January 2009
 

Jan 31 a Elsie E. Sutton Mollohan, 91, see OBITUARY page

Jan 30 p Friday night's CCHS B Ball game has been cancelled.

Jan 29 Late p  Not sure what happened this evening but the Panther home game against Herbert Hoover never happened. HHHS was a no show.

Jan 29 p  Earlier in the week the radio station web site was hacked and shut down for a while. Turns out the bad guy used a malware opening to gain access. You got the same bug in your puter? Could leave you exposed to security breaches  too. After a bunch of searching around, here's the link to a freebee anti malware 2009 removal tool. Seems to work good and the price is right.

Jan 29 p No new updates until we get The Communicator out the door sometime Friday afternoon.

Jan 29 p Well... unless something dumb happens!

Jan 29 a   A priest booked into a hotel, and said to the receptionist, "I hope the porn channel in my room is disabled."   "No," she said, "It's regular porn, you sick b*****."

Jan 28 p After getting an OK from the local Health Dept Czar  on Wednesday, the Kitchen restaurant (under new management) on Main Street opens for the lunch crowd Thursday. Good place to get out of the cold too!

Jan 28 p Now don't tell Two Run's John King anything yet... his birthday is Friday.

Jan 28  p  After two days of no school, parents are ready to kill those little crumb snatchers. Snow and ice balls have been flying for two days.

Jan 28 p Thursday night is a rescheduled CCHS Panther B Ball home game against Herbert Hoover. Tip off 7:30pm. Get out and support the home team.

Jan 28 p  County Commissioners are attending an out of county conference for the next couple days. We can breathe a little easier for now.

Jan 28 p The Commission met Wed morning. One interesting tidbit from that gathering. Commissioner Slinky wants a copier for his own use. During the meeting he mentioned that County Clerk Connie Workman had refused him after hours access to those in her office . You might remember , before the Jan BDA meeting, the Clerk's office moved the 911 copier into the CCC room for Slinky's use. That evening, no one in the room knew how to turn the darn thing on.

Jan 28 p During the meeting on the 28th, Slinky asked to purchase a new $1000+ copier for his use. Didn't go so well him. Turns out  there's another copier already in the room and one much easier to use than the 911 unit. Also, turns out the Ambulance Service has a spare copier that can be moved to the Courthouse.

Jan 28 p   Also from the meeting... our Top Badge wants his own key for the used only once in a while, local 911 center. Commissioner King pitched a big fit over that saying they would be happy to unlock the place whenever he needs to be in there. Holcomb didn't like that response and said it was unacceptable. In reply, from Fran King, well, there's rooms we don't have access to.

Jan 28 p Just love it when back room tiffs come out in public.

Jan 28 p All the juice and more in Friday's Communicator. Email over your classifieds and chatters right away.

Jan 28 p Last edition we included the welfare fraud fine levied against Doc Jamie. Sure looks like the new century ain't working out so good for local physician. Here's a big income tax fine and penalty from 2007.

Jan 27 Around 9:30pm Sarah the school auto robo started making the calls, Clay County schools will be closed Wed.  Around 9:35 the Somber Super was on the radio  with the Bus Czar discussing whether to close schools or not.      Sarah was on the ball, She also works much cheaper than the Super.

Jan 27 p  Wed morning , 10 am , the County Commission meets. On the agenda is a request for County Clerk employees to receive pay raises. Last meeting, the CCC OK'd a hefty raise for Assessor employees, some with just a few weeks of seniority. They made the decision without comment, kind of like, get this over quick and maybe no one will notice. Wrong!

Jan 27 p  Good for Goose and Gander??? Two departments at the Courthouse have "slush" funds. That's the Sheriff's office and Assessor. From those slush funds (concealed weapons for instance) came the unlawful one time bonuses given Sheriff Dept employees just before Christmas. The Assessor also has discretionary $$$ she can use as she sees fit.

Jan 27 p The sad part is, all the other departments at the Courthouse have to go without illegal Christmas bonuses and mid year pay raises.

Jan 27 p Wed's meeting should be interesting.

Jan 27 p With icy rain coming down Tuesday afternoon, evergreens bent under the weight and glistened with a new sparkle. It was beautiful. There roads weren't. Although treated, slush was everywhere with a crunch of ice on top. With schools closed and government buildings closed early there was just one reason to be out on the roads.

Jan 27 p Answer: to play in the snow! And we did. We wait all year for the white stuff and try out the four wheel drive gear. So what happens when it snows? We tell buddies, naaayyyy I made it without putting it in 4wd.

Jan 27 p Just before King Wrecker was called, the Appalachian chime was often heard, "Watch This Bubba!"

Jan 27 p  Everybody is wondering when the under new management Kitchen Restaurant will re open. Sorry, we don't have an answer.

Jan 27 p School personnel have tried for weeks to get our School Administrators to abide by the intent of Legislation (SB541) to give employees a little extra jungle in their pockets. So far our little Napoleon and Chrome Dome haven't budged a bit. Over in Roane County, a similar discussion is underway.

Jan 27 p  Communicator comes out Friday afternoon. Deadline for submissions is Thursday at noon. Email your stuff ASAP.

Jan 27 p Weight Watchers is cancelled for this afternoon. Stay home and  chow down.

Jan 27 p  Light snow continues to fall in Clayberry. Weathercasters are predicting 3 or 4 more inches of the white stuff along with sleet this afternoon. Batten down the hatches clickers. It might get nasty real soon

Jan 27 p The radio station web site got hacked. According to the host provider, some pretty underhanded folks were able to get into Google and steal enough info to do the hacking job. Additionally, the added something nasty called "anti virus malware 09"  If that's in your puter, it's something you don't want. Beware.

Jan 27 6am  Clay County Schools closed for the day

Jan 27 6am  Snowing like crazy with medium size very wet flakes. Maybe an inch of new white stuff on the ground at this time but slipery dipery.

Jan 26  10:45pm  Clay County Shools will be on a two hour delay for Tuesday.

Jan 26  See Jobs page for new listing

Jan 25 p A week for the history books.

Jan 25 p Obama took office, the first Hawaiian elected to be Prez and the first prez to be elected without a majority of whites. During the first three days in office, he went to work restoring dignity to the nation by stopping torture practices,  eliminating death camp prisons, and reversing all the W signing papers on illegal spying. Not a bad first days!

Jan 25 p  Dubbya left the building amid boos and the silent treatment. It felt soooo good.

Jan 25 p It wasn't such a good week in the Nation of Clay

Jan 25 p Without benefit of  a legal meeting,  (no agenda posted), Council voted to build a new water plant. They did so without knowing the cost of the plant, the type of plant, the cost to operate the plant, and with a high interest rate on the loan. They did so after an expert said the style of plant is more suited for clean, mud free, lake water than a river based source complete with dirty diapers, bottles, chemicals and an unending supply of mud, yuck, and grit.

