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  • uly 23 a This message is for the JM, the fellow that may be able to donate a basketball hoop to 101.7 FM. WYAP is unable to reply to your secure email system but Yes , we still need the thing and thanks. Just let em know how they can get in touch wish you
  • July 23 a Lots going on this weekend from the Ag Fair at Maysel, to corn hole and drive in movie tonight at the radio station, to Hoop and Softball tournament fundraisers. Don't forgot the Saturday night auction returns at 7pm with Maryln Starcher auctioneering the fun. Pool Party too! See EVENTS page for details
  • July 23 a It's  a great time to come visit County Clay.
  • July 23 a We've got some real bad news. Lizemore Ambulance Service went into operation a couple years back supported by volunteers from all walks of life. It was a much needed service for forgotten Clayonians on the "other side" of the Hartland bridge.
  • July 23 a It is our understanding, the Dept of Labor came in on the non profit and levied back wage mandates amounting to $1000s. On May 13th, their Medical Director MD  backed out of that  position.
  • July 23a And, yesterday morning Lizemore Ambulance informed 911 Dispatch to leave them out of the call rotations.
  • July 23 a Bad for Lizemore community, bad for those depending on the agency for income, and bad for the already struggling to stay afloat, Clay Ambulance Service.
  • July 23 a Times just got worse for Clay County West Virginia.
  • July 23 a Wifey returns this afternoon. Time to scrap off the plates, sweep up the dog poop, wash socks, get rid of the spit cups, make the bed, and spray away the cigar smoke.
  • July 23 a Vacation time is over for a couple days.
  • July 21 p  Mary Audra Hopkins, see OBITUARY page
  • July 21 p Happy Birthday Kelly Fulkerson
  • July 21 p We're in typing mode for the next 24 hours in an attempt to get the Communicator out the door on time Friday afternoon.
  • July 21 p No updates till we're done typing
  • July 21 p  Well maybe one more. With the wifey gone.... when the dog craps in the corner of course you're suppose to clean it up. There is a certain amount of stink for the first 24 hours and then it goes away.
  • July 21 p You have to clean it up after the bugs start crawling in and around.
  • July 21 a Happy 7th birthday Morgan Blaze Holcomb
  • July 21 a 70% chance of high winds, thunder boomers, and rain today. Flash flood watch thru this evening. Be careful clickers.
  • July 21 a Yesterday we posted a need for a road sign in the community of a deaf child. A response came from a sign painting facility. Nice!
  • July 21 a Summer 2010 Gran Jury inductees went before Judge Jack Alsop yesterday. Low and behold, those nasty ole Badges made a mistake with each arrest. Everyone of em said, Not guilty Judge.
  • July 21 a Fun to watch Wayne King get yelled at by Judge Alsop. Details in Friday's Communicator.
  • July 21 a With the wifey away, it's a real challenge to keep the house straight. Actually, a real challenge to just keep it clean enough to walk thru without triping over old newspapers, socks, and dirty dishes.
  • July 21 a Finally did a load of clothes last night. Nice to have matching socks again.
  • July 20 4 pm  Flash Flood Warning now in effect until 5:15 today. From the NWO: Excessive runoff from heavy rainfall will cause flooding of small creeks and streams... highways and underpasses. Additionally... country roads and farmlands along the banks of creeks... streams and other low lying areas are subject to flooding.
  • July 20 p  Check the EVENTS page for the Clay All Star State Tournament schedule.
  • July 28 p  One last note on the recent CCC meeting. During discussions came mention of another formal complaint against a Clay County Black Shirt.
  • Juy 28 p You're not going to believe this but, we're trying to get the Communicator out on time this Friday. Deadline for chatter, comment, other submissions, is Wed evening at 6pm. Email now.
  • July 28 p The Communicator, the best 70 cents you will ever spend.
  • July 20 p  Hey! Saw Leonard "My Good Buddy" Williams driving a red pick up truck today. Didn't see him run off the road one time!
  • July 20 a From the email bag:  My son, Neil, is 8 years old and has a moderate to severe deafness.  Yesterday, my nieces realized that the road sign that read "deaf child area" that is posted below our house is missing.  After scouring the woods in the hopes that it had been dislodged and fallen over the hill, we discovered that it is gone.  If someone took it, they should know that those signs are not provided by the Department of Highways like other road signs.  Instead, they have to be purchased by the family of the child. They are very expensive.  My son is unable to hear lower sounds and so misses out on car engine noises.  The sign was posted to help ensure his safety.  If you know who has it, please call 587-2595.  If not, just return it to where it needs to be.  We are unable to replace the sign.   Thank you so much, Julia Wilkinson
  • July 20 a This morning the Summer Class of 2010 will stand before the Circuit Judge and proclaim, and proclaim, Not me buddy, I'm not guilty of anything. The action begins at 9am.
  • July 20 a It's Oh Boy time in Clayberry. Last night during the School Board meeting, with two new Boardster on deck and O Gene King serving as the pivot person, we saw something  rarely seen in the last 20 years. We saw a coup.
  • July 20 a  Superintendent Larry Gillespie retired from duty three weeks ago. It's standard practice for retired to come back and draw a few more bucks working as substitute teachers.
  • July 20 a Last night a passed motion was needed to allow Gillespie to do just that. Board Prez RB called for a motion. He called again. With King, Mullins, and Triplett's heads all facing down, finally, Beth Cercone made the motion.
  • July 20 a The call for a second to the motion came. Around the room, the peanut gallery got quiet as they realized they were seeing history made.  With complete silence around the conference table, RB Legg seconded the motion himself.
  • July 20 a During the vote to rehire the 40 year veteran administrator, RB and Beth Aye with Gene King, Dave Mullins, and Morgy Triplett, in unison, Nay.
  • July 20 a The coup was complete. The Somber Super had been turned out to pasture
  • July 20 a Even one desenting vote is rare in School Board land. To have one of their own tossed out the door, amazing.
  • July 20 a Also from that meeting, something else is up. Instead of hiring the guy as Vice Principal at Clay Elem., the action item was tabled. According to the new Superintendent, the bid process was messed up and would be redone.
  • July 20 a Most of us know how hiring is done at the Pentagon. How things are worded to insure one person qualifies. How candidates not in the fold are told, we have someone else picked out for that job. It's been that way for decades.  Maybe just maybe, the new board is making changes on the way hires are handled.
  • July 20 a Hopefully it's a new day at the Pentagon and not just a one time quirk.
  • July 19 late p  Bret E. Stutler. see OBITUARY page
  • July 19 late p Tired of those curtain climbers? See ADVISORY page now
  • July 19 p Hello Kathleen B down in Florida
  • July 19 p Happy Birthday Dennis James Koch
  • July 19 p There's a new web site originating out of Clayberry. Check out Many Views News here and don't forget to watch the Hick Hop video near the bottom of  that page.
  • July 19 a Happy Birthday Ronnie Rogers II
  • July 19 a Happy Monday morning one and all.  Slow postings due to the ace cub reporter heading up to Morganhole for the weekend to see wifey and kid.
  • July 19 a Tonight the School Board meets in regular session. Their properly posted agenda ( how refreshing) can be seen here. After a long career of teaching at Clay High, Christina Walker is heading for duty over at Clay Middle School. Retired Somber Super Larry Gillespie returns to duty as a substitute teacher... and they will announce the new vice principal for Clay Elem. Maybe most interesting is a long list of discussion items. That's something rarely seen or heard during meetings of old.    Should make for a good meeting.
  • July 19 a During last week's CCC meeting Linda Klotchbach apprised Larry, Darryl, and Darryl of problems with the Bluestone Dam in Hinton W Va. Confirmed by 911 Director Pat Beets: the aging impoundment has structural problems; so serious are the problems that plans are being made in case it breaks; if it breaks,  most of Charleston would be flooded with several feet of wa wa; and that brings up the reason for the discussion.
  • July 19 a All those Charlestonittes might head north  to the highlands of Clayberry to take refuge. What we do with an infusion of newbees?  Discussion on where to house them, feed em, and care for the cultural shock of spending time in the outback.
  • July 19 a Scanner listeners often hear confusion with dispatching ambulances. That topic came up during that same CCC meeting last Wednesday.With Commission Prez Linky trying to stop the public discussion with "Lets not beat that death today",  the disclosures continued. Fran King raising problems that could result in a life threatening situation, going to the wrong road, not knowing where a road actually is, lack of dispatch center training, and thangs aren't getting any better.
  • July 19 a Full details in the next Communicator.
  • July 19 a Need a job? 911 is seeking three disptachers for the Nicholas site.
  • July 19 a First rumors of serious problems with the Lizemore Ambulance service are now surfacing. Seems to be problems with the way they're paying their workers and Dept of Labor regulations and mandatory pay back for employees. Details as they come.
  • July 19 a  Wifey has actually been away for a week. With she and the kid now living in Morganhole, it's vacation time for the ace cub reporter. Having learned many lessons over the years, he's making a valiant effort to keep the place ship shape. With the exceptions of a pile of dirty socks in the corner, various glasses and plates strewn here and there, and some kind of new stains in the middle of the living room carpet, Tallhouse is surviving better than in years past.
  • July 19 a Heck hardly any ants crawling anywhere. But, that may be due to the A/C left setting on 65 degrees all the time.
  • July 18 p Mary Audra Hopkins passsed away. Arragements to come.
  • July 17 a  Clay Co PSD lifted the Boil Water Order Friday afternoon. Dink Dink Dink
  • July 17 a Just love a good email:   The "Current News" on the Clayberry Web site is getting juicier and juicier..  I now find myself checking in more than once a day.  My question to you would be: is there anyone left in Clay County who is NOT arrested, indicted, or in jail?
  • July 17 a Our response to the guy is: only the politicians.
  • July 17 a Concerning our Farmer's Market postings, another email: The roane co farmers market received a grant recently, and ordered two carports from that carport guy over at hansford fork for the farmers market at Spencer. These carports will be built next week.  The Farmers market at Sutton was built with a large 24 x 40 enclosed carport garage building and 3 carport frames 60' long with a greenhouse cover, and has worked real well for them. Cost was about 6000$. The farmers market at flatwoods, also used carports for their initial market, but now the govt. supplied them with a 50,000$ building, then leased it to the owner of the Sutton market, who rents space there to local farmers.  Carports can be purchased for a small amount of money  600$ to 2000$ and are working well.
  • July 17 a On my good buddy Leonard, this email: Andy, you should have told Leonard that you'd be entertained at the thought of him cramming anything, but since he obviously can't drive in a straight line, he'd probably just screw that up too.  lol
  • July 17 a  And another email:  Just wanted you guys to know that you put a smile on my face everyday. I'm one of the everyday dedicated clickers. I grew up in the county of little, but for the last 23 years Florida has been good to me. I'm just another one of the people that had to move from a place that you love ( county of little ) to provide for your family. Don't back down from our little Sheriff or any other Official. Go get em!!!!
