November 2009

 
  • Nov. 30 p  Missing: Family Pet, "Jr Lee", 2 feet tall, 40 pounds, white with brown spots, brown mask on face, lost in the Otter Lick area near Bill Boggs ridge. really missed, if you see, please dial: 304 286-5208
  • Nov. 30 p Planing on walking into the Mteer Gas Co office to pay your bill, ask a question, get your gas turned on? Think again, It's all gone. Read all about it in Tuesday's Communicator.
  • Nov. 30 p With all the domestic violence pettition info  on Joe Morris from the Supreme COurt web site, around Main Street, folks are giggling as they sing, Stalking Around the Christmas Tree. Details Tuesday.
  • Nov. 30 p We're in typing mode to get the Communicator out the door Tuesday afternoon. No updates until the rascal is put to bed.
  • Nov. 29 Late p  Sometimes during the weekend wrapup we miss stuff like WVU's huge last second win over Pitt Friday night. All together now, EAT SHIRT PITT!
  • Nov. 29 p  The Clay High Basketball schedule is now posted over on the ADVISORY page. DOn't bother looking for the schedule on the school's web site. They still have the 08 season posted as well as the tournament action from the year prior.
  • Nov. 29 p $18m a year budget and seriously top heavy at the administrative office and no one to make their web site worthwhile. Heck they're almost as bad as the CAEZ and BDA which haven't updated their sites in years!
  • Nov. 29 p  In the Gallop Well Being Index, West Virginia ranks dead last in about every criteria. One WVU prof equates that to a dismal educational system. We agree. More $$ ain't the answer.
  • Nov. 29 p As we polish off the 11th month of the year, it was a great time to be in Clayberry during the last seven days.
  • Nov. 29 p For the most part, we didn't give a hoot about anything but getting into the woods and blasting away. Heck, even if you didn't see Bambi, just blasting away for the fun of it was welcome relief from the world.
  • Nov. 29 p  Leading up to Turkey Day, some were seen putting up Christmas decorations. Over at the Family Dollar, T Day was actually long gone with Christmas specials and music blaring.
  • Nov. 29 p The day of stuffing ourselves, watching football games, and taking long naps came Thursday. Rolaids followed along with turkey sandwiches and now turkey salad, turkey everything and anything to get rid of the last of Tom.
  • Nov. 29 p Thursday morning we saw a touch of snow and cooler temps. Nothing more than showers but the white stuff brought back the reality of, winter is here.
  • Nov. 29 p  In the way of Clayberry action, Health Dept Board Chair Joe Morris was told by the West Virginia Supreme Court, the threat of harassing ex girl friends will not be tolerated. According to the Court documents, Morris expended a bunch of energy banging on the ex's windows, blocking her vehicle from exit, and picking a piece of pipe for unknown reasons.
  • Nov. 29 p If took Kim Thomas 2 years of effort thru several court systems to get the needed domestic violence petition OK'd by the big robes but she finally got it.
  • Nov. 29 p In the precedent setting decisions outrageous actions and the real threat of such even by community leaders like Joe Morris will not be tolerated.
  • Nov. 29 p Morris remains Chair of the Health Dept, the folks charged with running, overseeing, the health and good will of the county.
  • Nov. 29 p  As we  move into the new, last month of 2010, it's time for a new round of entertainment at public meetings. The Communicator comes out on Tuesday. Submission deadline is today at 5pm. Email your goodies ASAP.
  • Nov. 27 a  Ruth Butcher, 94, see OBITUARY page
  • Nov. 27 a  Carol R. Myers , see OBITUARY page
  • Nov. 27 a  Verlin D. Frame, see OBITUARY page
  • Nov. 27 a Belated... Happy Birthday Edward Adkins
  • Nov. 27 a From the email bag:  4 years ago, you were called home after a long battle with cancer leaving us to mourn you.  We still think of you everyday and miss you terribly.  You will be forever in our hearts and we will see you again. Forever loved and missed greatly, Marni, Holly, and Paco, Robert "Bob" Killingsworth July 19, 1948 to Nov. 23, 2005
  • Nov. 27 a From the email bag:  ... Today, we are watching the tomatoes, lettuce and green onions mature for our home grown salad for Thanksgiving.  And, getting ready to roll up our sleeves so as to not get overheated while decorating the house for Christmas.  I know, it's not for everyone but we are pleased to be able to take a turn.  Happy trails, Carol and Gene McClure
  • Nov. 27 a How many of ya fell for the 5 am specials? Got up at 4 , drove to Charleston for that super low price something or other , arrived at 5 am only to find, the store had just one in stock and it's already gone.
  • Nov. 27 a Peed were you? But, did you go ahead and shop the store? They got ya. Happens every year.
  • Nov. 27 a  The Health Dept is charged with many responsibilities, public health, protecting the needy, providing info on how to make life better, women's health needs, giving kids a healthy start, and is the host site for the Family Resource Network. Joe Morris is the Board Chairman for the Health Dept.
  • Nov. 27 a This week the Big Robes in Charleston that when Joe Morris stalks a one time lover, bangs on her windows for two hours, and made the lady so fearful she had to run from her own home... well a domestic violence petition is in order.
  • Nov. 27 a The Supreme Court appeal stems from Morris' actions two years ago. The appeal came after local Courts denied the petition. Pointing the finger at Judge Ric Facemire among others?
  • Nov. 27 a Well No. According to Charleston newspaper reports, this is precedent setting and sets a new benchmark for West Virginia.
  • Nov. 27 a From the official COurt paperwork: This case is an appeal of the January 13, 2009, order of the Circuit Court of Clay County, by the petitioner below, Kimberly Thomas. By the terms of this order, the circuit court affirmed the family court's denial of Ms. Thomas's request for issuance of a domestic violence protective order against respondent below, Joseph B. Morris, pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 48, Article 27 of the West Virginia Code. After carefully examining the record (See footnote 1) and law in light of the arguments before us, (See footnote 2) we reverse the circuit court order and remand the matter for return to the family court for entry of an appropriate final protective order.
