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.