  • July 17 a Thanks one and all. This place is a real hoot.
  • July 16 p  Rickey Marvin Hanshaw, 50, of Clay, see OBITUARY page
  • July 16 a Hello Paul Satler up on top of the mountain.
  • July 16 a Gov Smokin Joe will appoint a replacement to fill Robert C. Byrd's position later today. There's only one requirement. The appointed person must agree NOT to run during the upcoming election for a fulll term.
  • July 16 a Summer time is a great time to come visit Clay County. How about you? Maybe this weekend?
  • July 16 a  Tonight the radio station continues its quest to raise enough money to stay alive. With construction underway, the Veterans are holding a motorcycle run to raise funds. Yard sales galore and a class reunion round the stuff we know about. See EVENTS page for details.
  • July 16 a Some weeks are dead, others are full of stuff. This is the later of the two. Even with lengthy postings, we're getting behind. Sorry.
  • July 16 a Haven't mentioned the work of the grand jury Tuesday. Their indictments include
  • July 16 a Azra Cain using a minor to make porn and distribution of kiddy porn
  • July 16 a David D Lane sexual assault 1st degree. abuse by a parent x 6, assault while attempting a Felony
  • July 16 a Matthew S Foster malicious wounding and domestic battery x 2
  • July 16 a Richard Burnside breaking and entering and conspiracy x 3, larceny, destruction of prop x 6
  • July 16 a Brandy Barker same as Richard Burnside
  • July 16 a Jackie Ramsey grand larceny, dest of prop x 2, breaking and entering
  • July 16 a Thomas Childers manufacturing a controlled substance
  • July 16 a Eric Langford  malicious wounding, battery
  • July 16 a  Last night BDA Boardsters greeted Mike Boggs in a very terse way. Why? Mike Boggs filed a lawsuit against the group Wed morning just before getting reappointed to the economic development committee.
  • July 16 a Boggs allegations put in writing exactly what us on the outside have known for years, the BDA operates unlawfully. Stuff like not following state code and if the group is ill configured, how can they hold ANY legal meetings.
  • July 16 a The county doesn't like when they get sued. Sometimes its the only way to get em to the lawful side of life. Boggs has enough money to cover the cost of such an initiative.
  • July 16 a Part of the court request calls for assets of the BDA to be given to a "receiver", somebody else. Translation: The BDa would be out out of business. Do I hear cheers?
  • July 16 a There is fallout clickers. Serious fallout. The BDA funds the new Economic Development Director (Amanda Moore) salary and benefits. With a $30,000 LED grant check in hand (funding for Amanda) the BDA all but decided to send the $$$ back to Charleston. Reasoning: If a receiver is to appointed, wouldn't it be better to let them get their own money.
  • July 16 a  Ms Moore left a job for this position and has two kids. When she was hired, the bet was, she would quit within 90 days. Our timing was off clickers, its now been 4 months, Any new bets?
  • July 16 a With a proper agenda posted and around 10 present, the Buffalo Creek Watershed group also met last night. With one grant in hand, plans for another work party on the calendar, a picnic fund raiser in progress, and the hiring of a Vista worker in the works, it was a productive meeting
  • July 16 a  There's a bunch more to report from Wed's Commission meeting. Here's one cutey
  • July 16 a In the last edition of the Communicator comes a call for the citizen's to set up a farmer's market right now. Minus  govt grants, oversight and other BS, with crops now ripe, just do it. We suggested that the thang be set up at Spread Park.
  • July 16 a Wed morning Fran and Mike came up with a great idea. They think a farmer's market should be set up right now.  Their suggestion is to do it at the old State Road garage at Two Run. What a great idea!
  • July 16 a Had a chance to talk to a fellow who asked: What would it take to get this county moving and developing a future?  After a long this and that talk, it boiled down to one thing, Clayberry needs intelligent, committed  leadership. Something that's in short supply in these parts.
  • July 16 a Another guy suggested that the ace cub reporter change his camera lens to a small unit instead of that big telephoto lens. Would be much less painful was the thought!
  • July 15 a  Without a posted agenda, Stephanie Taylor is the secretary, the BDA plans to meet today at 5:30pm After they get done, the Buffalo Creek Watershed Group will also convene a meeting in the CCC room at the Courthouse.   The Watershed group is a new group of volunteers with little training or experience in holding public meetings but yet they took the initiative to post a required agenda.
  • July 15 a The Saturday Night Auction folks are looking for a fill in auctioneer for this Saturday night. Know someone? See Kim at Granny K's on Main Street.
  • July 15 a Don't ask about that countywide Boil Water Order issued Tuesday. The Town failed to make the potentially life threatening condition known to local media nor even put a notice ont heir front door.
  • July 15 a Are we still under a BWO? Don't expect any update from the people that run the plant and mantain the water lines!
  • July 15 a The state operates a web portal to provide up to date info. The Town ain't mentioned there.
  • July 15 a Wonder what makes bottled water safe and legal. Check out the state sanitation divison on this topic, bottled water companies and and approved bottled water brand names.
  • July 15 a We're giving the Town double H over not notifying the public when there is a water emergency. It's a simple thing to do. As a matter of fact, it EPA law: Your water supplier must notify you by newspaper, mail, radio, TV, or hand-delivery if your water doesn't meet EPA or state standards or if there is a waterborne disease emergency. The notice will describe any precautions you need to take, such as boiling your water.
  • July 15 a We have pictures of the Roane County Farmer's Market on our home page. Two emailers report that the  shelter used by the market was an Eagle Scout project for a young lad over there.
  • July 15 a Back to poor ole Leonard for a second
  • July 15 a Maybe Leonard was just having a bad day yesterday when he wrecked the company truck. See July 14 post for details. Or, maybe public citizen Leonard displayed what's wrong with leadership in Clayberry. He is the epitome of the old guard in these parts. They can only work their backdoor politics when there's complete secrecy. Cameras, independent reporters spoil those efforts.
  • July 15 a For instance, while on the BDA, it was Leonard that changed by laws to allow just three members of the group to hold a meeting and make all decisions. It was Leonard that took the vote and spearheaded the effort for the formation of a BDA Executive Committee to meet  away from the public and handle all other business.
  • July 15 a Leonard "My Good Buddy" Williams can't stand the ace cub reporter and threatened to stuff the guy's camera up you know where. Such stupidty is actually a badge of courage for the independent media, The Communicator, and the future of Clay West Virginia.
  • July 15 a We had just a bang up County Commission meeting Wed morning. So chucked full of info, it's going to take a couple postings just to get the tidbits out to the public.
  • July 15 a Lets start with  two incidents which speak volumes on our Sheriff.  Commissioner Fran King was the point guard on three agenda items aimed at shedding sunshine on ourcheif law enforcement officer, the Top Badge.
  • July 15 a  According to the Franster and Mike Pierson, many complaints and concerns have come in on what happened to evidence seized by the Sheriff. Complaints on no receipts given to the person getting confiscated, no records of what's in the storage locker, and no record of evidence being returned to individuals. The AFT has been contacted about the breach of public trust and the civil implication of such misguided leadership of a public official.
  • July 15 a  Next, according to Fran and backed up by County Clerk Connie Workman, our wittle Sheriff refuses to provided an inventory of weaponry owned by Sheriff's Dept. Has been refusing for four years according to Ms Workman.  Fran said such an inventory is important since the CCC covers the insurance for the Black Shirts. Stuff like coverage on all valuable equipment and liability issues were discussed at length.
  • July 15 a From the peanut gallery a big fellow gave an instance that just happened to a Sheriff in a Southern West Virginia county and suggested the CC take heed from that case.
  • July 15 a Note; Although the meeting agenda was post many days ago, our Sheriff was not present for the meeting.
  • July 15 a Maybe most explosive (get it!) is what happened to old county owned shotguns and new off duty pistols given each Black Shirt. Fran King commented, on the street stories indicate the pieces may have been given away.  If that happened, that's a real no no. State code mandates in black and white how government property may be disposed of. Making presents of county property ain't allowed.  She wants the Sheriff to provide a complete inventory and serial numbers of all weapons owned by the county. So far, he ain't willing.
  • July 15 a Finally for this morning post on the Sheriff, OES Director Pat Beets provided the public an even more chilling report on the actions of our Top Badge. Beets provided that a peed off Sheriff who didn't get his way, called the Feds and provided false information on how new digital radios are being handed out by the 911 Director.
  • July 15 a Seems the Sheriff was not the first person to be handed a sleek new top of the line unit and he is peed. So peed he called Federal funders.
  • July 15 a According to Beets, that phone call and the actions of our wittle Sheriff is now jeopardizing future grant funded purchases. Stuff like generators and radios for fire departments.
  • July 15 a There use to be a little newspaper over in Clay, the Freeze something or other, not sure if they're still in business or not, but 8 years ago when Randy Holcomb was running for office, they reported out of control actions of the candidate but felt he had  "matured" and was ready for office that time around.
  • July 15 a They were wrong back then and it sounds like our top Badge is once again stomping his feet when he doesn't get his way and doing things to screw up the entire county. Along the way, under his leadership, taxpayers are racking up quite a lawsuit bill too!
  • July 15 a Can't you just see the tubby wittle guy beating his chest and proclaiming, "I am more powerful than God in this county!"    For years Randy has been known as Poopy or the Poopster. It may be time for a new nickname, how does Puffy the Pompous Sheriff ring?
  • July 15 a Lots more coming from yesterday's Commission meeting.Stay tuned.
  • July 14 late p  Rev. Marvan Given Frame, 84, see OBITUARY page
  • July 14 late p Rev Frame served in Clay in the 60s.
  • July 14 p The plan was to cover a big long rundown on this morning's Commission meeting. We'll do that tonight late. Right now we have an example of what makes Clayberry such a fertile place for a newspaper.
  • July 14 p After lunch Leonard Williams was driving Elk Power's big bucket truck when he managed to completely miss the driveway to the old Courthouse. Once you get a big truck off center it's hard to stop. The truck wound up nearly on its side.
  • July 14 p With the help of two tow trucks,King's wrecker managed to get the thing back on all fours . Around the site people were laughing and giggling as Leonard Williams stood stoically with arms folded above his belly.
  • July 14 p Commissioner Fran grinned when she asked, Leonard, you need any power truck drivers?   Commissioner Mike Pierson showed up with, Leonard, you new to the Town?
  • July 14 p Primed up, the aging Leonard bee lined over to the ace cub reporter with "You ever had that camera crammed up your ASS? And then he added something about he's just the guy to do it!
  • July 14 p Still with his arms folded and this grump look on his saggy face, he said Mike Pierson was right when he called the reporter a parasite on the county, always trying to tear things down!
