May 2011

 
  • May 31 p   Bonnie Louise Duffield, 49, of O’Brien, see OBITUARY page
  • May 31 p On this date in history:  1859: The Great Clock (aka Big Ben) in London officially began keeping time. (On July 11, the Great Bell first struck the hour.) The 315-foot-high tower, part of the Houses of Parliament building, has no elevator; there are 334 steps to the belfry. The four quarter bells, or chimes, ring out every 15 minutes. The Great Bell tolls every hour. The minute hand measures almost 14 feet long. The clock mechanism weighs 5.6 tons, and is wound three times a week. The clock's time is adjusted by changing the number of old pennies sitting on a shelf near the top of the pendulum. The tune played each hour is from the aria "I Know That My Redeemer Liveth," part of Handel's Messiah.
  • May 31 p also on this date: Died 1910: Elizabeth Blackwell (first woman to earn an MD degree in the U.S.);  Born 1930: Clint Eastwood (actor & director); Born 1943: Joe Namath (football player); Born 1961: Lea Thompson (actress); Born 1965: Brooke Shields (actress); 1970: 7.8 earthquake left over 60,000 dead in Peru; Born 1976: Colin Farrell (actor); Died 1983: Jack Dempsey (boxer); 1990: A summer replacement televsion show called Seinfeld first aired on NBC; 2005: The legendary source "Deep Throat" in the Watergate scandal that brought down President Nixon was identified as W. Mark Felt; Died 2009: Millvina Dean (last survivor of the RMS Titanic)
  • May 31 a From the email bag:   My father hasn't been feeling the greatest these past few days and I just wanted everyone to keep him in your prayers. He's a great father and a good friend. His name is Ike Moore from Blue Knob. If you see him today please let him know that your hoping he's feeling better!!! love his daughter Rockiel
  • May 31 a  After a  great holiday weekend and the month of May about over.....
  • May 31 a  In the last 30 days we saw the County Commission step up to the plate and speak of overcoming home confinement program problems created when the local Sheriff decided Prosecutors and Court system could not be trusted. CCC told the world they would immediately start their own program and save the county $1000's in jail time dollars. During their second meeting in May, there was no mention of setting up the much needed program.
  • May 31 a Last week, the new Health Dept Director  told his Board of program needs addressing teen pregnancy, obesity, and diabetes treatment. The Board seemed to agree. Maybe with a new face and new approach, something can actually begin over at the Clay County Health Department. The time and need is now.
  • May 31 a The CCHS Class of 2011 is out of here. During Saturday's Graduation Ceremony parents beamed, teachers breathed a sigh of relief, and students smiled thru brace straightened teeth. After seeing nice cars, fancy homes, and high paying jobs on TV, they think life will be filled with likewise for them. Their real life education is just beginning. They've got a bunch to learn.
  • May 31 a Memorial Day weekend is the traditional start of summer. The Clay pool opened. Families got together. Old friendships were rekindled. College kids came home again. Laughter, stories, and remembering those passed filled homes as the sun blazed outside and air conditioners hummed.
  • May 31 a This Tuesday morning, with schools housing ( and little more) the curtain climbers for another few days, it's much quieter at home. Uncles, aunts, and those grown kids are back to their own lives afar.
  • May 31 a  With the carpets swept, the floor mopped, and the refrigerator emptied, kind of sad for us old parents. Back to the empty nest again.
  • May 31 a Something important this week, Wed., 2pm, at the Courthouse, political leaders, the public, and landowners will meet to discuss land access along Buffalo Creek and growing the tourism trout stream industry. Doesn't sound too important? Wrong!
  • May 31 a You , you, and you over there, need to voice your views tomorrow afternoon, to show support for growing the tourism business in County Clay. We need those new dollars right here at home.  Our only shot at growth is in that future and trout fishing is one more piece of the puzzle.
  • May 31 a 50 or more in attendance would be a nice show of strength. How about you?
  • May 31 a With only one municipality in the county, the Town of Clay election (June 14th) is also very important for our future. Current leadership has provided little. Other than fewer businesses and five new parking meters, little has changed in the last four years of Town management.
  • May 31 a Maybe with some new faces on Council and new Mayor in place, we may have a shot at using Federal dollars for attractive sidewalks and lighting, have a functioning, trained, Badge on duty, and who knows, even see the un needed, high dollar, wa wa plant completed after 9 months of construction dispute.
  • May 31 a A few of those candidates for office have actually been campaigning a little. There are a few signs up, a couple have sported colorful T shirts, and there's even a few campaign pens being passed out.  Others have done nothing.
  • May 31 a We need leadership in the worst way.
  • May 31 a The Communicator was delayed due to the Holiday on Monday. Clay County's only  locally owned and operated newspaper comes out Thursday afternoon. Included this time around are a bunch of the Memorial day weekend pictures and the nuts /bolts  that make life in Clayberry so very special.
  • May 28 early a Here's the link to first time ever, web streamed, CCHS graduation ceremony which begins (and should be visible) at 10 am today. For WYAP listeners, they're hosting the audio as well.
  • May 28 a Can you sing? Might want to enter this afternoon's Karaoke contest on 101.7 FM. Contest starts at 5pm with the winner receiving some $$$ and a chance to sing during the Celebration concert at 7:30pm. With beautiful weather expected, bring a lawn chair and have some fun all evening long.
  • May 28 a Tonight's Drive In movie is Toy Story 1 is they can get the projector to work. Free too.
  • May 28 a Did you know the old Courthouse is open each Saturday morning? Yelp, the Historical group is serving as the Welcome Center for visitors this Summer.