Jan 25 p Friday afternoon the School Board met in special session with a fired up Somber Super leading the charge. At issue was extra Legislative funding earmarked originally by Smokin Joe for employee pay checks. Our county leadership decided to use the extra $$$ for projects and a tiny teeny amount for the employees.

Jan 25 p Our Super provided of list of  out of pocket expenses from the last three years not covered by state dollars. He was trying to show why employees should play second fiddle while more than half of the counties in the state honoured the intent of the legislation (SB 541) by providing $$$ to hard working teachers and school service personnel.

Jan 25 p That big long list......  Instead of supporting his stance, it instead showed all the blunders and extra expenses of building Big Odor Elem.  A couple of the Boardsters said as much during the meeting.

Jan 25 p By meetings' end, those employees in attendance realized, the sought $500 wasn't going to happen.

Jan 25 p We thawed out this past week. Temps went up into the 50s and most driveways turned into mud bogs with no bottom in sight. The snow left.

Jan 25 p Our CCHS JV won a game.

Jan 25 p  Some have been saying the depression hasn't hit West Virginia as bad as other places. Uhhhh.. we lead the nation in homelessness.

Jan 25 p  With the new Hawaiian in office, we still have hope for digging out of W's mess.

Jan 24 a  Tonight the Panthers take on Webster Co in rescheduled B Ball action. Come out and support the home team, action begins at 7:30

Jan 24 a  From the email bag: Pup Jack Russell male with collar staying at my home on Twistabout.  I already have three stray dogs that I have taken in as my own.  This is a great dog, very friendly and starving for attention. Please call 587-6074 and leave a message if you want the dog.

Jan 24 a Don't forget tonight's consignment auction at 7. If you're wanting to make some $$$, load your junk in the car and take it over to the old State Road garage (4 to 7pm) for Kayo Starcher to auction off.

Jan 24 a  This is pretty cool. We don't know all the new names and locations for 911 addressess but the internet does. Click here for road names and locations.

Jan 24 a Last night  Sissonville barely sneaked past the Lady Panthers. Final score: Clay 35, Sissonville 64

Jan 23 Late p Dumb goes clear to the bone. Here's an example. Event public meeting requires an agenda. That agenda has to posted on the meeting room front door well in advance of the gathering. It is has to say the reason for the public meeting and the business to be conducted.

Jan 23 Late p Last night Town Council held a meeting to vote in a new water plant to serve people outside the municipality . That meeting was held and business was conducted. They did that without Open Meeting law mandates of an agenda.

Jan 23 Late p Was Council aware of the state code mandated agenda. The answer is Yes and they were even asked to stop the unlawful proceeding and start everything over and do so in  a legal manner.  Council has waited years to to go into 40 year debt and build a water plant. Wouldn't it be a shame that all that could be stalled even longer if a court case makes null yesterday's meeting.

Jan 23 Late p Dumb goes clear to the bone.... Example: Council didn't know how money was available for the water plant project. They didn't know that even while voting in the first reading of the ordinance two weeks ago.

Jan 23 Late p Dumb clear to the bone.... When a guy in the  peanut gallery asked Council if they even knew what type of water plant they planned to build, if ANY of them had checked into the style (membrane plant) , no one knew. Later in the meeting, one professional in the crowd cautioned Council on that type of water treatment since it was designed for  water intake from less muddy sources like a lake. They weren't listening.

Jan 23 Late p   By the way, unless someone takes them to Court over the unlawful gathering, the vote is in, build the plant.

Jan 23 p  And who's our little birthday girl today? None other than Sheila Stone at the Courthouse. 

Jan 23 p Tonight the Lady Panthers are back for a home game CCHS. Tip off is 7pm. Go Lady Panthers.

Jan 23 p  Retired admiral Dennis Blair indicated major changes are in store for US intelligence agencies, which have been embroiled in controversy over secret prisons, interrogation practics, and warrantless wiretapping of Americans. "Torture is not moral, is not legal, is not effective," Blair said at his Senate confirmation hearing.

Jan 23 p It's about time!

Jan 23 p We'll provide all th details from Thursday's outragious Town Council hearing and meeting later today. You won't believe it!

Jan 22 Late p  This morning the the Clay Health Dept., not the Town of Clay, FAXed out BOIL WATER ORDERS for all residents in the Maysel service area and that includes over the hill at  Deer Tack Acres and Morgan Carr Road. Seems the Town has a monster wa wa leak draining the tanks and making wholesale water sales to Clay Roan PSD impossible. The tank is dry.

Jan Late 22 p Be safe. Boil it first.

Jan 22 Late p The Town has known about the big time leak at the old Butcher's Place Bar for around a week. They plan to get to it Friday morning early.

Jan 22 Late p  $4.7 trillion added to national debt under Bush. True or False?

Jan 22 p You know it's going to be a bad day when you wake up to scanner traffic calling for the Medical Examiner and Fire Marshall. Details as we get em.

Jan 22 a From the email bag: we found a male dog in lizemores. he is very friendly. He looks like a pit bull. he loves kids. please call 632-2163

Jan 22 a Today at 5pm, at the water plant on Main Street, the public is encouraged to make comments on a Town Council plan to go into debt and build a bigger wa wa  treatment facility. At 5:30pm today they plan to vote in the new ordinance.

Jan 22a One problem...

Jan 22 a To vote on any matter, a public body (Town Council) has to post an agenda well in advance. As of Wed at 3:30pm, there was NO agenda posted for the Thursday Council meeting and vote.

Jan 22 a Clayberry, we have a problem.

Jan 22 a On day two of the new Hawaiian President's term, the curtains of secrecy were opened. Here's an Obama statement on the evil's government secrecy:  The Freedom of Information Act should be administered with a clear presumption: In the face of doubt, openness prevails. The Government should not keep information confidential merely because public officials might be embarrassed by disclosure, because errors and failures might be revealed, or because of speculative or abstract fears... All agencies should adopt a presumption in favor of disclosure, in order to renew their commitment to the principles embodied in FOIA, and to usher in a new era of open government. The presumption of disclosure should be applied to all decisions involving FOIA.

Jan 22 a On day two, the US Supreme Court made it clear, what you view on your own puter is your business and outside the police powers of the US Govt. And that includes porn.

Jan 21 p  Ethel M. Underwood, 95, see OBITUARY page

Jan 21 p From County Sanatarian Jay Carper: Resident in Braxton received a call from Miller Plante, Inc.  Company claims they work for the local health department and state they can send a free sample of a septic tank cleaning compound, You do get a product and then an invoice of amount owed.  The WV Attorney General's office has been notified.