  • July 14 p Little Mr Ace Cub Reporter responded with: "Gosh Leonard, if you ever broke down beside the road, I'd be sure to stop and give you assistance."
  • July 14 p  Me thinks someone pooped in Leonard's oatmeal this morning. Anybody can wreck a vehicle but it's folks like Leonard Williams that makes the newspaper business so very exciting in this county of little.
  • July 14 p Oh... those pics are over on the homepage and the camera deosn't smell like poop either!
  • July 13 late p The Communicator made it out the door around 3pm today. During the last Sch Bd meeting Beth Cercone wanted included in future meeting reports, any incident of Badge intervention at CCHS and CMS. That's in the article.
  • July 13 late p Thinking back, we thought she was referring to the students out of control and getting punched in the face. Maybe in that report Ms Cercone really wants info on staff out of control and attacking other teachers.  For that matter, if a kid gets ALC for deviate behavior, maybe  staff should get similar treatment
  • July 13 late p In the latest edition of the paper, we provide some details on a newly approved school system "back to work" policy for employees injured. During those July 6th meeting discussions, there was no mention that employees would be mandated to return to work half healed and work for reduced pay in a reduced capacity.
  • July 13 late p Summer Grand Jury convened today behind closed doors. We'll post the results sometime Wed evening. Check back then.
  • July 13 late p County Commission meets Wed morning at 10am. With the CCC questioning our Top Badge on what happened to those old shotguns, what happened to those recently purchased off duty hand guns, asking for an inventory of all weapons including assault weapons,  and asking for an inventory of goods stored in the evidence locker.. sure to be a wonderful meeting
  • July 13 late p  The Buffalo Creek Watershed group meets Thursday evening in the CCC room beginning at 6pm.
  • July 13 late p the Business Development Authority was to meet Thursday at 5pm. With no meeting agenda posted, guess that meeting is off again.
  • July 13 p Over the scanner today, around 2pm, came word of a countywide BOIL WATER ORDER after a Town of Clay main water line broke. For your own health, boil it before use please.  BWO notice was issued by Clay Co PSD shortly after the scanner notice was heard for their customers.
  • July 13 p There has been no notice of the BWO by the Town of Clay. How sad!
  • July 12 p Got some interesting County Commission agenda items slated for Wed morning.
  • July 12 p Stuff like mandating our puffy wittle Sheriff to supply information to the CCC
  • July 12 p Go check out the list of action items on the front window of the Courthouse.
  • July 12 p  Update on the new downtown Clay restaurant. Granny K's diner is now opening at 7am for the breakfast crowd and staying open until 7p for us stragglers.
  • July 12 p With stress levels at all time highs, a vacation, even one close to home,  is now considered a necessary expense. The state of West Virginia is spending millions supporting tourism efforts just about everywhere but poor ole Clayberry.
  • July 12 p No money for tourism and how that affects you is the lead story in Tuesday's Communicator. Now back to typing .
  • July 12 a We're in typing mode , so a short update
  • July 12 a Good news is hard to find in these parts.
  • July 12 a Kim and Brian Adkins moved the Auction House restaurant to the old "Kitchen" space on Main Street. They opened late last week. Get this, they are also open on the weekends including Sunday afternoon. All degreased and painted , once again there's a place to eat in downtown Clay.
  • July 12 a Also:   The mini mall over at Maysel has been closed for a few months. It's undergoing a face lift. When completed, the indoor flea market and Amish store will return. Added will be a sit down diner and  video slot machines in another corner.
  • July 12 a Bill Vineyard says the place will reopen in just a  few weeks. Great!
  • July 12 a Over the weekend, many kayak toting SUVs came thru the county as did motorcyclists galore as well as foot powered bikers. Instead of driving, riding right on thru, with a little promotion, those dollars could be reaped right here in Clayberry.
  • July 12 a CHIT head update:  The first of the tourist panels should be completed near the middle of the month. Watch for installation updates ..
  • July 12 a Larry Darryl and Darryl have been talking about establishing a Farmer's Market in the old Fas Chek parking lot. On more than one occasion, they've said it will take grant funds and lots of organization before they can lift the first finger. In other counties,  it didn't take long to find a couple picnic shelters and advertise for gardeners to bring their offerings.
  • July 12 a If the need for good fresh produce and a healthy diet is now, why not just use the all ready to be used Spread Park shelters? Beautiful place, has restrooms, plenty of parking, and the nearby dairy bar may also enjoy additional patronage. Seems simple enough. Just advertise, on such an such a date, all are encouraged to bring their garden goods and set up. No charge.
  • July 12 a  Corn is ready... Tomatoes are almost red, cucumbers are running everywhere. Seems like now would be a great time for such a Farmer's Market. Naaaa. makes too much sense.
  • July 12 a Time to get back to typing....
  • July 11 late p  Andrew Jackson (Jack) Nichols, 85, of Lizemores, see OBITUARY page
  • July 9 late p Vida Lee Keener Hall, 85, see OBITUARY page
  • July 9 late p  Bernice Lea Weaver, 77, of Chester, WV, formerly of Lizemores, WV, see OBITUARY page
  • July 9 late p  The Library is in need for craft stuff for the summer reading program. If you can help em out, details on the ADVISORY page
  • July 9 a  As the East coast bakes, so does Clayberry. After dinner temps have been hovering around 100 for the last four days. About the only thing good from the extremes, the grass ain't growing. Thank goodness for that.
  • July 9 a IT'S FRIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAY!
  • July 9 a We're holding the Communicator until Tuesdy afternoon. Reason, all the staff have TB (Tired Butt).
  • July 9 a As a  a warning, around the county, many others are getting hit with viruses so bad, they shut units down. Won't even boot up except in safe mode. If you're not using the latest, most up to date security, you're going to get screwed big time. Over on the LINKS page is one for the freebee Malware antibytes which works pretty good. The paid version does better. Ditto for the freebee and paid versions of AVG. The norm is for the paid versions to offer real time protection, to zap the bad stuff before it actually enters your puter.
  • July 9 a  Knocking on wood, this site has gone without a cyber attack since last Dec.
  • July 9 a If it doesn't rain, tonight the radio station is offering cornhole contests (7pm) along with the drive in movie, The Dark Knight in the Batman series (9pm). Free
  • July 9 a Clay Pool is hosting a party Saturday night and don't forget the Auction at Two Run for some sit down fun.
  • July 9 a  Yard sales, reunions, and more can be found over on the EVENTS page . Have a nice weekend.
  • July 9 a  Yesterday we posted a link to the Durbin Rocket tourism train over in Pocahantas County. While the boss is in the other room .... Mike Rowe emailed with a couple more great You Tube links for steam engines. Shay #12 1,     Shay #12 2,       Shay#12  3.
  • July 9 a Be sure to turn down the volume, those steam whistles around the office pee off the Big Shots.
  • July 9 a From Mike's email: I spent all of my Saturdays last August and September painting this Shay geared locomotive which formerly ran at the Georgetown Loop Railroad in Colorado and is now at the Colorado Railroad Museum.  For my efforts, I was allowed to fire the locomotive during the Museum's "Shayfest" last fall (two days).  I am most likely on the other side of the cab during these scenes.  My history with this locomotive goes back into the early 1970s.
  • July 9 a  As soon as Clayberry leadership removes their heads from their butts, they'll realize the importance of getting the BC&G RR back on the tracks from Dundon to Taylor Station. Wouldn't a snow run in Dec be great!
  • July 8 late p  Novella Marie “Shorty” Branard Peck, 83, of Ovapa, see OBITUARY page
  • July 8 a  If you're interested in which band is playing up at Pat's Sports Bar, here's the link for book marking.
  • July 8 a From the email bag:  11 - 12 year old all stars won the southern division, off to Elkins next weekend....they have not been beat yet...  YEAH!!!!
  • July 8 a For over a decade we've said that the BDA has been worthless without one redeeming accomplishment. That's about to change.
  • July 8 a  BDA Boardsters suggested that the group organize an auction house in the old State Road garage. After they quit rolling their eyes back in their head and realized it might work. It happened. Brian and Kim Adkins were the first with a business license to operate the Saturday night deal sessions. Once the auction got underway, Kim opened the Auction House restaurant. It became successful.
  • July 8 a Beginning next week, Kim will move from the reduced rent facility and will open in the Kitchen Restaurant building on Main Street. The auction business will continue in the same location but the diner part will reopen in new digs either this Friday or Monday of next week.
  • July 8 a The BDA now has one success story under their belt.
  • July 8 a If the BDA would focus their attention on growing tourism, they may grow another success. Take for instance  a  railroad ride on the BC&G rails.
  • July 8 a Over in Pocahantas County the Durbin Rocket (here's the video) is quite successful and it runs on just a 10 mile spur along a creek. Don't say Buffalo Creek couldn't be  just as pretty or  can't attract those same masses, it can.
  • July 8 a To get the wheels a turning, Robert C awarded a 1/4 million dollars four years ago to the County Commission to purchase part of the spur going up Buffalo. The CCC continues to sit on those dollars.
  • July 8 a The Wall Street Journal is reporting the nation's super secret spy agency, the NSA, has now set up the 1984ish Big Brother eyeballing of the world wide web.
  • July 8 a Of the 36,000 oil and gas wells in the Gulf of Mexico, as many as 27,000 may be leaking. And, doing so without government scrutiny.
  • July 8 a It good to see new faces on an elected board. Such was the case Tuesday night when the School Board met in rescheduled action. From that gathering...
  • July 8 a It appears the Board will begin receiving additional info on how the system is working. Stuff like how many workers are off on sick leave and how many rug rats are in ALC prison. Beth Cercone added that she would like to see monthly reports from each of the Board office Directors to see what they are accomplishing. You could have heard a pin drop!
  • July 8 a For a number of reasons, all bad of course, the Board is hiring individuals without teaching credentials to fill vacancies. Happened again Tuesday night. No one seemed to mind or at least no one objected
  • July 8 a In progress before the new Boardsters took their seats at the table, a unanimous vote came on a new back to work policy for sick, ailing, recuperating, personnel. The idea is to reduce worker comp rates. The outcome may be quite different.
  • July 8 a  Under the new mandatory rule, the school system will have access to medical records ( page 4) and be the go between for MDs and the worker. They will even have a new staff person in charge of visiting the ailing workers in an attempt to cut back on sick leave use.
  • July 8 a That decision came on the heels of discussion that this county has low worker comp rates and instances of possible abuse.
  • July 8 a Your employer knowing all your medical details.. does anybody else see an issue?
  • July 5 late p  School Board meets Tuesday evening at 6pm in the Standard Bryant Annex building. This will be the first public meeting for newbee Boardsters Dave Mullins and Morgan Triplett. There's a lot of hope that between New Super Kenneth Tanner and the reconstituted Board, the demands and needs of the county will be heard and acted upon.
