their best game of the season and came out on top against Braxton. With 2 seconds left on the clock a three point shot by Zack provided the win, 73 to 70. The crowd went wild!
Feb. 16 a For our junk hauler friends, that new listing for scrap on the CLASSIFIED page.. that's to remove, take down, a couple metal out buildings.
Feb. 16 a The Communicator came out Tuesday afternoon. To get it to bed, we worked nearly all Monday night to meet the 8am printing deadline. Tuesday afternoon we inserted the color advertising foldover; sorted, distributed and mailed. That's about 32 hours straight with just a nap in there somewhere. Such puts the whammy on us. Recovery time came Wed.
Feb. 16 a That's been the schedule for the last 22 + years.
Feb. 16 a Now fully rested, we're back at it today.
Feb. 16 a Even tho it's 27 degrees right now, it feels like Spring. Yesterday, one old old guy was seen cleaning up his bee keeping supply building.
Feb. 16 a Come on Spring!!

Feb. 15 p CHS B Ball game tonight. Here's the link to listen in online.
Feb. 15 p In the morning post we mentioned the big food give away happening now. Here's an update
Feb. 16 p They've got tons of food items on hand as of 12:30. Everything from fresh fruit, pastries, bread, bananas out the wazzoooo, cakes, eggs, cereal and more! Get it while it's available.

Feb. 15 a The Communicator made it out the door Tuesday afternoon.
Feb. 15 a The above the fold story provides updates on nine more felony arrests.
Feb. 15 a Inside the local edition provides a glimpse at the improvement going on over in the Town of Clay leadership.
Feb. 15 a We've got pretty good coverage on the continuing efforts of the Greater Clay Recovery group.
Feb. 15 a Speaking of Greater Clay, they're hosting a big food give away today beginning at 11am. For details, check out the EVENTS page right now
Feb. 15 a This is Day 3 of our annual online beggin campaign.
Feb. 15 a Our goal is to bring enough $$ to replace a couple aging PC's and a replacement for the Olympus E-510 camera.
Feb. 15 a Our online advertisers help out a bunch but these days, it's takes a bunch of loot to stay on the web.
Feb. 15 a If you enjoy getting up to the minute Clayberry info, and if you are able, please send your $$$ to Delta; 2278 Main Street; Clay WV 25043

Feb. 13 late p During tonight's public meeting, School Boardsters OK'd the new contract and salary for Superintendent Joe Paxton
Feb. 13 late p Take a guess on his annual earnings.
Feb. 13 late p For the answer, the only place is County Clay's only locally owned and operated newspaper, The Communicator. Latest edition arrives Tuesday afternoon.
Feb. 13 late p There's a reason while the Pentagon held off the vote until after the Exessive Levy Election last month.

Feb. 13 p So far, in 2017, there have been 27 felons arrested. Read all about the 9 newest in tomorrow's Communicator. Badges are at work.
Feb. 13 a Back on Feb. 5th, the Town of Clay placed a Boil Water Order on many customers.
Feb. 13 a That BWO was lifted today. Drink Drink Drink
Feb. 13 Last chance to get something in the Communicator is today around 5pm. Email your stuff now. Thanks

Feb. 12 p Clay County Board of Ed meets Monday evening at the Pentagon, 6pm. The agenda lists the new Super's contract as an action item for the gathering.
Feb. 12 p The rescheduled Business Development Authority (BDA) convenes their once a month meeting at 6:30p in the old State Road garage building in beautiful Two Run.
Feb. 12 p For those now realizing the mental instability of Little Donald, there is a way to remove his Majesty from office. It's time to get started.
Feb. 12 p For those needing a bill of sale, lease agreement, rental agreement and about any other formal document, here's a freebee site offering those items.
Feb. 12 p As promised, now it begins....
Feb. 12 p Once a year we do an online begging campaign to keep this site alive for another year.
Feb. 12 p Yes it's true, we're suppose to be a for profit outfit but in these parts, keeping this rascal afloat, it's tough ta do
Feb. 12 p Operating with three W Va Surplus Properties computers built in 2001, things are starting to go South. Ditto for the Olympus camera that went crazy during the cold weather and the Christmas parade in 2016.
Feb. 12 p Sometime very soon , we have to change from Windows Xp to at least Windows 7.
Feb. 12 p What all that amounts to is, we have to make some upgrades.
Feb. 12 p For that to happen, we're asking you to dig into your wallet and help us out
Feb. 12 p If you enjoy getting up to the minute Clayberry info, and if you are able, please send your $$$ to Delta; 2278 Main Street; Clay WV 25043
Feb. 12 p Million dollar bills are accepted.
Feb. 12 p Thanks in advance
Feb. 9 late late p Anna Mae Walls, 75, of Clay, see OBITUARY page

Feb. 9 late late p Something went haywire with our upload software Wed afternoon.

Feb. 9 late late p After a re install, seems to be working as it should.

Feb. 9 late late p the Thursday morning post is now uploaded.

Feb. 8 a Beginning just after 8pm last night, the local scanner lit up with reports of a Charleston shooter being pursued by Badges thru Clayberry. For about 30 minutes every ear was glued to the 911 radio.

Feb. 8 a TV-3: "Clendenin Police set up spike strips, and the Jeep was eventually stopped by Roane County Sheriff's deputies and state police. Both of their cruisers were hit, and the Jeep ended up on top of the state police cruiser. No deputies or troopers were hurt, and no shots were fired"

Feb. 8 a Here's the link to the complete TV-3 write up.

Feb. 8 a For Guy Mullins Road residents, things got real interesting when the bad guys in the gray Jeep came tearing down the one land road followed by at least two Badge mobiles.

Feb. 8 a Here's an update from Tuesday's Town Council meeting

Feb. 8 a After a long secret time and after the ace cub reporter had left the building, Council demoted Tina Goode from a full time Office Manager to a 24 hour per week part time employee.

Feb. 8 a The new Office manager is Dwana Murphy.

Feb. 8 a With that decision on the books, Murphy will work part time as a wawa operator and the balance of her week as office manager.

Feb. 8 a For years, the wa wa plant operators have told Council it takes two full time (and costly) operators to run the new high tech treatment plant.

Feb. 8 a They're down to 1 and one half operators now and we bet, the place will run just fine

Feb. 8 a Tonight's home coming over at Clay High. The Panthers take on Calhoun County beginning at 7:30. Here's a link for those wanting to listen online.

Feb. 8 a Should be a good game. Go Panthers!