  • May 28 a Nothing to do this weekend, load up the family and spend your holiday time over at the campground at Dundon.
  • May 28 a Dirt track racing too today. Check out Claytoday.org for fun stuff to do.
  • May 27 p Big storm last night lasted less than 30 minutes but utilities are out for many in the county today.
  • May 27 p Saturday morning at 10am is the CCHS Graduation Ceremony for Seniors.
  • May 27 p Got some changes this year. Superintendent Tanner says shuttle bus service to and from the ceremony will be provided in an attempt to reduce the parking snarls tomorrow. Here's the deal, shuttle buses will pick up guests for those parking in the Clay Middle and Clay Elem parking lots. The shuttle service begins at 8:30am and will run every five minutes or so.
  • May 27 p For those that haven't been to a CCHS Ceremony before, take some advice, use the buses. And Yes they will return you to your vehicle afterwards.
  • May 27 p  Also, for those afar, you can watch the entire thing online. Tanner says the link to the stream will be posted over on their web site ASAP.
  • May 27 p How about that! Technology put to good use. Finally a hot steamy Graduation and you can watch it in the air conditioned comfort of you Lazy Boy chair.
  • May 27 p Congratulations CCHS CLASS OF 2011

  • Holli Nichole Adkins
    Michael Andrew Lin Adkins
    Tyler Brooks Alley
    Shani Danielle Berry
    Michael Allen Bird
    Randall Lee Blake
    Jared Seth Blankenship
    James Glenn Boatwright, III
    Kalem Andrew Boggs
    Hiedi Nichole Brady
    Zachery James Braley
    Brandon Jeremiah Brown
    Casey Evan Brown
    Jason D.Albert Brown
    Tiffany Marie Bunting
    Kelsey Leanne Burkhamer
    Alexander Seth Butcher
    Carli Rachel Caldwell
    Jared Cody Casto
    Vesta Starr Clark
    Todd Michael Claypool
    Brandon John Cole
    Courtney Elizabeth Cole
    Samantha Nicole Cottrell
    Dustin Tyler Daniels
    Jacquelyn Danielle Davis
    Rachel Avonelle Delk
    Danielle Nicole Dobbins
    James Ernest Dozer, Jr.
    Brandie Michelle Duncan
    Lindsay Jo Dunlap
    Jacob Charles Ferrebee
    John Christopher Ferrebee
    Shannon Richelle Ferrebee
    John Wayne Fitzwater, II
    Jacquelyn Nikole Frazier
    Anthony Wayne Frazier, II
    Kelsea Paige Gill
    Samantha Joe Gill
    Matthew David Goode
    Brian Tyler Gould
    Ashley Nichole Gray
    Leighann Nicole Gray
    Leah Marie Grose
    Grayson Hunter Hamrick
    Haley Lynn Hamrick
    Alisha Jane Hayes
    Michael Benjamin Hopkins
    Elizabeth Anne Hubbard
    James Ryan Hubbard
    Brittany Nichole Jarrett
    Brandon Paul Johnson
    Nathaniel Lethan Johnston
    Dakota Paul Jones
    Rocky Allen Keener, II
    Rochelle Star Kish
    Michael David Lane
    Shayla Marie Lyons
    Corey Tylor Mays
    Billie Ann Paula Miller
    Jacob Scott Miller
    Jerry Lee Miller, II
    Stephen Joseph Miller
    Caroline Abigail Moore
    Codie Allen Moore
    Savannah Brooke Moore
    Hayley Katelyn Morris
    Ashley Renee Mullins
    Candace Brook Mullins
    Nancy Marie Mullins
    Robert Lee Mullins
    Thomas Dean Mullins
    Thomas Harley Mullins
    Tori Paige Murphy
    Christina Dawn Neal
    Madison Nichole Neal
    Tosha Lee Neal
    William Nicholas Neal
    Joshua Matthew Neff
    Whitney Irene Nelson
    Ashley Jay Newberry
    William Perry Newhouse, IV
    Joshua Elliot Nicholas
    Coty Allen Nichols
    Sallie Renea Pritt Nicholson
    Adam Scott Potelwait
    Danialle Nichole Ramsey
    Misty Lyn Rhodes
    Justin Allen Robinson
    Timberly Jo Lee Louise Rose
    India Kiersten Ross
    Mariah Kari Scott
    Jocelyn Briana Sears
    Rachel Lynn Sears
    Timothy Scott Selman
    Tiereney Sue Sheldon
    James David Sizemore, Jr.
    Abigail Gwyn Smith
    Shannon Michelle Smith
    Zechariah Ethan Staab
    Alexandra Gail Stephens
    Ethan Casey Stone
    Myesscha Catherine Stone
    David James Stricker
    Daniel Gregory Suite, Jr.
    Samantha Rae Tanner
    Ashley Nichole Taylor
    Charles Andrew Taylor
    Deanna Marie Taylor
    Joshua Thomas Taylor-Berndt
    Audra Jeanine Thomas
    Erin Livingston Thomas
    Ryan Estel Thomas
    Zachary Steven Thomas
    Brandon Scott Townsend
    Carly Lynn Triplett
    Nicole Lynn Truman
    Holly Marie Walker
    Steven Kyle Ware
    Christina Ashley Welch
    Nichole Amber Westfall
    Ricky Dewayne Young
     
  • May 27 a Last night came a call for Badge intervention for an out of control kid who was throwing bleach into the Mother's eyes. Sounds like it's time to beat that brat with a ball bat!