  • Nov. 27 a Also from the documents:  Ms. Thomas and Mr. Morris had been in a twelve-year romantic relationship which Ms. Thomas terminated in December 2007. Mr. Morris attempted to rekindle the relationship beginning in May 2008. Mr. Morris's efforts to renew the relationship included  an ever-increasing number of phone calls and voice mail messages to both Ms. Thomas's cell phone and work phone, and unannounced appearances at Ms. Thomas's workplace and at her home. Ms. Thomas maintains that each time she refused to resume the relationship, Mr. Morris's harassing conduct escalated, culminating in the incidents which occurred on July 13, 2008.

  •    Ms. Thomas represented in her petition for a protective order that she feared for her physical safety based on Mr. Morris's conduct on the evening of July 13, 2008, and his intensifying pattern of harassment. According to evidence Ms. Thomas supplied before the family court, she was at her trailer with her then boyfriend, now husband, Ray Blake, on July 13, 2008, when Mr. Morris arrived unexpectedly at around 7:30 p.m. After Ms. Thomas did not answer the door, Mr. Morris did not leave the premises but began moving around the outside of the residence, banging on the doors and windows for a period of approximately one to two hours, and asking Ms. Thomas to come out and talk with him. Ms. Thomas claimed that during this time she witnessed Mr. Morris pick up a three foot long metal bar or pipe and saw him bang it against the trailer. Ms. Thomas maintained that she effectively felt trapped in her home during this time.
       Ms. Thomas said that her feelings of being trapped in the trailer and fearing for her physical welfare were justified for reasons beyond the demanding behavior Mr. Morris exhibited on that evening. These reasons included: she knew Mr. Morris had obtained a concealed weapons permit and routinely carried a concealed weapon; she believed Mr. Morris' vehicle was blocking her driveway so that she could not leave the scene in her car; and she had no way to call for outside assistance because she did not have a telephone connection in the trailer and cellular coverage was not available where the home was located. Eventually Ms. Thomas and her boyfriend waited until they were sure the Mr. Morris was on the back porch so that they could run out the front door to get to a neighbor's home a quarter mile away to use a phone.  ....
  • Nov. 27 a  In the mean time, Joe Morris remains Chair at the Health Dept., a position of trust and authority.
  • Nov. 27 a Kim's allegations are just that, allegations.
  • Nov. 27 a Of course, we know something about Morris' out of control violent behavior. On more than one occasion, Morris has come to the Communicator office with violence on his mind. The last time was a couple years back when he slapped the ace cub reporter's glasses to the floor.
  • Nov. 27 a How did Morris get away with such out of control behavior? Charges were filed, statements were taken, admission of guilt was heard but the investigating officer Green Shirt Gonzales died three days before the case was to come to Court.
  • Nov. 27 a Morris got lucky that time. Maybe not this time.
  • Nov. 25 a  We're taking a little time for life at home. Hope everyone has a nice time with family and friends.
  • Nov. 25 a it's hard to find handymen in Clayberry. Here's a couple you might be interested in
  • Nov. 25 Ron Walls is young guy that can handle many handyman jobs.Those fix up projects you've been putting off might be right up Ron's alley. 304 941-2972. He even showed up on time!
  • Nov. 25 a Matt Carte graduated last Spring from CCHS and is taking some electronics training at Carver. Need some beginning level electro work? Try Matt 587-4954.
  • Nov. 24 a With a trace of rain to soften the leaf noise and warm temps, this years buck season is nearly perfect.
  • Nov. 24 a  County Commission meets Wed morning at 10 am. Other than that public gathering, most of us are either in the woods or otherwise staying away from work tasks. It's the week of deer camp. The one week out of the year, Clayberry shuts down for fun.
  • Nov. 24 a  News if it happens.
  • Nov. 22 p As we near the season of over eating and families coming home to be together, the government said 49 million Americans are unsure of where their next meal is coming from. That is almost one in six . . . and 17 million of those are kids.
  • Nov. 22 p  Out of control students? PUT EM ON Ridilin was the battle cry for years. Now it's pot. From the NY Times:  Several Bay Area doctors who recommend medical marijuana for their patients said in recent interviews that their client base had expanded to include teenagers with psychiatric conditions including attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.
  • Nov. 22 p Dubbya's reign of economic terror continues 11 months into the Obama fight to restore the country, 23 states and Washington D.C. reported that their unemployment rates increased, and 14 states had jobless rates above the national average
  • Nov. 22 p  And finally on the national front, the US Post Office said no way to forwarding Santa letters addressed to the North Pole. Another sad in US history.
  • Nov. 22 p Here at home papers were served this week on another costly lawsuit.
  • Nov. 22 p  Stump Morton is suing Black Shirt Robert Belt, Jeff Rider, Top Badge, and County Commission for the civil rights violating actions of Robert Belt. Out of control thumpy and smashing are the allegations brought by Mr Morton.
  • Nov. 22 p Allegations are nothing being brought against Belt are nothing new. In the past others have come to the Sheriff who in turned brushed aside any such possibility as preposterous and Belt is a good officer.
  • Nov. 22 p Thursday evening county leaders received much needed training on how to run a public meeting.
  • Nov. 22 p Warm weather made most of us forget that this is winter time. With temps in the upper 60s and some us still wearing short pants, it's tough to think about cutting firewood and winterizing the house.
  • Nov. 22 p Colleges shut down in prep of the Turkey Day holiday off from classes. It's nice seeing the kids return for a few days..... just a few days please
  • Nov. 22 p We readied for deer camp. In the Appalachian Mountains we celebrate the week of Bambi busting with great vim and vigor. Everything else comes to a screeching halt as the woods are invaded with locals and visitors alike.