Feb. 7 a From the Town of Clay: BOIL WATER ADVISORY for the customers on the Upper Maysel tank Includes : Maysel/Laurel ridge road, Daubin Spek, Guy Mullins road, Morgan Carr road and teaberry hollow... We had an electrical problem and the pump failed.

Feb. 7 a Sorry for the late notice. The Town issued the Order on the 5th and we missed it

Feb. 7 a Don't forget, Clay Town Council meets at 4pm today.

Feb. 7 a Also, CAEZ holds two meetings in the Courthouse, first at 4 followed by the full Board at 6pm.

Feb. 7 a For those interested in the notion that Washington leaders should have a basic knowledge about their agency, it's time to block Betsy DeVos, one of the least qualified candidates EVER for high office..

Feb. 7 a It's time to contact Senator Capito and Manchin and tell em, vote NO on Devos. The whole email process takes about 3 minutes. Do something important today, contact your Senators.

Feb. 7 a Note that's the twitter account for Smokin Joe. This morning at 9:15, his website was down for repairs.

Feb. 6 a Morning post updated at 8:15. Please re-read.

Feb. 6 a French Creek Freddie called for 6 more weeks of Winter. With warm temps in the forecast in the next six days, we think Freddie was wrong

Feb. 6 a If you've had stuff stolen in the last few months, today would be a great time to to see if your property was recovered during last Thursday's bust in Two Run

Feb. 6 a The Sunday Gazette included a front page follow up article on Clay Development and the ousted from duty, Pam Ramsey Taylor.

Feb. 6 a Other than the clean up of the mess continues, little new was reported

Feb. 6 a How about some guesses from us.

Feb. 6 a With Taylor officially fired just before Christmas, that makes it about seven week ago. Our guess, hope, is the Feds are checking into the years of secrecy and questionable (to many, most) dealings within Clay Development Corp.

Feb. 6 a Gangster Al Capone wound up in the slammer for tax evasion. The IRS got him.

Feb. 6 a The easiest, surest, quickest, way to trip someone up is for the IRS to be checking around. After so many years at the helm, the Feds can surely find a bunch of infractions on Ms Taylor.

Feb. 6 a With over a month of looking time, we think something will come of the investigation sometime soon.

Feb. 6 a Lots of meetings this week starting with the quarterly meeting of the Health Dept Board today at 4pm, in the NH Dyer building on Main Street.

Feb. 6 a For Tuesday, there's the CAEZ meeting beginning at 4pm in the Courthouse.

Feb. 6 a In between the CAEZ offerings, the Clay Town Council holds their once a month gathering beginning at 5pm.

Feb. 6 a From the posted agenda for the Town meeting comes an action item on corrective action on scheduling followed by a secret time with Tina Goode followed "Operations Manager".

Feb. 6 a Sounds interesting and sounds like Mayor Hubbard is following up on his plans to cut operation costs within the hamlet of little.

Feb. 6 a County Commission meets Wed at 10am

Feb. 6 a With nice weather in the forecast, it's a great week for watching our govt at work.

Feb. 6 a If your sitting there goofing off...

Feb. 6 a President Donald Trump has been named in more than 50 lawsuits since taking the oath of office, read more right here.

Feb. 6 a All of a sudden, Americans are thinking, Obama Care might not be such a bad idea after all. Over 9 million signed up for the hospitalization plan in 2017.

Feb. 4 p We have updated the Feb. 3rd , afternoon post. Check it out for the most correct info.

Feb. 3 p Lula Cutlip, 86, of Clay, see OBITUARY page

Feb. 3 p Dreama “Elloree” Davis, 74, see OBITUARY page

Feb. 3 p Tonight at 7:30, the CHS Panthers take on Roane County in home court action. Come out and support the Panthers.

Feb. 3 p For those unable to attend in person, the local radio stations will broadcast the event. The online listening link can be found down below

Feb. 3 p On Jan 19th, during an early morning domestic skirmish, Billy Belknap lost his life

Feb. 3 p That wittle paper over in Clay reported last week, Craig Holcomb had been charged with the murder.

Feb. 3 p He wasn't.

Feb. 3 p As best we can put together and based on those in the know and think they're in the know ... Holcomb was there but it was Belknap who had the rifle and was firing into the single wide trailer.

Feb. 3 p With no weapons found in the trailer and the folks inside saying it was Holcomb doing the firing , an update. Joshua Shirey was the shooter

Feb. 3p After the first shots were fired into the trailer, Shirey came out and sprayed the area with what sounded like an assault weapon style speed of delivery

Feb. 3p After Belknap's 22 mag fired again, Shirey let loose with another round from the fast firing weapon.

Feb. 3 p Belknap was dead . The body was found a little after 8am.

Feb. 3 p Shirey left the trailer before Badges showed up on the 19th.

Feb. 3 p According to the criminal complaint on file at the Courthouse, occupants told Badges, it was Holcomb pulling the trigger.

Feb. 3 p Holcomb was lodged in CRJ charged with firing into the trailer, wanton endangerment x 7.

Feb. 3 p Holcomb did not have a weapon.

Feb. 3 p It is our understanding that Shirey has confessed to killing Belknap

Feb. 3 p With self defense coming into play, our best guess, no charges will be filed against Shirey citing.

Feb. 2 late p Panthers went down in defeat with Valley Fayette smiling all the way home

Feb. 2 late p Anytime you can recover a gob of stolen items, it's a good day

Feb. 2 late p Such was the case Thursday afternoon when Black Shirts discovered a ton of stuff swiped from locals. Maybe from more than one caper, but most likely, the stuff was mostly swiped from the Bogg's Storage units out Wallback way a couple weeks ago.

Feb. 2 late p A Two Run resident tipped off the Badges on the location. Once law showed up, the guy was right and recovered some of his stolen items.

Feb. 2 late p Another lady must have heard about the find and was johnny on the spot and recovered a bunch of her household items in short order.

Feb. 2 late p Have you had items stolen? Time to call the Courthouse Friday morning.

Feb. 2 p Around 12:35 this afternoon, Black Shirts located a bunch of stolen items in a garage in upper Two Run. A garage full!

Feb. 2 p Speculation is, the loot came from the storage buildings that were broke into 10 days ago.

Feb. 2 p Didn't know about that heist? That's what you get for not reading The Communicator.

Feb. 2 p Black Shirts Caruthers and Belt made the discovery after a tip from a local.

Feb. 2 p Did you own one of the 13 broke into storage buildings in Wallback? Might want to call the Sheriff's office right away.