  • May 27 a  The new leadership at Clay Health Dept brought forth some pretty interesting discussion points and ideas during last night's regular meeting of the Board.
  • May 27 a Did you know that trailer parks have to meet certain standards and be certified if there's four or more units in use? Currently there are no certified trailer parks in the county and the Dept is starting a certification  project now. Stuff like  landowner paid for trash collection, night time lighting, graveled parking areas are all required under state law.
  • May 27 a As for those three abandoned trailers owned by Walter Schoonover, the ones coming down Maysel Hill on the right, according to Jay Carper, the family is trying to straighten out the eye soar and is looking for someone to remove the thangs.
  • May 27 a That's something the County Commission has been dragging their feet on for two years. Maybe the Health Dept will put forth more of an effort.
  • May 27 a 10 years ago the Health folks presented a raw sewage running down the streets of Widen report.
  • May 27 a  There appears to be federal dollars available to install a central sewer system in the Town of Widen. Under new leadership, the Health Dept Team is now working to get citizen support for the project.
  • May 27 a  Remember when you would go to a big event at Clay High and the school's sewer plant would back up and stink the place to high heavens?
  • May 27 a Turns out all package sewer plants are suppose to be inspected and approved for use. Clayberry doesn't do that but under the direction of newbee Jeff Smith, they will as soon as they get someone trained in t he art of inspecting poop factories.
  • May 27 a  About the only thing that we're at the top of the list on is teen pregnancies, drug & alcohol use,  and obese people. Although the serious problems have been around for decades, lip service is about all that's been done in the past.
  • May 27 a Yelp, we're going to do something in that direction too clickers!
  • May 27 a  If even a couple of those agenda items gets done, it'll be a vast improvement over previous administrations.
  • May 27 a We're entering the holiday weekend, the beginning of summer.
  • May 27 a Until the radio station came along with summer activities, for years, County Clay offered zero, none, ninguno, zilch in the way of stuff to do during the summer time holidays.
  • May 27 a  Small Town America Celebrations continue Saturday night during WYAP's fun time in downtown Clay.
  • May 27 a They work their butts off to give everybody else something to do. Thanks to those volunteers.
  • May 26 a  Antonio Scott Foster, 22, of Bickmore, see OBITUARY page
  • May 26 a Thursday evening at 6:15. the Clay County Bd of Health will convene their first public meeting since hiring Director Jeff Smith.
  • May 26 a On this day in history:  Born 1886: Al Jolson (entertainer); 1889: First public elevator at Eiffel Tower opened; Born 1907: John Wayne (actor); Born 1912: Jay Silverheels (actor who played "Tonto" on The Lone Ranger TV series); Born 1920: Peggy Lee (actress); and, Born 1951: Sally Ride (astronaut)
  • May 26 a Not much in the way of substance during Wed's Commission meeting. There was no mention of setting up the cost saving home confinement program for the county.
  • May 26 a Lots of hand clapping and accolades for the first state wrestling champ in 24 years. Congrats to Danny Suite Jr for the no loss season of success.
  • May 26 a Looks like rain again today in County Clay.
  • May 26 a Municipal elections come next month. This time around there are some younger faces on the ballot. If they get out and work the Town for votes, there could be some major upsets this time around. With Jack Brown and Jerry Stover not seeking office again, we know there will be a couple new faces on the governing body.
  • May 26 a In the way of updates.... Mayor candidate Ryan Clifton's team is sporting campaign tee shirts as is Bev Whaling along with pink campaign pens. Council hopefuls: JP Helms has some signs up while Josh Shamblin has tiny signs hanging from the sides of his dogs as he walks the animals. Pretty cute.
  • May 26 a Tonight on 101.7 Fm, Council candidate Cody Nicholas will present his views on Fred Sampson's Roundtable Discussion program. Next week, Glada Lanham will be on air to do likewise.
  • May 24 a  Delta publishes a tourism map annually. The map includes up to date 911 street names and a close up area for the Town. The map comes out next week and is distributed regionally and at rest stops.
  • May 24 a Last call for those wanting to have their ads included. Interested? Use the above email or dial 304 587 6007, afternoons.
  • May 24 a Why is America the no vacation nation?
  • May 24 a Lots of emails circulating about stating: "The Democrats have already voted to BAN our conventional lights bulbs (that you and I use even today!) in favor of DANGEROUS fluorescent light bulbs,"  They also add all conventional bulbs will be removed from store shelves. Here's the truth on the malarkey.
  • May 24 a With so many others already announced, the Mel Gibson look alike announced he is not running for President in 2012.
  • May 24 a  Kids may be at school but education actually ended some time back. With WesTest behind em, it's nothing but movies, field trips, and beating down the clock for another two weeks.  So much for that 180 day school year.
  • May 23 late p  Corinne Anne Lambey, 92, of Ivydale, see OBITUARY page
  • May 23 a Last week we put out the call that a person in Clayberry was in need of a used commode . That need has been met. Thanks
  • May 23 a Reason for no weekend updates: weed whacking, grass cutting, weed pulling, washing vehicles, eating watermelon, flower planting, naps, and screwing off. It was great. Hope your weekend went as well.
  • May 23 a Monday  morning, looks good but rain is in the forecast for the next three days. Get those last minute chores in right now.
  • May 23 a With May winding down this week, few public meetings except for the County Commission get together Wed at 10am.
  • May 23 a The only way to change our dependence on oil is out of sight gas prices. Here in Clayberry we got up to $4.19 a gallon a couple weeks ago. To force the change, we need prices to reach the $6 per gallon level and stay there for a while.
