July 2010

 
 
  • July 30 a Hungry?  Girls Scout Troop 5187 Hot Dog sale today from 10 am to 1pm. 2 dogs, chips, cookie, just $3 and for a good cause.
  • July 30 a Welcome home Widen Reunion folks .
  • July 30 a  This site and The Communicator are always around to help the County Commission. A couple days ago we advised clickers to call the County Clerk's office if  they were one of the folks our Top Badge confiscated items (not just weapons) and then refused to return them. With the announcement that the Feds are investigating the guy, we thought it was a good idea to help Larry Darryl and Darryl, the least we could do!
  • July 30 a Seems phone calls are coming in. There is more you can do.
  • July 30 a Instead of calling the clerk's office, provide the info to Commissioners Slinky at home, 548 5786; or Mikey Pierson 587 2318; or Fran King 286 5185. Follow up with a written accounting of what happened and mail that to the Clay County Commission :  PO Box 190 Clay WV 25043
  • July 30 a Make you voice count and do it right away.
  • July 30 a Plenty of fun stuff going on this weekend in and around Clay County. Tonight is a cash Bingo fundraiser for the radio station over at Two Run. Plenty of yard sales everywhere.  Poker Run to raise $$$ for Big Otter Saturday. Saturday night consignment auction to round out tomorrow.
  • July 30 a Full details over on the EVENTS page.
  • July 30 a The Charleston Gazette keeps up on the court system pretty well. Yesterday 107 indictments were returned by the Kanwha County Grand Jury. From that list, before Judge Carrie Webster, and slated for Aug. 23rd at 9am:  James Morris, 41, Maysel, conspiracy, operating a clandestine drug lab, possession of substances to be used to make meth.
  • July 30 a Not sure which getting caught episode this is from but it might be the Nitro incident where the officer failed to appear in court and charges were supposedly dismissed.
  • July 29 late p  Small non profit groups generally don't have to file IRS tax returns. That was true until the Spring 2010 when ALL non profits were mandated to file an E form. Those that didn't, were tossed as a non profit agency.
  • July 29 late p From the IRS web site,  some Clay County organizations have now lost their non profit status including the Clay Lion's Club, Clay Memorial Park Foundation, and the Elk River Development Corp.
  • July 29 late p Down in Clendenin, the Chamber of Commerce lost their status.
  • July 29 late p There may be a way to regain or retain your non profit status. Check here.
  • July 29 late p Ever wonder how slow your internet connection really is?  Here's the frontier link to check your speed. Once there, just click the TEST button and see how much the sales person fibbed to ya.
  • July 29 a In addition to launching an investigation into the now defunct Lizemore Ambulance Service, the County Commission gave the green light to starting an impromptu Farmer's Market next week on the old Fas Chek parking lot. See ADVISORY page for details
  • July 29 a Why wait? Gardeners, have you squash corn, berries, tomatoes running out your ears? Set up this Friday in the Fas Chek lot and make some $$$$. See EVENTS page for details.
  • July 29 a There was no mention of a Federal investigation of Puffy the Sheriff during Wed's CCC meeting. But, you may be able to help the Fed Badges. If you have had firearms confiscated by local Badges and can't get em back.. Call County Clerk Connie Workman with your information. Stuff like, When did the Top Badge take your items . the reason, and any reason he gave for not returning the guns. Serial numbers would also be helpful.
  • July 29 a With Lizemore Ambulance shut down, CCC voted to purchased a new $64,230.00 truck for use by the Clay Ambulance. Should be here Friday afternoon.
  • July 29 a Noticed Spread Park is a little on the dirty side? Commissioners voted to hire Brandy Tanner to clean the rest rooms and remove trash twice a week. Good!
  • July 29 a "Not only was the past decade the warmest on record, but climate indicators being tracked globally are worsening, scientists reported Wednesday in their annual "State of the Climate. A comprehensive review of key climate indicators confirms the world is warming and the past decade was the warmest" since record keeping began in 1870, declares the report, which was released by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
  • July 28 a Big drug bust out Morgan Carr Rd Tuesday afternoon. Details coming
  • July 28 a Are you up to your armpits in  squash? Corn coming in heavy? plenty of tomatoes? Cabbage  and cucs going to waste? Need a little extra $$$$
  • July 28 a The Health Dept is planning a farmer's market next week. Why wait on an official selling event when the crops are in and the weather is suppose to be sunny and dry this week?
  • July 28 a Why not this Friday, July 30th, in the old Fas Chek parking lot. Bring a  table , maybe a canopy and a couple chairs and sell your produce.  If you're bringing the rug rats, also bring a basketball. The radio station has two basketball hoops.
  • July 28 a Someone please make a cardboard "FARMER's MARKET" sign and lean it up against the Fas Chek sign and get started this Friday. No license, no permits, no nutin. Just show up  and do it!
  • July 28 a When Puffy the Pompous Policeman says his radios, his equipment, his anything, he is wrong. Everything in that Courthouse, on his back, the vehicles, and everything in them,  is paid for by the taxpayer and fee payers.
  • July 28 a On the job just 28 days and already the new School Super has a black eye for participating in a backrroom plan to rehire the old superintendent at high high rates for a long term assignment. Fortunately, the plan was scuttled. See The Communicator for what really said, not said,  and done during the last School Board meeting.
  • July 28 a Now being passed around the internet as fact: Food Safety Modernization Act of 2009 if passed would regulate and maybe eliminate selling produce from the home garden.
  • July 28 a Of course it's bogus and here's the bone fides from snopes.
  • July 27 a Why is it that there is always a thick yellow marker beside the phone and never a pen?
  • July 27 a In 2010 W. Va. Little League Championship action, So Charleston won over Clay All Stars 3 to 2. It was a great season!
  • July 27 a One year ago today Clayonians lined up for job applications as Panseco's Bill Whitteker was making promises of 400 jobs in the old Fas Check grocery store building. Now labeled a shiester, the jobs didn't happen. Bill nor Panseco are nowhere to be seen.
  • July 27 a County Commission meets Wed morning at 10am. Big long agenda with a couple eyebrow raisers including... launch an investigation into Lizemores Ambulance Service which is now shut down.  Word on the street has it that the Dept of Labor is forcing the group to pay employees back around $20,000 in wages. $20,000 is hard to find anywhere you look.