Feb. 2 p Noon:55 over the scanner from a Badge to King Wrecker: Bring a rollback truck to this location .... Got a whole truck load of stuff.

Feb. 2 a Tonight the Panthers take on Valley Fayette over at CHS. 7:30 start time. The Varsity team has been putting together some pretty good quarters of recent. TOnight would be a great time to come out and support the home team

Feb. 2 For those that can't, here's an online link for listening. Go Panthers!

Feb. 2 a Since taking the reign of the Great Ship of Clay, Mayor Hubbard has been making some changes.

Feb. 2 a One of those changes is demanding a reduction in out of control overtime hours. Feeling resistance from the governed and expecting one of more employees to say something along the lines of, Oh Yell, I'll just QUIT!, Hubbard is taking some preemptive action.

Feb. 2 a The Town is seeking resumes for each of the current positions. If your looking for a good job with benefits and close to home, check out our JOBS page for contact info.

Feb. 2 a Keep in mind, that outrageous Mayor wants employees to show up on time and do their job. How crazy is that?

Feb. 2 a Does the White House look more like a game of Whack a Mole these days?

Jan 31 early a Remember the Rucker feller that was arrested down in the Valley View section of the county last year? The one that shot at Badges, blew up some propane tanks and wound up with third degree burns big time?

Jan 31 a He's now been arrested. Full write up in today's Communicator along with the Citizen Arrest by a house wife and a bunch more.

Jan 31 a If all goes well, should be on news stands in a four county area by around 3pm today. Enjoy

Jan 30 p Tonight's CHS Basketball game has been canceled. Stay home if you can.

Jan 30 a Around 6 am: All Clay County School's will be closed today.

Jan 30 a What a bunch of whimps

Jan 29 9pm All schools in Clay County will be on a 2-hour delay on Mon. Jan. 30, 2017

Jan 29 p We've had quite the last seven days or so.

Jan 29 p Without thinking, without telling his underlings, Donny J plowed ahead with some dimly lit memos and orders.

Jan 29 p The day after his inauguration, the largest ever protest crowds formed in every major city, and in many foreign countries. Even down in Charleston there was over 3000 protesters. Gassaway had a couple protesters!

Jan 29 p The multi millions of voices sent out a united message, no you're not Little Donald!

Jan 29 p Later in the week, the simple minded lad thought he had the upper hand on Mexico. He didn't. Instead their leader humiliated our Supreme Corportist by turning down an offer to meet with our inexperienced leader.

Jan 29 p The tough week continued Friday when the Trump started the ban on Muslims in seven countries entering the USA. No, not the countries that the 911 attackers called home, and No, not the countries where Trumpy has business interests.

Jan 29 p Immediately protesters formed and the ACLU took the Executive Order to Federal Court

Jan 29 p So poorly written and violating about every law (religious tests) on the books, the Judge stopped the order in its tracks. Muslims are once again free to enter this land of dimly lit leadership

Jan 29 p Our new leader became an embarrassment for the world to see.

Jan 29 p While being that dumb arss, the ACLU was able to raise an additional $10M to help with other lawsuits. Great!

Jan 29 p All thru the week he still was preoccupied with crowd size numbers. We are seeing a leader whose head is not well attached.

Jan 29 p A lady reporter snuck into the secret Republicrat gathering on Thursday . There, she recorded top Republicrats admitting, they don't have a replacement plan of ANY KIND, at the ready, to replace Obama Care, ACA.

Jan 29 p Donny J has truly become the great uniter. He has united the American public and not in his direction. It's been great so far and he's still got 207 weeks left in office!

Jan 29 p Locally, most everybody knows, the self help Queen Shoals PSD is so far in debt and without proper financial audits in place for years, they have to go. West Virginia Water Co has stepped up to the plate and offered to take over the operation, BUT, it ain't going to be cheap.

Jan 29 p If they take it over, there will be an immediate rate increase. If the take over process stalls, W Va Water will sue the PSD for a huge debt owed them. In either scenario, QS PSD customers should expect their monthly bill to increase $12 to 20 per month.

Jan 29 p For customers that can afford it, look for monthly wa wa bills to get close to the highest in the state. As has been the case every time local PSD's take a rate increase, more customers turn off the service.

Jan 29 p FYI: Clay Roane PSD has the third highest wa wa rates in the state coming in at $80.60 for 45000 gallons. Clay County PSD isn't much better with $60.74 for 4500 gallons. At Clay County PSD customers have to pay 41.10 monthly before one drip comes out the tap.

Jan 29 p Voters succumbed to the Pentagon during the Excessive Levy Election Saturday.

Jan 29 p Making the decision for all 9600 of us, 471 voters said Yes to the extra taxes and that's all it took to pass. A total of 800 people voted this time around. Pitiful!

Jan 29 p By 7:30 Sunday night, the first inch or so of snow starting falling. By 8:30pm, an ambulance was crosswise in the road on Rt 4 and in need of a back up unit. When told, the snow chains are behind the front seat, the driver said, no they're not.

Jan 29 p By 9:15pm, the ambulance was on the run again.

Jan 29 9:22p the ambulance was crosswise once again.

Jan 29 p Some things never change.

Jan 29 p We're ready to start all over again with a new month.

Jan 29 a Jennifer Diana Fitzwater Rushing, 37, see OBITUARY page

Jan 29 a While you're siting at home fretting over the snow flakes, here's a time consuming link on famous West Virginians. Notice, they all went some place else to make their fame and fortune.

Jan 28 late p Dorsel Delbert Ramsey Sr. 70, of Maysel, see OBITUARY page

Jan 28 late p a With a very light turn out of voters, the Clay County Schools Excessive Levy was approved 471 to 329.

Jan 28 late p That's 800 voters out of over 6000+ eligible voters in County Clay or about 13.3% exercising their Constitutional rights.

Jan 28 late p Sad.

Jan 27 a We're finishing off a big week of basketball action with, you guessed it, another ballgame tonight.

Jan 27 a Tonight, Gilmer County comes to CHS to take on the LAdy Panthers. Actions begins at 7:30pm.

Jan 27 a For those not willing to come out in the snow, here's the online listening link. Go LAdy Panthers!

Jan 27 a According to our New Gov., in 1980, 130 bureaucrats ran the W VA Board of Education which handled 500,000 kids... Today we have one half those students and there's ten times the number of bureaucrats.

Jan 27 a Justice thinks it time to cut back on the top heavy administrators.

Jan 27 a In that same vein, the change can start right here, tomorrow, during the Clay County School Excessive Levy Election.