  • May 23 a With corporate greed satisfied for now, prices are heading down .
  • May 23 a  Lots of folks are talking green. Living a less intrusive lifestyle. A smaller footprint on the planet.  Let's talk green booze.
  • May 23 a Yelp they've got it. Hooch made in a sustainable way, maybe carbon neutral whatever that means, and  maybe even with raw goods without pesticides and or organic.
  • May 23 a Death's Door white whiskey as well as Square One vodka may be right up your alley. And remember, drink responsibly, drink the entire bottle so it doesn't go to waste!
  • May 20 later still p  Jesse William James, 51, of Bentree, see OBITUARY page
  • May 20 late p  Suppose to be a bunch of freshly picked strawberries over at the Farmer's Market Saturday morning. Yum Yum Yum for sure
  • May 20 p Town Recorder Dwana Murphy  just let us know that the early voting period for Municipal Elections has been changed. Now early voting begins June 1st and ends June 11th.
  • May  20 p Plenty to do this weekend. Check out the EVENTS page for details
  • May 20 a Had a pretty interesting yesterday.
  • May 20 a School Boardsters convened a meeting at noon. In addition to approving their $18.35 m budget, central to the meeting was giving the OK to High Schooler band and singers to attend a fun field trip next month. Turns out the group did not have Board approval prior to raising money and planning the package deal months ago.
  • May 20 a With the kids not in fault, the OK was given but not without substantial discussion on the use of professional and licensed tour buses instead of bumpy school buses for the 8 hour each way travel.
  • May 20 a Boardster Dave Mullins (supported by O Gene King) was open with his support for using local drivers and yellow boxes over comfortable, air conditioned with rest room equipped commercial buses.
  • May 20 a Sounded like the Board (Beth Cercone was sick and absent) told Administrators to never use comfortable commercial buses in the future. Local jobs with kids on hard seats over comfort for the kids. Hmmmmmmmmm....
  • May 20 a Mid afternoon came calls to High Street Apartments where a mid 20 man was found dead.
  • May 20 a  Scanner listeners were glued to their radios beginning around 5:30 when a Blue and Gold followed by the Sheriff tore thru town on their way to a Roane County stolen Pontiac Gran Prix racing down Granny's Creek.
  • May 20 a Wanting to use some of his toys, the Top Badge didn't have time to deploy road spikes. You could almost hear the pain in his voice over the radio.
  • May 10 a With local and foreign Badges running every which a may, the car and driver ended up at a rural residence over on Ovapa where the guy skid addled on foot.
  • May 10 a  Roane County Authorities had a tracking dog who was put to task. in the mountainous terrain. You could hear the heavy breathing on the radio transmissions. Even Clay FD was called to aid in the search.
  • May 10 a The two hours of fun closed around 7:36p yesterday when Black Shirt 5 announced: I think we got him.
  • May 10 a More details as they become available.
  • May 20 early a  Eva F. (White) Hanshaw, 68, of Clay, see OBITUARY page
  • May 19 late a Just noticed on the school system web site mention of a special meeting of the group at the Board office beginning at high noon today. Check our LINK page for their click button.
  • May 19 late a Missed something yesterday. The County Commission held an emergency meeting at the Courthouse. The posted agenda (that's a good thang) was artfully written so as not to raise an eyebrow. 'said something like a decision needed to be made on WorkForce issue.
  • May 18 late a In reality, we think the wordage means: Terminated from Clay Ambulance Service Tony Long's unemployment claim is being challenged by the CCC.
  • May 18 late a The last guy that left the ambulance service under question, ended up winning a $50,000 lawsuit settlement. Ochhh!
  • May 19 a On yet another raining like crazy Spring morning, will the sunshine ever return?
  • May 19 a Got some confusion... In the latest Communicator we've got mention of a Jessie James Boggess  that's been sitting in the slammer for over a year without a trial and costing the county over $17,000.00 in jail bill fees. Need even mentioning speedy trial issues, that's $17,000 for one guy. The county averages spending over $35,0000 EACH month at Central Regional Jail.
  • May 19 a Pick up a copy of Clay County's locally owned and operated newspaper, The Communicator, today. Darn good reading from cover to cover. Interesting stuff included is a Chatter from Guy Dwier's Mother.
  • May 19 a Our kids have squirmed all week taking the WesTest. Today's the final day of the annual exam.
  • May 19 a Congrats Clay County students McKinzee Barker, Stephen Cole and Chase Masey for winning this year's Golden Horseshoe Award. The annual test determines knowledge on West Virginia  facts. Every county has at least two winners.
  • May 19 a Not this year tho when Mason County winners were disqualified due to teachers cheating. Charleston Gazette coverage doesn't use the word "cheating" in their coverage but providing answers to the kids during the online exam is a real no  no.
  • May 19 a For the world to enjoy, the Clay County Welcome Center beside the radio station reopened for all your sit down business Memorial Day weekend. Enjoy a good outdoor experience at the Welcome Center in just a couple weeks.
  • May 19 a So what happened to yesterday's web post. Glad you asked.
  • May 19 a Over a month ago the ace cub reporter had laser surgery on his right eye which provided nearly 20/20 vision on that side of view. The left one was cut on two weeks ago with not so good a result.
  • May 19 a Wed morning came the tune up on the left one. Things are still blurry but improving a little.
  • May 17 mid a   Guy Elliott Dwier, Jr. 34, of Clay, see OBITUARY page
  • May 17 a How can a guy sit in the slammer for one full year , on your nickel, and never come to trial? Cost to you the taxpayer.. over $17,000 and counting.
