July 2011

 
  • July 29 late Harold “Gene” Martin, 64, of Ivydale, see OBITUARY page
  • July 29 late p
  • July 28 p  AW is heading off to WVU pick up the sweetie and will be away from the web stuff until Friday night late.
  • July 28 p You're on your own clickers for 24 hours.
  • July 28 a With President Obama and Republican leaders calling for cutting the budget by trillions over the next 10 years, it is worth asking how we got here — from healthy surpluses at the end of the Clinton era, and the promise of future surpluses, to nine straight years of deficits, including the $1.3 trillion shortfall in 2010. The answer is largely the Bush-era tax cuts, war spending in Iraq and Afghanistan, and recessions.
  • July 28 a And just for MB :  If the debt-limit debate had anything to do with reality, every story about it would include a few basic facts. Starting with: President Obama inherited a $1.2 trillion budget deficit.   And: Republican leaders supported the tax cuts and wars that (along with the recession, another pre-Obama phenomenon) created that deficit. Also: Republicans engineered this crisis by attaching unprecedented ideological demands to a routine measure allowing the U.S. to pay its bills.  Finally, Obama and the Democrats keep meeting those demands—for spending cuts, then for more spending cuts, and even for nothing but spending cuts—but Republicans keep holding out for more. More  truthful answers.
  • July 28 a Happy belated Birthday to Darlinda Walker Truman
  • July 28 a Wifey's returns Friday. As before each return, it's time for a clean up of assorted dead socks here and there, dripping spit cups on every corner, trying to find the carpet under the dirt and sticks, and then... there's the ants.
  • July 28 a  With two weeks worth of watermelon rinds on the counter tops, crudy plates and sticky spoons in the sink, and a legion of ants blanketing the formica marching in tightly grouped formation... the ace cub reporter came up with an idea to defeat the invaders.
  • July 28 a The guy took the vacuum cleaner hose and duct taped it real close to a puddle of thickly crusted watermelon juice. With the vacuum on, every time a creature came near the puddle, off it went thru the tube into the cleaner bag. Almost magic and easy too!
  • July 28 a The problem came when the Mel Gibson look alike left the kitchen and did the nippy nap routine. Feeling refreshed and back in the kitchen 90 minutes later, a problem. The vacuum switch was still in the ON position but nothing was happening. Dead silence. Wiggling the cord did nothing. Shaking the canister, nothing. Opening and closing the canister cover, nothing.
  • July 28 a  It's time for a mad dash in search of an identical replacement sweeper.
  • July 27 a Happy Birthday wishes extended to Jane Anspach. Turning 42 today and just passed her motorcycle driving test. Salute!
  • July 27 a County Commission convenes this morning at 10 am. Good air conditioning and great entertainment value second to none. Take in  a public meeting. You'll be glad you did
  • July 27 a  Clay County's only locally owned and operated newspaper, The Communicator, made it to the news stands yesterday afternoon. Even with typos and grammar perversions galore, the best source for great local news is  The Communicator.
  • July 27 a Yesterday at 1:39pm an ambulance call came for a male not breathing. The tone went for over two minutes before a reply was heard on the scanner. It took Clay Ambulance 6 minutes to get into gear and be seen zooming thru the Two Run of the county in route to the O'Brion destination.
  • July 27 a Wilson Funeral Home was later called to retrieve the body
  • July 27 a Management and County Commission oversight is in short supply in the Nation of Clay.
  • July 25 later p Remember Samantha Kerns? Graduated from Clay High a few years back.  Samantha is now Samantha Kerns Sassone and is a zoo keeper down in Georgia. Friday afternoon she became a Mom with the birth of Diamond Anthony weighing in at 7.4 oz. Both are doing well.
  • July 25 later p Now back to typing the night away.
  • July 25 p Hey not so bad today. Humidity is down a little and we may get a little rain to further cool off the county.>
  • Transfer interrupted!

    nt size=+2>July 25 p Wifey's been gone for seven days. All along the ace cub reporter has been eating a watermelon a day. Even the seedless variety gets messy after a few days of juice dripping everywhere.
  • July 25 p That might explain the number of gnats buzzing around the sticky kitchen counter tops. Sort of looks like a squadron  in a war zone. Of particular interest to the legions of ants is the sink where clumps of watermelon pieces have been collecting during the no wifey week vacation.
  • July 25 p  We're in shut down mode until the Communicator makes it out the door Tuesday afternoon. If you have something for the paper, email now. Deadline is today at 5pm.