Jan 27 a Lets change the shell game.

Jan 27 a Which ever way , whatever way you think, it's time to vote on Saturday Jan 28th.

Jan 26 p Someone told us, that little newspaper over in downtown Clay is still in business. We didn't know that!

Jan 26 p As a matter of fact, we noticed one of those wittle rags at Go Mart today. On their front page comes above the fold info, Craig Holcomb has been charged with murder in the shooting death of Billy Belknap.

Jan 26 p With the criminal complaint in hand, we can find no , zero, such charge against 41 year old Craig Holcomb.

Jan 26 a From a bad cold to cancer, we all get sick. About every condition is considered normal medical care except mental health. Some insurance plans won't even cover mental illness.

Jan 26 a If you're going to fib, you ought to fib about something that it's hard to catch you up in. When Donny J tells great big whoopers every hour or so, he's easy pickins for even the most junior of reporters.

Jan 26 a After just 6 days on the job, a bunch of us feel, the new Prez is suffering from some out of control, untreated, mental ailment.

Jan 26 a So serious is his condition, behind the scene, some in Washington are already talking about the easiest, quickest, way to get him out of the Oval Office.

Jan 26 a Rumors spread last night that someone came to Badge headquarters and admitted to being the shooter of Billy Belknap.

Jan 26 a At 8:15 this morning, we checked with the Magistrate's office and Magistrate Clerk. The answer from both was, we haven't anything like that and there is no paperwork on record at this time

Jan 26 a Tonight the Clay High Panthers travel to Webster County for a basketball matchup. WYAP-LP and WTUB-LP will air the contest. For online listeners, the link is just below in yesterday's update.

Jan 26 a Temps are dropping today. Snow may be coming our way tonight. Watch out clickers, our online begging campaign starts next week and we need every one of ya for that fundraiser.

Jan 26 a If it snows for Saturday's Excessive Levy Election, that's exactly what the Pentagon wants. Their idea has always been, the fewer that show up, the better chance they have at continuing their financial shell game.

Jan 25 a County Commission meets this morning at 10 am. Soft seats too

Jan 25 a Last night the Lady Panthers went down to defeat. 59 for Nicholas to Clay's 56.

Jan 25 a More basketball action tonight when the Lady Panthers travel to Braxton. Start time is 7:30. For those wanting to listen in, here's the link for online reception.

Jan 25 a On Jan 1st sunset came at 5:05 pm. Today sunset will arrives at 5:26pm. Spring is comin our way

Jan 25 a One year ago today, we were all digging out from a full two feet of snow. Schools were closed down and stayed shut for several days.

Jan 25 a Today it's suppose to get up to 62 degrees. Weird but great news!

Jan 25 a Winter may still bite us this Winter. Weather predicatators are calling for cold temps and snow beginning Thursday evening.

Jan 25 a With snow on the way, better take advantage of the last day of early voting during the School System Excessive Levy vote. Head over to the Courthouse to cast your vote today.

Jan 25 a Election day comes this Saturday. Don't take a chance on getting snowed in, Vote today.

Jan 24 p We've got something important happening tomorrow over at the Greater Clay building beside Spread Park.

Jan 24 p As noted on our EVENTS page, if you received damage during the June flood and aftermath, there's a pot of $$$ available to you now. We're calling it free money for house repairs because, if you keep the place after repairs for 5 years, you don't have to pay the money back.

Jan 24 p After that workshop, Penny Pinchers Tax Service is offering a class on how to handle your tax return for those affected by the flood.

Jan 24 p Good stuff Clay

Jan 24 p Our local School System tells parents, your child is getting a world class education second to none. Of course that is one of those "alternate facts" as Kelly would say.

Jan 24 p In the latest, 2017, study, West Virginia rates dead last in preparing students for the future. Dead last.

Jan 24 p Now there's another great reason for supporting the local Excess Levy now in progress.

Jan 24 a Tonight the Lady Panthers take on Nicholas County in home court action. Game begins at 7:30pm. Come out and support the home team

Jan 24 a Here's the online link to listen for those that can't make it to the game. Go Lady Panthers!

Jan 24 a Early voting period for the School System Excess Levy ends Wed at 4pm. The main Election Day is this Saturday.

Jan 24 a With snow in the forecast for Saturday, don't take a chance on bad weather stopping you from voting.

Jan 24 a Last night, during the School Board meeting, Jennifer Paxton was hired to be the system's Chief Financial Officer.

Jan 24 a For years, School Board members asked to see the actual financial picture. The many requests fell on deaf ears.

Jan 24 a The most recent School System audit raised many eyebrows on the financial sheet being way less than accurate and more along the lines of a shell game. Examples follow

Jan 24 a "General account Ledger account balances were not properly reconciled to the supporting documentation such as cash, receivable, salaries and payroll liabilities... this results in inaccurate and incomplete presentation of the financial position and results..."

Jan 24 a On conflict of interest, "One employee handles the receipts , prepares and makes deposits, records transactions, and reconciles the bank account. In addition, this individual prepares payroll, prepares some cash disbursements and some general ledger functions."

Jan 24 a On the shell game, "We noted instances where documentation was not provided to support general journal entries recorded. ... lack of supporting documentation for general journal entries results in inadequate justification for the necessity of the entry and could result in misstatements in the financial statement..."

Jan 24 a More on the shell game: "We noted several instances where duplicate payments were made for goods and services... Effect: Expenditures are overstated by the amount of the duplicate payments."

Jan 24 a We're hoping, with the hiring of a new CPA, the School Board will finally receive what they've been asking for for years, plain, simple, black and white, how much came in and how much was spent, statements.

Jan 24 a Do they really need the Excessive Levy or do they just need to truthfully state their financial posture?

Jan 24 a Early School System Excess Levy voting ends Wed, Jan 25th at 4pm.

Jan 23 a Today is a great day to get out and vote. Early voting continues over at the Courthouse.

Jan 23 a Elections are costly. According to the Sec of State's website, there are laws that govern levy promotions, what can't be said by those in charge, and what money can and can't be used.

Jan 23 a For instance, not one penny of taxpayer $$$ can be used to promote the Excessive Levy. No Pentagon computer, paper, nor time can be used to grow support of the extra taxation.

Jan 23 a Very clearly, on page 10 of the SOS rules, no employee (like the Superintendent in this case) can speak in support of the ballot measure while on the govt dime.

Jan 23 a They cannot hype the Levy in one direction or another no matter what.