  • Nov. 22 p That is the few woods left without NO Hunting signs posted on every tree. The tradition continues but the area of use has been cut by 3/4s.
  • Nov. 22 p  The big news from the last seven days, after 5 weeks of deprivation and near death life, the ace cub reporter got his beloved couch back home and reupholstered. Life can return to order. It took Dave Reed Upholstery five weeks to get a two week jo completed but Ohhhhhh how nice.
  • Nov. 22 p No more grumpy napless afternoon, the Mel Gibson look alike is ready to resume life as it should be.
  • Nov. 20 late p Misty Jones, 28, of Beechy Ridge, Bickmore, see OBITUARY page
  • Nov. 20 late p For intents and purposes, Clayberry has shut down for the next week or so. It's buck season, the week of deer camp. Throughout the county, well except where arsonists have set woods are ablaze, four wheelers on the back of pick ups, most in camo whether they're hunting or not, and sales of hunting related items (ammo, vienna sausage and beer) are on the rise.
  • Nov. 20 p Some of us are still suffering in County Clay. Take for instance the ace cub reporter who remains without his beloved couch for well over four weeks. No naps, no late night TV stretched out on the ever comfortable sofa.
  • Nov. 20 p After years of service with the basset hound on one end and his teenage son on the other, it was time to be reupholstered. The upholsterer said he would return the soon to look new item in 2 weeks. With the son returning home for the Turkey week, Great was the reply. The new couch would be back in place and just perfect for the trusted davenport minus the dog hair, french fries and chips stuffed along the edges.
  • Nov. 20 p That two week deadline for completion and return has come and gone twice over and more.
  • Nov. 20 p The son has returned from WVU. Out a couch and a $380 deposit, the guy won't even return phone calls. The Mel Gibson look alike is doomed to the vacation week without a comfortable nap spot. Can anyone imagine the time spent after a Thanksgiving Dinner anyplace other than on a couch? This has become serious!
  • Nov. 20 p Maybe a ball bat is in order for the offending and lazy craftsman!  Famine, Avion and Swine Flu, Wars, Larry Darryl and Darryl and no nap place. What's this world coming too??
  • Nov. 20 a Sabra Katherine “Kathy” Reed, 61, of Strange Creek, see OBITUARY page
  • Nov. 20 a Lawsuits are very expensive. Another one has been added.
  • Nov. 20 a Guess the coffee house crowd was right once again.
  • Nov. 20 a Filed Nov. 10th in Federal Court by David Morton, this is a civil contest where David (Stump) wants $$$ for violation of his civil rights.
  • Nov. 20 a  Who's named?  At the forefront is Black Shirt Robert Belt (new nickname, Thumpy) and fellow Deputy Jeff Rider, our Top Badge, and the County Commission which has 20 days to respond.
  • Nov. 20 a This case is in addition to the criminal investigation now in progress on Robert Belt.
  • Nov. 20 a Both relate to the Sept 28 2009 events at the Courthouse (see latest Communicator for details) and Nov. 14 2007 when Belt and Rider entered Morton's home in Maysel.
  • Nov. 20 a From the Court papers:  Defendants Belt and Ryder arrived at the plaintiff's home at 9:40pm. ... the plaintiff politely asked them to remove their boots so as to not stain the white carpet in his home... Ryder removed his boots prior to walking on the carpet .... Defendant Belt became enraged and stated "F!!! you and the white carpet". ... in a  state of uncontrollable rage Defendant Belt hit him repeatedly with the butt of his flashlight and physically threw the plaintiff against the dresser and proceeded to strike him about the face and head.... Defendant Ryder failed to intervene or in any way stop belt's excessive use of force .....   since Nov. 14 2007 Belt has initiated numerous traffic stops on the plaintiff for no purpose other than to harass and intimidate....
  • Nov. 20 a Keep in mind, OJ beat the criminal charges but the civil case cost him a fortune. That same thang could happen to Clayberry if Stump Morton prevails.
  • Nov. 19 a Warm temps and bright sunshine in Nov.? We're getting spoiled.
  • Nov. 19 a Tonight there's a class on how to use Robert's Rule of order and keep a public meeting in order. Something Clayberry has needed for years. See ADVISORY page for details.
  • Nov. 19 a Stump Morton is pointing the finger at Black Shirt Robert Belt as an officer that gets out of control and beats the stuffin's out of people while in uniform. Two alleged incidents are in the latest Communicator
  • Nov. 19 a The coffeehouse crowd is passing around that a civil lawsuit has also been filed in the Federal Courts. In addition to Belt, they're saying that Black Shirt Rider has been included for not stopping the face bashing two years ago, our Top Badge for knowing of the out of control Belt the Basher and not doing anything about it, and the County Commission because they actually do all the hiring.
  • Nov. 19 a We're making a trip to Charleston to see if the suit has been filed. Post coming later tonight.
  • Nov. 19 a Lawsuits are very costly. True we have insurance coverage but loss of time and paying the deductibles plus settlement $$$$, it all adds up and out of tax pockets. Did we mention such also increases insurance premiums?
  • Nov. 19 a  Controversy is growing over Fire Departments, recent forest fires on private property and who is allowed to go on posted lands to put out the blazes. A good rain may be the only thing to help now.
  • Nov. 19 a Over on our LINK page is the quick click to the West Virginia Jail web site. Here's another link and independent link to W Va convict info.
  • Nov. 19 a Lookin for deals on Black Friday. How about all the flyers on one web site.
  • Nov. 18 a  The latest edition of the Communicator is now on news stands almost around the world. Well... at least in five counties.