  • July 24 p Elvis Dawson is known throughout the county as a guy that manages to get in trouble with the law every year or so. For the most part, the shootings, stabbing etc. amount to a neighborly family feud.
  • July 24 p  Elvis is not known to be a rocket scientist nor very close to one.  With that being said..
  • July 24 p Elvis decided he could become an aircraft pilot and fly like a bird in an ultra lite craft.
  • July 24 p This evening the guy was flying around in the northern end of the county. Doing quite well as a matter of fact! Beautiful day to be in the air.
  • July 24 p Something happened as he tried to land the thing on the side of a mountain. He crashed.
  • July 24 p With at least  a broken arm and leg and the red stuff coming from his mouth, Elvis Dawson was life flighted out. No update on his condition as of 10:30pm.
  • July 24 p  In serious need of a landing manual, we can say, Elvis has left the county.
  • July 24 a The talk from the last seven days was the heat, the humidity, and how the gardens need the rain. Each exchange ended with  but boy this is misery. With humidity thick enough to cut with a butter knife, all but the absolute necessary chores have been put on the back burner for now.
  • July 24 a Knowing full well that the country is not going to default on its debt in August and knowing equally well that there is no debt or deficit problem, Washington leaders continued to attract media attention with their escapades.
  • July 24 a  We watched as helicopters circled above in search of the County's number one cash crop, pot. Those are federal dollars being spent on overtime wages and fuel to nab someone (s) growing something that grows naturally in the mountains. With 14 states decriminalizing pot possession, it's like watching the last of the dinosaurs.
  • July 24 a  We had a man commit suicide this week.  It's hard to figure why a perfectly healthy working man takes his own life. By the end of the week, the coffeehouse crowd spent much time trying to figure that one out.
  • July 24 a We also lost Cary Bullard who spent 30 years serving the county from his Maysel gas station.
  • July 24 a At week's end 4Hers held their annual fair at Clay County Park. There they and their animals sported their stuff as Judges made their marks.
  • July 24 a Here in the dead of summer, things are happening. Starting early this year, those lush green lawns are turning to wire. Flower gardens are in full dress regalia. Half runners are coming in by the bushel.  Sweet corn is getting covered with butter as we block more arteries.
  • July 24 a  Beefmaster tomatoes are turning red. Those huge monsters are ending up sliced about an inch thick and on sandwich bread. You know you got a good one when the juice runs down both sides of your mouth.
  • July 24 a All those watermelon seeds we've been spitting off the front porch are taking root and starting to sprout greenery.
  • July 24 a One of the joys of rural living is peeing off the back porch. Here at the end of July, we've got big brown spots where grass use to grow.
  • July 24 a It's the dead of summer in the Appalachian Mountains of Clayberry.
  • July 23 late p  Carry E. Bullard, 74, see OBITUARY page
  • July 23 p   David C. Johnson, 46, of Clay, se OBITUARY page
  • July 23 a Last night's thunder storm pushed away the nasty humidity making for much better conditions for today's Ag Fair, Farmers Market and tonight's Bingo games.
  • July 23 a Other than the power blinking off a few times, no large outages reported from the late afternoon storm blast.
  • July 23 a Why not do something good for your rug rats. Something that will last a lifetime. Swimming Lessons will be offered at the Clay County Pool starting Monday, July 25 at 6:00.  Children must be at least 5 years old .Participants must be pre-registered. Call the pool at 587-7440 to pre-register or for more info.
  • July 22 8:21 am Over the scanner, "I'm waiting on the M.E. now"
  • July 22 a Keep in mind, Social Security has not added one penny to the deficit, has not contributed one cent to the debt. The employee paid for retirement plan has trillions in the bank. It is the only Fed govt. agency that is 100% funded for the next 25 years !
  • July 22 a Something else. SS is the only major retirement plan that is not controlled by the Wall Street gangsters. Compliments last years' Republicrat efforts, in 2012, if you  are 75 years of age you can expect a $575 reduction in pay outs. If you're 85 years old, the already on the books reduction in pay outs cut your allotment by $1000.
  • July 22 a And, a couple years back the retirement age was raised and a lower rate of pay out benefits was instituted.
  • July 22 a Not sure how Capito voted on the latest round of cuts to the poor and tax cuts to the very wealthiest but based on her voting record.... How do you like those Republicrats now! Aren't they just little darlins.
  • July 22 a Expect another day or so of humidity so thick, it's dangerous to be outside. Be careful clickers.