Jan 23 a If you notice, the taxpayer paid for school website, there's a nice big notice of voting Jan 28th and we're Number 1. Providing notice of the upcoming election is A -OK. Hyping it is unwlaful .

Jan 23 a If you notice, the Superintendent speaks out not once but twice in support of the Levy and does that on the taxpayer paid for website. That's a No No.

Jan 23 a During those posts and the pages with the big ad and again on the Middle School page, threats of cutbacks affecting the rug rats are evident.

Jan 23 a State law ( Section B , SOS, page 10) makes such threats also unlawful.

Jan 23 a Section C on page 10 of the above referenced election rule book, makes it very clear, there can NOT be anything that even hints of bias in favor (support) of the extra taxation.

Jan 23 a No employee can use school time of equipment to promote the Levy.

Jan 23 a Anybody seen any of that stuff? Yelp, You bet you have!

Jan 23 a One of the glossy , costly, brochures plainly states, if the Levy doesn't pass, H E White Elem and Lizemores could (would) be closed. Clearly, those comments go far beyond what's allowed by state law. That's a hand down threat.

Jan 23 a School Board meets tonight, 6pm, down at Lizemores Elem. From their newly redesigned website, the agenda.

Jan 23 a Tonight would be a great time to ask School Boardster Susan Bodkins: If the Levy fails, will you vote to close Lizemore and or H E White Elementary Schools?

Jan 22 p It's been quite the week.

Jan 22 p The country received a new Prez. On the podium, Donny John assured all, he was going to look out for the people. Shortly there after one of his first actions was to roll back a discount on the fees for a federal mortgage program that helps middle-class home buyers. Now that's progress!!

Jan 22 p If you're interested in the number of fibs Donny John spewed out during his 16 minute speachm here's the place to find the truth.

Jan 22 p In front of the world audience, Donny talked about the Clayberry School Excessive Levy, said something many of us agreed with: [we have] "An education system flush with cash, but which leaves our young and beautiful students deprived of all knowledge".

Jan 22 p With about 85% of Clayberry voters supporting the new Prez, how could you vote for the excessive levy?

Jan 22 p Speaking of the Levy, the current Levy, the one we've been paying on for five years and still in force, has yet to do what was promised. The current Levy provides funding for Clay County Library. So far, the Pentagon has been withholding funds from the Library.

Jan 22 p The Library is an important part of the community. If the School System is using Levy politics (and they are) to twist arms to get people to vote for the new Levy, what a dirty rotten trick.

Jan 22 p With Donny J on the job, it's time to load up your lunch bucket and be ready to head back to the mines. He Promised it!

Jan 22 p As of Saturday afternoon, only 220 had cast their ballots during the early voting period of the School Excessive Levy.

Jan 22 p With winter weather returning in a few days, that's exactly what the Pentagon wants. The idea is to keep as many people as they can away from the ballot box. With a very small turnout, yes voting school system employees have a bigger impact.

Jan 22 p Thursday during an early morning shoot out, Billy Belknap lost his life. Feels like a domestic that went bad , real bad.

Jan 22 p Friday morning around 9am, Craig Holcomb was arrested but oddly enough, was only charged with breaking in a house where the Badges found him.

Jan 22 p Now after four days to think about it. Some thoughts...

Jan 22 p Holcomb and Belknap rode in the same vehicle over the single wide trailer. Sometime after arrival, the shots rang out and Belknap went down. Since both came in the same vehicle, why would one shot the other?

Jan 22 p One news outlet reported, of the half dozen people inside the single wide Thursday morning , no guns were found. In Clayberry, a residence and no guns? That doesn't make sense

Jan 22 p After some time to think, sounds like, Belknap had the rifle and fired into the trailer. From the trailer came return fire which killed Belnap. That killer of Belknap and the weapon must have skedaddled away before the Badges arrived. Ditto for Craig Holcomb.

Jan 22 p The only question , will one of those inside the trailer, do the right thing and tell the truth?

Jan 22 p On Thursday, an armed and dangerous BOLO was issued after the shooting. Many in the county immediately went and locked their doors.

Jan 22 p As for the school system taking that same precaution, calling for a lock down, we never heard any such mention.

Jan 22 p On Saturday, the largest mass demonstration ever, was held in DC and around the world. Millions were in attendance. The Women's Walk was to show resistance toward the puss filled promises made by Donny J.

Jan 22 p Our only question, when are they doing it again

Jan 22 p The Trumpster is all torqued up over such a small turn out for his inauguration. Less then half of what Obama De Bama got in 2009.

Jan 22 p Locally, Saturday afternoon, the local radio station (101.7 FM) had repairs completed to their transmitter and returned to full power.

Jan 22 p This Sunday afternoon is gray and drizzly. A perfect time for a long afternoon nap.

Jan 20 late p Michael A. Terry, 64, of Bomont, see OBITUARY page

Jan 20 late p Maria Gloria Morriss, 72, of Ivydale, see OBITUARY page

Jan 20 late p It's tough going to keep a business alive in the Land of Little.

Jan 20 late p Surprises make for bad business

Jan 20 late p Word has it, the local power company will cut service Saturday morning with no juice throughout the morning

Jan 20 late p The problem is, Black Diamond (Elk Power) provided NO notice to customers via the local newspaper, local radio station nor this well read website. Emails are quick and easy. None were sent.

Jan 20 late So much for making plans ahead of time. Very bad business practice and worthy of a formal PSC complaint.

Jan 20 p Morning update has been edited

Jan 20 p From the wanton endangerment criminal complaint now made public: Thursday around 7:55am Green Shirt Cervera, Black Shirts Ryan Thomas and Tyler Caruthers responded to a complaint at 986 Blue Knob Road for a shooting into the residence from the wood line. The Badges met with the tenant Kenneth Duncan who was told by his daughter that a man was standing outside the residence . Mr Duncan went to the rear door of the residence and identified the man in the wood line by his water tank as Craig Holcomb.....

Jan 20 p ... Duncan told that Craig Holcomb had a rifle and began running thru the woods and shooting at the residence. Duncan and all the residents got down on the floor . Occupants of the residence were Christina Peck, Dakota Blankenship, Marlina Duncan, Jamie Dawson-Smith, James Rogers, Carlos Duncan, and Kenneth Duncan....

Jan 20 p That second criminal warrant for nightitme burglary was penned Jan 19th by Green Shirt SL Bass and reads in part: 911 called in reference of a buglary in progress at 1236 Procious Maysel Road. Th vicitm was identified as Robert Stone who stated that someone smashed thru the front door and was still inside. The victim and his family were locked in a back bedroom. Officers found Craig Holcomb who was sitting on a couch. The suspect appeared to be under the influence of a controlled substance.....