  • July 27 a Number of jobs as of January, 1993, a week before Bill Clinton took office: 109.725 million. Number of jobs as of Jan. 2001, a week before Clinton left office: 132.469 million. Net Gain under Clinton: 22.7 million jobs
  • July 27 a  Now for Dubbya, who succeeded Clinton in the White House. As already noted, the nation had 132.469 million jobs as he was taking office. Number of jobs on Jan. 12, 2009, a week before Bush left office: 133.549 million. Net gain under Bush: 1.08 million jobs
  • July 27 a Full details here.
  • July 27 a Who's the minority? Sometime in the next decade, there will be more Latinos in the state of Texas than there are Anglos. That will happen sometime in the next five to ten years.
  • July 27 a Here's a clearinghouse web portal for surplus government equipment.
  • July 26 a From the State Little Tournament web site: The final day of pool play turned in some "Wild and Wonderful" performances despite two rain delays in both Ceredo-Kenova and Huntington.  The first contest of the day at Mitch Stadium was an extra-inning, 6 hour and 2 minute contest that ended when Clay County's Flores knocked the walk-off home run over the left-center field fence for the 3-2 victory over Pineville.
  • July 26 a Next game: Today at 3 pm when Clay All Stars take on So Charleston.
  • July 26 a Go Clay!!
  • July 26 a  Our Sch Bd, at least the the ones from the last 30 years, always voted in lock step with rarely a defecting vote. Our new Board changed that big time when turning out Gillespie
  • July 26 a Pick up the latest edition of The Communicator for the juicy details from the Sch Bd meeting where retired Somber Super Larry Gillespie's future was made clear, we don't want you back even as a substitute teacher.
  • July 26 a About as soon as the decision was made, those in the system got bent out of shape. They thought it was terrible that a man with 40 years experience wouldn't be allowed to work as a sub.
  • July 26 a In Clayberry and especially at the Pentagon on the hill, there's always a plan. The insider plan always benefits one person or click.
  • July 26 a A substitute teacher makes about a $100 a day. During the voting process on GIllespie, there was no mention of how much he was going to be paid.  Subs want long term assignments netting larger paychecks to boost their retirement salaries.
  • July 26 a For Gillespie, the deal was cut before retirement that he would  get a long term sub position at the high school and at nearly $250 per day.
  • July 26 a Working 100 days, that's $25,000. Not a shabby boost for a retirement check
  • July 26 a For those that think not hiring Gillespie was politics at its worst, wrong. Backroom deals at the expense of the taxpayer is worser. Yes worser is a word.
  • July 25 p Jerry Lynn Workman, 59, of Maysel,  see OBITUARY page
  • July 25 p A quick ut heavy rain and thunder boomers brought tree limbs down on power lines around the county Sunday afternoon. For many it was hot and humid without air conditioning.
  • July 26 p  The Communicator made it out the door Friday afternoon. It didn't take long to make an impression. from the email bag:   In January 2005 at a Clay County Commission meeting.  Newly elected Clay County Sheriff Randy Holcomb made a gift of the pistol that his predecessor had carried while serving as Clay County Sheriff to former Sheriff Harold Fields.  Former Sheriff Fields new that this pistol was county property when he left office and left it behind.  I witnessed Randy Holcomb make the gift as did many other citizens at the Clay County Commission meeting.   My question is, How was ownership of this pistol transferred from Clay County to Randy Holcomb so that he could make a personal gift of it?"   Did Randy buy it to give away?  E. Jesse Sizemore, II PO Box 401 Clay, WV 25043
  • July 26 p  Pick up a copy of the Communicator to find the details of what's going on with  our Top Badge.
  • July 26 p  From that last Commission meeting came word that ATF is investigating the allegations of problems with evidence records, how evidence isn't being returned to the citizens and other allegations.
  • July 26 p  Want to be patriotic and do the right thang?  If you have had Puffy and the Black Shirt group confiscate your items and you can't get them returned, call the County Clerk's office with details. Stuff like: when taken, serial numbers, and any other pertinent info. Might help with the investigation.
  • July 23 a   It's typo'd, formatted, printed, folded, bundled and ready to go out the door today around 11 am. The Communicator is ready for the world
  • July 23 a This message is for the JM, the fellow that may be able to donate a basketball hoop to 101.7 FM. WYAP is unable to reply to your secure email system but Yes , we still need the thing and thanks. Just let em know how they can get in touch wish you
  • July 23 a Lots going on this weekend from the Ag Fair at Maysel, to corn hole and drive in movie tonight at the radio station, to Hoop and Softball tournament fundraisers. Don't forgot the Saturday night auction returns at 7pm with Maryln Starcher auctioneering the fun. Pool Party too! See EVENTS page for details
  • July 23 a It's  a great time to come visit County Clay.
  • July 23 a We've got some real bad news. Lizemore Ambulance Service went into operation a couple years back supported by volunteers from all walks of life. It was a much needed service for forgotten Clayonians on the "other side" of the Hartland bridge.
  • July 23 a It is our understanding, the Dept of Labor came in on the non profit and levied back wage mandates amounting to $1000s. On May 13th, their Medical Director MD  backed out of that  position.
  • July 23a And, yesterday morning Lizemore Ambulance informed 911 Dispatch to leave them out of the call rotations.
  • July 23 a Bad for Lizemore community, bad for those depending on the agency for income, and bad for the already struggling to stay afloat, Clay Ambulance Service.
  • July 23 a Times just got worse for Clay County West Virginia.
  • July 23 a Wifey returns this afternoon. Time to scrap off the plates, sweep up the dog poop, wash socks, get rid of the spit cups, make the bed, and spray away the cigar smoke.
  • July 23 a Vacation time is over for a couple days.
  • July 21 p  Mary Audra Hopkins, see OBITUARY page
  • July 21 p Happy Birthday Kelly Fulkerson
  • July 21 p We're in typing mode for the next 24 hours in an attempt to get the Communicator out the door on time Friday afternoon.
  • July 21 p No updates till we're done typing
  • July 21 p  Well maybe one more. With the wifey gone.... when the dog craps in the corner of course you're suppose to clean it up. There is a certain amount of stink for the first 24 hours and then it goes away.