  • July 22 a It's a great time to head over to the Clay County Swimming Pool or the Elk River.
  • July 21 a Steamy heat dead hot of summer in Clayberry. We can't complain. Yesterday UPS sent out a notice stating that deliveries have been delayed due to the storms zapping their Louisville KY  distribution warehouse.
  • July 21a Birthday greetings to Kelly Fulkerson
  • July 21 a Pony missing?  A light gray male 3 ' tall pony was found at 9474 Elk River Rd at Procious. Guy says he's real gentle but is out living his welcome.
  • July 20 a  A jury tossed the felony charges against Iron Mikey Lanham last week. He got 6 months in the hole for the misdemeanor charge.
  • July 20 a For those wanting to get signed up for free school lunches and can't wait for their paper applications, here's an online link for the process.
  • July 21  School Board meetings have been moving along pretty well with open discussions. Sure seems like their operating above board and in the light of day. About time for them to screw up.
  • July 21 a How about some education to brighten your future. Click the Community College button over on the homepage to see the Fall 2011 offerings right here in Clayberry.
  • July 21 a  On this date in history:   1836: Canada's first public railway opened; 1861: The first major military engagement in the Civil War took place at Bull Run Creek, Virginia; 1873: Jesse James held up the Rock Island Express and escaped with $3,000. It was his first train robbery
  • July 21 a   Born 1899: Ernest Hemingway (author); Born 1920: Isaac Stern (violinist); Born 1924: Don Knotts (actor);  1925: John T. Scopes found guilty of teaching evolution in class and fined $100; Born 1952: Robin Williams (actor)
  • July 21 a 1959: The world's first nuclear-powered merchant vessel, the Savannah, launched; 1961: Captain Gus Grissom, piloting the Mercury 4 capsule Liberty Bell 7, became the second American to go into space (sub-orbital flight)
  • July 21 a Died 1998: Alan Shepard, Jr. (astronaut); Died 1998: Robert Young (actor, television's iconic dad of Father Knows Best); 2000: Discovery of the subatomic particle tau-neutrino announced
  • July 21 a Died 2004: Jerry Goldsmith (composer who created the memorable music for scores of classic movies and television shows ranging from Star Trek and Planet of the Apes to The Man from U.N.C.L.E. and Dr. Kildare)
  • July 19 p Need work? See JOBS page now
  • July 19 p Had a pretty cool Sch Board meeting Monday night. According to Super K Tanner, if parents fill out the applications, all kids in Clayberry can have free school meals this year. The full info is over on the ADVISORY page
  • July 19 p As for student free admission to sporting events, that will continue again this year. Last time around the Clay County Bank contributed $8000 to that effort.
  • July 19 p In years past, school system buddies would be hired to oversee the day to day  building of school projects. One of the more recent cash cow Cluck of the Works hand outs went to out going Sch Super Jerry Linkypoo. Without any building experience, Slinky was hired to provide the oversight needed for a well built Big Odor Elem School.
  • July 19 p Long time clickers of this site know full well the calamity of that project which left the entire school system in deep in debt with construction problems which linger to this day.
  • July 19 p Maybe the highlight of last night's meeting was the hiring of a Cluck of the Works ($27/hour) from out of county and a lady with strong credentials in construction.
  • July 19 p Nice change.
  • July 19 p This morning Johnny Morris was to stand trial for selling drugs in and around the county. A confidential informant (CI) was used to build the case against Morris. There's a problem with the case. the Prosecutor's office can't find the CI. They've looked high and low with no luck.
  • July 19 p The case was rescheduled. Wouldn't it be a shame of the CI never turned up and Johnny couldn't clear his good name.
  • July 19 p Over on the hill in Magistrate Court land, one time Prosecutor Jeff Davis was unable to clear his name. Instead of a trial for battery and violating a domestic violence order, turns out several of those ready to testify against the Jeffster changed their minds. Even the ex wifey is unwilling to speak against the guy.
  • July 19 p With some pretty good footwork by Special Prosecutor Gerry Hough, the 12 year old Juvy that was assaulted back in March will be brought in and questioned away from the parents to see if anything was coerced.
  • July 18 a Overcast and humid as we start this new mid summer week of fun in County Clay.
  • July 18 a Before we get started.... Delta Communications is able to provide this information platform with the help of our advertisers.  In addition to appreciating those folks, the homepage buttons are a resource for you. Like, on the NAPA, ROPE, and STIHL pages, there are parts finders. In this age of high energy prices, saving a trip to the store can mean $10 or $15.