Jan 20 p The suspect showed his hands and face and stated that he was Craig Holcomb.. the suspect was ordered to stand and was placed in hand restraints. During the search, a TV remote was found and returned to the home owner....

Jan 20 p The victim stated that he heard a voice on the front porch.. the suspect then bagan trying to get inside the residence. The victim then gathered his family and secured them in the back bedroom and called 911. The victim states that could hear what sounded like the house being destroyed and also heard the suspect say he would kill everyone inside the house...

Jan 20 p Just think, early morning, family's at home and someone is working to break into your home.

Jan 20 p Craig Holcomb is lucky to be alive today!

Jan 20 a It is our understanding, fugitive Craig Holcomb was captured this morning by Green Shirts.

Jan 20 a Over the scanner, around 9:10am came word, one in custody and heading to the Magistrate office for processing.

Jan 20 a Roane County comes to CHS tonight for a basketball match up with the Lady Panthers . 7:30 start time. Nice weather today, why not come out and support the home team

Jan 20 a For those that can't, here's the online listening info once again.

Jan 20 a Donny J has a big day today. After swearing in, he has about a dozen promises to keep for those that call him Prez.

Jan 20 a For the majority of General Election 2016 voters, it's a very scary day.

Jan 19 4pm Before 6 this am, scanner traffic went on a domestic in the Blue Knob area of Clayberry.

Jan 19 4pm Mid morning a Be On the Look Out for 41 year old Craig Holcomb was issued and the guy should be considered armed and dangerous

Jan 19 4p 3:20 this afternoon a Green Shirt was in Magistrate Boggs office carrying paperwork. Our guess, the white papers were search warrants but just a guess.

Jan 19 4p Regional TV News crews left the new Courthouse around 3:40 this afternoon

Jan 19 4p Green Shirt Cervera was asked for comments but said he could provide nothing.

Jan 19 p On the question: Is your BOLO still active, Cervera said Yes.

Jan 19 p We're not sure if a domestic escalated or if a drug deal went sour this morning

Jan 19 p TV-8 is reporting that Craig Holcomb is a suspect in the shooting and death of Billy Belknap, also of Clay.

Jan 19 p Knowing both of these men, some comments

Jan 19 p Craig got out of prison just 2 years ago after getting five years for meth lab materials out Widen way. When he got out, he was a clean, thinking young man ready to restart his life. A few months back, we saw Craig and he was a completely different lad. Gone was the clean neat appearance and the hollow eyed look had returned.

Jan 19 p Billy was a tall thin young men that spent a couple years in the local Scout troop along with his brothers. Back then we asked Billy what he wanted to be when he grew up. His response was not to be a doctor, lawyer, or rich. Instead 14 year old Billy Belknap said he wanted to be a "junker" of old vehicles.

Jan 19 p One other note on Billy, of the whole bunch, he was the resourceful one. Of all the Scouts, if you were in a pinch, you would want Belknap at your side. He was a quick thinker and wouldn't leave your side.

Jan 19 p For many years, Billy chose to walk down the road of drugs. Last week we had a chance to talk to him over at the newspaper office. The guy had his head about him and was looking for odd job work. We listed him and work abilities on the JOBS page.

Jan 19 p Very sad day for Billy Belknap and family.

Jan 19 p We don't know what has happened to Craig. Facebook lit up with all kinds of crap. One of those posting suggested that Craig was also dead.

Jan 19 4p We don't know.

Jan 19 p Just before 4pm today, all Black Shirts were still away from the Courthouse.

Jan 19 p Around 4:45 this afternoon, five Black Shirt mobiles were seen leaving Blue Knob and heading toward the Town of Clay.

Jan 19 a Clay Roane PSD holds their monthly meeting tonight, 6:30p, at the Procious Water Plant.

Jan 19 a Are you a flood victim and in need of $15000 free dollars. Better check out the EVENTS page today.

Jan 19 a JFK won his election by one vote. That's one vote on average per precinct across the country.

Jan 19 a Hillary lost Michigan, a swing state for a win, by 2 votes per precinct.

Jan 19 a In those instances, every vote counted.

Jan 19 a Here in Clayberry, it's early voting time for an important issue, the School System Excessive Levy. For the second poorest state in the nation, about the second poorest county in the State, and a place wiped out by the June flood, on the ballot is a chance to roll back taxes on every piece of property you own.

Jan 19 a Early voting began Saturday.

Jan 19 a As of Wed morning, 10am, only 79 some voters exercised their right at the ballot box.

Jan 19 a. Based on the most recent W Va Dept of Education figures, 48% of Clayberry students are unable to do basic, grade level English, 59% are below par in the field of science and a monstrous 70% are unable to do basic math on grade level.

Jan19a a A mark forkeeping the Levy is an approval of dismal education and Pentagon leadership. Your vote still counts at the local level.

Jan 19a After the Nov 8th Prez election, the vast majority of voters went into a gray funk. Voters across the nation were appalled that a rude, racist, bad, person would become the next Prez.

Jan 19 a Today's the last full day in office for Obama De Bama. At high noon Friday, the puss filled Donny J takes over the reigns and starts the tear down of the greatest nation on Earth.

Jan 19 a For those that have read the book, 1984, the final piece of the puzzle will be in place Friday at high noon.

Jan 19 a On Nov 23rd locally gown Badge, Green Shirt Aaron Nichols, was arrested after blasting a DNR Robo Deer near the old County Dump. Since then, he's been off work according to the official State Police statement.

Jan 19 a Rumors are swirling that Mr Nichols had been given three choices, get fired, quit, or take a medical early out deal and that he had taken the third option.

Jan 19 a Wed afternoon we asked Green Shirt spokesman Lt Michael Baylous: Do you have a new statement on the investigation and or job status of Aaron Nichols?

Jan 19 a Response from Baylous: No Sir. Nothing new to report at this time.

Top of the morning to ya. The slight drizzle outside shouldn't slow you down one bit when you're out and about shopping

Jan 18 a Be sure to pick up a copy of Clay County's only locally owned and operated newspaper, The Communicator.

Jan 18 a 20 pages of great stuff including our interview with the new head of Clay Development, Ramona Stanley

Jan 18 a Lead story handles something you don't hear about often. Since the beginning of the year, Badges have made a bunch of felony arrests. Hope they keep up the pace all year long

Jan 18 a It's not often that we have a say in how much taxes we have to pay.