  • July 5 p For decades past, the Board had nearly all their discussions and decisions made before any public meeting was held. Noticed on the agenda for Tuesday's meeting, a couple interesting discussion items. Stuff like the Board receiving monthly reports on  who's in ALC, staff attendance, and much needed repairs at CCHS and CCMS.
  • July 5 p Item 11 is a new return to work policy for school personnel. Might take a week or month to sink in but, bet there will be some fallout from that one.
  • July 5 p While the DC boys tell ya that the long depression is over, keep in mind... when they tell you fewer are unemployed, that's true.
  • July 5 p That 1 m fewer is the number of workers that have exhausted their unemployment benefits and are no longer counted in govt stats. When they tell you 9.5% are unemployed, again true. But, if you add those under employed and those working part time instead of full time, the unemployed number climbs to around 25% without good jobs. In Michigan where auto jobs ain't never coming back, the rate is real close to 30% unemployed.
  • July 5 p  "Home sales are down. Retail sales are down. Factory orders in May suffered their biggest tumble since March of last year. So what are we doing about it? Less than nothing,"
  • July 4  a In the last seven days we lost a big one, the big one, the guy that tried his best to improve the state with kindness and infrastructure, Senator Robert C Byrd. For his years of dedicated service, we responded in droves  and paid respect as he laid in state.
  • July 4 a  Byrd changed over the years as the state / nation changed. He said the right things
  • July 4 a  The Fourth of July commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence by delegates from the 13 colonies in 1776. This most important American national holiday is traditionally observed with parades, band concerts, picnics, and fireworks. Writing in July 1776 from Philadelphia, John Adams related to his wife, Abigail: "Yesterday the greatest Question was decided, which ever was debated in America, and a greater, perhaps, never was or will be decided among Men. A Resolution was passed without one dissenting Colony 'that these united Colonies, are, and of right ought to be free and independent States, and as such, they have, and of Right ought to have full Power to make War, conclude Peace, establish Commerce, and to do all the other Acts and Things, which other States might rightfully do...' This . . . Day . . . will be the most memorable Epocha, in the History of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated, by succeeding Generations, as the great anniversary Festival. . . . It ought to be solemnized with Pomp and Parade, with Shews, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other from this Time forward forever more."
  • July 4  a  Our founders wrote those few words from the heart. That wonderful document stands today, a testament to the high ground ideals this nation strives to attain each passing decade.
  • July 4 a Here in Clayberry, the local radio station ( still located in the Fas Chek parking lot for now anyway) organized one heck of a downtown Main Street celebration where kids and seniors alike took part in downtown Clay festivities. It was small town America at its best. The weather even cooperated.
  • July 4 a Today is the final day of Independence Day Celebration complete with cornhole, basketball rubber ducky races, parade, pie contests, and grand show featuring the country group, Audio Outlaws. Don't miss the fun.
  • July 3 a Dale Edwin Fluharty, 72, see OBITUARY page
  • July 3 a  Last night while tinkering with this web site, the ace cubster managed to mess up the Classified page. If your posting is listed, one, blame it on the little bald headed guy and then resend via email. Thanks
  • July 3 a  Warm  weather and a holiday weekend, don't get any better!
  • July 3 a Lots going on during the WYAP Small Town America Celebrates Independence Day. Don't sit at home all droopy lipped. Get out and have some fun.
  • July 3 a 101.7 is hosting a Pretty Turtle, Best Dressed Pooch, Karaoke, and Hula Hoop contests today right after the Kiddy Carnival. See EVENTS page for details..
  • July 3 a Congrats 82 year young Nona Carte for being selected the 2010 Independence Day Celebration Queen.
  • July 3 a Tonight Maxine Metheny goes on air at 7pm. Great Clay County talent second to none. Bring a lawn chair and maybe a jacket.
  • July 3 a Doesn't feel like it but Dog Days begin today.
  • July 2 a From the email bag: It is interesting to note that the flower beds at the WV Capitol were replanted on Thursday, the governors office was open and all the dignitaries arrived in limos, however the flags that had been lowered to half-staff were worn and tattered. It would have been a grand gesture to honor the late Sen. Byrd with crisp, clean flags.  Shame, Smokin' Joe.  Next time you make such a historic executive order to lower the flags, check the condition of said flags.
  • July 2 a We forget when Robert C was on the CCHS stage and yelled out SHUT UP as he played his fiddle. Before that his long winded graduation ceremony speech. It's time to honor a guy that brought more potential to the state than any other individual. Last night several from Clayberry were at the Capitol to pay their last respects. He was one of those folks that felt, with the right infrastructure, this state could improve.
  • July 2 a 15 years ago the Senator made his last visit to the county of little. He brought with him a ceremonial presentation check made at for $12m. The money was for water line improvements and a new water plant. He was dressed in a baby blue seersucker suit. We rubbed shoulders with the guy. Local politicians worked it hard to get their pictures taken with the most powerful man on earth.
  • July 2 a His passing has serious implications for this county. Like, it was Byrd that provided the first 1/4 million to purchase the old BC&G spur for a tourism railroad. His promises for funding the entire length of track are now gone.
  • July 2 a Behind the scenes, yelp, the political war for a replacement is on. Our best guess, a place holder will be named. Maybe Gail.
  • July 1 p Yesterday we posted that Samples Market is going out of business. Update: Polly Samples will be open the next couple days and everything is half off. Might be a chance to get some real deals.
  • July 1 p With the first Thursday of the new month here, normally the ever so entertaining BDA should be meeting. Don't think that's happening since the Franster is out of town.
  • July 1 p The CHIT group met Wed afternoon. Their goal is to have 5 new tourism panels erected around the county by mid July. Designers, painters are in place but they need good locations around the county to install the thangs. Email if you will allow a panel to be placed on your building. Thanks
  • July 1 p Coming to Clay this holiday weekend? The complete WYAP Small Town America Celebration schedule is posted over on the wyap.com web site. For those unable to come home, their web cam will allow all to watch the fun from the stage.  You can also listen to Maxine Metheny (Sat) and the Audio Outlaws (Sunday) by going to their web site and clicking the blinking ON AIR button.
  • July 1 a Lookin for a deal? Check out the EVENTS page, it looks like yard sale central. Deals on every street corner for the next 4 days. Good shopping one and all
  • July 1 a The lead story in The Communicator details the criminal charges lodged June 19th against Jamie Morris, John Amos, and Kenneth Crites.  The three remained in the slammer seeking  $100,000 bonds on each. Good reading for sure
  • July 1 a Just after the paper made it out the door, pretrial hearings were to be held in Magistrate Court. Jami's was held, the other two were delayed.
  • July 1 a A few hours before the hearing, Nicholas County filed charges against Crites alleging the lad bought too much sudafed.
  • July 1 a All three were bailed out of the slammer by Jami's family using property as surety.
  • June 30 a After 36 hours of typing, mis typing, and effort, The Communicator is now available to the world. What's the plan to correct out wittle Top Badge's potty mouth? And, what did Gene King have to say about the wrath of 50 old fat ladies? YOu got to pay the 70 cents!
  • June 30 a As the depression continues .... Polly Samples has operated small convenience stores for ages. Her efforts have employed Clayonians from all walks of  life. Samples Market in Ivydale closes today.   At Big Otter, right beside I-79, where the traffic count is very high, Ric Tanner has operated a restaurant and antique store. That operation also is shutting down today.
  • June 30 a Very sad.
  • June 30 a  CHIT heads met today at 1:30pm in Amanda Moore's office, upstairs, at the Courthouse. The meeting is to organize the build, design, paint and installation of  5 outdoor 4 by 8 tourism panels around the county. Want to help? Be there. Also, the CHIT group is looking for 5 (or more) building owners willing to allow the new decorations to be installed on their building. Email if you're interested.
  • June 30 a Have a bunch of digital pictures? Maybe important documents stored on your puter? You never know when your puter will get zapped.  The way you're suppose to do it is, have a back up copy of everything stored on an external hard drive.
  • June 30 a Even external hard drives go bad or die.    The ace cub reporter's Seagate external went south. The thing was at least three years old. Fortunately for him,  another set of copies was on a third hard drive.
  • June 30 a Here's our story...  A free 800 number call to Seagate took about 5 minutes (an American sounding voice was on the other end too) and netted a brand new replacement. Turns out Seagate offers a big long warranty. In five days the new unit arrived and is in service.
  • June 30 a If you're thinking of  purchasing an external hard drive, we highly recommend the Seagate brand.
  • June 28 p  Rabies clinic schedule now posted over on the ADVISORY page
  • June 28 p Since the next election isn't until 2012, Smokin Joe will appoint a replacement to fill the U S Senate seat. Who's your guess? Gasten Caperton? Himself? His wife? Email response
  • June 28 p No updates until we get the Communicator out the door sometime Tuesday afternoon.
  • June 28 a Time marches on. We know it. But, the loss of Robert C Byrd, there can be no replacement. The entire state mourns.
  • June 27 p  Now ending the month of June, Clayberry is adjusting to the hot hot temps of Summer. During this last week, we experienced the heat commonly seen in July and August months. This maybe an indication of the hottest summer on record coming our way.
  • June 27 p  We saw the changing of the guard Thursday night over at the Pentagon. The new folks will be facing some serious issues like increased insurance rates, fewer teachers entering the profession while retirements increase, and infrastructure problems like the drainage pipes rusting away at CCHS.
  • June 27 p From that meeting, an inticement.... Full write up on Gene King's comments on "50 old fat ladies".. Yelp and it costs just 70 cents. 70 cents for us and Gene will be int he doghouse for weeks!
  • June 27 p  The state paid their web hosting bill and the jail web site came back to life midweek.
  • June 27 p  Campaign promises oft fall by the wayside. When the Sheriff campaigned, he said he would knock down the meth problem in the county. He hasn't
  • June 27 p Commissioner Slinky came to power he do so on the platform of bringing gazillions in  grant dollars to the county. That ain't happened either.
  • June 27 p Our lead story in the next Communicator deals with a $75,000 request for a new ambulance. The request was denied by the CCC while they sit on over a $1m in coal severance dollars.
  • June 27 p Word came Friday that Robert C is back in the hospital in serious condition. When the Senator leaves us, the state will be in even worse shape. Best of get well wishes extended to the senior Senator.
  • June 27 p We suffered this week with temps in the upper 90s and humidity even higher. Great for the tomatoes and beans but boy it's tough on everything else.
  • June 26 p   Floyd Sargent, 88, of Clay,  see OBITUARY page
  • June 26 p  Fietta Magdaline DeMoss, 74, of Procious, see OBITUARY page
  • June 25 a After several days of temps in the high 90s and humidity capable of wilting even the strongest, happy Friday morning. Hope your air conditioner is working well.