  • July 21 p You have to clean it up after the bugs start crawling in and around.
  • July 21 a Happy 7th birthday Morgan Blaze Holcomb
  • July 21 a 70% chance of high winds, thunder boomers, and rain today. Flash flood watch thru this evening. Be careful clickers.
  • July 21 a Yesterday we posted a need for a road sign in the community of a deaf child. A response came from a sign painting facility. Nice!
  • July 21 a Summer 2010 Gran Jury inductees went before Judge Jack Alsop yesterday. Low and behold, those nasty ole Badges made a mistake with each arrest. Everyone of em said, Not guilty Judge.
  • July 21 a Fun to watch Wayne King get yelled at by Judge Alsop. Details in Friday's Communicator.
  • July 21 a With the wifey away, it's a real challenge to keep the house straight. Actually, a real challenge to just keep it clean enough to walk thru without triping over old newspapers, socks, and dirty dishes.
  • July 21 a Finally did a load of clothes last night. Nice to have matching socks again.
  • July 20 4 pm  Flash Flood Warning now in effect until 5:15 today. From the NWO: Excessive runoff from heavy rainfall will cause flooding of small creeks and streams... highways and underpasses. Additionally... country roads and farmlands along the banks of creeks... streams and other low lying areas are subject to flooding.
  • July 20 p  Check the EVENTS page for the Clay All Star State Tournament schedule.
  • July 28 p  One last note on the recent CCC meeting. During discussions came mention of another formal complaint against a Clay County Black Shirt.
  • Juy 28 p You're not going to believe this but, we're trying to get the Communicator out on time this Friday. Deadline for chatter, comment, other submissions, is Wed evening at 6pm. Email now.
  • July 28 p The Communicator, the best 70 cents you will ever spend.
  • July 20 p  Hey! Saw Leonard "My Good Buddy" Williams driving a red pick up truck today. Didn't see him run off the road one time!
  • July 20 a From the email bag:  My son, Neil, is 8 years old and has a moderate to severe deafness.  Yesterday, my nieces realized that the road sign that read "deaf child area" that is posted below our house is missing.  After scouring the woods in the hopes that it had been dislodged and fallen over the hill, we discovered that it is gone.  If someone took it, they should know that those signs are not provided by the Department of Highways like other road signs.  Instead, they have to be purchased by the family of the child. They are very expensive.  My son is unable to hear lower sounds and so misses out on car engine noises.  The sign was posted to help ensure his safety.  If you know who has it, please call 587-2595.  If not, just return it to where it needs to be.  We are unable to replace the sign.   Thank you so much, Julia Wilkinson
  • July 20 a This morning the Summer Class of 2010 will stand before the Circuit Judge and proclaim, and proclaim, Not me buddy, I'm not guilty of anything. The action begins at 9am.
  • July 20 a It's Oh Boy time in Clayberry. Last night during the School Board meeting, with two new Boardster on deck and O Gene King serving as the pivot person, we saw something  rarely seen in the last 20 years. We saw a coup.
  • July 20 a  Superintendent Larry Gillespie retired from duty three weeks ago. It's standard practice for retired to come back and draw a few more bucks working as substitute teachers.
  • July 20 a Last night a passed motion was needed to allow Gillespie to do just that. Board Prez RB called for a motion. He called again. With King, Mullins, and Triplett's heads all facing down, finally, Beth Cercone made the motion.
  • July 20 a The call for a second to the motion came. Around the room, the peanut gallery got quiet as they realized they were seeing history made.  With complete silence around the conference table, RB Legg seconded the motion himself.
  • July 20 a During the vote to rehire the 40 year veteran administrator, RB and Beth Aye with Gene King, Dave Mullins, and Morgy Triplett, in unison, Nay.
  • July 20 a The coup was complete. The Somber Super had been turned out to pasture
  • July 20 a Even one desenting vote is rare in School Board land. To have one of their own tossed out the door, amazing.
  • July 20 a Also from that meeting, something else is up. Instead of hiring the guy as Vice Principal at Clay Elem., the action item was tabled. According to the new Superintendent, the bid process was messed up and would be redone.
  • July 20 a Most of us know how hiring is done at the Pentagon. How things are worded to insure one person qualifies. How candidates not in the fold are told, we have someone else picked out for that job. It's been that way for decades.  Maybe just maybe, the new board is making changes on the way hires are handled.
  • July 20 a Hopefully it's a new day at the Pentagon and not just a one time quirk.
  • July 19 late p  Bret E. Stutler. see OBITUARY page
  • July 19 late p Tired of those curtain climbers? See ADVISORY page now
  • July 19 p Hello Kathleen B down in Florida
  • July 19 p Happy Birthday Dennis James Koch
  • July 19 p There's a new web site originating out of Clayberry. Check out Many Views News here and don't forget to watch the Hick Hop video near the bottom of  that page.
  • July 19 a Happy Birthday Ronnie Rogers II
  • July 19 a Happy Monday morning one and all.  Slow postings due to the ace cub reporter heading up to Morganhole for the weekend to see wifey and kid.
  • July 19 a Tonight the School Board meets in regular session. Their properly posted agenda ( how refreshing) can be seen here. After a long career of teaching at Clay High, Christina Walker is heading for duty over at Clay Middle School. Retired Somber Super Larry Gillespie returns to duty as a substitute teacher... and they will announce the new vice principal for Clay Elem. Maybe most interesting is a long list of discussion items. That's something rarely seen or heard during meetings of old.    Should make for a good meeting.
  • July 19 a During last week's CCC meeting Linda Klotchbach apprised Larry, Darryl, and Darryl of problems with the Bluestone Dam in Hinton W Va. Confirmed by 911 Director Pat Beets: the aging impoundment has structural problems; so serious are the problems that plans are being made in case it breaks; if it breaks,  most of Charleston would be flooded with several feet of wa wa; and that brings up the reason for the discussion.
  • July 19 a All those Charlestonittes might head north  to the highlands of Clayberry to take refuge. What we do with an infusion of newbees?  Discussion on where to house them, feed em, and care for the cultural shock of spending time in the outback.
  • July 19 a Scanner listeners often hear confusion with dispatching ambulances. That topic came up during that same CCC meeting last Wednesday.With Commission Prez Linky trying to stop the public discussion with "Lets not beat that death today",  the disclosures continued. Fran King raising problems that could result in a life threatening situation, going to the wrong road, not knowing where a road actually is, lack of dispatch center training, and thangs aren't getting any better.