Jan 21 p More than a decade ago, CLay Town Council voted to build a new, high dollar sewer plant. They did so without considering the high interest rate of the loan, how many people it would take to operate the place, the number of people available for service, and without ANY oversight during construction.

Jan 21 p The plant, log factory as we call it, has been a dismal failure since opening and has operated in the red to make matters worse.

Jan 21 p Thursday afternoon the new and improved Council will vote, final vote, on building a new water plant. They are doing so without considering the cost of the loan, without considering the type of the plant, the future cost of maintenance and technology, the number of people it will service (in a few years)), and without any mention of oversight for the project.  Some things never change. Got ta luv em

Jan 21 p There will be a public hearing (5pm) Thursday  to accept comments before the 5:30 decision. The hearing and meeting will be held at the old and operating nicely without debt, Clay Water Plant on Main Street.

Jan 21 p  With a mere 64 minutes left in its last full day in office, the Bush administration asked a federal judge to stay enforcement of a  ruling that would keep alive a lawsuit which tests whether the president can bypass the Congress and eavesdrop on Americans without warrants.

Jan 21 p    It's not true that unionized auto workers at Detroit's Big Three make more than $70 an hour, as claimed by some opponents of federal aid.....   And no, 3 million workers won't be tossed out of work if aid is not forthcoming, as claimed by those favoring a taxpayer bailout..... President-elect Obama never promised to seek a ban on all semi-automatic weapons, as claimed by some fearful gun owners.....  And no, Obama did not propose a Gestapo-like civilian security force as claimed by a Republican member of Congress from Georgia and any number of overwrought bloggers. Here's the truth on the whoopers from politicofacts.

Jan 21 p Here's the home page link to that most informative web site.

Jan 20 LATE p  Clay County Schools are operating on a two hour delay Wed.

Jan 20 Late And even better news, Dubbya has left the building!!!!

Jan 20 Late p  We made it

Jan 20 Late p  Some boos could be heard in the crowd gathered on the mall when Vice President Dick Cheney and Mr. Bush were introduced for Mr. Obama’s swearing-in. And when it was over, a chant of “na na na na, hey hey, goodbye” arose from some among the throng on the Mall as Mr. Bush’s helicopter flew by carrying him to Andrews Air Force Base and on to his retirement in Texas.

Jan 20 Late p and what we the first thing Obama De Bama ordered? All those last minute, under the cover of darkness, W rule changes, they were stopped.

Jan 20 Late p "Know that your people will judge you on what you can build, not what you destroy.."

Jan 20 Late p  "We will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist."

Jan 20 Late p  "In this winter of our hardship, let us remember these timeless words. With hope and virtue, let us brave once more the icy currents, and endure what storms may come"

Jan 20 Late p A new man. A new day.

Jan 20 a Publicly we say we're not racially biased. We say blacks can be whatever they chose. They care equal Americans

Jan 20 a Up until today, in our minds, we've known different. We knew they had their own neighborhoods. We sure didn't want to see several of em come down the street on our side. In small groups, we've told jokes and used the N word. Truth is, Blacks were second class citizens.

Jan 20 a Today is different. Today at noon, is special. We've turned a corner. One, the most dismal failure of an American comes to an end; and, Two, we have a new start, a new hope.

Jan 20 a Our country is in such pitiful straits, Obama De Bama has but one chance to get it right.

Jan 20 a Optimism is everywhere.

Jan 19 10:45pm Clay County Schools are on a two hour delay for Tuesday. Sleep in kids

Jan 19 LATE p It's oh boy time again. The Communicator made it the news stands this  afternoon. Answering your every question whether you wanted to know it or not, that's the Communicator

Jan 19 a  It snowed and snowed last night. Light flurries continue to fall in the Nation of Clay.

Jan 19 a When Mozart passed away, he was buried in a churchyard. A couple days later, the town drunk was walking through the cemetery and heard some strange noise coming from the area where Mozart was buried.

Terrified, the drunk ran and got the town magistrate to come and listen to it. When the magistrate arrived, he bent his ear to the grave, listened for a moment, and said, "Ah, yes, that's Mozart's Ninth Symphony, being played backwards."  He listened a while longer, and said, "There's the Eighth Symphony, and it's backwards, too. Most puzzling." So the magistrate kept listening; "There's the Seventh... the Sixth... the Fifth..."  Suddenly the realization of what was happening dawned on the magistrate; he stood up and announced to the crowd that had gathered in the cemetery, "My fellow citizens, there's nothing to worry about. It's just Mozart decomposing."

Jan 18 p Neil "Bud" Keen of Big Otter, see OBITUARY page

Jan 18 p As we type up Monday's Communicator, just some notes this time around.

Jan 18 p  Last edition we published notice of how wonderful Clay County Schools are doing based on the amount of poverty in the area. It was a glowing report to say the least.

Jan 18 p  Education Week's 'Quality Counts' 13th annual report is just out and West Virginia schools made the top ten list for the nationally recognized publication. Sounds pretty good until you read the fine print.

Jan 18 p Based on student performance, graduation rates and statewide accountability and standards, among other factors, each area looked at received an A to F mark. For West Virginia, even finishing in the top ten nationwide, the chances of a student succeeding was given a C-. On achievement, in ALL grades, we managed to receive a a great big fat F.

Jan 18 p The worst school system in the nation, the one operating in Washington DC, received similar marks in those same areas of performance.

Jan 18 p  How sad.

Jan 18 p For those wondering if the Clendenin gas compression station actually blew up two days ago, the answer is No.

Jan 18 p No updates until we get the paper out the door sometime Monday afternoon.

Jan 16 Late p From the email bag: An elderly Floridian called 911 on her cell phone to report that her car has been broken into. She is hysterical as she explains her situation to the dispatcher: "They've stolen the stereo, the steering wheel, the brake pedal and even the accelerator!" she cried. The dispatcher said, "Stay calm. An officer is on the way." A few minutes later, the officer radios in. "Disregard." He says. "She got in the back-seat by mistake."

Jan 16 p  Lonnie B. Smith, 86, see OBITUARY page

Jan 16 p  Karen Sue Darnell Lipscomb, see OBITUARY page

Jan 16 p 8:34p Over the scanner, one badge to another: If you're going down to Clendenin, don't go down there. That compression station is about ready to blow, they're evacuating.

Jan 16 p  Don't feel alone:  The number of Americans who say their lives are a struggle climbed steeply last year from less than half the population to nearly six in 10 people, a vast Gallup poll showed Friday.

Jan 16 p Remember Dubbya's campaign jingle, Change is on the way.  AS he promised, change is here. Three days left and  none too soon.