  • June 25 a Everything from basketball and softball games to yard sales & family reunions fill the weekend. Marlyn Starcher is hosting a big time auction at his place Saturday. Check out the latest Communicator for a complete run down on Marlyn's auction.
  • June 25 a The radio station is holding Bingo games tonight at the Senior Center at Two Run. Doors open at 6 and fun starts at 6:30pm.  Bingo is a fundraiser for non profit 101.7FM. Their plan was to use bingo proceeds to grow their operation budget.
  • June 25 a With Commissioner Linky planning to evict the group from the Fas Chek parking lot, those Bingo proceeds may have to be used to cover moving expenses. Come out and support something few other communities can be proud of, a local, independent FM station.
  • June 25 a  Whether you're passing thru and spending the weekend at the campground, it's a great time to come visit Clayberry.
  • June 25 a What started as  a passing idea is starting to take root. Last week this site mentioned a need for colorful 4 by 8 signs handsomely painted to enhance the county and provide much needed hype for tourists. Emails came offering labor and financial support.  A name was decided upon, Citizens Helping to Improve Tourism (CHIT).
  • June 25 a Earlier this week new Eco Dev Director Amanda Moore agreed to assist the project volunteers. CHIT Heads include a financier,  two artists, and a guy willing to attach the signs to buildings. The goal is to have five signs designed, painted and installed by mid July.
  • June 25 a CHIT Head needs: We're looking for five building owners around town, county, that would allow the new signs to be erected on their property. Email this site if you're interested.
  • June 25 a  The School Board met last night. With the Superintendent and Bus Czar retiring and two Boardsters unelected from office, there were many war stories of old and smiles as they were being told. Gene King turned on the alligator tears as he recalled times when there wasn't enough money to make ends meet..
  • June 25 a Although the new Super doesn't take charge until next week, there was change too
  • June 25 a The meeting was held down the hall in larger, cleaner feeling digs. The new place is more techy, properly wired for laptop based video usage. The agenda was properly posted. Nice changes so far.
  • June 25 a Enjoy a sun filled weekend.
  • June 24 p  Bonnie Mae Wilkinson, 83, see OBITUARY page
  • June 24 p  Hot and very humid is the talk of the county this week. Those without A/C are suffering
  • June 24 Tonight the School Board meets in rescheduled session complete with a legal and posted agenda. Location is the Standard Bryant Annex on Gump Street. This will be the last meeting for Boardsters Ric Tanner and Jim Dawson who lost during their election attempt. These are  the last few days in power for the Somber Super who retires June 30th.
  • June 24 p   Responsible parents know the worth of teaching their snot lickers to swim. Swimming classes begin Monday over at the Public Pool. See ADVISORY page for details.
  • June 24 p   The Auction House Restaurant at Two Run just added a six day a week breakfast menu.  The morning stuff will be served daily, 8 to 8pm.
  • June 24 p There was a dandy County Commission meeting held Wed. Lasted over two hours! Full details in the Communicator but for now....
  • June 24 p  CCC appoints volunteers to the various govt committees. Yesterday all the reappointments went quick and without discussion 'cept one, Michael Boggs who serves on the BDA. According to Slinky poo, several of the BDA members vow to resign if Boggs is reappointed .Big long discussion insued. In the end, Commissioners voted to reappoint Mike Boggs for 30 days instead of the normal 3 year term. During that 30 days, talks will be held away from the public.
  • June 24 p Complicating the matter, Boggs also sits on the secretive Clay Economic Coalition which hired and oversees the new Eco Dev Director. If off the BDA, would Boggs also be off that secret group.
  • June 24 p Secret?  Well, they have never posted a meeting agenda nor have they even made public when the group meets.
  • June 24 p  Also from the CCC meeting, Ambulance Director Bev King wants $75,000 from CCC funds to purchase a new ambulance. Her request met resistance. Stuff like, you don't have a dollar in your checking  account and you don't make enough money to pay for a vehicle loan.
  • June 24 p  In May less than 90 ambulance runs were made. June looks worse with around 60 runs to date. That's a good indication of the future financial picture.
  • June 24 p Here's a cutey. During the lively discussion to purchase a new unit, Linky suggested that Bev King make a strong effort to reduce cost in the future.
  • June 24 p At discussion end and with a new unit off the table, CCC  OK'd spending $27,000 in insurance $$$$ (settlement for a burned out ambulance last Spring) to purchase a used unit.
  • June 24 p And finally from the Wed morning engagement a glimpse into back room Courthouse stuff.  In a nutshell, sounds like our wittle Sheriff wants an old 911 repeater (owned by the CCC) to be installed for law enforcement use. 911 Director Beets said he could do that but when the new digital system comes on line this fall, the repeater will not work.
  • June 24 p What wasn't said:  Sounded like our Top Badge wants to have his own repeater so he can start his own dispatch service out of his Courthouse office. Can you imagine the problems that would come with that set up... not to mention the liability there!
  • June 24 p For scanner listeners, once that new digital radio system is up and running, your old scanner (analog) will no longer pick up the conversations. A quick online check revealed, new digital scanners run upwards of $400 each. Yikes!
  • June 23 a West Virginians have been told for decades how good coal is for the state. There is now  a new report made public showing a completely different picture. The June 22nd Downstream Strategies report adds in all the true costs of mining and comes up with  the millions it really costs our state annually.
  • June 23 a Although good, eye awakening anyway, they forgot to mention stuff like medical bills and loss of life in their presentation.
  • June 22 late p  Amos Paul O’Dell, 79, see OBITUARY page
  • June 22 p From the email bag: LOST on Widen Ridge Road or on the 4-wheeler trail from Dundon to Swandale, a black Nikon camera.  If you find this camera there is a reward, please contact me at 587-6060.
  • June 22 p There's a lot of us that regularly frequent the WV Jail web site. Some of us check it a couple times a day. That site has been down for two days now. There is a little message on the "place holder" which reads " wvrja.com expired on 06/14/2010 and is pending renewal or deletion".
  • June 22 p As of 2 pm today, the site is still off line for Clayberry. Sounds like the state didn't pay it's bill on time.
  • June 22 p Men there's a new scam out in the cruel world. Here's what happens: Two nice-looking, college-aged girls will come over to your car or truck as you are packing your purchases into your vehicle. They both start wiping your windshield with a rag and Windex, with their breasts almost falling out of their skimpy T-shirts. (It's impossible not to look).

    •    When you thank them and offer them a tip, they say 'No' but instead ask for a ride to McDonald's. You agree and they climb into the vehicle. On the way, they start undressing. Then one of them starts crawling all over you, while the other one steals your wallet.
       I had my wallet stolen May. 4th, 9th, 10th, twice on the 15th, 17th, and the 20th plus on June 1st & 4th, twice on the 8th, 16th, and 20th. Tell your friends to be careful. What a horrible way to take advantage of us older men. Warn your friends to be vigilant.
  • June 22 p  Ever want an embroidered shirt or cap? Adam Tanner from Nebo has opened "EmbroidMe" in the Kanawha Mall in Charleston. Open till 6pm M thru F, his number is 304 925-2202.
  • June 22 p County Commission meets Wed morning at 10am. Big long agenda too.
  • June 21 a For Courthouse workers around the state, today is a holiday.
  • June 21 a Low and behold, you're not going to believe this next item clickers. Sit down.
  • June 21 a After years of absolute shunning open meeting law requirements, the School Board posted their meeting agenda in a timely manner. What a nice change. Hope the practice of informing the public continues when new leadership takes the helm July 1st.
  • June 21 a Be sure to check out the agenda for the winner of who gets to be the Principals of CCHS and Clay Elem.
  • June 21 a The norm is for the Sc. Board to meet the first and third Monday of each month. That ain't happening this time around. Instead, the Board will convene Thursday evening at 6:15 in the Standard Bryant Annex building on Gump Street.
  • June 21 a Last week we started a campaign to cheaply and quickly dress up downtown Clay with colorful signs mounted on buildings around the hamlet.
  • June 21 a There was a time in Clay when Saturday's were packed with shoppers. Saturday nights were also packed with those seeking social enhancement via the bar scene.
  • June 21 a Last Saturday was a good indication of how important something has to be done to attract people into Clay.  Main Street was dead. Parking spaces were empty as were the few remaining stores.
  • June 21 a  The quicker the sooner for those new signs, and then flowers, benches, and attractive store fronts.
  • June 20 a  Shirley Elizabeth Woody, 94, of Wallback, see OBITUARY page
  • June 20 a Happy Father's Day Dad's everywhere
  • June 20 a No wrap-up this week but a couple notes.
  • June 20 a A little after 1am Saturday morning Clay County's  Jamie Morris, John Amos Morris, and Richard Crites were arrested. As of 3pm Sunday, they're still lodged in Central Regional Jail.
  • June 20 a Those up that late noticed several Badge mobiles gathered at the old Valley Fork School sometime around 1am Saturday morning. Another guy saw blue lights galore at, near, Bullard's Exxon at Maysel shortly thereafter. Our guess is, another drug bust.
  • June 20 a For Jamie, a guy that was born with the proverbial silver spoon in his mouth, this bust comes on top of several others including one just a month or so back,  down in Nitro.
  • June 20 a John Amos Moris is one of those "H of a nice guy" types that appears to be on the wrong road of life. Real sad for John Amos.
  • June 20 a Both Morris' are charged with Felonies and the Crites guy with a misdemeanor
  • June 20 a Our second post comes from the WV Supreme Court web site where Tommy Young Jr tried to appeal (#100416)  a sentencing order after being convicted of grand larceny and serving  a youthful offender program. The Big Robes under the Gold Dome decided, 5 - 0, wrong -o Jr, the lower courts decided just fine thank you. Appeal denied.
  • June 17 a  Allen “Lacy” Fitzwater, 65, of Maysel, see OBITUARY page
  • June 17 a Lets talk dumb.  Yesterday morning a shirtless guy robbed Go Mart. His target, a 24 pack of beer. Go Mart is covered with cameras making a clean get away nearly impossible. If that ain't dumb enough, the guy managed to wreck his vehicle during the get away.
  • June 17 a  Dumb Dumber.... Turns out the guy had an outstanding felony warrant against him from 2001 and that too is now hanging over his head.
  • June 17 a Meet Christopher Hayes 
  • June 17 a The weekend is here. Tonight WYAP is hosting a healthy change from couch potato to athlete. Tonight is a cornhole challenge at 7pm followed by a Drive In Movie featuring "Dante Peak". No charge for nothin and held in the WYAP parking lot.
  • June 17 a Don't forget the pool is open for business.
  • June 17 a Last night we came up with an idea for a self grown initiative to make the place look better and to grow tourism. The idea is to artfully paint 4 x 8 panels and hang them on various buildings in and around the Town of Clay. Read Thursday's post for details.