  • Nov. 18 a   Our lead story covers the winter indictments and background reading from each case. Included is the latest on the Black shirt Robert Belt being investigated on criminal allegations of continued harassment of Stump Morton, many of the follow up emails subjecting pedophile Jim Knotts,  and a little piece on our Top Badge often referred to as the little Czar. Sure to make for some good reading.
  • Nov. 18 a 70 cents and worth every penny.
  • Nov. 18 a After about 6 days of absolute warm sunshine looks like Clayberry will receive a little rain today. With the forest fire season in high gear and one fire burning for days, the rain may over some relief.
  • Nov. 18 a Better update coming later today.
  • Nov. 16 late p  Elma E. Butcher, 81, of Clay, see OBITUARY page
  • Nov. 16 late p William T. Summers, 59, of Strange Creek, see OBITUARY page
  • Nov. 16 p  while at the Courthouse today, a couple of the workers commented on a bug returning to this site. We've checked again and feel the portal of clean of ANY infection. If you see something, please email with the info. Thanks
  • Nov. 16 p We're in typing mode as we work the night away on the next Communicator. Until we get the thing out the door Tuesday around 4pm, no updates.
  • Nov. 16 p Our lead story will cover the details on the latest indictments, church robbers in Ivydale, our new hometown hero, a lady opening up a big can of potty mouth while in the Courtroom, the Black Shirt Belt investigation, and maybe even a dab on what's really going on at the Courthouse.
  • Nov. 16 p  Just 70 cents and worth every penny.
  • Nov. 15 late p The norm is to provide a weekend wrap covering the last seven days and do that sometime each Sunday. Without a couch even the dog looks sad. After spending the weekend finishing up the bathroom remodel job how about something interesting.
  • Nov. 15 p Black Shirt Robert Belt has been a deputy since before our Top Badge was elected 4 1/2 years ago. Every once in a while you hear a story on the guy. The stories cover out of check behavior for anybody especially someone in law enforcement. As far as we know, often from not the most reliable sources,  they're just stories. We haven't heard any reports of disciplinary action on the veteran Black Shirt.
  • Nov. 15 p That includes an accounting provided by Stump Morton from a couple years ago where Morton says Belt thumped the crap  out of him while in his Maysel home. Broken jaw, broken eyeball socket and more. To date, it's just been Stump talking.
  • Nov. 15 p  A second story comes from Morton dated Sept. 28 2009. According to Stump , as he was leaving a Magistrate's office ( paying a moving violation ticket),  Belt preceded to knock the wind out of him for no reason other than out of control behavior. With several witnesses there on the 28th as well as a security tape, this story may be growing some legs.
  • Nov. 15 p After Stump asked our Top Badge to investigate the incident and nothing happened, after Stump asked the local and So Charleston Green Shirts and nothing happened, and after a phone call to the FBI where once again there was zip follow up, there is now some paperwork
  • Nov. 15 p Somewhere in there, according to Stump , requested a copy of the security tape from the head Black Shirt. He never got it.
  • Nov. 15 p   A couple weeks ago Morton's attorney asked the Prosecutor to forward a copy of tape, actually a digital recording,
  • Nov. 15 p Three days ago, Friday, a formal letter from the Circuit Court came to the Courthouse. This letter makes mention that a formal investigation is now mandated.
  • Nov. 15 p You can hear anything at Go Mart and you might even hear several versions of the same story. As for Stump, not challenging his words but as we told him, unless there's some court papers, something, anything, it's just he said he said and nothing more.
  • Nov. 15 p There is now something to go on. Full details in Tuesday's Communicator. Your only source for real news in Clayberry.
  • Nov. 13 late p Plenty of good stuff to do this weekend in and around Clayberry. Check out the EVENTS page for details.
  • Nov. 13 late p The BDA Saturday Night Consignment Auction is under new management as of last weekend. Kayo will remain as the auctioneer but the The Brian and Kim Adkins family is reworking the place including a Christmas auction coming soon. Their ad will be in the next Communicator
  • Nov. 13 p Some call Clay County's only independent newspaper the agitator.  Recommended by Commissioner Slinky more than a year ago as great reading and very entertaining, The Communicator is more often than not the only source for news here in the slow lane.
  • Nov. 13 p This web portal is also something that agitates. For instance
  • Nov. 13 p If you look over on the ADVISORY page, on the free Big Otter Bingo ad, there's a one liner: hassle free parking Sandy.
  • Nov. 13 p Who's Sandy? We're not sure but during a recent Big Otter Fire Dept meeting, she accused Boardster Holly Cunningham of inserting "hassle free" to their free listing.
  • Nov. 13 p Knowing full well the huge rift within the BOFD, their last court battle neighbor Magistrate Jeff Boggs, the last Spring parking episode, and all the turmoil they got into after  an acre of parking space beside the firehouse, we added the hassle free parking to their free ad
  • Nov. 13 p When we found out the sandy lady accused Cunningham of the penmanship we changed the hassle free parking to hassle free parking Sandy.
  • Nov. 13 p Oh boy!  Hadn't been back in town but a few minutes until the Sandy lady called. After several minutes on the phone, the ace cub reporter admitted that he added the zinger to get her goat.
  • Nov. 13 p Telling the truth doesn't always work out folks.
  • Nov. 13 p  After a Sandy threat of "you don't know know who you're talking too", (true we don't), Mr Mel Gibson look alike said thanks and hung up the phone.
  • Nov. 13 p Less than two hours back in Clayberry, and World War III is probably stirred up right now. Got ta luv the place.
  • Nov. 12 a  We've got a full day coming
  • Nov. 12 a Big tax sale at the Courthouse around 10 am. Good chance to realize some Clayberry holdings on the cheap.
  • Nov. 12 a County Commission meets at 10 as well. Sure would be a good time for county employees to ask for Christmas bonuses!