Jan 18 a Early voting for the School System's Excessive Levy continues today in the Courthouse

Jan 18 a Make your voice heard, vote today

Jan 18 a We're down to the last couple days of sane leadership before the Tweeter In Chief takes over on Friday.

Jan 18 a Hope Obama De Bama stays busy the next 48 hours.

Jan 16 p Alice Marie Matheney, 94, of Ivydale, see OBITUARY page

Jan 16 p Last chance to get something in the Communicator is now. Email right away

Jan 15 p It is a soggy yucky Sunday afternoon in Clay.

Jan 15 p With early voting now under way to determine the fate of the School System Excessive Levy, there's a couple reasons the Pentagon wants the election this time of year.

Jan 15 p One. In case the vote doesn't go their way, the Elect folks want time to run it over and over. Law says, if a Levy vote fails, the Pentagon can put it back on the ballot every 90 days til it passes or they quit wasting $$$

Jan 15 p Two. As has been the case in the past, the Pentagon wants the lowest voter turn out possible on Election Day. The idea is, school personnel will come out to support their own even with 8 inches of snow on the ground. In the past, heavy snow has hampered voters getting to the polling places.

Jan 15 p The current tax burden doesn't run out until the end of June 2017.

Jan 15 p Now with early voting during the two weeks leading up to the Jan 28th Election Day, there's no excuse for missing a chance to mark your ballot.

Jan 15 p Early voting takes place in the County Clerk's office in the Courthouse.

Jan 15 p A vote for the Excess Levy is a vote of support for current leadership and performance.

Jan 15 p Like having upwards of 80% of the kids unable to do math at grade level? Vote for the Levy.

Jan 15 p Like having the millions moved around in the shell game, vote for the Levy!

Jan 13 p Dorothy Jean (Holcomb) King, 76, of Bickmore, see OBITUARY page

Jan 13 p Tonight the Clay High Panthers took their first win of the season beating Calhoun by 2 points

Jan 13p The Lady Panthers had control of the Webster Co match up from the first minute. Final, 78 Lady Panthers, 30 for Webster

Jan 13 p Saturday Jan 14th is the first day of early voting during the School System Excessive Levy election. Don't take a chance on high water or cold temps, come out and vote during the during Early Voting time in County Clay.

Jan 13 On this Friday the 13th, the High School Lady Panthers are heading up to Webster County for a B Ball match up. Without a junior varsity game before hand, the varsity game will begin at 6:30pm tonight.

Jan 13 p For those that want to listen online, click this button right now.

Jan 13 p Not interested in basketball? Big Otter Community Center has a great band tonight,Frank Conn and Partners. Music begins at 7pm

Jan 13 p Have some fun this weekend before Winter returns!

Jan 12 p Earlier post has been updated as of 1:15

Jan 12 p The Greater Clay Long Term Recovery Committee meets tonight beginning around 6pm

Jan 12 p Taylor Floral has been housed in the Clay Development (CDC) building since they began.

Jan 12 p According to Town records, a new flower shop was licensed on Dec 29th. Called, All for You Flowers and Gifts, the Sec of State's web portal notes that the new business is , will be, located at 170 Main St and is owned and managed by Daniel Coleman

Jan 12 p Mr Coleman worked in Taylor's Flower Shop in the CDC building.

Jan 12 p 170 Main Street is the space used by Taylor Floral.

Jan 12 p County Commission met Wed morning. It was the second meeting of the public group with Fran King on the bench. The meeting was just a Ho Hum meeting until near the end when Ms King opened up a real can of worms.

Jan 12 p King started off with comments on the need to clean up the county, that the place looks pretty trashed out. She's right and certainly a darn good project.

Jan 12 p She got her thing in the wringer when she added, she had been talking to some Govt guy who advocated accepting state code law which gives authority to clean up stuff to the local County Commission.

Jan 12 p That's better language for what locals refer to as zoning.

Jan 12 p Zoning is a nasty word in Clayberry and during previous public meetings over zoning, hundreds of residents came to the Courthouse and were very firm while expressing their views against such crap.

Jan 10 p 911 scanner listeners were glued to their radios this morning when a Be On the Look Out came across the airwaves.

Jan 10 p Dispatchers reported a shooting suspect coming our way in a pick em up truck with camouflage trim.

Jan 10 p Shortly thereafter, local Black Shirts were headed toward I-79 with tire spikes at the ready

Jan 10 p Moments later, scanner was a buzz with the suspect had made a you turn and was heading back to Braxton County.

Jan 10 p Here's the TV-8 coverage as of 5pm.

Jan 10 p Tonight at 7:30pm, the CHS Panthers will be over in Braxton County for a B Ball match up . Here's a link for those wanting to listen in via the web.

Jan 10 p Go Panthers

Jan 8 10:50p Over the scanner: Domestic in progress at the Ambulance Service. Need law enforcement.... Male is locked outside.. Female is locked inside....

Jan 8 p Clay County Schools are on a two delay for Monday morning when the temp is suppose to be around 4 degrees. A bunch of schools are on two hour delays tonight.

Jan 8 p Quietly, without any notice that we know about, social service provider Enact closed its doors last week and left downtown Clay.

Jan 8 p Enact is a replacement after replacement name change that began life as Multi-Cap decades ago. Multi Cap and CDC are both a product of JFK's War on Poverty back in t he early 1960's.

Jan 8 p Sheriff Triplett's been on the job since Jan 1st. To date, we haven't heard him on the radio. He's on the job just not on the radio.

Jan 8 p We've got a couple meetings slated for Monday evening.

Jan 8 p the BDA convenes their monthly gathering at 6:30 over in the old State Road garage in Two Run.

Jan 8 p The School Board meets at6pm in the Pentagon Monday evening.

Jan 8 p School Financial Officer Kevin Issac resigned last month and a replacement will be announced during this meeting.

Jan 8 p The last Superintendent's last hire didn't go so well after they read the state nepotism policy.