  • June 17 a Seems there is quite an interest in the CHIT notion. So far volunteers include one guy willing to finance at least part of the cost, two others willing to do the painting of the signs, another willing to work to get the signs on buildings, and host of others thinking it's a good idea.
  • June 17 a How about you? Willing to pitch in? Just email to get the ball started.
  • June 16 late p   Dennis F. Winemiller, 54, of Maysel, see OBITUARY page
  • June 16 late p Get well wishes extended to Brian Adkins.
  • June 16 late p Interested in hosting a foreign exchange student? Details over on the ADVISORY page
  • June 16 late p  The lead story in the Communicator covers Commissioner Linky's back room plan to evict the local radio station from the Fas Chek parking. The paper's only been out 24 hours but already we're receiving comments. Like this one:  the County Commission is on to something here.  They really do need the Fas Chek parking lot, and it's all about economic development.  If I may, just picture this.  More convenient available parking means our one TRUE natural resource here, that being litigation, can flourish naturally.  More highly-paid lawyers from Charleston and elsewhere, happy with their short walk from the courthouse, will see fit to dine in our restaurants, peruse the wares in our yard sales, and grab a cold drink on the way back out of town to subdivisions in Teays Valley, Southridge, and elsewhere.  The Commission could even refer to it as "litigational tourism" in a brochure.  The trickle-down economic windfalls for this county could be immense.  Forget radio stations, rivers, and railroads......our next golden era lies here.
  • June 16 late p  A couple days back we posted a picture of a nicely painted 4 x 8 sheet of plywood that was attached to the side of a building in Elkins. The idea is to add some color to an otherwise not so pretty spot. Our thought was some kind of pretty artwork to highlight places like Lake Sampson, the Elk, maybe dirt track racing, maybe the swining bridge, and beautiful vistas. There are plenty of places around the Town, County for that matter, that would be suitable for the improvement.
  • June 16 late p Since that posting, we've received some very encouraging emails. Like...
  • June 16 late p A couple people have volunteered to do the painting if the project takes off.
  • June 16 late p Another guy came up and said, don't wait on the BDA, CAEZ, or some govt agency to do something, do it yourself.
  • June 16 late p With that in mind. How about a new volunteer group, Citizens Helping to Increase Tourism. Otherwise known as the CHIT group. People are already talking about it. Often you hear, "There ain't CHIT in Clay!"    Has a certain ring to it don't you think?.
  • June 16 late p Seriously, anyone interested? Email
  • June 16 a The Communicator made it to distributors in four counties yesterday afternoon. Lead story covers Commissioner Link's plans to root out the local radio station from its Main St Clay location as well as serious problems with 911 dispatch services. Good reading from cover to cover as one old gentleman told us.
  • June 16 a After 28 hours of typing, formatting, distribution and then a long night's rest, we're getting back to good.
  • June 16 a 97 degrees was seen in Clayberry Tuesday and Summer doesn't even officially begin for another week. Temps like that make the Clay Swimming pool look even better.
  • June 16 a The answer for Monday's online picture detective question... That's a picture of the leaf springs under the Tygart Flyer locomotive which operates in the Elkins area.
  • June 16 a  USDA: 18% of all farmers and about 50% of all dairy producers  are uninsured. Medical costs have soared 130% in the last 8 years
  • June 16 a USDA  Small farms account for 91% of all US farms ( small farms earn less than $250,000 per year).    60% of those earn less than $10,000 per year.
  • June 16 a There were 800,000 small commercial farms in the USA in 2007.
  • June 16 a O A Battista: A neighbor is a person that can get to your house in less than a minute and takes two hours to go back home.
  • June 15 p From the email bag: LOST: small male bluetick beagle, 8 mth pup, Hansford fork, Wallback, Valley Fork area, possibly Spread Park area. call 587 7998
  • June 15 5:30 am Raining like mad in Clayberry with strong thunder rumbling the shutters.
  • June 15 5:30 a  Go back to bed! No updates until we get the Communicator all done up.
  • June 14 11:30am  It's humid, gray, sticky hot, and every once in a while, a little wet stuff sprinkles down. It feels like the sky is ready to open up on Clayberry. Be careful out there.
  • June 14 a From the National Weather Service: Recent rainfall has saturated soils across the area. With ample moisture in the atmosphere... and multiple disturbances passing through the region... scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected to continue through Wednesday evening... some with very heavy rain. These conditions pose a threat for flash flooding through Wednesday evening.  Strong thunderstorms will be capable of producing rainfall of 1 to 2 inches per hour.
  • June 14 a Be careful Clayberry, we're listed on the watch list as well as all surrounding counties.
  • June 14 a Delegate Dave Walker provided a Legislative Update column now posted over on the ADVISORY page.
  • June 14 a From Phil Kabler in Sunday's Gazette: 1/5th of Marshall University tuition dollars go to the sports program. 1/5 works out to about $900 per student each year.
  • June 14 a After five full summers of being committed each Saturday, the ace cub reporter retired from those outdoor music shows and is taking some time off. No weekend wrap up this time around but some info from his weekend travels.
  • June 14 a With a restored train station, tourist trains, weekend music shows, and a downtown area complete with trees, benches, flowers and removed overhead power lines, Elkins is seeing an increase in the tourism business. The changes began 10 years ago when CSX offered their old train yard and rundown train station to the town for $1.
  • June 14 a Get this. Elkins Town Council refused the offer.  Does that leadership sound familiar to anybody else?
  • June 14 a Instead of local leadership running with the ball, an economic development group came in, bought the asset, and is developing the place into an artsy fartsy, well groomed, three day destination spot for travelers.     Last weekend , in Elkins, license plates from five states were seen as well as tour buses from Minnesota and Idaho.     New money flowed.
  • June 14 a Lets see now... we have the potential for a train ride... a campground that could look good .... music shows chocked full of West Virginia talent ...dirt track racing .. Lake Sampson .. the Elk River .... and a four block downtown area complete with a historic building.
  • June 14 a And yet, leaders fight , refuse to work together, and grow Clayberry as a draw for weekend travelers.
  • June 14 a We're working on the Communicator. No updates until we get it to bed sometime Tuesday morning.
  • June 12 a from Valedz survivor Rikki Ott:  While President Obama insists that the federal government is firmly in control of the response to BP's spill in the Gulf, people in coastal communities where I visited last week in Louisiana and Alabama know an inconvenient truth: BP -- not our president -- controls the response. In fact, people on the ground say things are out of control in the gulf.
  • June 12 a Corporate Big Brother is here.
  • June 12 a Check our Events page for things to do in Clayberry.
  • June 12 a Your web guru is taking the weekend off while heading to Pocahantas and Randolph Counties.
  • June 12 a Hope your weekend goes well. But no matter what, get off your duff and have some fun. It's Summer Time!!
  • June 11 p In addition to doo doo Link's antics....
  • June 11 p Clay County Park at Maysel is a taxpayer funded recreation center for the county. the off the beaten track place has a ball field, running track, concession stand, and large multi purpose building. Since opening, complaints have come in. One of the biggest is the ball field being locked down 24 hours a day making Dad's practicing pitching with their kids, impossible.
  • June 11 p Even when such came before the commission, nothing changed. It might now.
  • June 11 p  Petitions are being circulated around the county demanding a children's playground at the park. Currently County Clay has no public playgrounds. Not a swing set, slide, horseshoe court,  merry go round, teeter totter.... none.
  • June 11 p Interested in such a petition seeking a playground? They're available in the County Clerk's office.
  • June 11 p While alerting the world to Clayberry head scratchers, how about a Top Badge update.
  • June 11 p  State code reads that a West Virginia Sheriff is considered a full time elected official once their fifth Deputy is hired.  In this county we have Deputies Rider, Slack, Belt, Paxton, Legg.
  • June 11 p The law of the land also says, no full time Top Badge can have any other employment.
  • June 11 p The latest Communicator lists the salaries of all school system employees. That list includes employment of our Sheriff as a bus driver.
  • June 11 p  Hmmmmmmmmm......
  • June 11 a Tonight's corn hole challenge in the WYAP parking lot begins at 7pm. For those wanting something not so strenuous, there's Basket Bingo at the Lion's Club . Both on Main Street
  • June 11 Saturday brings the Consignment Auction action over in Two Run. They've got a new auctioneer over there. Marlyn Starcher is the newbee. Deals start at 7pm.
  • June 11 a   Campground for overnight stays, the mighty Elk, Lake Sampson, Dirt Track racing at O'Brion, auction fun, Friday night Cornhole and a drive in movie. Don't get any better than that clickers!  Include Clayberry in your summer vacation plans.
  • June 11 a  We've been giving County Commissioner Jerry Slinkinooooger double H for his tax payer funded backdoor approach of eliminating the local radio station from Main Street Clay. Many emails have already came thru. Thanks
  • June 11 a For those that think having a source for summer time events, outdoor music celebrations, and a place for locals to raise $$$,  a favor.
  • June 11 a How about calling up the Linkster and tell him how important a local station is to the community and economy. His home number is 304-548-5786 or  on his cell 304 651-4656. Thanks in advance.
  • June 11 a From the email bag: Where is the parents at these days while thier kids are out destorying other peoples mailboxes?Your kid goes out the road with ball bats not going to play any ball games or no ball in thier hands.Wouldnt u wonder where thiy're taking them?Most concerned parents would but these parents are not watching thier kids ,They have taken mail out of some boxes and tore some up and  bent several mail box flags on Twistabout Rd and Left Fork Rd? Well the law needs to get involed and if the parents cannot watch thier kids no better than that they need to go somewhere where they can be watched,This is a serious crime that shouldnt be ignored or slapped on the wrist for.Those kids get away with this serious crime what will they do next?Something to think about!!!!  Tee Crimm
  • June 10 p Forgot to mention in the morning post, Clay Roane PSD meets tonight at 7pm at the Procious Water Plant. Agenda is posted on the ADVISORY page
  • June 10 a Car look like a mud ball? CCHS kids are hosting a car wash in the Rite Aid parking lot today beginning at 10 am. Good cause and a shiny new ride to boot.
  • June 10 a For those that are , were , involved with Boy Scouts over the years, something big is coming this weekend. Up at Buckskin Scout Camp near Marlinton in Pocahantas County, there is a 50 year reunion of the camp. Everyone is invited to a meet and greet weekend with the old timers. A chance to remember and expand stories of old. Should be fun. For details, the BSA office (Charleston) number is 304 340 3663.
  • June 10 a The Communicator comes out Tuesday afternoon. Deadline for email submissions is Sunday afternoon.
  • June 10 a Clayberry has a non profit community radio station located in the old Fas Chek parking lot. On May 26th, County Commission voted to lease (for $3000) that lot to meet the pipe dream needs for additional Courthouse parking. Even before the official vote last month, word on the street had it that CCC Prez Link was behind the lease and doing so for one  reason.