  • July 19 a Full details in the next Communicator.
  • July 19 a Need a job? 911 is seeking three disptachers for the Nicholas site.
  • July 19 a First rumors of serious problems with the Lizemore Ambulance service are now surfacing. Seems to be problems with the way they're paying their workers and Dept of Labor regulations and mandatory pay back for employees. Details as they come.
  • July 19 a  Wifey has actually been away for a week. With she and the kid now living in Morganhole, it's vacation time for the ace cub reporter. Having learned many lessons over the years, he's making a valiant effort to keep the place ship shape. With the exceptions of a pile of dirty socks in the corner, various glasses and plates strewn here and there, and some kind of new stains in the middle of the living room carpet, Tallhouse is surviving better than in years past.
  • July 19 a Heck hardly any ants crawling anywhere. But, that may be due to the A/C left setting on 65 degrees all the time.
  • July 18 p Mary Audra Hopkins passsed away. Arragements to come.
  • July 17 a  Clay Co PSD lifted the Boil Water Order Friday afternoon. Dink Dink Dink
  • July 17 a Just love a good email:   The "Current News" on the Clayberry Web site is getting juicier and juicier..  I now find myself checking in more than once a day.  My question to you would be: is there anyone left in Clay County who is NOT arrested, indicted, or in jail?
  • July 17 a Our response to the guy is: only the politicians.
  • July 17 a Concerning our Farmer's Market postings, another email: The roane co farmers market received a grant recently, and ordered two carports from that carport guy over at hansford fork for the farmers market at Spencer. These carports will be built next week.  The Farmers market at Sutton was built with a large 24 x 40 enclosed carport garage building and 3 carport frames 60' long with a greenhouse cover, and has worked real well for them. Cost was about 6000$. The farmers market at flatwoods, also used carports for their initial market, but now the govt. supplied them with a 50,000$ building, then leased it to the owner of the Sutton market, who rents space there to local farmers.  Carports can be purchased for a small amount of money  600$ to 2000$ and are working well.
  • July 17 a On my good buddy Leonard, this email: Andy, you should have told Leonard that you'd be entertained at the thought of him cramming anything, but since he obviously can't drive in a straight line, he'd probably just screw that up too.  lol
  • July 17 a  And another email:  Just wanted you guys to know that you put a smile on my face everyday. I'm one of the everyday dedicated clickers. I grew up in the county of little, but for the last 23 years Florida has been good to me. I'm just another one of the people that had to move from a place that you love ( county of little ) to provide for your family. Don't back down from our little Sheriff or any other Official. Go get em!!!!
  • July 17 a Thanks one and all. This place is a real hoot.
  • July 16 p  Rickey Marvin Hanshaw, 50, of Clay, see OBITUARY page
  • July 16 a Hello Paul Satler up on top of the mountain.
  • July 16 a Gov Smokin Joe will appoint a replacement to fill Robert C. Byrd's position later today. There's only one requirement. The appointed person must agree NOT to run during the upcoming election for a fulll term.
  • July 16 a Summer time is a great time to come visit Clay County. How about you? Maybe this weekend?
  • July 16 a  Tonight the radio station continues its quest to raise enough money to stay alive. With construction underway, the Veterans are holding a motorcycle run to raise funds. Yard sales galore and a class reunion round the stuff we know about. See EVENTS page for details.
  • July 16 a Some weeks are dead, others are full of stuff. This is the later of the two. Even with lengthy postings, we're getting behind. Sorry.
  • July 16 a Haven't mentioned the work of the grand jury Tuesday. Their indictments include
  • July 16 a Azra Cain using a minor to make porn and distribution of kiddy porn
  • July 16 a David D Lane sexual assault 1st degree. abuse by a parent x 6, assault while attempting a Felony
  • July 16 a Matthew S Foster malicious wounding and domestic battery x 2
  • July 16 a Richard Burnside breaking and entering and conspiracy x 3, larceny, destruction of prop x 6
  • July 16 a Brandy Barker same as Richard Burnside
  • July 16 a Jackie Ramsey grand larceny, dest of prop x 2, breaking and entering
  • July 16 a Thomas Childers manufacturing a controlled substance
  • July 16 a Eric Langford  malicious wounding, battery
  • July 16 a  Last night BDA Boardsters greeted Mike Boggs in a very terse way. Why? Mike Boggs filed a lawsuit against the group Wed morning just before getting reappointed to the economic development committee.
  • July 16 a Boggs allegations put in writing exactly what us on the outside have known for years, the BDA operates unlawfully. Stuff like not following state code and if the group is ill configured, how can they hold ANY legal meetings.
  • July 16 a The county doesn't like when they get sued. Sometimes its the only way to get em to the lawful side of life. Boggs has enough money to cover the cost of such an initiative.
  • July 16 a Part of the court request calls for assets of the BDA to be given to a "receiver", somebody else. Translation: The BDa would be out out of business. Do I hear cheers?
  • July 16 a There is fallout clickers. Serious fallout. The BDA funds the new Economic Development Director (Amanda Moore) salary and benefits. With a $30,000 LED grant check in hand (funding for Amanda) the BDA all but decided to send the $$$ back to Charleston. Reasoning: If a receiver is to appointed, wouldn't it be better to let them get their own money.
  • July 16 a  Ms Moore left a job for this position and has two kids. When she was hired, the bet was, she would quit within 90 days. Our timing was off clickers, its now been 4 months, Any new bets?
  • July 16 a With a proper agenda posted and around 10 present, the Buffalo Creek Watershed group also met last night. With one grant in hand, plans for another work party on the calendar, a picnic fund raiser in progress, and the hiring of a Vista worker in the works, it was a productive meeting
  • July 16 a  There's a bunch more to report from Wed's Commission meeting. Here's one cutey
  • July 16 a In the last edition of the Communicator comes a call for the citizen's to set up a farmer's market right now. Minus  govt grants, oversight and other BS, with crops now ripe, just do it. We suggested that the thang be set up at Spread Park.
  • July 16 a Wed morning Fran and Mike came up with a great idea. They think a farmer's market should be set up right now.  Their suggestion is to do it at the old State Road garage at Two Run. What a great idea!