  • Nov. 12 a After the meeting, Clay County's senior Statesman RT Sizemore will be honored with a luncheon.
  • Nov. 12 a Thursday night down at the Procious Water Plant, Clay Roane PSD will convene their monthly huddle at 7pm. The agenda is posted over on the ADVISORY page.
  • Nov. 12 a Deadline for Communicator submissions is Saturday at noon. Email your stuff ASAP.
  • Nov. 12 a Today Jim Knotts will beginning packing for his prison term. Lets see now, socks, toothbrush, comb, clean underwear.... KY jelly.
  • Nov. 12 a No updates tonight, plan to head off with the wifey and see theWVU rug rat . Maybe take in a big dinner as well.
  • Nov. 11 a  Janet Christine Cornell, 44,  see OBITUARY page
  • Nov. 11 a It's a day off work for government workers and school kids. For many it's a chance to start Christmas  shopping. For the rest of us, it may be the last warm day for honey do's
  • Nov. 11 a How about a story with a happy ending.
  • Nov. 11 a Sunday a little four year old managed to wander away from Granny. Wander he did up a hillside more than 1000 feet from the Wallback area home.
  • Nov. 11 a About every fire dept, ambulance worker, Badge, and good neighbor in the county spent over 2 hours in the search. Fortunately, last Sunday was very mild and the youngster was found safe and sound. The Mom says she wishes to thank everyone that helped in the search and mentioned Kenny Scott as the young man that actually found the curtain climber.
  • Nov. 11 a  Clay County PSD handed out $500 Christmas bonus Ok's yesterday during their monthly meeting. PSD Chair Greg Fitzwater said the big cheeses at the West Virginia Public Service Commission and the West Viriginia Ethics Commission such hand outs are A OK with them. There's nothing illegal about such practice under state code.
  • Nov. 11 a In 2008 our Top Badge did that and now the Clay County PSD is doing so. If it's good for those folks why not the rest of the government workers. Time to belly up to the trough !
  • Nov. 11 a Clay County has a government mandated Master Land Use Plan to guide the use of mined out lands. The plan was put together five years ago by a stand alone committee of 12. State law requires the plan to be updated every three years. During the last CCC meeting, Larry Darryl and Darryl set up a meeting of the original group for last night at 5:30.
  • Nov. 11 a The volunteer committee was suppose to meet at the Courthouse in the Commission room. with Slinky being the guy designated to unlock the place. The aging, sagging, Commissioner Slininooggor was no where to be found.
  • Nov. 11 a Nine members of the volunteer group did manage to get in the building and hold their first organizational meeting with Consol Energy. No decisions made with a second meeting planned for early Dec.
  • Nov. 11 a If the ace cub reporter had a couch, he would take a long nap this afternoon.
  • Nov. 11 a Have some time off today and thank a Vet.
  • Nov. 9 late p   HAPPY 15TH BIRTHDAY KAYLA CUMMINGS
  • Nov. 9 p  HAPPY 8th BIRTHDAY TO COLBY GROSE
  • Nov. 9 p Tuesday morning all the newly indicted come before the Judge to enter their plea. Action starts at 9am
  • Nov. 9 p Clay Co PSD convenes their monthly meeting across from the Courthouse at 11am Tuesday. Agenda items include: Christmas bonuses
  • Nov. 9 p  Tuesday, 5:30, is another public meeting called the Master land Use Plan meeting. FOur years ago, Fred Sampson headed up the state mandated committee which resulted in a muchly improved long term plan for the county relating to coal mining.
  • Nov. 9 p This time around watch for the CCC and BDA to get the gears all gummed up.
  • Nov. 9 p Ten years ago after a public outcry, the CCC organized and hosted a training session for  all agencies that operate under state Sunshine laws. With State Deputy Attorney General Dawn Warfield as the speaker, the CCC room overflowed with those seeking answers and ways to skirt existing law.
  • Nov. 9 a Clark D. “Chuck” Dotson, 58, of Glen, see OBITUARY page
  • Nov. 9 a Chucky as many called him was quite the character. For instance...
  • Nov. 9 a Installing heating and air conditioning units was his forte. Sometimes Chuck would spend long periods under your house. Afterwards it would be common to see a bunch of empty beer cans in the crawl space or basement.
  • Nov. 9 a One time after installing an outside A/C unit, Chucky said everything was working fine and done. After his leaving, we realized he hooked the big unit up using an extension cord. Turned out, it was MY own extension cord!
  • Nov. 9 a Years ago this ace cub reporter put up a big sign at the Queen Shoals bridge which read: CHUCKY LIES. What happened was Chucky promised to return to a furnace install and finish the job. For three weeks the sign hung along the road until the fellow finished his work. Each time he drove, rode by, he honked and grinned.
  • Nov. 9 a Last night while finishing a home redo job, I picked up a yellow handled vice grip set of pliers. 20 years ago during one of his last efforts here at the home front, Chuck Dotson forgot em.
  • Nov. 9 a Whether it was  30 plus years ago in Scouting at "Buckskin" or yelling at him over some quirk, Chucky added the color and zest to Clayberry. He will be sorely missed.
  • Nov. 8 late p Puter worms buried in over the weekend. We think the attack is cleaned as of 2pm today. If you notice any warnings popping up, please email With each update we're checking to see if the infection comes back before we post. Translation: Slow updates for the next couple days.
  • Nov. 8 p  This county is a hard nut to crack. First they said, he'll never get arrested. He did. Then they said the case will be tossed. It wasn't. He'll never do a day in prison.
  • Nov. 8 p Well, Jim Knotts doesn't report to Bubba until the 13th. the way we understand it, Knotts is guaranteed a full year and maybe little longer.