  • July 18 a For those interested in locating to the region, Jeannie's button is a good place to start the search.
  • July 18 a We haven't said it in a while, so, thank you advertisers for making this animal stay online.
  • July 18 a School Board meets tonight. How nice it is to have the meeting agenda available online for the public to keep track of those dealings. Lots of rehires tonight.
  • July 18 a School Super Kenneth Tanner is working a deal so all students in the county will receive free meals while at school. His Statement and terms for the deal are now posted over on the ADVSIORY page.Walk over there and have a look see.
  • July 18 a  Johnny Morris was indicted last year for selling drugs. His day in court is slated for Tuesday morning at 9am. There may be a problem.
  • July 18 a Last week the Prosecutor's office made public that they have been unable to reach, subpoena the confidential informant that provided the info to nab Mr Morris.
  • July 18 a Remember last Spring when one time Prosecutor Jeff Davis ended up in the slammer? His day is Magistrate Court is also scheduled for Tuesday morning.
  • July 17 p Need a future? See JOBS page.
  • July 17 p This past week we saw the grand jury do their thang and arraignment day as well.
  • July 17 p  On Friday morning  those charged with felonies said I didn't  do it, not guilty. When the cases get closer to being financially mature, many will take a plea.
  • July 17 p Back on Wed the County Commission met. Undoing their out of step mistake of reappointing Jack Brown to the BDA ( he actually resigned from duty several years ago), they accepted the guy's resignation.
  • July 17 p While the rest of the world grows the 21st century in high tech ways, Wed morning Bill Lane petitioned the CCC for wa wa service in the Whetstone road area of Clayberry.
  • July 17 p Cancer scares the crap out of all of us. Truth is, statistically, early detection has no affect on survivorship rates. Everyone reading this post has been exposed to the disease in one way or another. Big C shows no mercy and can strike anybody at any time.
  • July 17 p The highlight of the week came Saturday morning when well over 200 showed up for the Brenda Colemen Cancer walk in Two Run. In front of Ms Coleman's home,  songs were sang, messages of God speed for health and pink balloons were released before the short distance walk was completed.
  • July 17 p With blue skies above and moderate temps on  hand, it was small town America at its best. Those same neighborly ways are the reason that we say that Clayberry is a great place to live and well worth trying to grow.
  • July 17 p For all of County Clay, get well soon wishes extended to Brenda Coleman.
  • July 15 late p Otto and Greta Brown's Yard Sale for July 16th is canceled.
  • July 15 late p Want to get rid of those little snot lickers Saturday. Late announcement: Fola Missionary Baptist Church One Day Vacation Bible School July 16th  8:30 to 5:30pm
  • July 15 a This morning Judge Ric Facemire heard all of the Summer Grand Jury Indictees say, Nope, I'm not guilty. Every one of em knew that had to be in Court this morning and they all knew the pee testing procedure before getting or keeping bond privileges
  • July 15 a  Just about everyone one of em that whizzed in the jar tested hot. How dumb!
  • July 15 a  Needless to say, Judges don't appreciate such antics.  At one point, while dressing down one of the dumb bunnies, Judge Facemire: It's best if you don't show up again on drugs ... You knew! .... There is no excuse! ... I will not tolerate this.
  • July 15 a Without exception, off to the slammer they went to dry out. Pitiful.
  • July 15 a Auction  at Two Run and Big Otter Community Center music tonight
  • July 15 a  Lots of summer goodness showing up at the Saturday morning Farmer's Market in the radio station parking lot. Last week, the first of the half runners, tomatoes, and corn began to appear.  Bet there will be even more this week. Fresh and close to home, it don't get any better than that!
  • July 14 early a  The 2011 Class of Summer Grand Jury Indictees include:
  • July 14 a Roland Grose 7 counts sexual assault 3rd degree; Sexual abuse by parent of guardian x 7; Incest x 5; and, display of obscene material x 2
  • July 14 a Brenin Bird breaking and entering and fleeing a Badge
  • July 14 a James Setliff failure to register as a sex offender x 3
  • July 14 a Athena Samples failure to register as a sex offender x 3
  • July 14 a Steven Neal failure to register as a sex offender x 2
  • July 14 a Brent Boggs soliciting to commit a felony of crime or violence; attempting to escape custody; destruction of property
  • July 14 a Adam Jones grand larceny and conspiracy
  • July 14 a Terrance Hamrick (from Pond Gap) and Adam Jones grand larceny and conspiracy
  • July 14 a Timothy Sizemore and Zackery Ryan aggravated robbery, wanton endangerment and conspiracy
  • July 14 a John Amos Morris operating or attempting to operate a drug lab
  • July 14 a Joshua Riffe soliciting a minor via a puter; sexual assault x 2; display of obscene material; and possession of material depicting a minor in sexual conduct
  • July 14 a Bobby Hanshaw murder and brandishing
  • July 14 a Jacob Young  transferring and receiving about anything he can get his hands on
  • July 14 a Danny Arnold manufacturing schedule I controlled substance x 2
  • July 14 a How's that for a day and one half of Grand Jury dealings.