  • July 16 a Had a chance to talk to a fellow who asked: What would it take to get this county moving and developing a future?  After a long this and that talk, it boiled down to one thing, Clayberry needs intelligent, committed  leadership. Something that's in short supply in these parts.
  • July 16 a Another guy suggested that the ace cub reporter change his camera lens to a small unit instead of that big telephoto lens. Would be much less painful was the thought!
  • July 15 a  Without a posted agenda, Stephanie Taylor is the secretary, the BDA plans to meet today at 5:30pm After they get done, the Buffalo Creek Watershed Group will also convene a meeting in the CCC room at the Courthouse.   The Watershed group is a new group of volunteers with little training or experience in holding public meetings but yet they took the initiative to post a required agenda.
  • July 15 a The Saturday Night Auction folks are looking for a fill in auctioneer for this Saturday night. Know someone? See Kim at Granny K's on Main Street.
  • July 15 a Don't ask about that countywide Boil Water Order issued Tuesday. The Town failed to make the potentially life threatening condition known to local media nor even put a notice ont heir front door.
  • July 15 a Are we still under a BWO? Don't expect any update from the people that run the plant and mantain the water lines!
  • July 15 a The state operates a web portal to provide up to date info. The Town ain't mentioned there.
  • July 15 a Wonder what makes bottled water safe and legal. Check out the state sanitation divison on this topic, bottled water companies and and approved bottled water brand names.
  • July 15 a We're giving the Town double H over not notifying the public when there is a water emergency. It's a simple thing to do. As a matter of fact, it EPA law: Your water supplier must notify you by newspaper, mail, radio, TV, or hand-delivery if your water doesn't meet EPA or state standards or if there is a waterborne disease emergency. The notice will describe any precautions you need to take, such as boiling your water.
  • July 15 a We have pictures of the Roane County Farmer's Market on our home page. Two emailers report that the  shelter used by the market was an Eagle Scout project for a young lad over there.
  • July 15 a Back to poor ole Leonard for a second
  • July 15 a Maybe Leonard was just having a bad day yesterday when he wrecked the company truck. See July 14 post for details. Or, maybe public citizen Leonard displayed what's wrong with leadership in Clayberry. He is the epitome of the old guard in these parts. They can only work their backdoor politics when there's complete secrecy. Cameras, independent reporters spoil those efforts.
  • July 15 a For instance, while on the BDA, it was Leonard that changed by laws to allow just three members of the group to hold a meeting and make all decisions. It was Leonard that took the vote and spearheaded the effort for the formation of a BDA Executive Committee to meet  away from the public and handle all other business.
  • July 15 a Leonard "My Good Buddy" Williams can't stand the ace cub reporter and threatened to stuff the guy's camera up you know where. Such stupidty is actually a badge of courage for the independent media, The Communicator, and the future of Clay West Virginia.
  • July 15 a We had just a bang up County Commission meeting Wed morning. So chucked full of info, it's going to take a couple postings just to get the tidbits out to the public.
  • July 15 a Lets start with  two incidents which speak volumes on our Sheriff.  Commissioner Fran King was the point guard on three agenda items aimed at shedding sunshine on ourcheif law enforcement officer, the Top Badge.
  • July 15 a  According to the Franster and Mike Pierson, many complaints and concerns have come in on what happened to evidence seized by the Sheriff. Complaints on no receipts given to the person getting confiscated, no records of what's in the storage locker, and no record of evidence being returned to individuals. The AFT has been contacted about the breach of public trust and the civil implication of such misguided leadership of a public official.
  • July 15 a  Next, according to Fran and backed up by County Clerk Connie Workman, our wittle Sheriff refuses to provided an inventory of weaponry owned by Sheriff's Dept. Has been refusing for four years according to Ms Workman.  Fran said such an inventory is important since the CCC covers the insurance for the Black Shirts. Stuff like coverage on all valuable equipment and liability issues were discussed at length.
  • July 15 a From the peanut gallery a big fellow gave an instance that just happened to a Sheriff in a Southern West Virginia county and suggested the CC take heed from that case.
  • July 15 a Note; Although the meeting agenda was post many days ago, our Sheriff was not present for the meeting.
  • July 15 a Maybe most explosive (get it!) is what happened to old county owned shotguns and new off duty pistols given each Black Shirt. Fran King commented, on the street stories indicate the pieces may have been given away.  If that happened, that's a real no no. State code mandates in black and white how government property may be disposed of. Making presents of county property ain't allowed.  She wants the Sheriff to provide a complete inventory and serial numbers of all weapons owned by the county. So far, he ain't willing.
  • July 15 a Finally for this morning post on the Sheriff, OES Director Pat Beets provided the public an even more chilling report on the actions of our Top Badge. Beets provided that a peed off Sheriff who didn't get his way, called the Feds and provided false information on how new digital radios are being handed out by the 911 Director.
  • July 15 a Seems the Sheriff was not the first person to be handed a sleek new top of the line unit and he is peed. So peed he called Federal funders.
  • July 15 a According to Beets, that phone call and the actions of our wittle Sheriff is now jeopardizing future grant funded purchases. Stuff like generators and radios for fire departments.
  • July 15 a There use to be a little newspaper over in Clay, the Freeze something or other, not sure if they're still in business or not, but 8 years ago when Randy Holcomb was running for office, they reported out of control actions of the candidate but felt he had  "matured" and was ready for office that time around.
  • July 15 a They were wrong back then and it sounds like our top Badge is once again stomping his feet when he doesn't get his way and doing things to screw up the entire county. Along the way, under his leadership, taxpayers are racking up quite a lawsuit bill too!
  • July 15 a Can't you just see the tubby wittle guy beating his chest and proclaiming, "I am more powerful than God in this county!"    For years Randy has been known as Poopy or the Poopster. It may be time for a new nickname, how does Puffy the Pompous Sheriff ring?
  • July 15 a Lots more coming from yesterday's Commission meeting.Stay tuned.
  • July 14 late p  Rev. Marvan Given Frame, 84, see OBITUARY page
  • July 14 late p Rev Frame served in Clay in the 60s.
  • July 14 p The plan was to cover a big long rundown on this morning's Commission meeting. We'll do that tonight late. Right now we have an example of what makes Clayberry such a fertile place for a newspaper.