Jan 16 p We're working on Monday's Communicator including official word on plans for a coming lawsuit against the Sheriff's Dept over an incident of police brutality. Cost you 70 cents to find out more.

Jan 15 Even Later  p CLayberry Schools R closed for Friday

Jan 15 Even Later p   11:30pm, 7 degrees

Jan 15 LATE p  Two Hour Delay Friday for Clay County students and staff. Sleep in kids!

Jan 15 LATE p   Communicator comes out Monday afternoon. Email over your classifieds, chatters, news, etc. Deadline is Friday evening at 5pm.

Jan 15 LATE p The last Friday with W at the helm. Snow, ice, cold.... no matter what, feels better already.

Jan 15 p  Ferrell Friend, 96, of Ivydale, see OBITUARY page

Jan 15 p  Donald Ray Grose, 81, of Ovapa, see OBITUARY page

Jan 15 p We also note the passing of all around good guy, musician, and community volunteer, Bed Keen. It is our understanding, the body will be cremated and a memorial service will be held at a later date.

Jan 15 p Cold temps and the snow keeps coming down. Weathercasters are saying temps near zero Friday morning. Kids and parents all are wondering, will there be school on Friday. Or, in light of an early out scheduled for Friday, will they call a two hour delay.

Jan 15 p Lets see now, buses in by 10am and then back out  2. Heat the schools up, get everybody out on slick roads in zero conditions..... We'll know tonight sometime.

Jan 15 a From the email bag:  Congratulations to the CCHS Wrestling team for placing 4 individuals in the top 4 at the recent Jackson County Invitational Tournament. This tournament exhibits some of the best wrestlers in the state from A, AA, and AAA. The match of the tournament displayed the skills of Clay’s Danny Suite (103 lbs) against the #1 ranked AAA wrestler from Huntington in a heated semi final match. Danny lead 4-3 with 50 seconds left in the match when Danny’s left foot unfortunately got caught on the mat allowing his opponent to secure a takedown. The loss for Suite only motivated him and the team to look forward to the Braxton County Invitational next week.  Wrestlers placing this week: 103lbs – Danny Suite – 4th Place; 112lbs – A. J. Frazier – 4th Place;  12lbs – Dustin Daniels – 3rd Place;   145lbs – Eric Dawson – 4th Place.  Coach Collins and Kearns have informed us that CCHS Wrestlers have 120 wins and only 68 losses for the season

Jan 15 a   National foreclosure filings -- default notices, auction sale notices and bank repossessions -- totaled 3.16 million and were reported on 2.33 million properties last year ..... One in 54 housing units, or 1.84 percent of all US housing units, received at least one foreclosure filing during the year... Getting worse.

Jan 15 a With Dubbya still messing things up, the depression in full force. how about a nice story on a Clay County lady doing good.

Jan 15 a  From the DNR: Preliminary counts of game checking tags indicate West Virginia hunters harvested a total of 162,371 white-tailed deer during the recently completed bucks-only, antlerless, muzzleloader, bow and youth/Class Q deer seasons, according to Division of Natural Resources Director Frank Jezioro. This year’s total harvest was 11 percent above the 2007 deer harvest of 145,937 and ranks as the 15th highest total on record. Hunters killed 68,540 bucks, 54,704 antlerless season deer, 30,749 archery season deer and 8,378 muzzleloader season deer during the 2008 season

Jan 14 9:30 p  Clay County Schools are on a 2 hour delay Thursday. Sleep in kids and teachers.

Jan 14 LATE p   Weather casters are calling for an inch of snow tonight and temps down in the low teens.

Jan 14 LATE p  At 9:33pm no snow and temp, 33 degrees.

Jan 14 Late p  New year new plans to bring home the troops? Nope.  The U.S. Army, already strained by the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, will likely deploy more soldiers in the next 18 months, the service's top general said on Wednesday

Jan 114 Late p Are you one of those folks that goes over to the local store and buys those little orange crackers with dried peanut butter in the middle?   Kellogg Co said on Wednesday it was removing its Austin and Keebler branded peanut butter snacks from store shelves and put a hold their shipments due to the current Salmonella food poisoning outbreak.

Jan 14 a Brrrrr....  this morning with temps down to 14 degrees in Clayberry.

Jan 14 a The County Commission has a big long agenda to tend to this morning. A couple pages of new and reappointments to various committee and oversight groups. Also, before the CCC is the Assessor's office receiving pay increases.

Jan 14 a Maybe most important today is the formal awarding of $100,000 in grant monies to Queen Shoals PSD for upgrades. They need about $400,000 for the complete job. When completed, including a larger storage tank, West Virginia Water Co will take a second look at supplying the PSD with potable wa wa.

Jan 14 a That ceremony will take place in Capitol City with Smokin Joe smiling broadly for all the cameras.

Jan 13 p Lets say you're in the business to sell something. If you're best customer was buying a bunch of your product, would you complain? Happened in Clayberry.

Jan 13 p During this morning's Clay Co PSD meeting, discussion came on a complaint to the WV Health Dept from the Town of Clay's Chief Wa Wa Operator. The complaint included that the PSD was using too much Town Water.

Jan 13 p  Note: The PSD buys the wet stuff, around 3 m gallons per month, from the Town.

Jan 13 p During the discussion: the PSD  was not buying any more than normal; they have no major leaks; nor are their water storage tanks overflowing.... still they got a complaint.

Jan 13  p   Go figure.

Jan 13 p Today is Fran King's 61st birthday. Happy belly button day

Jan 13 p Tonight is home court action at CCHS beginning at 7:30pm. GO Panthers!

Jan 13 a Carolyn Sue Roop Cox, 73, see OBITUARY page

Jan 13 a   Virgil Lee Beckett, 69,  see OBITUARY page

Jan 13 a Rumors float left and right in Clayberry. It's an Appalachian tradition. Not rumor no more. Long time local MD, two time Mayor, Doc Jamie just got slapped with a  $ 1/4 million judgement. We call it overbilling fraud.

Jan 13 a For those looking for a hunting place next season, check out Mitch's web site. 11,000 acres!

Jan 13 a Those nasty ACLU folks are at it again. Theyv'e set up a web site providing info on all the Big Brother surveillance going on the country.

Jan 13 a  A $300 billion federal program meant to prevent foreclosures is doing almost nothing to aid U.S. homeowners, but it could become effective if Washington slashes cumbersome red tape, the nation's top housing policy maker said on Monday.

Jan 13 a When people say the depression hasn't hit West Virginia as hard as the rest of the nation, tell em they're full of BS.  Homelessness in the Mountain State rose by 58 percent. West Virginia leads the nation.

Jan 13 a We're down to just 6 days of the absolute arrogant and mindless, W. We'll feel much better at noon on the 20th. At least some one with a brain.