  • May 17 a Pick up a copy of Clay County's only locally owned and operated news source, The Communicator. You'll be glad you did.
  • May 16 a  We made it thru the Prom without a serious car wreck or injuries. Sadly that happens all too often. Didn't this year in Clayberry. That's great news
  • May 16 a  This week is WesTest time in the school system.  Other than stress for the curtain climbers, the statewide four day exam doesn't mean a thing or a do a thing for the kids. It's just for the administration to show off how well they have taught the test during the last 9 months.
  • May 16 a Tuesday evening at the Courthouse the Buffalo Creek Watershed group will hold a meeting in the Commission room. The public is encouraged to attend.
  • May 16 a Wed evening is a 90 minute informational meeting on Legislative plans to redistrict the entire state this summer. See EVENTS page for details.
  • May 16 a The radio folks are looking for a non profit group to sell concessions during their weekend outdoor music shows and celebrations. Interested in making some jingle? Email: wyap@frontiernet.net
  • May 16 a No updates until the get the Communicator out the door Tuesday afternoon around 4pm
  • May 15 a Half way thru May, here's some notes from the last seven days.
  • May 15 a Mother's got back into the hum drum life after their once a year day of celebrity last Sunday.
  • May 15 a Guy Dwier and Bobby Hanshaw were not angels. Both had criminal backgrounds. Midweek, one blast from a hunting rifle ended it all for Mr Dwier this past week. He was somebody's son.
  • May 15 a Bond was set at $800,000 on Hanshaw and not the $8m as noted on the CRJ web portal.
  • May 15a Early voting ended Wed at 4pm. 399 thought enough of the process to go to the Courthouse and exercise their right to choose.
  • May 15 a Mid day Friday another big load of trout was dumped into Buffalo Creek. Some in expensive waders others in sneakers and cut off jeans, locals as well as travelers from afar took time off to enjoy the blue waters of the Elk River tributary. This time around, funded by the BDA, the $1185 investment in tourism may be the best thing the group has done in a long time,, maybe forever.
  • May 15 a On Saturday 576 Demorats and 160 Republicrats came out to vote. The 736 voters (out of over 6000 in the county) decided to give the nod to Earl Ray and and newcomber Bill Maloney.
  • May 15 a Many of us contiued our effort to whip the yard and garden into shape. More plantings and more weeding. We've had a bunch of rain this Spring.  It's been hard to get the work done between showers BUT, man, the wet stuff has brought the growth.
  • May 15 a Saturday night was Prom night over at CCHS.  The budget busting get together brought out the best gowns, hair do's and nail polishes.
  • May 15 a According to the GAO, the depression officially began in the Fall of 2007. The CCHS Class of 2011 is the first class to have spent their entire high school career during a depression. They have never known parents and friends gainfully employed with a spirit of hope and future.
  • May 15 a It doesn't look much better for the Class of 2012, 2013, ..
  • May 15 a The first watermelons arrived at Foodland. The red to the center gems are hard to resist. For those of us that can eat the entire canonball in  one sitting, there are consequences if you know what we mean.
  • May 15 a  Spring is the time to clean up winter brought on messes. For instance...
  • May 15 a The ace cub reporter has a couple small goldfish ponds nestled between ferns and laurel at his Ponderosa. Dressed in shorts and sandals, it was time to clean out a winter's worth of leaves, twigs, frog yuck and fish muck.
  • May 15 a With net in hand and standing in black water to his knees, he was busy dipping and tossing the grime from the pond. With a slippery bottom to stand on and bent over at the waist, a monster frog jumped from the edge right on his thigh... just below the pant line.
  • May 15 a As the frog tried like crazy to hang on, the Mel Gibson look alike felt the clawing action was in the direction of going up the pants.
  • May 15 a With quiet all around and his mind wandering to other projects, the shock of a frog climbing up to the goods combined with eating  3/4's of a watermelon in one sitting, well, the pond no longer needs a cleaning, it needs a tranfusion of new water to remove the sputtered out and floating lumps of poo.
  • May 15 a It's Spring in County Clay.
  • May 14 a   Darrell Brown, 80, of Fola,  see OBITUARY page
  • May 14 It's 6:30 am. The polls are already open and ready to accept your vote. Include voting in today's stuff to do.  Only 399 voted early during no excuse voting at the Courthouse.
  • May 13 a During rough controversies and good times, there have been some in the county that have been there for support and kind words. One of those is John King over at Upper Class Two Run. If we haven't told you thanks.... Thanks.   And John, go fishing today!
  • May 13 a Not much talk about Tokyo Electric's nuc plant disaster. There should be. Here's a good update.
  • May 13 a Taking some time off this summer? Why not include County Clay in your staycation plans. Check out our EVENTS page for good stuff to do.
  • May 13 a Had a chance to talk with Guy Dwier's Mom last night. In the heat of a story, sometimes we forget, good bad, criminal or not, Mr Dwier was someone's son, grandson, brother... friend.
  • May 13 a  Get something done when you can and screw off at every opportunity.
  • May 12 p Big thunder boomer watch in affect for the county this afternoon. Batten down the hatches clickers.
  • May 12 p  The trout stock truck comes to Buffalo Creek Friday around noonish to drop off 500+ pounds of the anglers delight. According to those in the know, there may be a little problem
  • May 12 p State Road contractors are in the area paving. Mitch DeBoard from the Watershed group says, never to fear, they will get the truck load dumped even if they have to come in on side roads.
  • May 12 p Take the day off folks, it's time to go fishing in Clayberry!