  • June 10 a That reason? Not for parking but as a political vendetta against the ace cub reporter who volunteers at 101.7 FM.  It ain't a rumor no more.
  • June 10 a During Wed morning's CCC meeting, a rep from WYAP asked questions on the future of the station after the CCC signs the now being prepared lease. Linky did not dispute the rumor.
  • June 10 a Head honcho Slinky said he felt the Courthouse needed the entire parking lot to meet their needs.  As for being evicted, he wouldn't provide an answer in spite of repeated questioning. As for the non profit group staying on the lot until next summer when a proposed grant funded farmer's market is set up, Link said that wasn't a real possibility.
  • June 10 a  YAP radio  warm weather events  bring in 100s of people to the town. It adds $1000s to the economy. It's also the only summer time "draw" in downtown Clay.
  • June 10 a  How sad one tiny little politician is working to destroy the family fun offering and further reduce the economic base in the county's only town. Link's personal vendetta  is another sad example of what's wrong in Clayberry.
  • June 9 p  Jeraldine Lynn “Jerri” Summers, 53, of Clay, see OBITUARY page
  • June 9 a This Wed morning there is a real chance of heavy rainfall and strong gusts of winds affecting our county. Check out the full report by clicking the weather button to the left of this page.
  • June 9 a County Commission meets this morning at 10 am. It's been a while since Larry Darryl and Darryl raised any controversy. They are ripe to do something dumb.
  • June 9 a  High fructose corn syrup replaced natural sugar in most of our foods back in the 80s. Reason being, it's much cheaper to use. Since then obesity and diabetes rates have skyrocketed.
  • June 9 a  You may have noticed  new mentions on many products, "this product now contains real sugar". Ever wonder why?
  • June 9 a One Princeton University report reveals what happens when high fructose corn syrup is used in our foods.
  • June 9 a By the way, back in the 80's when Coke and Pepsi switched to the cheaper sweetener ... there was no price reduction in their product. The CEO's just got richer and richer.
  • June 8 a Education ended weeks ago. Books are put away. Grades are all marked. Bulletin boards are taken down. Kids can't sit still. Smiles are everywhere. Today is the last day of school before summer break.
  • June 8 a Meeting wise, Library Board meets tonight. County Commission convenes Wed morning at 10 am. Clay Roane PSD holds their monthly gathering Thursday evening
  • June 8 a Lots of changes made during last night's Sch Bd meeting
  • June 8 a Clay Elem Principal Danny Brown moved to the Asst Superintendent position. CHS Principal Mike Mullins moved up to the Bus Czar position in the Bd office.
  • June 8 a Asst Principal Erica Samples left hat position and went back to the classroom.
  • June 8 Eric Cole became the Middle School's basketball coach
  • June 8 a Greg Knopp replaced Jason Nichol's as CMS Asst Football Coach
  • June 8 a Barry Payton moved to Asst Girl's Basketball Coach position
  • June 8 a Run off from the highway in front of CCHS is diverted thru an old metal culvert. That rusted out pipe is allowing wa wa to run right into the mini auditorium. Last night a rep from the local State Road group was present and provided: Folks, things ain't like there were years ago. Now adays, it takes high up authority to allow a fix to the culvert. Without that high class OK, the locals can't do a thang.
  • June 8 a With the personnel changes made last night, there's a bunch more shuffling in the works. Like, filling the CHS Principal slot Clay Elem and Asst Clay Elem Principal positions. Behind the scenes, the Pentagon is working overtime to get the changes made before new Board members come to office in three weeks.
  • June 8 a  Board meetings go without discussion. About 99.9% of the time, the all vote in lock step.
  • June 8 a Last night before the vote for the Bus Czar, Boardster Beth Cercone asked stuff like: How many applicants were there, were they interviewed, and what determined Mike Mullins as the best candidate?
  • June 8 a Details in the next Communicator.
  • June 7 p   Collis Herman “Sam” Goad, 85, of Wallback, see OBITUARY page
  • June 7 p  On Mr Goad and not mentioned in the obit, we understand there will be a wake held tonght, 6 to 8 pm over at Wilson's.
  • June 6 late p  Webster Clyde Sinnett,  see OBITUARY page
  • June 6 p No big news from the last seven days but some interesting tidbits for your rainy Sunday afternoon edification...
  • June 6 p Last weekend the local radio station hosted their Small Town America Memorial Day weekend in downtown Clay. Many people participated during the only draw for the Main St section of the county. Colorful balloons, great music, corn hole challenges and people having a good time.
  • June 6 p Hard to imagine what it would be like without that volunteer group being the centerpiece for tourism growth in the Town of Clay.
  • June 6 p Behind the scenes the wheels in school system land are spinning in high gear. They have to get their ducks in a  row before the new Board is seated July 1st. With Kenneth Tanner named as the new Superintendent, the job shuffle is underway. Here's what the coffeehouse crowd has pegged. Clay Elementary Principal Danny Brown will move to Asst Superintendent. Clay High VoAg Principal Michelle Paxton will move to the Clay Elem slot.
  • June 6 p Bus Czar Larry Legg retired with Clay High Principal Mike Mullins taking that perch. With a new Super in place, Phil Dobbins will dust off his Principal suits and return to that position.
  • June 6 p Years ago the Business Development Authority had the chance to purchase the old state road garage for $1. With infinite wisdom they chose not to mentioning there would be too many headaches with owning the place. During last Thursday's BDA meeting, the same offer may still be available and this time it looks like our appointed folks are in favor it.
  • June 6 p Tommy Fitzwater was told to stay away from BDA meetings a few years back. The reason? He asked too many embarrassing questions and provided too many ideas for things to do.
  • June 6 p Since then, Fitz was appointed to the group. On the  3rd he suggested that the group actually do something. He suggestion was to hand out (pay for) vouchers to any resident of the county so we could take our junk stuff to a legal landfill.
  • June 6 p Watch out clickers, they'll probably tell him to stay home again!
  • June 6 p Another guy suggested that the BDA pay for a high speed internet connection for the Widen Community Center. They idea being, it may serve as a draw to get people into that much under used building. The BDA wasn't too thrilled with the notion of empowering the people.
  • June 6 p Friday morning a Bomont lady lost her life when her truck flipped into the Elk River pinning her under the water level. Real sad.
  • June 6  School is just about over for another year. Just two more days on the official calendar. With just field trips, movies, and games planned, many kids made Friday their last day of school.
  • June 6 p  Under a hot muggy sky Saturday, some took naps. Others worked the gardens and did lawn work.
  • June 6 p Dribbles of rain on Sunday made taking a nap much easier.
  • June 6 p Summer is just getting started but the Apple folks are makiing plans for their Fall extravaganza. Details for the Queen Pageants now posted on the Advisory page.
  • June 4 p  Lets see now, stuff to do....
  • June 4p  Tonight at 7 is a special food auction over at the BDA Auction House.
  • June 4p Fola Baptist has a big Gospel Sing at 7pm
  • June 4 p The radio station is offering a corn hole challenge beginning at 7pm tonight. By the way they ain't doing Saturday night outdoor music shows this summer, they couldn't find a volunteer willing to commit to the heavy load. Instead, they've started healthy stuff like Corn hole challenges each Friday night in June as well as basketball rims at the station for pick up games .
  • June 4 p  How about a free breakfast. Big Otter FD is offering a fre pancake and sausage breakfat Saturday morning beginning at 8am
  • June 4 p  Inside yard sale over at Clay Middle School Saturday morning.
  • June 4 p And. there's a big 3 D Archery Shoot over at the archery shop there. See details over on the EVENTS page.
  • June 4 p Tomorrow is a big day for the Editor of The Communicator and that tubby, ace cub reporter. Both celebrate  naval day, the day they got their belly buttons.
  • June 4 p   Just got this email: As a former resident of Clay Co., WV, I was appalled by what I experienced and then later learned on Sunday, May 30th 2010. During one of my many trips to Clay Co. each year, I visit many cousins and cemeteries in the area and was disturbed to discover an extremely dangerous cave-in on Horse Ridge just off Villanova. However when I later learned that, to keep the children safe, the bus driver stops the bus, has the children get off the bus, crosses the cave-in then has the children cross and re-board the bus, I was shocked beyond belief! The driver should be not only commended but heartily thanked for putting the children’s safety first but the county should be ashamed! Why in the name of all that is important, can this dangerous situation not be fixed? There is no excuse for the welfare of not only the children and bus driver but for every individual who uses that road to be put at risk because the “money is tight”! I feel certain in a situation like this, it could be found. Please, find a way to keep the residents of my home county safe and able to travel.  Sincerely, Pearl Comer Nutt
  • June 4 p The BDA met last night. In the way of new ideas and getting something moving along, didn't happen. But,  we think the first shades of resistance to the new county wide Economic Development Coordinator, Amanda Moore.  No, no big fights or tongue lashing, but still, most feel it's coming.
  • June 4 p  One thing did happen. After years of foot dragging, a BDA web site is now viewable here. The BDA spent $100's two years ago for a "pro" to set up their site but other than a place holder, they got nothing for our taxpayer dollars.
  • June 3 a Storms left many without power in the last couple days. Out Triplett Ridge a big tree knocked out service.
  • June 3 a The 12 member Clay County's Business Development Authority meets tonight at 5:30pm in the CCC room at the Courthouse. Big long agenda including voting in new by laws. Currently two officers and one member of the group are enough to call, hold a meeting and make decisions.
  • June 3 That part of the by laws was added 8 years ago when BDA Big Cheeses got all bent out of shape and wanted to do future decisions in secret. The new by laws are suppose to eliminate such bogus foolishness.
  • June 3 a This edition of The Communicator includes the school system salaries for 2009. For those with questioning minds, those are the exact figures from the Board office itself.
  • June 3 a We still have some good people left in Clayberry. Last night two senior citizens were stranded beside the road near Lake Sampson and a guy stopped and replaced their flat tire.
  • June 3 a Thanks Frank Morris.
  • June 3 a  CAEZ met Tuesday evening. Other than finances, it was a ho hum meeting.
  • June 3 a based on comments during the Finance committee meeting, it sounded like the group was transferring from here and there to keep the doors open. That operations figure amounts to around $6000 per month. Adding it all together, it sounds like there's enough $$$ to stay afloat for about 6 months unless new dollars arrive.
  • June 3 a Their hope is, enough grant "administrator" fees will arrive in the nick of time.
  • June 3 a Originally funded thru an Al Gore notion, CAEZ's Federal Enterprise Community status expired 4 years ago. Back then when money was real tight, we commented, last person out, turn off the light bulb.
  • June 3 a We might be wrong again.
  • June 1 a Florene Nichols Fitzwater, 75, of Clay, see OBITUARY page
  • June 1 a The Communicator is now on news stands. 24 pages of real news and views second to none. Nothing like it anywhere!