Jan 12 p Lots of good stuff going on this week. Tuesday at 11am Clay Co PSD Board meets in regular session. With a Town operator complaining their selling too much water to the PSD, might be a good meeting to attend

Jan 12 p County Commission meets Wed morning at 10am. The BDA gathers Thursday afternoon for a rescheduled meeting.

Jan 12 p The Panther have home game action Tuesday and Friday nights. Lady Panthers will be playing at home Saturday night.

Jan 12 p Forgot to mention something during the weekend wrap up. During last Friday's Town Council meeting, they voted to increase parking fines; renew parking tickets complete with a meter maid, and new meters.  New income and with a $77,000 log factory fine last week, they sure need it.

Jan 12 a from the email bag: To the person that side swiped, the car on Upper Two Run Rod. 1-9-09 @7:25. It was my car Ford Tarus GL 93 model.  The person that hit and run please give me a call or Trooper Bailey with the State Police in Clay. Or if any one has information. My phone number is 587-4036 ( Linda), State Police 587-2201. Need to discuss options on the matter.

Jan 12 a Foxy the missing dog update. There is now a reward being offered.

Jan 11 a NOTICE   The Boil Water Order that was put in place for Ivydale and Big Otter customers of Clay Co PSD, was lifted just after lunch Saturday. Drink Drink Drink!!

Jan 11 a We've just completed the first full week of 2009. Here's a look back.

Jan 11 a During Monday's Commission meeting, the group voted to keep regular meetings on the second and forth Wed of each month beginning at 10 am. During the discussion, newbee Commish Mike Pierson commented that the time slot would work well for him and his daytime teaching job since he could use his planning period for the commission business. We noted that on this web site. Oh man, all H broke loss with calls and emails of Pierson double dipping from the taxpayer's purse.

Jan 11 a By Friday word must have seeped over to Mr P who came a calling to our office in Upper Class Two Run. Pierson agreed that he said that but as they say on TV, Wait There's More!. True he's using his school system planning period BUT he plans to pay that time back with his personal leave days.

Jan 11 a During Monday's School Board meeting, the Somber Super told those assembled, the nasty smell at Big Odor Elem is gone, problems have been corrected. Lots of school service showed up demanding what the Legislature demanded in Senate Bill 541, more $$$. The School Board was less than enthusiastic on giving them ANYTHING. They should.

Jan 11 a   Here's a letter  from  the AFT to School Super's:     As you may know, last month AFT-WV and the WVSSPA presented testimony before the legislature’s Education Subcommittee “C” (this committee deals with school finance issues) regarding SB 541.  As part of our joint presentation, we expressed concern that many county school boards and superintendents were not following the intent of SB 541; namely, to use SB 541 funds to increase salaries and/or benefits for school service personnel and teachers.   As a response to our testimony, a letter is being sent to the State Superintendent and State School Board President.  The letter states:           “Further, it is the hope of this subcommittee that the funds be used for that purpose, namely, to increase salaries and/or benefits of both teachers and service personnel and to attract and retain highly qualified, certified teachers.”     This letter should hopefully clear up any confusion that exists and assist our effort to secure salary increases and/or benefit increases for teachers and school service personnel.   If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Frank Caputo or any Mon. Co. AFT-WV Officer.

Jan 11 a The Lady Panthers won their first two games of the season this past week

Jan 11 a Here's something scary. Congress returned to DC. Dubbya is still in office.

Jan 11 a  On Thursday with about three inches of snow on the ground, school was called off. Sarah seemed to perform much better.

Jan 11 a   Sheriff staff called us and said there was nothing "unlawful" about the one time bonuses our Top Badge gave to his entire department. On the web (below) we presented code and court decisions saying one time bonuses, called Christmas Bonuses, one time cost of living raises, or by any other name, are illegal.

Jan 11 a Sheriff Holcomb may be cocky, arrogant, even a smart butt at times, but he's not dumb. After four years in office and without such handouts, he had to know, one time bonuses under any name are illegal. How sad.

Jan 11 a Town was under able to muster a quorum for for their monthly gathering on Tuesday. They tried again on Friday. With just two members of their five member Council in place, they decided, that was enough for a quorum and went ahead with business. They had the first reading of the new water plant ordinance where municipal residents will be forced into $883,000 debt so Another county can have water service.

Jan 11 a Also at that meeting, Mayor Brown announced the DEP had fined the tiny hamlet $77,000+ for shortcomings in log factory paperwork among other things. They went over a year without turning in required reporting  figures for the poop factory. That fine came after Recorder Llyn Drake said she had talked with the regulators and everything would be  OK, the DEP folks were willing to work with town elders.

Jan 11 a With the stiff fine noted, Brown said he would handle ANY further dealings with the Charleston folks and would try to get the fine reduced to something more manageable.

Jan 11 a It started raining. Maybe better than snow, but still, it was nasty, cold, soggy, and grey. The power went off late Saturday.

Jan 11 a Saturday night, Clay County headed to Charleston for the Rough and Rowdy Boxing matches. There were more fights in the audience than in the ring. Great entertainment and great fun for all, except those that got thrown out or arrested.

Jan 9 Late p  Wesley Steven Boggs, 44, see OBITUARY page

Jan 9 Late p from the email bag:  well we have an Australian Shepard that was found at Two Run.  If anyone is missing one, please have them to give us a call.  651-1364, 304-382-1434

Jan 9 Late p  Tell Linda Jean Williams , Happy Birthday

Jan 9 Late p It was announced during Friday's Town Council meeting, the environmental boys from down in Charleston fined the Town of Clay over $77,000 for various deficiencies in the operation of the Log Factory.

Jan 9 Late p  Put your thinkin' hats on clickers... Remember back a couple months ago when Poop Czar Kevin Lilly came to town wanting to speak to Council and Council was a no show for the meeting? Remember that?

Jan 9 Late p Remember at the next Council meeting, Recorder Llyn Drake said she had talked to Lilly and everything was taken care of?

Jan 9 Late p It wasn't. Mayor Brown received word from the DEP informing him of various infractions resulting in a $77,000+ fine.

Jan 9 Late p  Fines are nothing new for the Log Factory and its operation. Just a few years ago under the Arthur Jarrett administration, the Town was fined $50,000 for floating a 150 foot wide plume of logs down the Elk. Jarrett was able to get the fine reduced to $10,000 or so.

Jan 9 Late p During Friday's meeting, Mayor Brown said he would work to get this newest fine reduced and would do so without the help of Llyn Drake.

Jan 9 Late p Could there be a more fertile land for a newspaper than Clayberry?

Jan 9 a Benjamin Carsel Hamrick, 88, see OBITUARY page

Jan 9 a Town Council didn't show up for last Tuesday's monthly  meeting. The rescheduled meeting is set for 4pm today.