  • May 12 p It's not often that the County Commission does much of anything. It's even rarer when they agree to a good idea. That happened a couple times during the Wed gathering at the Courthouse
  • May 12 p  with a wittle sheriff stomping his feet and not getting his way, Wed morning the County Commission spoke in favor of starting their own countywide home confinement program
  • May 12 p No decision but they plan on meeting with Senior Judge Ric Facemire at the earliest opportunity.
  • May 12 p Long time Clay Ambulance employee was fired from employment. During the CCC vote, there was no discussion on the matter, just all Ayes.
  • May 12 p If Long was being as an EMT  and doing such without proper credentials, the question comes up, does the county have to return all the $$$$ earned while he was making runs? Also, is discipline in order for Administration who didn't catch the mandatory certification malfunction for four months?
  • May 12 p Soon this county will participate in a national program where "lock boxes" will be provided those on prescription drugs in an attempt to deter druggies from swiping for their habits.
  • May 12 p 49,000 have what we call Old Timers disease in West Virginia. 12,000 in the state suffer from autism with 69 of those in County Clay.
  • May 12 p looks like this county will make the 34th to participate in the Project Lifesaver. The program is help with safe rescues quicker for those prone to "walking away". The deal is, the grant funded program will supply the county with the anklets and tracking  transmitter. Participants will have to pay a monthly fee, but Hey, the equipment works.
  • May 12 p The homing device can be detected as far as 7 miles away from the air.
  • May 12 p There, we've said something nice about the CCC.  Now that doesn't happen very often!
  • May 12 p No vote taken by the Commissioner Wed morning but consensus was, lets do it.
  • May 12 a  Minnie Samples, 103, of Procious, see OBITUARY page
  • May 11 late We planned to provide coverage from Wed's CCC meeting but...
  • May 11 late Just after 7pm scanner traffic reported shots fired out Twistabout Ridge Road. About every Badge in the county responded. The shooter was said have used a 30 30 rifle.
  • May 11 late by 7:19  The shooter was identified as a Bobby Hanshaw, 5'7", 140 pounds, born in 1978.  The shootee was not identified  but Code Black was called and the Medical examiner was called at 7:26pm .
  • May 11 late The vehicle used in the killing was reported to be a gold Chevy  and later changed to a Pontiac Firebird.
  • May 11 late  Around 7:30 it was reported that the shooter dropped off a person at , near, the old car lot on Procious straight-away. One of the Green Shirts thought the suspect was heading toward Roane County,
  • May 11 late it is believed that Hanshaw was picked up near Sissonville in Kanawha County. Shortly before midnight, the SCRJ site posted his admittance anf aone felony charge.
  • May 11 late  Most all the Badges responded professionally and cool and calm.. well except the one that called out the "AK" assault weapons.
  • May 11 late TV-3 and TV-8 have scant coverage on their web sites.
  • May 11 late  As a side note, from back on July 23 , 2004, this clayberry web posting:  Summer Grand Jury returned 5 of the 6 presentations. Indictments: ..... Guy Dwier, breaking and entering, $20,000 bond  Dressed in orange and shackled, Guy Dwier had to stand down a minute as the Judge waited on Prosecutor Grindo to show up. Dwier plead not guilty to B&E of a Fitzwater home where a $6000 ATV was swiped. Case continued to next term with bond reduced to $5000 and electronic surveillance during home confinement if bond is made.
  • May 11 a If you're in need of a worker, be sure to check out the JOBS page.
  • May 11 a It's not fair pointing the finger at someone but sometimes it's all too just too cozy.
  • May 11 a Sunday evening Jacob Young was arrested after stealing a car over in the Fayette County lowlands. He's charged with all that including some felony stuff.
  • May 11 a Interesting to note, just hours prior that thievery, parked beside and behind the new Courthouse, the Assessor's Jeep was broke into as was the Domestic Violence Program van. Those newer vehicles weren't stole. Glass was shattered in old cruiser parked at the old Courthouse.  The thug was more successful at breaking in and stealing the Sheriff Dept's old Chevy truck. That vehicle was recovered over in Fayette County near Smithers.
  • May 11 a Shortly thereafter came Mr Young to Clayberry driving the stolen vehicle.
  • May 11 a Does anybody else see a great big Hmmmmmmmmmmm.....
  • May 11 a No one has ever said those Murder Mountain guys aren't busy folks! If we could just channel those efforts into something a little less criminal!
  • May 10 late p Clay Roane PSD BOil Water Order was lifted today.
  • May 10 late p Hello Dale Morris
  • May 10 late p Don't forget the County Commission meets Wed morning at 10 am. Never know what they may make public.
  • May 10 late p Full post after the CCC meets
  • May 10 late p 10 natural wonders to see before they disappear.
  • May 10 late p  "Nearly 2,000 high schools - roughly 12 percent of all secondary schools in the United States - produce about half of the nation’s dropouts,"
  • May 10 a  The whole idea was to get Bin Laden. After a decade, and the loss of thousands of lives, we did it. It's time to stop the war. Bring em home.
  • May 10 a Last day for early voting over at the Courthouse is Wed at 4pm. Have you voted early in the County Clerk's office? Believe it or not, hundreds of others have!
  • May 10 a The agenda for Thursday evenings Clay Roane PSD meeting is posted over on the ADVISORY page.
  • May 10 a Trying not to start a stampede.....
  • May 10 a Compliments the efforts of the Buffalo C reek Watershed Assoc., last Thursday the BDA voted to spend $1185 to fund a trout stocking on the public access sections of Buffalo Creek. The stock truck arrives this Friday around noon.