  • July 14 a In the way of an update on Jamie Morris who plead guilty to operating a meth lab .... sentencing comes on August. Until then he will submit to an evaluation but for now, he's out and about trying to stay clean.
  • July 14 a
  • July 13 p At 10am this morning, with the Grand Jury still in session, Jamie Morris plead guilty to operating a meth lab. Judge Ric Facemire accepted the plea.
  • July 13 p No word yet on sentence or whether Fran King will receive her towing and storage bill related to the seizure of the Morris vehicles.
  • July 13 a  County Commission convenes this morning at 10 am. Come out and watch government in action and suck up some cool A/C.
  • July 13 a Grand Jury was still going strong Tuesday afternoon at 4:15pm Will post results as soon as they become public.
  • July 13 a  Clay County's only locally owned and operated news source made it to news stands Tuesday afternoon around 4pm . Lead story provides info on how you can get out from under paying taxes on coal holdings under your farm. Darn good reading.
  • July 13 a  Last night Town Council held their first special meeting where they tried to get up to speed on a couple stalled projects left over from the last administration.
  • July 13 a On the 11 month stalled Wa Wa plant construction, it's going to be a while clickers. Engineer Jim Hildruth explained, after the contractor walked off the job this time last Summer, it's up to the insurance provider to complete the thang and that ain't happening right now.
  • July 13 a  As for the Streetscape project: the money remains available, the hold up comes from the State Road folks who have to do their end of the work before the new sidewalk construction upgrades can begin.
  • July 13 a Monday night's storm knocked power out for a few in the county. The main storm and a follow up dose brought some much need rain to area gardens.
  • July 13 a Temps above 100 have greeted Clayberry the last two days. Great for tomatoes but man it's tough in us old folks. Shade is in short supply.
  • July 11 p Big time thunder and lightning storm heading into Clayberry. By 5:30 reports are coming in of power outages . Will provide coverage as long as the juice and DSL stays alive
  • July 11 p Forgot to say Great big Happy Birthday wishes to Dave Derby and Mike Mullins
  • July 11 a Sometime over the weekend our web guru managed to loose a couple days of web posts. Sorry.
  • July 11 a Might be an interesting week coming our way. Town Council is holding two special meetings Tuesday beginning at 5pm concerning the Streetscape and Water Plant messes.
  • July 11 a The Health Dept is holding an Emergency meeting Tuesday with purpose of the meeting listed as personnel issues. That's not an allowable reason for a meeting but at least they do have an agenda posted for public review.
  • July 11 a Council Commission meets Wed morning at 10 am.
  • July 11 a A couple weeks ago, here in Clayberry, all drug charges against Jamie Morris were dropped. He walked away free and clear.
  • July 11 a Down in Kanawha County, Mr Morris was indicted on similar drug charges from a last Spring drug bust in Nitro. Looking at five felonies there, last week, Morris took a plea deal where he accepted guilt on three of the felonies and will receive a five year probation. No jail time.
  • July 11 a The Summer Grand Jury convenes Tuesday. The big question remains: Will Jamie Morris, John Amos Morris, Kenneth Crites be indicted once again.
  • July 11 a Full details in Tuesday's Communicator.
  • July 9 a Boil Water Order in place for Amma Rd, Big Pigeon and Little Pigeon Roads
  • July 9 a Clayberry finally got something it needed yesterday.
  • July 9 a After a very dry June, a long, heavy at times, rain blanketed the county. Gardens are feeling better this morning. Not so with those camping along the Elk. Soaked to the bone.
  • July 9 a Looks like dry weather will prevail this morning just in time for the Farmer's Market and fresh local produce.
  • July 9 a Thanks for the emails on Leonard taking away the tourism banners. And Yes we chuckled at those mentioning Leonard and his short erection time for the banners.