Jan 9 a Check our EVENTS page for good stuff to do like tonight's Music Fes up at Big Otter and Saturday's Consignment Auction.

Jan 9 a Before Christmas, Sheriff Randy Holcomb handed out $250 (plus he paid their deductions too) bonuses to his entire staff. After four Christmas' in office it was a first time for the Top Badge.  After interviewing Holcomb, we printed our findings in The Communicator. That was in Dec 08.

Jan 9 a  Seems our coverage has riled the ladies in the Sheriff's office. One rep gave us a call this week and said in no uncertain terms,  they worked hard for their money , the "cost of living" bonuses were for hard work performed and, there was nothing unlawful in one time bonuses. When we tried to explain all the reasons why one time bonuses of ANY kind are illegal, she wasn't listening.

Jan 9 a  Here at the web site we've always pursued loftier goals than that of an attorney. But even us lowly media moguls can read plain black and white. For instance...

Jan 9 a The State Code is very plain in explaining a government worker of ANY kind can NOT be paid twice. Here's the code: 6-38.  Salaries of officials cannot be increased during official terms.      No extra compensation shall be granted or allowed to any public officer, agent, servant or contractor, after the services shall have been rendered or the contract made; nor shall any Legislature authorize the payment of any claim or part thereof, hereafter created against the state, under any agreement or contract made, without express authority of law; and all such unauthorized agreements shall be null and void. Nor shall the salary of any public officer be increased or diminished during his term of office, nor shall any such officer, or his or their sureties be released from any debt or liability due to the state:  Provided, the Legislature may make appropriations for expenditures hereafter incurred in suppressing insurrection, or repelling invasion.

Jan 9 a Our Top Badge told us during the interview he planned to draw the bonus money from one of his slush funds, the concealed weapons account. Here's a passage from 61-7-4 (C): ...Any funds deposited in this concealed weapon license administration fund are to be expended by the sheriff to pay for the costs associated with issuing concealed weapons licenses. Any surplus in the fund on hand at the end of each fiscal year may be expended for other law-enforcement purposes or operating needs of the sheriff's office

Jan 9 a Read it again clickers and see if you agree. 1 Any extra $$ can be spent at the end of the fiscal year, that's June 30th, not in Dec. 2  There is NO mention of spending any of the extra money on Office Deputies, ONLY law enforcement purposes, 3 The $$ are to be spent on "operations", salaries come from a different line item.

Jan 9 a And then there's 6-7-7 which reads: No extra compensation shall be granted or allowed to any public officer, agent, servant, or contractor after the service shall be been rendered...

Jan 9  a Others have tried to hand out one time Christmas bonuses under different names. Not so long ago the Clay County Ambulance Authority called the year end bonanza, seasonal, one time, incremental cost adjustments. Back then the Attorney General's office fired over a terse letter telling our yahoos, it's illegal. This year Sheriff Holcomb called the one time unlawful bonuses, cost of living raises. Nice handle but still not allowed.

Jan 9 a There's three sections of code that agree with our position that ANY and ALL bonuses, no matter what you call em, are illegal. Soooooo you still don't believe us? How about if a Judge says their illegal

Jan 9 a The issue has been to court. In case # 95-C-847 from down in Cabell County, the County Commission found some extra $$$ and decided to pay office deputies $8000 in bonus and fringe benefits. Judge Robert Chafin said no way no matter where the money came from; it doesn't matter if others do the illegal stuff, and in the future, elected leaders should more wisely use the taxpayer's money better... or along those lines anyway, we're paraphrasing.

Jan 9 a As a matter of fact, Judge Chaffin wrote in his findings of fact, if there's extra money somewhere, it should be returned to the taxpayer!

Jan 9 a Still not satisfied? Just last week, the Town of Wheeling decided to dole out $400 per person bonuses. They  side stepped the term "Christmas Bonus" , calling  the give aways one time "wage adjustments". In that dispute, as written in their local newspaper, the Attorney General's office did not, would not,  give a formal opinion. Deputy AG Silas Taylor did cite  6-38 of the State Constitution and said: the finance committee's plan to distribute previously budgeted funds as a bonus to municipal employees seems to be "not lawful." "You cannot just say, 'Hey, we have a little bit of extra money - let's give it to the employees,'" he said.

Jan 9 a Sounding much like Sheriff Holcomb when he says THESE AIN'T BONUSES, the Wheeling vice Mayor commented: "It is a one-time wage adjustment. ... It is not based on rank - it is across-the-board,"

Jan 9 s Roane and Ohio counties used to hand out bonuses until they read the law. That same Silas Taylor advised the Roane County folks: "Extra compensation may not be given to an employee to compensate him or her for work done during pay-periods for which that employee has already received the compensation to which he or she was entitled pursuant to the contract or understanding existing at the time the work was performed."

Jan 9 a For those "upset" office ladies in the Sheriff's office, those that are offended but our newspaper coverage where we used "unlawful bonuses", we stand by every word. There is no doubt, one time bonuses to any government employee, called by any name, they're illegal.

Jan 9 a Look for the next state audit of the county books to come back bad. Wouldn't it be great if the audit folks demand our Top Badge to repay the taxpayer from his own pocket.    Isn't it a shame, when we hire elected officials, we ask them but for one thang, to follow the law.

Jan 8 p  Cathy Sue Nicholson, 49, see OBITUARY page

Jan 8 p Thursday's BDA meeting has been postponed until Jan 15th. Guess we're safe until then.

Jan 8 p Tonight's CCHS Panther away game has been rescheduled for Friday. Next home game is Saturday night.

Jan 8 p Happy Birthday Betty Fisher

Jan 8 p Have you been trying to call the Circuit Clerk's office? Maybe getting a strange answering machine or no answer at all? Think they're all in there sleeping or out goofing off?

Jan 8 p Don't blame Circuit Clerk Asbury who says the Tele Co has been working on the problem for several weeks. Apologies from Team Asbury and they hope the problem is fixed soon. In the mean time, try using 587-2281 or 587-4647.

Jan 8 p That US Post Office mail tractor trailer wreck this morning on the Interstate at Big Otter mangled the truck but not the female driver. Great!

Jan 8p For those clicking in from afar.... the snow continues this afternoon but the roads are clear and no major outages that we know of.

Jan 8 p What happened to the Jim Knotts trial slated for earlier this week. The way we're getting it: his attorneys appealed an issue to the WV Supreme Court prior the start of the trial. Back many years ago the issue was brought to a Prosecutor's attention but nothing much happened. The appeal centers around that earlier effort and a time limit since then.

Jan 8 p Whatever the Big Robes decide, it will have an affect on cases all across the state. Important decision coming, but we just don't know when.