  • May 10 a  Have you seen Buffalo Creek recently? True there's still some problems with pollutants, but gone are the days of coal black flow now replaced by crystal clear blue water and now some beautiful fishys.
  • May 10 a The first stocking three weeks ago brought out tons of anglers. This time, our bet, half the county will take off work (school) and  be following the truck vying for the lunkers.
  • May 10 a How about you?
  • May 9 p   Buddy “Bud” Euel Thorne, 74 of Ivydale, se OBITUARY page
  • May 9 p Special note. The viewing for Mr Thorne is scheduled for noon to 1pm Tuesday.
  • May 9 a Note: Lots of people seek home repair or handyman services. This site is now posting those workers over on the JOBS page.
  • May 9 a Happy belated Birthday Brandon Sears
  • May 9 a  Christmas is great for the entire family. Mother's Day is the once a year opportunity to say thanks to the one person that keeps it all together and makes it all possible. From wiping our butts to smacking us up side the head when doing something dumb or dangerous, thanks and remembered.
  • May 9 a Mother's Day was beautiful in County Clay with mild temps and dry skies. Cookouts were had by some while others took the celebration to area restaurants. Some of us paid respects over at the cemetery.
  • May 9 a A couple weeks back on a Thursday we ran into Jacob Young over at Connie's Eatery at Two Run. He said he was happy to be out of jail and enjoying a snack. He grinned and laughed a lot.
  • May 9 a Last night Jacob, the youngest of the Murder Mountain clan, was the center of attention after swiping a Monte Carlo from a next county over McDonald's and heading to Clayberry.
  • May 9 a He had Badges galore after skidaddling from a stop near Pierson's Sawmill.
  • May 9 a Based on 911 scanner traffic, sounded like the Monte was stolen and recovered before the owner even knew it was stolen.
  • May 9 a  Take a look at his CRJ mug shot. Grinning from ear to ear.
  • May 9 a This week we're lookin at a County Commission meeting Wed followed by the Clay County PSD monthly gathering on the 12th, 11am.
  • May 9 a Today at 5:15 is the local radio station Board meeting, 5:15 at the station on Main Street.
  • May 9 a All the get togethers are open to the public.
  • May 9 a There were no new home confinement orders last week. If you don't know what we're talking about, pick up a copy of the latest Communicator.
  • May 9 a Speaking of Clay County's only locally owned and operated newspaper.....
  • May 9 a As a local outlet we try our best to keep those of interest informed.  That's what a local paper and web site does best.
  • May 9 a Over in downtown Clay is that little newspaper owned by an out of county organization. It's our understanding that company has now purchased a Tucker County newspaper.
  • May 9 a Trying to gather real news in Greenbrier, Clay, and now Tucker counties, that's a tough assignment.
  • May 7 p BWO  BWO   BWO
  • May 7  Clay Roane PSD issued a second Boil Water Order for the Amma Road, Big and Little Pigeon Rd sections of their service area due to a broke 8 unch water main.
  • May  7  DO NOT DRINK THE WATER WITHOUT BOILING IT FIRST.  Bring all water to a boil, let it boil for one minute, and let it cool before using, or use bottled water.  Boiled or bottled water should be used for drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes, bathing, and food preparation until further notice.  Boling kills bacteria and other organisms in the water.
  • May 6 a The May 2nd Boil Water Order issued by Clay Roane PSD has been lifted. Drink Drink Drink
  • May 6 a Happy Birthday  Jasmine Marie Lacher
  • May 6 a Bill Dunn is the head honcho of the Peddle Paddle Elk River Challenge. It was scheduled for next weekend. Last night Dunn said the fun time event has been changed to June 25th to accommodate other activities in the county. Mark your calendars.
  • May 6 a  Mike Boggs was tossed from the Business Development Authority after suing the group last winter for the second time. His contention is they don't follow basic best practices like following the law. While on the BDA, whenever Boggsy would bring up stuff  some in the lead economic group would roll their eyes and let out a loud sigh.
  • May 6 a The BDA is facing growing pains. Last week the county's insurance provider gave the CCC all kinds of reasons for the agency to form itself into a stand alone program away from the County Commission umbrella.
  • May 6 a Last night for about an hour or so,  the same insurance rep attended the BDA's monthly meeting and provided details on the importance of coming into compliance, how to avoid getting personally sued, and how this change should have been done years ago. Although he did NOT say they had to make the change, without a doubt, it's something that should be done now.
  • May 6 a Years ago is about the same time Mike Boggs was  bringing up similar concerns and attempting to get the BDA into compliance. Maybe the lawsuit will persuade the group to grow into the 21st Century in 2011.
  • May 6 a  Lots of great stuff to do this weekend. Dance tonight, yard sale Saturday and auction time Saturday night.
  • May 5 a With one bionic eye and the second surgery still very fuzzy, sorry for the slow updates. Here' s an inkling....
  • May 5 a Tonight the Business Development Authority meets in the Courthouse beginning at 5:30pm. BDA meetings always have good entertainment content. Bring your own popcorn.
  • May 5 a If you're wondering about Gene King's opinion on replacing the stolen CCHS ATM unit, pick up a copy of the latest Communicator. Cute!
  • May 5 a  Since the paper came out, we've had a couple public meetings. Some notes...
  • May 5 a  From the CAEZ meeting, wondering if the JG Bradley Campground will ever get their long constipated sewer built and operating? According to the CAEZ Director, permits are all in place and only needs the local Sanatarian's OK to proceed with an "Elgin" style septic system. As a note, we've heard different variations of that "Yelp, We're ready to go" or "We're almost ready to get started"  wordage for the last three years.