  • July 9 a The whole idea for the radio station is to provide locals with another source for independent information, to inform the county about what's really going on. Information is power and that scares the crap out of  many in office.
  • July 9 a So skeered of the radio station, last Summer (and for years before really), Commissioner Slinky worked hard to get 101.7 FM out of the area. Last Summer's attack failed because locals rallied in support of the platform for change and told the lame leader, politics stop on election day, it's time to leave something good alone.  The people's voice worked and the non profit station remains serving County Clay.
  • July 9 a In an attempt to raise operation funds (and give locals something fun to do) WYAP is hosting Cash Bingo tonight and July 23rd and 30th. 6pm is the start time each evening.
  • July 9 a Come out support something good for the county.
  • July 8 a Boil Water Order in place for Amma Rd, Big Pigeon and Little Pigeon Roads.
  • July 8 a Yesterday one guy said, there's nothing going on, this is a dead little place. Well, that's not true. Music show tonight at Big Otter Community Center, another in Braxton County, Saturday morning Farmers' Market, Saturday night Cash Bingo at the Senior Center at Two Run, still good trout fishing on Buffalo, boating at Lake Sampson, swimming at the pool or the Elk River, just to name a few.
  • July 8 a And of course, Clayberry is good deal central with yard sales in progress all over the place. See EVENTS page for the complete run down. By the way, EVENTS page postings are available for any non profit notice of event. Items mus be emailed for inclusion and should be sent at least 7 days in advance of the activity.
  • July 8 a Last night the BDA was quorum challenged once again and cut their meeting short when one member had to skidadle. But not before another Clayberry moment was revealed. First some background.
  • July 8a Four years ago the local radio station designed and paid for a dozen tourism banners for the county. Those blue and white banners were erected on utility poles around the town of Clay. Leonard Williams and crew from Elk Power did the placement on Leonard poles. Looked real nice.
  • July 8 a About that same time, the ace cub reporter, who also volunteers at 101.7 FM, managed to pee off Williams by naming that group's brand new welcome center (outhouse) in town, the Leonard Williams Welcome Center.
  • July 8 a Boom! Quick O Change O, the new banners came off the utility poles. Leonard "My Good Buddy" Williams was once again stomping his feet and taking it out on the entire county his rage for the ever so cuddly Mel Gibson look alike.
  • July 8 a About as soon as the banners were removed, a plea went out, and ALL the banners were erected on area buildings. Bet William's  blood pressure went thru the roof! He didn't get his way.
  • July 8 a Over a year ago the BDA paid for and erected even prettier banners and once again Leonard and company placed them on "his" utility poles. Cost for the cloth banners was over $3500.00.  With the banners in place, Main Street looked much friendlier and the bright colors didn't hurt either!
  • July 8 a Notice anything different in town now?
  • July 8 a Last night BDA Chair Tommy Fitzwater made public that My Good Buddy Williams had taken down most all of the banners and that they were laying at the Elk Power office, ready for Fitzwater to pick up. Once again, the push to grow a tourism based economy has been cut back a notch.
  • July 8 a Not sure what peed off the Leonard Lad this time around but how about it clickers, let's not let him have his way. It's time to get the Leonardster stompin his feet again.
  • July 8 There's a dozen or so of the blue and red banners ready for installation. They would look good on the side of your place of business.   If you have a building or good  location for those colorful banners, give Tommy Fitzwater a call and lets get em back in the air.
  • July 7 late pm  Clay Roane PSD issued a Boil Water Order today at 3pm for Amma Rd  Big and Little Pigeon Rds. They've got a main line break. Boil that Wa Wa before using it.
  • July 7 late p Also, let it cool down before using to brush your teeth.
  • July 7 p Clay County's lead economic development group, the Business Development Authority meets the first Thursday of each month in the Commission room at the Courthouse. Start time is 5:30pm
  • July 7 p Kathy Fortner has been opening the old Courthouse to visitors each Saturday morning during the warm weather months. The place will be closed this Saturday due to illness. Get well wishes extended to volunteer Fortner for her help in providing one more cool thing to do while visiting County Clay.
  • July 6 late p You can judge a person in many ways. One good rule of thumb is how they treat and take care of their animals.
  • July 6 late p In an attempt to mix tax collection and the well being of cats and dogs, the Summer Rabies Clinic takes place this Saturday in various locations thru out the county. The schedule is over on the ADVISORY page.