  • July 14 p After lunch Leonard Williams was driving Elk Power's big bucket truck when he managed to completely miss the driveway to the old Courthouse. Once you get a big truck off center it's hard to stop. The truck wound up nearly on its side.
  • July 14 p With the help of two tow trucks,King's wrecker managed to get the thing back on all fours . Around the site people were laughing and giggling as Leonard Williams stood stoically with arms folded above his belly.
  • July 14 p Commissioner Fran grinned when she asked, Leonard, you need any power truck drivers?   Commissioner Mike Pierson showed up with, Leonard, you new to the Town?
  • July 14 p Primed up, the aging Leonard bee lined over to the ace cub reporter with "You ever had that camera crammed up your ASS? And then he added something about he's just the guy to do it!
  • July 14 p Still with his arms folded and this grump look on his saggy face, he said Mike Pierson was right when he called the reporter a parasite on the county, always trying to tear things down!
  • July 14 p Little Mr Ace Cub Reporter responded with: "Gosh Leonard, if you ever broke down beside the road, I'd be sure to stop and give you assistance."
  • July 14 p  Me thinks someone pooped in Leonard's oatmeal this morning. Anybody can wreck a vehicle but it's folks like Leonard Williams that makes the newspaper business so very exciting in this county of little.
  • July 14 p Oh... those pics are over on the homepage and the camera deosn't smell like poop either!
  • July 13 late p The Communicator made it out the door around 3pm today. During the last Sch Bd meeting Beth Cercone wanted included in future meeting reports, any incident of Badge intervention at CCHS and CMS. That's in the article.
  • July 13 late p Thinking back, we thought she was referring to the students out of control and getting punched in the face. Maybe in that report Ms Cercone really wants info on staff out of control and attacking other teachers.  For that matter, if a kid gets ALC for deviate behavior, maybe  staff should get similar treatment
  • July 13 late p In the latest edition of the paper, we provide some details on a newly approved school system "back to work" policy for employees injured. During those July 6th meeting discussions, there was no mention that employees would be mandated to return to work half healed and work for reduced pay in a reduced capacity.
  • July 13 late p Summer Grand Jury convened today behind closed doors. We'll post the results sometime Wed evening. Check back then.
  • July 13 late p County Commission meets Wed morning at 10am. With the CCC questioning our Top Badge on what happened to those old shotguns, what happened to those recently purchased off duty hand guns, asking for an inventory of all weapons including assault weapons,  and asking for an inventory of goods stored in the evidence locker.. sure to be a wonderful meeting
  • July 13 late p  The Buffalo Creek Watershed group meets Thursday evening in the CCC room beginning at 6pm.
  • July 13 late p the Business Development Authority was to meet Thursday at 5pm. With no meeting agenda posted, guess that meeting is off again.
  • July 13 p Over the scanner today, around 2pm, came word of a countywide BOIL WATER ORDER after a Town of Clay main water line broke. For your own health, boil it before use please.  BWO notice was issued by Clay Co PSD shortly after the scanner notice was heard for their customers.
  • July 13 p There has been no notice of the BWO by the Town of Clay. How sad!
  • July 12 p Got some interesting County Commission agenda items slated for Wed morning.
  • July 12 p Stuff like mandating our puffy wittle Sheriff to supply information to the CCC
  • July 12 p Go check out the list of action items on the front window of the Courthouse.
  • July 12 p  Update on the new downtown Clay restaurant. Granny K's diner is now opening at 7am for the breakfast crowd and staying open until 7p for us stragglers.
  • July 12 p With stress levels at all time highs, a vacation, even one close to home,  is now considered a necessary expense. The state of West Virginia is spending millions supporting tourism efforts just about everywhere but poor ole Clayberry.
  • July 12 p No money for tourism and how that affects you is the lead story in Tuesday's Communicator. Now back to typing .
  • July 12 a We're in typing mode , so a short update
  • July 12 a Good news is hard to find in these parts.
  • July 12 a Kim and Brian Adkins moved the Auction House restaurant to the old "Kitchen" space on Main Street. They opened late last week. Get this, they are also open on the weekends including Sunday afternoon. All degreased and painted , once again there's a place to eat in downtown Clay.
  • July 12 a Also:   The mini mall over at Maysel has been closed for a few months. It's undergoing a face lift. When completed, the indoor flea market and Amish store will return. Added will be a sit down diner and  video slot machines in another corner.
  • July 12 a Bill Vineyard says the place will reopen in just a  few weeks. Great!
  • July 12 a Over the weekend, many kayak toting SUVs came thru the county as did motorcyclists galore as well as foot powered bikers. Instead of driving, riding right on thru, with a little promotion, those dollars could be reaped right here in Clayberry.
  • July 12 a CHIT head update:  The first of the tourist panels should be completed near the middle of the month. Watch for installation updates ..
  • July 12 a Larry Darryl and Darryl have been talking about establishing a Farmer's Market in the old Fas Chek parking lot. On more than one occasion, they've said it will take grant funds and lots of organization before they can lift the first finger. In other counties,  it didn't take long to find a couple picnic shelters and advertise for gardeners to bring their offerings.
  • July 12 a If the need for good fresh produce and a healthy diet is now, why not just use the all ready to be used Spread Park shelters? Beautiful place, has restrooms, plenty of parking, and the nearby dairy bar may also enjoy additional patronage. Seems simple enough. Just advertise, on such an such a date, all are encouraged to bring their garden goods and set up. No charge.
  • July 12 a  Corn is ready... Tomatoes are almost red, cucumbers are running everywhere. Seems like now would be a great time for such a Farmer's Market. Naaaa. makes too much sense.
  • July 12 a Time to get back to typing....
  • July 11 late p  Andrew Jackson (Jack) Nichols, 85, of Lizemores, see OBITUARY page
  • July 9 late p Vida Lee Keener Hall, 85, see OBITUARY page
  • July 9 late p  Bernice Lea Weaver, 77, of Chester, WV, formerly of Lizemores, WV, see OBITUARY page
  • July 9 late p  The Library is in need for craft stuff for the summer reading program. If you can help em out, details on the ADVISORY page
  • July 9 a  As the East coast bakes, so does Clayberry. After dinner temps have been hovering around 100 for the last four days. About the only thing good from the extremes, the grass ain't growing. Thank goodness for that.