Jan 8 a We listened to our scanners just waiting and waiting... Finally at 6:27am, the Somber Super gave the word  all we're waiting for, No School for Thursday. HURAAAYY!

Jan 8 a Hill tops are showing four to five inches of snow with more on the way.

Jan 8 a The Lady Panthers logged another win last night against Midland Trail, 61 to 33. Panthers play Saturday night in home court action.

Jan 8  Clay County has one public clinic, Primary Care. With so many in the county armed with a medical card of one kind of another, Primary should be well positioned to make some real loot. If welfare cards aren't good enough, the Clay facility is also the recipient of $50,000 a year for mortgage expenses compliments of senate appropriations by of one time Senator, Randy Schoonover. Grant dollars are also come.

Jan 8 a Last summer public notice came that the Tax Dept placed a property lien on the operation. Last Fall, employees received word from their hospitalization provider, their coverage would be cancelled at the end of the month. Last Friday was suppose to be payday for Primary Care employees. Didn't happen. Instead, management told some employees, buck up! You should be prepared for rainy days. How could such a lucrative govt backed business be doing so poorly they can't make payroll on time?

Jan 8 a Is it any wonder the place can't keep employees? Is it any wonder they have but one doctor available?

Jan 8 a  What's the problem? We think a big part of the problem has to be the top secret operation of the place. Although a Board of Directors is in place, the Board is kept in the dark. The CEO of the operation tells them nothing. The Board has no say so in the operation. When they ask questions about the things mentioned above, they're told, don't you worry about a thing, nothing's wrong.

Jan 8 a Even with government $$$$ pouring in, the place, the board meetings, are top secret. The public is NEVER allowed at a Board meeting.

Jan 8 a Our Business Development Authority (BDA) can breathe a little easier today.

Jan 8 a Central Appalachia Empowerment Zone (CAEZ) spent the last couple months coming up with a plan to form their own economic development authority, a completely new 501 C 3 non profit with about the same goals as the BDA. Tuesday night, during the CAEZ meeting, the group decided not to pursue the notion. They said it would be too complimented. State Code says a county can have just one development authority at a time and it has to be appointed by the County Commission.

Jan 8 a After 12 years of operation, about the only accomplishment of the BDA is the Saturday night Consignment Auctions held in the old State Road garage at Two Run.

Jan 7 11:20am  BOIL WATER ORDER issued by Clay Co PSD for all Ivydale/Big Otter system customers due to low or no wa wa pressure. Boil it first.

Jan 7 11:20am Due to the water leak on Clinic Road, the Clay Co PSD system has 7 feet of the wet stuff in their storage tank instead of the normal 25 feet.

Jan 7 p Last night the CCHS Lady Panthers put it all over Gilmer and walked away with their first win of the season, 63 to 59. Tonight the team takes on Midland Trail in home court action beginning at 7pm. Go Lady Panthers

Jan 7 p Last night's Town Council meeting was scheduled due to lack of interest, no quorum. That meeting has been rescheduled to this Friday at 4pm.

Jan 7 p The State vs Jim Knotts trial was scheduled for jury selection this morning. Didn't happen. According to the Circuit Clerk's office, an appeal to the state Supreme Court has everything on hold.

Jan 7 p The Clay County Business Development Authority (BDA) meets Thursday evening at 5pm at the Courthouse in the Commission room.

Jan 7 p Congrats to Carol Walls on winning the double wedding ring quilt from the Kate's Floral fundraiser.

Jan 7 p Rain started yesterday. Today the Elk is up two feet, roads have huge water puddles, and snow is in the forecast. Big Odor Elem closed today at 8:15am. Reason: No water

Jan 7 p  Clay County PSD found that water line leak early this morning along Clinic Drive Road where a hillside slip pulled the service apart. Repairs now in progress

Jan 7 p Sometimes even straight reporting creates a stir. Such is the case with our brief notice (yesterday) on Commissioner Mike Pierson using his school teacher planning period to attend County Commission meetings. Seems some in the county are upset over taxpayers paying Pierson to be a teacher and then repaying him for the same time spent at County Commission meetings. Some are calling it double dipping.

Jan 7 p Monday night's School Board meeting brought out a bunch of school employees supporting some extra $$$$ due them from a passed Senate Bill three years ago. The folks are upset over the bill intended to provide them an extra $250 last year and nearly $500 this year and and.... the our School Board refusing the checks. Mentioned Monday evening, every other county in the state is honoring the intention of the governor except here in Clayberry.

Jan 6 a Clay Town Council meetings have offered some of the best entertainment value for many months. Their monthly meeting convenes today at 6pm at the water plant.

Jan 6 a CAEZ holds two public meetings today. Their economic development group meets at 4 followed by the full Board of Directors at 6pm. Both meetings are held in their Main St Clay office beside the DHHR building. CAEZ is pushing to form a completely new group to do ecodev activities. Sounds quite similar to the mission statement of our own Business Development Authority appointed by the CCC. The question may be, can you have more than one legal economic development authority in a county. Should make for some good discussion during tonight CAEZ meetings.

Jan 6 a Our Clay County Library Board also meets this evening at the Library. During the last gathering, they said they would be meeting around Christmas time to interview candidates for the Library Director job. That didn't happen.

Jan 6 a The Clay Panthers will be playing tonight at 7pm in home game action. Get out and support the home team.

Jan 6 a There's some pretty good West Virginia movies on You Tube.

Jan 6 a Had a pretty interesting County Commission meeting Monday. Jerry Slinky was selected as the new CCC Prez. As they were swapping chairs, Slinky rolled Fran's to the side and said: This one is for big butts.

Jan 6 a During the first meeting of each year they decide the meeting dates and times for the new year. Currently the CCC meets the second and fourth Wed of each month at 10 am. Newbee Commissioner Mike Pierson said that would fit his CCHS school teacher schedule very well. He said he could use his planning period and lunch break to do his Commission duties. For 2009, no change in meeting times.

Jan 6 a Joe Lanham has worked years to fund and organize a new war memorial in front of the Courthouse. His efforts were made under the arm of VFW Post 4419. Ain't no more

Jan 6 a Yesterday Lanham told the Commission he was organizing a new group, one completely separate from the VFW. The make up of the new group includes: Lanham, Jerry Slinky, Greg Gency, and Joyce Gibson. His request from the CCC was for $25,000 to help cover the cost of the $175,000 project. New hand drawn plans call for the removal of both beautiful evergreen trees as well as the massive stonework that runs along the sidewalk in front of the old Courthouse. During earlier meetings, Mr Lanham said the Historical Society was in favor of the memorial plans

Jan 6 a Clay County's emergency dispatching needs have been handled by the Nicholas County 911 Center since 1996. There have been been problems with the  arrangement since the start. Our Commission has refused to pay the monthly bill (around $8000 month) for the last couple cycles. Yesterday Nicholas County Commission Jinx Hinkle spoke during the CCC meeting. He was smooth. He offered an olive branch with apologies for poor service and agreed that Clay County had been handled like a red headed step child.