  • May 5 a  As for the Campground's Lodge building, that's a different story. Last winter a couple of interested  private parties penned letters of complaint to the funding agencies. Those folks think the CAEZ is dragging it's feet or they and or the CCC has misspent the  Robert C Byrd funds,
  • May 5 a Those accusing letters put a halt to use of those funds until the charges are cleared up. Some response letters have been sent from the County Commission. A response from the CAEZ has not.
  • May 5 a During complaint letter discussions, felt like the CAEZ was all bent out of shape over complaint letters going to funders. Don't understand that one bit.
  • May 5 a  It was last Fall that their Director told the world that she had stopped doing anything for the BC&G RR and campground group. Something about too many cooks in the kitchen.
  • May 5 a Until the cloud clears up, none of the $190,000 can be spent. Truth is, the money has been hanging around for several years waiting to be spent.
  • May 5 a  Don't think any of the $$$ has been used. They haven't. Fortunately for this county, the grant dollars have so far NOT been returned to funders. That has happened in the past when local agencies drag their feets . Remember the $200,000 + that was to be used to purchase rails and  right of way? Those funds were given back to the Feds.
  • May 3 late p Yes Sir ReBob, The Communicator made it out the door today around 3pm. 20 pages of great reading including our lead story on the always huggable, loveable, Top Badge.A new addition this time is Stella Stargazer.
  • May 3 late p With nearly all civil liberties curtailed and Big Brother watching and recording our every move, it's time to end the era of hate. Big Bin is dead and it's time for us to get out of Afaghanistan. Get out today.
  • May 3 late p Three weeks back the Mel Gibson lookalike had eye surgery to remove a cataract. With one good bionic eye able to see thru any blouse... it's time for the left eye to undergo treatment. That comes Wed morning early.
  • May 3 late p No updates until the fuzzy eye clears up, maybe Wed night late.
  • May 2 p Clay Roane PSD issued a BOIL WATER ORDER today for Amma Rd & Big and Little Pigeon Rds. There was a main line break on Big Pigeon. Boil your water before use. This means you! Bring all water to a boil, let it boil for one minute, and let it cool before using, or use bottled water.  Boiled or bottled water should be used for drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes, bathing, and food preparation until further notice.  Boiling kills bacteria and other organisms in the water.     Got questions? 304 548 5209
  • May 2 p Happy Birthday Fabion Brown
  • May 2 p MISSING  Family pet lost in the Ovapa area. (possibly traveled to the Piegeon area of Roane Co.) 2 yr old Female names Zoey.  Pulled out of her collar on leash so does not have a collar on. Please call 587-4553 if you can help.  Her human 'Momma' is VERY worried.
  • May 2 a Suppose to be a CCHS baseball game this afternoon at Clay County Park. With a good chance of rain.. not sure if they'll get it in.
  • May 2 a Tonight at 6pm the School Board meets at the Standard Bryant Annex building on Gump Street. This time around they posted the meeting agenda online just not on the Board AGENDA page.
  • May 2 a Big week for public meetings. Clay Town Council convenes Tuesday afternoon at 5pm. With a June election for leaders coming, this will be the next to last gathering of the old guard.
  • May 2 a Also on Tuesday, the Central Appalachia Empowerment Zone will hold two meetings. At 4pm is the Economic Development meeting followed by a full Board meeting at 6pm.
  • May 2 a A week ago today Granny K's diner ( old Kitchen location) closed its doors. Owner Kim Adkins told us she plans to reopen the operation in the Auction House building in Two Run which she also operates.
  • May 2 a We're working on the Communicator which is slated to be on the news stands Tuesday afternoon around 4pm. Until few posts as we type the next 24 hours away. If you haven't picked up the last edition, there are still a  few left . Remember, knowledge is power!
  • May 1 a First day of a new month and it's coming in wet and soggy. Great time to head southwest to the best meal bar none at H E White Elem Ramp Feed.
  • May 1 a Obama Fact: We have created more jobs in this last year than the Bush administration (did) in eight years.
  • May 1 a  Obana Fact:  Bush tax cuts caused a substantial part of the deficit
  • May 1 a Looking back over the last week we should be talking about the 13 - 14 year old softball team's triple play, a first ever for the team. We could be talking about the old men that blow their noses with the one finger method. But instead, we're still talking about Clayberry's Boss Hog Sheriff.
  • May 1 a It wasn't enough to be on regional TV where he accused the Court system of bribery and the Prosecutor's office of being untrustworthy. One day later, he was back on TV-3 where our wittle Barney gave the thumbs up  green light for citizen's to carry side arms at the Courthouse. Without ANY authority to do so, Mr Triple Chin decided to stop using the county's home confinement program. Such a move will assuredly bankrupt the county in short order.
  • May 1 a All along, neither  the Poopster nor TV-3 crews noted that the felony soliciting for murder charges against Brent Boggs remain in full force, the guy remains on a $100,000+ bond; and the entire escape from home confinement bracelet charge was a trumped up, bogus, effort in extremity brought by our out of control Sheriff.

  • May 1 a This newest embarrassment brought by the Top Badge can only be matched by his cost to the county. High speed chases resulting in death, unchecked outrageous purchases of military hardware, costly civil suit settlement for Stump Morton for poorly trained Black Shirts, and now bogus arrests most likely resulting in yet another lawsuit, the only question : Can Clayberry afford to keep our temporary worker until his term expires Dec 31, 2012.