  • July 9 a IT'S FRIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAY!
  • July 9 a We're holding the Communicator until Tuesdy afternoon. Reason, all the staff have TB (Tired Butt).
  • July 9 a As a  a warning, around the county, many others are getting hit with viruses so bad, they shut units down. Won't even boot up except in safe mode. If you're not using the latest, most up to date security, you're going to get screwed big time. Over on the LINKS page is one for the freebee Malware antibytes which works pretty good. The paid version does better. Ditto for the freebee and paid versions of AVG. The norm is for the paid versions to offer real time protection, to zap the bad stuff before it actually enters your puter.
  • July 9 a  Knocking on wood, this site has gone without a cyber attack since last Dec.
  • July 9 a If it doesn't rain, tonight the radio station is offering cornhole contests (7pm) along with the drive in movie, The Dark Knight in the Batman series (9pm). Free
  • July 9 a Clay Pool is hosting a party Saturday night and don't forget the Auction at Two Run for some sit down fun.
  • July 9 a  Yard sales, reunions, and more can be found over on the EVENTS page . Have a nice weekend.
  • July 9 a  Yesterday we posted a link to the Durbin Rocket tourism train over in Pocahantas County. While the boss is in the other room .... Mike Rowe emailed with a couple more great You Tube links for steam engines. Shay #12 1,     Shay #12 2,       Shay#12  3.
  • July 9 a Be sure to turn down the volume, those steam whistles around the office pee off the Big Shots.
  • July 9 a From Mike's email: I spent all of my Saturdays last August and September painting this Shay geared locomotive which formerly ran at the Georgetown Loop Railroad in Colorado and is now at the Colorado Railroad Museum.  For my efforts, I was allowed to fire the locomotive during the Museum's "Shayfest" last fall (two days).  I am most likely on the other side of the cab during these scenes.  My history with this locomotive goes back into the early 1970s.
  • July 9 a  As soon as Clayberry leadership removes their heads from their butts, they'll realize the importance of getting the BC&G RR back on the tracks from Dundon to Taylor Station. Wouldn't a snow run in Dec be great!
  • July 8 late p  Novella Marie “Shorty” Branard Peck, 83, of Ovapa, see OBITUARY page
  • July 8 a  If you're interested in which band is playing up at Pat's Sports Bar, here's the link for book marking.
  • July 8 a From the email bag:  11 - 12 year old all stars won the southern division, off to Elkins next weekend....they have not been beat yet...  YEAH!!!!
  • July 8 a For over a decade we've said that the BDA has been worthless without one redeeming accomplishment. That's about to change.
  • July 8 a  BDA Boardsters suggested that the group organize an auction house in the old State Road garage. After they quit rolling their eyes back in their head and realized it might work. It happened. Brian and Kim Adkins were the first with a business license to operate the Saturday night deal sessions. Once the auction got underway, Kim opened the Auction House restaurant. It became successful.
  • July 8 a Beginning next week, Kim will move from the reduced rent facility and will open in the Kitchen Restaurant building on Main Street. The auction business will continue in the same location but the diner part will reopen in new digs either this Friday or Monday of next week.
  • July 8 a The BDA now has one success story under their belt.
  • July 8 a If the BDA would focus their attention on growing tourism, they may grow another success. Take for instance  a  railroad ride on the BC&G rails.
  • July 8 a Over in Pocahantas County the Durbin Rocket (here's the video) is quite successful and it runs on just a 10 mile spur along a creek. Don't say Buffalo Creek couldn't be  just as pretty or  can't attract those same masses, it can.
  • July 8 a To get the wheels a turning, Robert C awarded a 1/4 million dollars four years ago to the County Commission to purchase part of the spur going up Buffalo. The CCC continues to sit on those dollars.
  • July 8 a The Wall Street Journal is reporting the nation's super secret spy agency, the NSA, has now set up the 1984ish Big Brother eyeballing of the world wide web.
  • July 8 a Of the 36,000 oil and gas wells in the Gulf of Mexico, as many as 27,000 may be leaking. And, doing so without government scrutiny.
  • July 8 a It good to see new faces on an elected board. Such was the case Tuesday night when the School Board met in rescheduled action. From that gathering...
  • July 8 a It appears the Board will begin receiving additional info on how the system is working. Stuff like how many workers are off on sick leave and how many rug rats are in ALC prison. Beth Cercone added that she would like to see monthly reports from each of the Board office Directors to see what they are accomplishing. You could have heard a pin drop!
  • July 8 a For a number of reasons, all bad of course, the Board is hiring individuals without teaching credentials to fill vacancies. Happened again Tuesday night. No one seemed to mind or at least no one objected
  • July 8 a In progress before the new Boardsters took their seats at the table, a unanimous vote came on a new back to work policy for sick, ailing, recuperating, personnel. The idea is to reduce worker comp rates. The outcome may be quite different.
  • July 8 a  Under the new mandatory rule, the school system will have access to medical records ( page 4) and be the go between for MDs and the worker. They will even have a new staff person in charge of visiting the ailing workers in an attempt to cut back on sick leave use.
  • July 8 a That decision came on the heels of discussion that this county has low worker comp rates and instances of possible abuse.
  • July 8 a Your employer knowing all your medical details.. does anybody else see an issue?
  • July 5 late p  School Board meets Tuesday evening at 6pm in the Standard Bryant Annex building. This will be the first public meeting for newbee Boardsters Dave Mullins and Morgan Triplett. There's a lot of hope that between New Super Kenneth Tanner and the reconstituted Board, the demands and needs of the county will be heard and acted upon.
  • July 5 p For decades past, the Board had nearly all their discussions and decisions made before any public meeting was held. Noticed on the agenda for Tuesday's meeting, a couple interesting discussion items. Stuff like the Board receiving monthly reports on  who's in ALC, staff attendance, and much needed repairs at CCHS and CCMS.
  • July 5 p Item 11 is a new return to work policy for school personnel. Might take a week or month to sink in but, bet there will be some fallout from that one.
  • July 5 p While the DC boys tell ya that the long depression is over, keep in mind... when they tell you fewer are unemployed, that's true.