Jan 6 a He was smooth for sure. He was also asking for more $$$ from the county for services rendered.

Jan 6 a  Before Christmas we ran a  story in The Communicator on Christmas Bonuses from the Top Badge. At time he was calling the illegal perks, cost of living raises.  He said he was "woolying" around the idea. He orginially asked the County Clerk's office to handle the check writing duties but they refused since the CCC hadn't authorized the checks.

Jan 6 a   For those wondering, Sheriff Holcomb went ahead and handed out the unlawful Christmas bonuses for each of his road and office deputies from his accounts.

Jan 6 a Clay County  realized a nice profit of $77,000 in tax stamps yesterday when Paul Berringer II, Merril B Light, Victor C Berringer II, and Hampton B Luzak sold $35,394,713.62 worth of timber holdings (47 parcels) to  Heartland Forestland Fund VI which is an investment arm of Duke University in Chapel Hill. Another  $16m in timber was sold in Nicholas County.

Jan 5 Late p Robert Gene Igo Jr., 50, see OBITUARY page

Jan 5 LATE p Reva June (Adkins) Coulter, 50, see OBITUARY page

Jan 5 Late p  The Communicator made it to the news stands Monday afternoon. It's packed with juicy news and views on the Great Nation of Clay. Going fast!

Jan 4 p We've polished off 2008 and completed the first few days of the new year. Here's a look at the last seven days...

Jan 4 p County Commissioner Triplett finished off his last meeting on Monday. Much of the meeting centered around the management contract for the two low income housing projects owned by the Clay Housing Authority. After years of dismal performance and even worse management of High Street and Maysel Manor apartments, the CCC advised the Housing Authority to continue the management contract for another year or until they can find some other firm to run the units. It was either sign the contract or go into default with the Federal government.

Jan 4 p Back four months ago, the Housing Authority decided NOT to renew ANY contract with Encore. Housing Chair Connie Lupardus went ahead and signed the new contract without benefit of her fellow board members

Jan 4 p the Mel Gibson look alike got his staples removed Wed afternoon. Doctors told him, in another 6 weeks, you'll be back to your old nasty self!

Jan 4 p We celebrated the passing of 08 with a big party at the radio station New Years Eve.. Times Square has nothing on Clayberry. Wed night after munchies, punch, and music, the mighty Clayberry Ball was dropped from high atop the tiny office trailer/station on Main Street.  Rockets went off and people smiled.

Jan 4 p  We ate cabbage on Jan 1st in hopes of a more prosperous 2009.

Jan 4 p We thought about the disastrous  last 12 months, the economy at an all time low, another 500 soldiers lost in the oil war, and the promises made by our new leader, Obama De Bama. In DC, Dubbya sat on his thumbs without a notion on what to do to save the country. Instead he spent his time coming with last second ways to provide corporate America perks.

Jan 4 p School resumed on Friday. Few students showed up for the one day session. Friday night the Lady Panthers fell to the Single A class, Wirt County Tigers 68 to 56. It's going to be a long season!

Jan 4 p Around the county, sagging decorations were taken down and stored for another year. Once beautiful Christmas trees were tossed over the hill. With warm temperatures, we washed cars and cleaned up yards.

Jan 4 p Saturday night the BDA Consignment auction opened with record crowds. Maybe it was the warm weather or so early in the month, but nearly every chair in the old State Road garage was filled. Locals walked away with arm loads of good deals. Team Starcher smiled. It was a good night.

Jan 4 p This web portal is in shut down mode until we get The Communicator out the door sometime Monday afternoon. Our lead story introduces the 2009 Person of the Year. We'll take a look back on the last 12 months, cover the most recent BC&G RR Co  Op meeting held Jan 3rd, and do what we do best, provide you with all the news and views on the Great Nation of Clay.

Jan 4 p Monday morning, 10am, Mike Pierson joins the County Commission for his first meeting. On the Agenda is funding for the Joe Lanham backed War Memorial. The CCC also decides who will be the CCC Prez. With Fran King on the outs, look for the first volley of the new regime and Jerry Slinkinoooooger to take the top spot.

Jan 4 p New week, new year. Circuit Court covenes for a pregame huddle on Monday. At issue is the slated for Tuesday, 129 count indictment against pillar of the community and BDA member, Jim Knotts. With a new Special Prosecutor (from Braxton County) at the helm, will the trial be delayed? Maybe a plea deal accepted?

Jan 4 p  Monday night the School Board meets in regular session. Maybe turning over a new leaf, the School system even posted their meeting agenda ahead of time.

Jan 3 p Need some cash? Take your junk over to the BDA Consignment Auction at Two Run.See EVENTS page

Jan 3 p From the Charleston Daily Mail: A Clay County man was arrested Friday and charged with possessing child pornography after West Virginia state troopers say they discovered the images on his home computer. Jonathan Matthew Humphrey, 33, of Lizemores, was arrested by Trooper F. Hammack and members of the Clay County State Police detachment at about 11 a.m., according to State Police spokesman Sgt. Ken McCord.

    McCord said troopers secured a computer at Humphrey's home they say contains pornographic images of children.  Humphrey was charged with three counts of possession of child pornography, McCord said. He was released on $80,000 bond. Hammack, a trooper stationed in Spencer, also works for a special Internet Crimes Against Children Unit that tracks child pornography over the Internet, McCord said.

Jan 2 Late p  James (T.J.) Edward Moore, Jr., see OBITUARY page

Jan 2 a  William Leonard Hapney Sr., 71, see OBITUARY page

Jan 2 a From the email bag:  Male puppy found on Wednesday 12/31 In Lizemores. He's around 8-12 weeks old, well fed, well behaved, well groomed, no collar. He was accompanied by a smaller black & tan pup that ran back into the woods.  Call 587-8384 with a description of your missing dog and see if it matches the one that we have.

Jan 2 a  Communicator comes out Monday afternoon. Deadline for submissions is this evening at 7pm. Email over your events, classifieds, chatters and the like ASAP.

Jan 2 a Home Court Lady Panther Basketball action this evening when they take on Wirt County. Come out and support  the home team. 101.7FM will be sportscating the game too.

Jan 1 Late p  Henry Michael (Mike) Metheney, 47, of Clay,  see OBITUARY page

Jan 1 Late p  Barbara Ann Canterbury, 61, see OBITUARY page

Jan 1 p Garnet Davis Duncan, 69, see OBITUARY page

Jan 1 a We're taking the day off clickers.