Jan 8 p For those that don't remember that law on who can be hired at the Pentagon, here goes again: .... may not recommend for employment an individual who is related to him or her as father, mother, son, daughter, brother, sister, uncle, aunt, first cousin, nephew, niece, husband, wife, father-in-law, mother-in-law, son-in-law, daughter-in-law, brother-in-law, sister-in-law, stepfather, stepmother, stepson, stepdaughter, stepbrother, stepsister, half brother or half sister;

Jan 8 p Decades ago, nrighbors in the Bomont Porter's Creek neighborhood got together and installed their own wa wa lines. Calling themselves the Queen Shoals PSD, the operation has been under funded since the beginning and for the last many years, been in debt to their ears

Jan 8 p Wed morning, the County Commission will vote to disolve Queen Shoals PSD

Jan 8 p Stay warm if you can. If not, stay inside Monday

Jan 8 a This morning at 5, the temp was 8 degrees. Now at 10 am, Clayberry has a balmy 12 degrees with snow coming down

Jan 8 a For all the whimps in this area that think it's too cold...

Jan 8 a Here's a nifty You Tube location loaded with great info from Jerry Skinner. Fill up your coffee cup, grab a blanket and enjoy of great documentaries on the likes of Superman, Andy Griffith, Hoss Cartwight and more.

Jan 8 a Bet ya, if you watch one, you will be there for hours.

Jan 6 p Tonight's CHS Basketball game has been canceled. As for make up tomorrow, nope is the official word

Jan 6 p Clayberry received around five inches of snow this morning. Main roads were cleaned off pretty quick. Not so the side roads which remain slippery dippery

Jan 6 p We haven't had a mention of Clay Development Corp in several days. Here goes

Jan 6 p For decades, CDC has been notorious for closing early, opening late, and for the most part, if schools let out, so did CDC

Jan 6 p Schools are closed today but not CDC. Yesterday afternoon, schools let out a couple hours early. For the first time maybe ever, CDC remained open

July 6 p Operating under new leadership and with the office open normal business hours, maybe seniors will finally get the benefits available in t he rest of the country

July 6 p Stuff to do this weekend, Check out the EVENTS and ADVISORY page now.

All schools in Clay County will now be closed on Fri. Jan. 6, 2017.

Jan 5 later p Louie Allen Sirk, 79, of Duck, WV, see OBITUARY page

Jan 5 9:15 p Clay County Schools will be operating on a two hour delay Friday morning, Jan 6th

Jan 5 Sleep in curtain climbers

Jan 5 p There's one last chance to stop Trump from becoming Prez. At noon on Friday , Congress will count the Electoral College and certify the results. That's not always a slam bam thank you mam thing. Contested ballots could be sent into a conference among other things.

Jan 5 p Two times in our history, the certification has not gone smooth

Jan 5 p Back in 1872, electors at the Electoral College jumped ship and 63 of em did not vote for the candidate they were bonded to.

Jan 5 p That was the year Horace Greeley was a favorite Prez candidate and died before taking office. Check out the faithless electors. and this click too.

Jan 5 p Not wishing ill will on Donny J but..... please, someone, come up with a way to circumvent this coming train wreck

Jan 5p CLAY COUNTY SCHOOLS ARE CLOSING EARLY TODAY. The brats will be there two hours early.

Jan 5 a Weather predictors are saying we've got up to 5 inches of the white stuff coming in the next 24 hours. Be careful out there

Jan 5 a Last night the Panthers took it on the nose when the Herbert Hoover Huskies chewed us up and spit us out. 57 to 34

Jan 5 a Forgot to mention something yesterday during the Town Council meeting update

Jan 5 a Last July , the old RT's grocery store building on Main Street burned to the ground.

Jan 5 a Owned by the Nichols brothers and locked in bankruptcy and family feud, the burned out carcass is a big eye sore in the Town.

Jan 5 a During Tuesday's Council meeting, Mayor Hubbard announced, one of the owners, Mary Nichols, now has permission to remove the burned remains.

Jan 5 a If that's true, what a nice way to get 2017 started!

Jan 4 p After a good night's rest and The Communicator on news stands around the region, how about a tune up

Jan 4 p County Commission held their annual organizational meeting Tuesday morning at 10am. By the end of the gathering... meeting dates and times in 2017 will remain the same, the 2nd and 4th Wed of each month beginning at 10am. Meeting agendas will be hung on the meeting house door a full three business days in advance of the meeting.

Jan 4 p What did change was the entry of new Commissioner, Fran King. Well, actually returning Commissioner King after a 6 year hiatus.

Jan 4 Before meeting's end, Fran asked a bunch of questions and brought herself up to date on everything from what property the CCC still owns and the status of wawa projects around the county.

Jan 4 p With tight finances in mind, one update included, Sheriff Garrett Samples provided his Black Shirts with new off duty side arms and leather jackets among other things.

Jan 4 p Old duty weapons were sold off. Questions came on whether such purchases are available to his department without an auction or at least opening the purchases up to the public

Jan 4 p Clay Town Council also convenes their monthly gathering in the wa wa plant

Jan 4 p The 2017 Person of the Year is Jason Hubbard. See Communicator for more

Jan 4 p Hubbard is making an effort to take control of out of control Town finances. Like..

Jan 4 p Before any purchase, he has to OK it

Jan 4 p Signed purchase orders are now being used

Jan 4 p For years, various Council members have asked to see employee time sheets during meeting. The usual response from the previous Recorder (Dwana Murphy) was: Ok, next time.

Jan 4 p Next time never came

Jan 4 p Last night, the Mayor rounded up the time sheets on his own and passed them to the elected body.

Jan 4 p He said something along the lines of, if you are OKing financials, you should see all the bills including employment costs. How refreshing

Jan 4 p He mentioned, during a recent 10 month period, over $18,000 was paid out in overtime wages. He said that has to be cut back with a target of a 25 to 50 percent reduction.

Jan 4 p How refreshing again

Jan 4 p A committee was set up to go thru employee records and come up with a plan to cut back on overtime and reschedule the current work force for efficiency

Jan 4 p That committee is to have their work completed and present their findings during the Feb Council meeting

Jan 4 p For Blue Knob Road residents, it's time to cough up the $100 tap fee for the new wa wa line extension project.. With just about all the permits in place, 80% of the residents, about 40 users, have to sign on the dotted line before much else can be done.

Jan 4 p For the rest of us non Blue Knob residents, the Engineer assured all at the public meeting, there is no need for a rate increase to pay for this extension project.

Jan 4 p No rate increase. Mark that down.

Jan 4 p Shane Morton repaired a sewer line after the June 23rd Great Wash out. His bill came in a little over $100K. That was last Summer and the local contractors is still waiting to be paid

Jan 4 p FEMA is notorious for not paying their bills in a timely manner and for paying a smaller than expected amount

Jan 4 p In the mean time, a local contractor is in dire straits
Jan 3 p Joselyn Schoonover Cooper, 71, see OBITUARY page