  • July 6 late p While your improving the health of your pet, why not take a politician with you and get their shots too.
  • July 6 p  Weed that garden. Stake up the tomatoes, Stand there and take a deep breath as you gander over the fruit of your labor. Beautiful as you head back to the abode for an evening of rest. A wonderful part of summer in Appalachia..
  • July 6 p Come the next morning, after Bambi has turned your prized garden spot into a deli delight..   it's time for the 30-30 rifle.
  • July 6 p Last night's public meetings were pretty interesting affairs. Like
  • July 6 p As  expected the CAEZ Director explained to her Board, there's another hold up with the grant funded sewer system at the JG Bradley Campground. Seems like every meeting for the last couple years, some new glitch pops up.
  • July 6 p Last night it was Glitch #347 once again. According to the Director, blame the DEP for changing the rules again.
  • July 6 p A professionally installed septic system runs around $5000. Home installs can be done in a couple days and start somewhere around $1500 or so. Even with $1000s on hand for the much needed sewer project, assurances last month all systems were a go, and after at least two years of zero progress, today, the wait continues.
  • July 6 p There was a time when the CAEZ made big efforts toward growing the economy. Nowadays, the majority of the staff and Board meeting times are spent on building middle income housing in a five county service area.
  • July 6 p A better meeting was had at Town Council where a new Mayor and four of the five Council members new,  sat around the conference table and got their feet wet at the first meeting of the new band.
  • July 6 p  As for the lawsuit to get $1800 back from the former municipal Badge, Council was firm in their stance to pursue the matter. When asked how far, Councilperson Joyce Gibson replied, till we get the money returned.
  • July 6 p Out of office Jack Brown confirmed that the Sheriff's office  would not or at least did not serve the summons on Chris Davis and instead, Brown had another process server do what our Top Badge refused to do.
  • July 6 p  Last month Sewer plant worker Allen Stephenson said he was going to quit his job unless Council gave him a $1 per hour raise plus gas money for his long daily commute. The now out of office Council didn't accept the resignation and turned down the $1 increase.
  • July 6 p In attendance, Mr Stephenson told the new gang, it's either both demands or he's out of there. Council refused to get into gas money allowances and since it was both or nothing, didn't bother to vote on the pay raise. Allen boxed himself in a corner he couldn't get out. His last day of work is Thursday.
  • July 6 p Discussion turned to the need for a local Badge. Although not mentioned during the meeting, Mayor Ryan Clifton was sworn in as Town Chief of Police Tuesday morning by Circuit Clerk Mike Asbury.
  • July 6 p As for hiring a local Black Shirt Deputy thru the COPS grant and using him  part time... no can do. The grant requires a full time officer for funding.
  • July 6 p  As for the taking forever to get started new sidewalk project... stalled but not dead in the water was the presentation by engineer Brent Sprauding. Seems the hold up is the State Road work needed on drainage before the project can get underway. Has the grant request to extend the project deadline been sent in? No is the answer.
  • July 6p  Heard something new last night. When originally presented, the plans called for upgrading about a block of sidewalks in Town. From the Farm Store to Tiff's T Shirt Shop was the extent of Phase I of the project.
  • July 6 p Heard something different last night. Now the $200,000+ will be spent between Ash and Bank streets and only on one side of Main Street, not both sides as was envisioned.
  • July 6 p More coming.....
  • July 5 a We've got a full slate of entertainment today.
  • July 5 a CAEZ meets at 4pm followed by the full Board meeting at 6pm. About the only thing affecting Clayberry is the long overdue and stalled Lodge building and sewer system at the campground. For years during each monthly meeting, the CAEZ Director reports they are "almost" ready to get started.
  • July 5 a First meeting of the newly elected Town Council meets at 5pm.  Most likely the newbees will cover just the basics but one never knows what jockeying has already been put in place. There's always the lawsuit against Black Shirt Davis that at least one wants dropped followed by stalled grant projects.
  • July 5 a School Board meets at 6pm in the Standard Byrant annex building on Gump Street.
  • July 5 a Any or all of em should make for some great fun exchanges.
  • July 5 a Our county is too poor to host a big fireworks display. In this struggling county around dark could be heard a few of the smaller rockets and KaBangs put off by locals.
  • July 5 a One of those that really enjoyed fireworks, real fireworks, the ones that sound like a mortar going off, was the late Roger Nutter. He would get so excited, it was common for him to set off a couple before dark. Last night around 8:45 we heard a couple big ones explode in the distance. Couldn't help but think about Roger Nutter.