  • July 5 p That 1 m fewer is the number of workers that have exhausted their unemployment benefits and are no longer counted in govt stats. When they tell you 9.5% are unemployed, again true. But, if you add those under employed and those working part time instead of full time, the unemployed number climbs to around 25% without good jobs. In Michigan where auto jobs ain't never coming back, the rate is real close to 30% unemployed.
  • July 5 p  "Home sales are down. Retail sales are down. Factory orders in May suffered their biggest tumble since March of last year. So what are we doing about it? Less than nothing,"
  • July 4  a In the last seven days we lost a big one, the big one, the guy that tried his best to improve the state with kindness and infrastructure, Senator Robert C Byrd. For his years of dedicated service, we responded in droves  and paid respect as he laid in state.
  • July 4 a  Byrd changed over the years as the state / nation changed. He said the right things
  • July 4 a  The Fourth of July commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence by delegates from the 13 colonies in 1776. This most important American national holiday is traditionally observed with parades, band concerts, picnics, and fireworks. Writing in July 1776 from Philadelphia, John Adams related to his wife, Abigail: "Yesterday the greatest Question was decided, which ever was debated in America, and a greater, perhaps, never was or will be decided among Men. A Resolution was passed without one dissenting Colony 'that these united Colonies, are, and of right ought to be free and independent States, and as such, they have, and of Right ought to have full Power to make War, conclude Peace, establish Commerce, and to do all the other Acts and Things, which other States might rightfully do...' This . . . Day . . . will be the most memorable Epocha, in the History of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated, by succeeding Generations, as the great anniversary Festival. . . . It ought to be solemnized with Pomp and Parade, with Shews, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other from this Time forward forever more."
  • July 4  a  Our founders wrote those few words from the heart. That wonderful document stands today, a testament to the high ground ideals this nation strives to attain each passing decade.
  • July 4 a Here in Clayberry, the local radio station ( still located in the Fas Chek parking lot for now anyway) organized one heck of a downtown Main Street celebration where kids and seniors alike took part in downtown Clay festivities. It was small town America at its best. The weather even cooperated.
  • July 4 a Today is the final day of Independence Day Celebration complete with cornhole, basketball rubber ducky races, parade, pie contests, and grand show featuring the country group, Audio Outlaws. Don't miss the fun.
  • July 3 a Dale Edwin Fluharty, 72, see OBITUARY page
  • July 3 a  Last night while tinkering with this web site, the ace cubster managed to mess up the Classified page. If your posting is listed, one, blame it on the little bald headed guy and then resend via email. Thanks
  • July 3 a  Warm  weather and a holiday weekend, don't get any better!
  • July 3 a Lots going on during the WYAP Small Town America Celebrates Independence Day. Don't sit at home all droopy lipped. Get out and have some fun.
  • July 3 a 101.7 is hosting a Pretty Turtle, Best Dressed Pooch, Karaoke, and Hula Hoop contests today right after the Kiddy Carnival. See EVENTS page for details..
  • July 3 a Congrats 82 year young Nona Carte for being selected the 2010 Independence Day Celebration Queen.
  • July 3 a Tonight Maxine Metheny goes on air at 7pm. Great Clay County talent second to none. Bring a lawn chair and maybe a jacket.
  • July 3 a Doesn't feel like it but Dog Days begin today.
  • July 2 a From the email bag: It is interesting to note that the flower beds at the WV Capitol were replanted on Thursday, the governors office was open and all the dignitaries arrived in limos, however the flags that had been lowered to half-staff were worn and tattered. It would have been a grand gesture to honor the late Sen. Byrd with crisp, clean flags.  Shame, Smokin' Joe.  Next time you make such a historic executive order to lower the flags, check the condition of said flags.
  • July 2 a We forget when Robert C was on the CCHS stage and yelled out SHUT UP as he played his fiddle. Before that his long winded graduation ceremony speech. It's time to honor a guy that brought more potential to the state than any other individual. Last night several from Clayberry were at the Capitol to pay their last respects. He was one of those folks that felt, with the right infrastructure, this state could improve.
  • July 2 a 15 years ago the Senator made his last visit to the county of little. He brought with him a ceremonial presentation check made at for $12m. The money was for water line improvements and a new water plant. He was dressed in a baby blue seersucker suit. We rubbed shoulders with the guy. Local politicians worked it hard to get their pictures taken with the most powerful man on earth.
  • July 2 a His passing has serious implications for this county. Like, it was Byrd that provided the first 1/4 million to purchase the old BC&G spur for a tourism railroad. His promises for funding the entire length of track are now gone.
  • July 2 a Behind the scenes, yelp, the political war for a replacement is on. Our best guess, a place holder will be named. Maybe Gail.
  • July 1 p Yesterday we posted that Samples Market is going out of business. Update: Polly Samples will be open the next couple days and everything is half off. Might be a chance to get some real deals.
  • July 1 p With the first Thursday of the new month here, normally the ever so entertaining BDA should be meeting. Don't think that's happening since the Franster is out of town.
  • July 1 p The CHIT group met Wed afternoon. Their goal is to have 5 new tourism panels erected around the county by mid July. Designers, painters are in place but they need good locations around the county to install the thangs. Email if you will allow a panel to be placed on your building. Thanks
  • July 1 p Coming to Clay this holiday weekend? The complete WYAP Small Town America Celebration schedule is posted over on the wyap.com web site. For those unable to come home, their web cam will allow all to watch the fun from the stage.  You can also listen to Maxine Metheny (Sat) and the Audio Outlaws (Sunday) by going to their web site and clicking the blinking ON AIR button.
  • July 1 a Lookin for a deal? Check out the EVENTS page, it looks like yard sale central. Deals on every street corner for the next 4 days. Good shopping one and all
  • July 1 a The lead story in The Communicator details the criminal charges lodged June 19th against Jamie Morris, John Amos, and Kenneth Crites.  The three remained in the slammer seeking $100,000 bonds on each. Good reading for sure
  • July 1 a Just after the paper made it out the door, pretrial hearings were to be held in Magistrate Court. Jami's was held, the other two were delayed.
  • July 1 a A few hours before the hearing, Nicholas County filed charges against Crites alleging the lad bought too much sudafed.
  • July 1 a All three were bailed out of the slammer by Jami's family using property as surety.

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