  • Nov. 8 p We still have people in the county saying, he'll somehow get out of the time behind bars. There's only one way that could happen and we're not even going to go there!
  • Nov. 8 p Tuesday afternoon the ace cub reporter went down with some kind of flu. For 12 hours it was shock and awe from the throne. If swine flu is worse than that 12 hours of H, God pity those with it.
  • Nov. 8 p  Knotts was on Monday. Then came TG Cruickshank Jr. at the end of the week, A one time business leader and pillar of the community. TG plead guilty to watching kiddy porn and was sentenced last week to a couple years in a Federal slammer.
  • Nov. 8 p TG gets a couple years for watching porn. Knotts had sex with  at least one 11 year old and sounds like he may get out before TG.
  • Nov. 8 p Some things we just don't understand but are thankful the wheels of justice turned the two into the felons they are.
  • Nov. 8 p  We're not saying in any way shape or form this happened to TG, but take a gander what a hacker can do to you.
  • Nov. 8 p  Also this week came the latest class of accused during the Winter Grand Jury. 14 in all.
  • Nov. 8 p Funding came for a new Town of Clay water plant more than a decade ago. On Wed construction crews got into gear clearing the site. Over $5 m will be spent. Months ago, Council was told that a water rate increase would be needed to cover the new mortgage.
  • Nov. 8 p The town sells the wet stuff to Clay Co and Clay Roane PSDs. When the Town raises rates, everybody elses has to go up as well. Bend over wa wa users, it's coming real soon and there ain't a thing you can do about it. When you cry, I can't afford it!, tough, too late. The debt has to be met.
  • Nov. 8 p  In addition to covering bad guys, the BDA met last week. All in all a pretty quiet 60 minute session with the center of attention being the econ dev group agreeing 100% to come into the fold and be the third party in hiring a full time economic development coordinator for the county. When are they hiring ?  The BDA said right now! But of course they , the CCC, and the CAEZ have no say in who gets hired or when or what the new person will do. A select three person committee is in control of all that.
  • Nov. 8 p After a home made connoction of vegetable soup with hominy and tons of spices added, Friday night some kind of crud hit the Mel Gibson look alike again. Worse than the flu on Tuesday, Friday night for the entire night, little Mr high and mighty watched the world pass by once again sitting on the ceramic throne. Without even a couch for comfort in-between those nasty trips, how could it get any worse?
  • Nov. 8 p Without warning, without cause, Irene the basset hound came into the still being remodeled bathroom and took a big dump right in the middle of the floor! If barfing till it turns green isn't bad enough, the added aroma of fresh dog poo did little to make things any better for the sickly reporter.
  • Nov. 8 p  You couldn't tell it's Nov. this weekend . With temps in the 70s and bright sunshine, beautiful.  With recovery 90% complete Saturday afternoon, Irene gave the look of : why am I out here on the dog run instead of inside on the carpet.
  • Nov. 8 p That ##!!! dog ain't seeing the inside of Tall House again!
  • Nov. 8 a Our little buddy in NY came back sometime last night and did the i frame insert on this site. Thanks CW Jr, KB, PM., BB., for alerting me
  • Nov. 8 a Working on the attack as of 8:15 this morning.
  • Nov. 8 a Update coming as soon as the problem is cleared up.
  • Nov. 6 late p  Eula Mae Kemper Cole, 80, of Procious,  see OBITUARY page
  • Nov. 6 p  It's been a banner week for sentencing Clayberry business leaders. Judge Facemire put the whammy on Jim Knotts on Monday. Yesterday in Federal Court, Judge Joseph Goodwin sentenced TG Cruikshank to two years behind bars followed by 15 years of supervised released.
  • Nov. 16 p TG was the heir apparent to the local Chevy dealership, ran for public office more than once, and family man. My how times change with the click of a mouse and viewing kiddy porn.
  • Nov. 6 p Grand Jury convened on Tuesday. Behind closed doors they came up with this group of fine Clayonians for review...
  • Nov. 6 p Dorsel Ramsey Burglary, Assault during the commission of a felony, assault
  • Nov. 6 p Clifton Woods   Escape
  • Nov. 6 p Eric Carte  possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance
  • Nov. 6p  David Hanshaw  uttering x 4
  • Nov. 6 p Samuel Nottingham Det of prop., conspiracy, attempt, conspiracy
  • Nov. 6 p Crystal Nottingham Dest of pro., conspiracy, attemp, conspiracy
  • Nov. 6 p Billy R Stewart Manufacturing a Sched  I Controlled Substance
  • Nov. 6 p Michael Shoults  Poss with intent to deliver a controlled substance
  • Nov. 6p Jonathon Matthew Humphrey  poss of chil porn x 25
  • Nov. 6p Eric Hamrick Burglary, conspiracy, petit larcent, conspiracy
  • Nov. 6 p Morgan Belt  Burglary conspiracy, petit larceny, conspiracy
  • Nov. 6 p Bruce Belt burglary, conspiracy, petit larceny, conspiracy
  • Nov. 6 p Amanda Belt Burglary, conspiracy, petit larceny, conspiracy
  • Nov. 6p Jeffrey Adam Morris B&E a building other than a dwelling, petit larceny, dest of prop
  • Nov. 6 p The public cna hear them all say Not me Judge, I didn't do it, Tuesday Nov. 10th at 9 am
  • Nov. 6 a  Anybody else scratching their heads over the Ft Hood shooter. One guy and two pistols killing 13 and seriously wounding 28. All alone, one person?
  • Nov. 6 a Last night the BDA met for about an hour where all walked in lock step to formalize the long stalled partnership with the CCC and CAEZ to hire a full time Eco Dev Coordinator. Nodding in agreement the BDA also agreed to hire the person and em to work before the old post office building building is renovated into new office digs.