  • July 5 a
  • July 4 late p  John R. King Jr. 84, of Clay, se OBITUARY page
  • July 3 a The biggy for the day is the Elk River Cornhole Championship over at the radio station on Main Street. One big tall guy has already said he's out to beat last year's Champ Joy O'Dell Lane. With a $50 purse, competition should be fierce. Action begins at 5:30 followed by a great Rock and Country outdoor concert featuring Round Up. With a 70% chance of thunderstorms this afternoon and evening, bring a rain coat or a bar of soap.
  • July 3 a We're taking Monday off but before we go....
  • July 3 a If you haven't picked up a copy of the Communicator, you should. In that near fine publication is mention of the Town suing Black Shirt Chris Davis for not repaying a debt nor working a payment out, while employed at the municipality. Our coverage includes that nearly two weeks after the suit was filed, the summons had not been served by the Sheriff's Dept.
  • July 3 a About as soon as the Communicator made the news stands, outgoing Mayor Jack Brown saw to it that the paperwork was served on the Badge. Good.
  • July 3 a Even tho our Top Badge promised to uphold the law of the land and serve the county when he took office, he had no intention of doing his job in this case.
  • July 3 a Before and during elections, often deals are cut. To garner support, a candidate for office agrees to hire someone or do something for the power broker if elected. That all goes well unless there is a blow out election when all new faces take charge. A blow out is what happened during the Town election June 14th.
  • July 3 a  On Friday July 1st, new Town leadership took the helm. We talked to one new Council person who commented that residents were already telling him of things needed done and making suggestions on how to get the place on track. That's good.
  • July 3 a Now if Mayor Ryan Clifton and Council will just listen. Stuff like using existing police and sidewalk grants, completing the un-needed wa wa plant, and making the place look a little better are on the top of the list.
  • July 3 a Last night the Town cruiser was out and about
  • July 3 a Yesterday, the Farmer's Market drew in new wallets and added to the local economy. Last night the radio station hosted one slam bang music concert that brought other new faces into the county. Unfortunately we didn't notice one new camper over at the campground.
  • July 1 p Man oh Man, Clayberry is going thru the DT's. All of us diabetics are in withdrawal as Connie's Ice Cream stand remains closed for the fifth day. No swirly ice cream cones and it hurts!
  • July 1 p Happy Independence Day to one and all. It's time for reunions and family picnics.
  • July 1 p Not sure who's playing up at Big Otterr Community Center but ... bet it will be  a bunch of fun
  • July 1p 101.7 FM is hosting an outdoor music show Saturday night where Clay High Bluegrass players (Trinity) will grace the stage before John Lilly and the Cheatin Hearts entertain all. Free too.
  • July 1 p  Want ta make some $$$$ and have fun doing it? It's the Elk River Cornhole Championship at the station, 5pm is the start time. Guaranteed $50 purse. Team play and double elimination. $5 per person to enter.
  • July 1 p Like hot rock n roll? Sunday night that's what the radio folks have planned when White Trash Reunion performs beginning at 7:30pm
  • July 1 p Concerts are free.
  • July 1 p Thinking of visiting Clayberry? Spend the holiday over at the JG Bradley Campground. Reservations 304 587 6055.
  • July 1 p Need a job? See JOBS page
  • July 1 a The Farmer's Market is the newest enhancement for the county. The idea is for local producers to have a place to sell and make $$$ plus provide us with a source for healthier food items.
  • July 1 a In addition to being open each Saturday, the Mrkt is open the first Friday of each month, that's today. Welcome to July.
  • July 1 a By 8am this morning, a crowd was already there with many yard salers on hand too.
  • July 1 a  Raise your hand if you have all your cherished pictures on your puter and have no back up copies on a jump drive, CD, or some other archival equipment. Now raise your hand if you've had a virus eat up your hard drive. Maybe had a crash and lost everything. Thought so.
  • July 1 a You are suppose to back up (make a copy) of all your stuff and keep it somewhere else. Normally that means you are suppose to have an external hard drive for storage. Because you , me and everybody else are lazy loads and never remember to backup files on a regular basis, they make software that does that function automatically. Problem is , for the most part, unless you're a puter genius, the software is too complicated to use.
  • July 1 a We found one that works, is free, doesn't include a bunch of spy ware,  and doesn't take a rocket scientist to install and use. Called Easeus ToDo, here's the link.
  • July 1 a Proper update coming later today. Check back then.

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