  • Nov. 6 a Unfortunately, the BDA has no say in the job specs, hiring or operation of the position. That's entirely left up to an independent Committee of 3, Mike Pierson, Mike Boggs, and Connie Lupardus.
  • Nov. 6 a  With sunshine and dry predicted over the next couple days, better get out and get the last of the Fall honey do's completed.
  • Nov. 6 a  Over 2400 clicked on this page Wednesday. Thanks and when you see one of our advertisers, tell them thanks too.
  • Nov. 6 a One more follow up email on Deloris' email in support of our newest pedophile Jim Knotts. This from Harry Grimes:  Dear Deloris, How on earth can you defend a pedophile like this idiot. I don't care if he was the god damn Pope or had 20 kids, he needs to be punished. His family needs to think back and try to explain why they didn't have a clue what he was doing to these kids, yes if there is one , there are many more. You have a warped mind, attacking the best reporter in Clay! Wake up
  • Nov. 6 a  How refreshing. A potty mouth email that ain't directed at AW
  • Nov. 5 a Dempsey E.” Buck” Coleman, 67, of Bomont, see OBITUARY page
  • Nov. 5 a  Arrene A. Sears, of Ivydale, see OBITUARY page
  • Nov. 5 a  Clay County Business Development authority convenes this afternoon at 5pm. A couple months back the group voted unanimously to sever their tie with the CAEZ in the partnership to hire a full time Director. Since then everything on the table has changed about including the CAEZ Board allowing Connie Lupardus to at least consider working with the BDA in the project.
  • Nov. 5 a As soon as the BDA realizes the only reason they're involved is their $$$, and they have little if any say in the Directors tasks, should make for an interesting meeting tonight.
  • Nov. 5 a Most of the time Roy Brown's picture shows up in The Communicator, the caption starts out, on or about such a date....  Now on the straight and narrow, Brown got hitched last week and got his and Sarah's picture and caption in the paper in a positive light. Good for Roy
  • Nov. 5 a  Last night the CCHS girl's volleyball team put it all over Liberty. Tonight they take on Philip Barbour on their way to a regional championship bid. Go Lady Panthers!
  • Nov. 5 a Yesterday morning's post included an email from a  Deloris Perry with a different look at the recent convictions of felon pedophile Jim Knotts. If you missed it, take a gander down.
  • Nov. 5 a The response to that posting has been substantial to say the least. Most are unprintable even on this web portal. There was one particularly in the know response. Here it is with editing: Dear Mr.Waddell,  This e-mail is not only for Ms.Perry, but for anyone that cares to read it.  Mr.Waddell may have an opinion, but what I have to say are the facts. I am the ex-wife of James L.Knotts.I knew my ex-husband since I was a child ,when his Dad Leo would sit me on his lap and chew up peanuts and feed them to me. I started dating my ex-husband when I was only 12 years old. He forged my Birth Certificate when I was 15 years old, to 17 yrs. old so we could get married, and No I wasn't Pregnant. The Fact he molested 3 little girls not just one!

  •     The Fact, Yes he took the Kennedy Plea with a stipulation that charges wouldn't be brought against him for Molesting ..... XXXXX  XXXXX ,and  then there's another niece he  touched, but was old enough to tell him Don't you ever touch me again!   Was my ex-husband thinking about his ex-wife (Me) and Our Sons when he was caught in Bed many times with ...  ( XXXXX)and his excuse was, She was scared and I fell asleep, And the Fact that he could write a letter to a little girl that started with Dear Lover! and A Phrase in that letter that said "If Loving You Is A Sin then I will go to Hell".   When she stayed with us he would take her in the bathroom and give her a Bath with the door shut, and did I think anything was wrong with that?  No! He was her Uncle Jim, and she loved him very much. Was my ex-husband thinking about 3 little Girls or his perverted Pleasure!  And Yes I felt Guilt, and Pain, and Hurt,  And I Still do!
        Jim Knotts was a good man, "so it seemed "He had Wonderful caring Parents, 2 Wonderful Sons, A Granddaughter at that time. Good Friends,  and most of all a Wife that Loved him Very Much!  And Yes a Business Man, Up Standing Citizen in The Community.  And do we know what a Child Molester Looks Like, NO WE DON'T!!  Because they do look normal.     They just hide behind the face of that Loving Husband, Father, Grandfather, and Business Leader of the  Community.       Connie Knotts   Ex-Wife of James L.Knotts
  • Nov. 5 a Fall is time for getting ready for winter and doing those honey do's long put off....
  • Nov. 5 a As remodeling continues, lessons are learned. Like, new bathtubs are very slicky. Those nice shiny white plastic  tub enclosures. all straight and glued to the wall, they come tearing lose very easy when a 185 pounder goes grabbing for those little shelves in the corner.
  • Nov. 5 a  You ought to use gloves when removing old wallpaper with that liquid stripper. Although is doesn't take wallpaper off for crap, it really does a softening job on thumbnails.
  • Nov. 5 a You don't know how lucky you if you own a good soft couch, a napper. Now at the upholsterer for the third week...... The comfortable couch is missed in the worst way. Like, with the old one, if you needed some spare change, just reach down the inside and WooWaLaa, quarters and dimes emerged. Need something to munch on, there was always a potato chip or broken pretzel... well except the time the pretzel turned out to be a hidden piece of dog food.
  • Nov. 5 a If you needed something to start a fire in the stove, all you had to do was run your hand across it and poof, there was enough dog hair to start even the dampest kindling.
  • Nov. 5 a I miss my couch...
  • Nov. 4 a The world didn't end
  • Nov. 4 a We're not all wearing towels wrapped around our heads.
  • Nov. 4 a And, there's still a good supply of chicken in every grocery store.
  • Nov. 4 a A year ago today Obama De Bama was elected to the White House as our first ever Hawaiian President.
  • Nov. 4 a What took the Republicrats 8 years to tear apart, after 11 months at the helm, isn't it great to have someone there that can speak in complete sentences.
  • Nov. 4 a Was watching the biggest loser show last night. Those folks were happy to loe 4 pounds in 7 days. Ha!!!!!!!!
  • Nov. 4 a the ace cub reporter has got them beat hands down. After 8 hours of barfing and squirting, lost 4 pounds.
  • Nov. 4 a And Yes, he's still got plenty of the brown stuff left!
  • Nov. 3 late p Mr and Mrs Communicator reader, the latest edition is now available. Our above the fold lead covers what we saw Monday afternoon during the sentencing of Jim Knotts.
  • Nov. 3 p Our angle is basically, any 46 year that has sex with an 11 year old should have his winky removed or be sent straight to Hell. Others have a different opinion.
  • Nov. 3 p For instance, this email: As i sit here and read your so called reporting on Jim Knotts, i can't help but feel sorry for some one like you who seems to thrive on other peoples pain. You stated he is a parent, grandparent, a leader he is also a husband. Yet you didn't seem to care about his wife, kids or grand kids, when you passed your opinion that there's a special place in "Hell" for him. Since you like to give your opinion even if no one wants it,  i thought you could pass my opinion along as well, even if you don't want it. Your a sad excuse of a so called reporter. Since what you had to say was just that "Your Opinion" and not facts. After all your not "GOD"!!!  A reporter only reports facts not his OPINION!!        Deloris Perry     Newport News,Va
  • Nov. 3 p Everybody has a different idea on what to do with a pervert. If you'd be interested in presenting your view to Ms Perry, here's her email:   DeeBo35Too@aol.com
  • Nov. 3 p Sometime early this morning after getting The Communicator to bed. Thunder squirts and barfing galore filled every receptacle. The trip to Spencer to pick up the finished product was a wet one to say the least.   Oh how the ace cub reporter longs for his couch for a stretch out session. Still no couch!
  • Nov. 3 p Was going to sit in the wifey's new recliner. With the real possibility of filling the seat with the wet brown stuff, ain't no way, not if I want to live in this house !
  • Nov. 2 late p Without saying he was sorry, nor showing any remorse, community leader, business owner, parent, grand parent, pedophile Jim Knotts was sentenced to two 1 to 5 years sentences, consecutively, plus fines and court costs.
  • Nov. 2 p When asked if he wanted to say anything, other than sounding like he was railroaded into a guilty plea, he said little else.
  • Nov. 2 p There's  a special place in Hell for child molester James Knotts.
  • Nov. 2 p  Full details in Clay County's award winning, community based,  Communicator coming out mid afternoon Tuesday.
  • Nov. 1 late p  John William Gency, 89 of Clay, see OBITUARY page
  • Nov. 1 p  From the email bag:  Harold Lee, former West Virginia State Policeman,  Big Lee as we called him, is gravely ill.  He is in the hospital and would appreciate cards from his friends.  Please send cards to Harold Lee, 102 Summit Street, Spencer, WV., 25276
  • Nov. 1 p How about we just hit the bright spots for a wrap up.
  • Nov. 1 p Saturday mid day the Clay Middle School Mustangs won the Central West Virginia Conference Championship over Summersville, 20 to 8. In the mud and the yuck, our team excelled. A great way to polish off a perfect season.
  • Nov. 1 p Saturday night the Pee Wee football league held their New River COnference Super Bowl. Clay's A team came out on top in a hard fought battle against Oak Hill, 26-0..
  • Nov. 1 p  Trick or Treaters came out in force Saturday night. With no nastiness heard on the scanner, it was a great night for all.
  • Nov. 1 p The rain is washing away our fall colors. About all that's left are the rusty browns on the Sycamores.
  • Nov. 1 p For the Mel Gibson look alike, Monday will mark two weeks without a couch. No stretching out for a quiet snooze in 13 days so far.
  • Nov. 1 p With the beginning of the new month, public meetings are a plenty. School Board meets Monday night at the Standard Bryant Annex building on Gump St. Here's the agenda for that gathering. Tuesday brings together Clay Town Council and the CAEZ.
  • Nov. 1 p Also this week is the sentencing of one time community leader, Jim Knotts at 3pm Monday.
  • Nov. 1 p Grand Jury convenes Tuesday for another term of locking up the druggies.
  • Nov. 1 p The school system is posting the number of students with flu like symptoms on their web site. That link is now available over on our LINK page about 3/4 way down the list or here.
  • Nov. 1 p  Last week we asked you to find the longest word type able using just the second line on the keyboard. One guy told us the word was : flasks. We thought that was pretty good until Rhonda Dennis came up with Kladdkaka which is a word and type  of Swedish cake.
  • Nov. 1 p   race car spelled backward spells race car
  • Nov. 1 p eat is the only word that if you take the 1st letter and move it to the last, it spells its past tense, ate
  • Nov. 1 p  Health insurance companies are aggressively raising premiums at the same time they are fighting to stop the creation of public non-profit funds that would give them serious competition. Read a little more on the down and dirty big wigs.
  • Nov. 1 p  What's all the fuss about? After all the noise over Democrats' push for a government insurance plan to compete with private carriers, coverage numbers are finally in: Two percent.
  • Nov. 1 p Good news:  Five drug companies are now increasing production of the vaccine for the H1N1 swine flu, and 10 million more doses are expected next week
  • Nov. 1 p Bad news:  The multi year ice covering the Arctic Ocean has effectively vanished.
  • Nov. 1 p Next time a Badge gives you a ticket, tell him it's not your fault, the reason you drive so poorly is because you have bad genes.

  • Nov. 1 p We're in shut down mode until we get The Communicator out the door Tuesday afternoon sometime. Until then, you're on your own.