  • June 1 a Drinking water at the correct time maximizes its effectiveness on the Human body:

    • 2 glasses of water after waking up -  helps activate internal organs    1 glass of water  30 minutes before a meal - helps digestion    1 glass of water before taking a bath - helps lower blood pressure
    1 glass of water before going to bed - avoids stroke or heart attack
  • June 1 a The Hanshaw benefit has been postponed a later date
  • June 1 a Update coming
  • May 31 p We're on a Memorial Day break today. Tonight we work all night getting the Communicator out the door. Should be on the news stands Tuesday afternoon around 4pm
  • May 31 p Meeting wise, CAEZ meets at 4pm and again with the full Board at 6pm. Clay Town Council also convenes at 6pm in the old Chevy dealership building.
  • May 31 p You're on your own 'til we get the paper all wrapped up and in print. Good luck.
  • May 30 a Before our look back...
  • May 30 a Have some fun this today during WYAP's Small Town America Celebration in downtown Clay. Lawnmower races at 1:30. Be there around 12:45 for warm ups. 3 on 3 basketball is another new addition to the non profit's offerings. Cornhole Championship  and 7pm Concert round out a great way to Spend a Sunday in Clayberry. Full details on the wyap.com web portal.
  • May 30 a We had an eventful week.
  • May 30 a County Commission all agreed that they needed more parking spaces for all the visitors, jurors, and such. They voted to spend $3000 to lease the old Fas Chek parking lot. That's great! As soon as the paperwork is signed, all the employee vehicles can be moved to the lot freeing up  places for handicapped and  those needing less than hour for Courthouse business.
  • May 30 a We saw the first step in the changing of the guard Thursday evening when the School Board selected Kenneth Tanner as the new Superintendent replacing Larry Gillespie. Just like dominos falling, with Tanner moving up and Bus Czar Larry Legg retiring, the jumping around begins. all the moves should be in place well before the new Boardsters take their seats July 1st.
  • May 30 a 120 + graduating seniors walked across the stage at Clay High completing their 12 (maybe 13 for some) educational years. They are free at last.
  • May 30 a This weekend a small band of volunteers from 101.7 FM hosted the Small Town America Celebration on Main Street. Locals and visitors laughed, danced to the Twist, hulla hooped, ate hot dogs, and applauded great West Virginia musical talent.
  • May 30 a  Under bright sunshine filled skies and temps in the 90s, around 2 pm Saturday,  an overhead electric wire blew up and fell to the ground behinf Tiff's T Shirt store on Main Street. There was a complete loss of power for all of downtown Clay and other parts of the county.
  • May 30 a That broken line dropped on the animal rescue kennel killing several helpless animals. Very sad.
  • May 30 a Summer is officially here. Shorty shorts and halter tops are driving male teeny boppers wild. Air conditoners roared to life.  As we watered our gardens and planted more veges and flowers, long forgotten is the nasty Dec 19th snow storm which crippled the county for over a week.
  • May 28 a What we've been waiting for since that nasty Dec 19th record snowfall started, the start of summer, is finally here. For our far away clickers, come home to County Clay.
  • May 28  a  CCHS Class of 55 celebrating their 55th reunion, Welcome back.
  • May 28 a Did you know Connie's walk in drive up now has swirly soft serve? A diabetic's dream come true and close at hand, the triangle at Two Run
  • May 28 a No Friday or Saturday night auctions this weekend.
  • May 28 a Big Otter Community Center Friday night concerts closed for the summer months.
  • May 28 a Over at Pat's Sports Bar (Spread Park) live band tonight and Saturday evenings.
  • May 28 a As has been the case for several years, the local radio station is again hosting Small Town America Celebrations this Summer. The fun starts tonight with $$$ Bingo over at the Senior Center at Two Run. Doors open at 6:30 with games beginning at 7pm.
  • May 28 a Since printing the original Celebration schedule there have been additions. Stuff like a 3 on 3 Basketball Tournament Sunday afternoon and the Disturbing the Peace teen band for the Sunday evening concert. See revised schedule on wyap.com
  • May 28 a  101.7 FM still offers great outdoor music shows but some changes are being made this season. Instead of eating hot dogs and listening to music.... they're adding Friday evening Corn hole Tournaments Friday in June.  Basketball hoops (one already, thanks Bo Mullins family) are being added to the parking lot for folks to enjoy anytime they want.  Also, Saturday morning the Clay County Streakers Club forms at 11am. The idea is get young and old walking in groups, more fun and safer too.
  • May 28 a Saturday morning is graduation for the CCHS Class of 2010. It's been a long haul with most holding high expectations for life.   Unfortunately many of the kids think they have an entitlement to jobs at $20 per hour. They also think they will advance to company CEO in 2 years.  Ahhhhh... they have a rude awakening comin their way.
  • May 28 a Best of luck for the Class of 2010.
  • May 28 a We'll be posting pics from the Celebration as the weekend progresses. Check back each evening for a look.
  • May 28 a Communicator comes out Tuesday. Email submissions this weekend.
  • May 28 a Happy Memorial Day weekend to one and all.
  • May 27 late p Without a speech or even a photo op with the Board, Kenneth Tanner was voted in as the new School Super. His three year contract nets a cool $85,000 plus benefits.
  • May 27 late p Bus Czar Larry Legg's resignation (retirement) was accepted. It's normal for a retiree to say a few words of thanks. Mr Legg  chose not to say anything.
  • May 27 a Not sure why they couldn't do  the agenda items during a regular meeting but...
  • May 27 a Our Board of Ed will convene a special meeting this evening at 6:15 at the Pentagon on the hill. A second look at the agenda reveals a bunch going on in addition to hiring Kenneth Tanner as the new Superintendent of Schools.
  • May 27 a Stuff like Rus Harper retiring from CCHS and Bus Czar Larry Legg bailing out. Here's the agenda link and be sure to click down to page 2. The guys on the hill don't like it when too many things happen all at once. throws off their side room deals to appoint who to where. Opens up possibilities they haven't "thunk" through. Skeers em.
  • May 27 a Add to all that, two new Boardsters taking seats July 1st, the Pentagon is in high gear to get deals and promises completed in quick order.
  • May 27 a   The radio station is hosting the Small Town America Celebration this weekend. The Dog Run 4H club is providing the concessions for Saturday activities and concerts. If your group would like to do a concession stand fundraiser during Sunday family fun, email the station right away. Their address is wyap@frontiernet.net
  • May 27 a One other note on the Celebration. compliments of the efforts of CCHSer Charles Newhouse, 101.7FM is offering a 3 on 3 Basketball Challenge Sunday afternoon, after the lawnmower races. Interested? Show up a little before 3:30 to sign up.
  • May 27 a County Commission met Wed morning. Yelp, they voted to lease the IGA  lot for additional parking spaces. True they plan to have plenty of parking behind the old hardware building when renovations are completed, according to Mike Pierson, that may take a while to complete.
  • May 27 a Now they said they really needed parking but later in the discussions, they mentioned maybe using the lot for a farmer's market. Nice idea but if parking is needed.....
  • May 27 a The notion of a farmer's market has been batted around for 15 years. This time around there's a new twist. Since we're such an unhealthy lot according to all national surveys, this time around, the farmer's market will be targeted at providing fresh produce and fruit instead of our normal breakfast diet of Ho Hos and RC Cola.
  • May 27 a Two months ago our cowboy Sheriff let go with a barrage of offensive language during a high speed chase which ended in the death of a Nottingham subject. Many in the community complained about the on air language by the Top Badge during the chase. His poorly chosen words brought on a formal complaint.
  • May 27 a Item one on the Agenda was discussing the matter. Most thought Larry Darryl and Darryl would run behind closed doors post haste. Instead, CCC Prez Slinky casually mentioned the process was ongoing as they work thru the matter.
  • May 27 a Present for part of the meeting, the head furniture Badge listened intently while the CCC considered a new policy manual which includes a section on dealing with out of control foul language used by those on 911 radios. No decisions but look for a new manual in place later this summer.
  • May 27 a One other note from those discussions, Who gets control of new radios and radio passwords was brought up. Not sure what battle has been ragin' in secret but it sort of felt like our tubby little Sheriff was about to be cut out of the loop when the new P&P manual is approved.
  • May 27 a Just a hunch clickers but either his thong was all bunched up or somebody whizzed in his oatmeal before the meeting.
  • May 27 a Communicator comes out Tuesday afternoon. Deadline for submission is Saturday afternoon.
  • May 25 a A blonde was weed-eating her yard and accidentally cut off the tail of her cat which was hiding in the grass.  She rushed her cat, along with the tail, over to WAL-MART.   Why WAL-MART?
  • May 25 a WALMART is the largest re-tailer in the world.
  • May 25 a There's a  touch of humidity in the air and bright sunshine above.
  • May 25 a Wed morning the County Commission meets at 10am. Thursday evening the Sch Board is holding a Special Meeting to announce Kenneth Tanner as the next Sch Superintendent.
  • May 25 a OK clickers, it's time to come up with a new nickname for Kenneth Tanner. Be creative and no potty mouth.
  • May 25 a Noticed on the CCC agenda the mention of leasing the old IGA parking lot for $3000. That's an interesting one
  • May 25 a A year or so ago Larry Darryl and Darryl purchased the old hardware and USPO buildings beside the Courthouse. During that vote the elected folks said the area behind those buildings would accommodate 100 new parking spaces.
  • May 25 a  With another 50 or so spots in the IGA lot, guess the elected ones think there's huge growth coming to Clayberry.
  • May 25 a  Memorial Day, the traditional opening of Summer, comes in just a few days. Hawkie Keener has been sweeping a winter's worth of filth from Main Street. The radio station is preparing for the three day celebration..... But..
  • May 25 a Sad to say, many, most, businesses in town remain flowerless, without attractive window dressing, and even worse, they don't have an American flag on display. Someday business owners will learn the importance of an attractive store front.
  • May 25 a Big happy face to Town maintenance workers for putting the flags up on the Leonard poles in downtown and Upper Class Two Run. Looks nice.
  • May 23 late p Greetings late Sunday web viewers. Not weekend update this time.
  • May 23 p  In a 2008 academic paper, President Barack Obama's appointee to head the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs advocated "cognitive infiltration" of groups that advocate "conspiracy theories" like the ones surrounding 9/11.       Cass Sunstein, a Harvard law professor, co-wrote an academic article entitled "Conspiracy Theories: Causes and Cures," in which he argued that the government should stealthily infiltrate groups that pose alternative theories on historical events via "chat rooms, online social networks, or even real-space groups and attempt to undermine" those groups. Pretty scary stuff.
  • May 23 late p  It has all the markings of the next war, or even more. North Korea in the cross hairs.
  • May 23 p  Here's the details on the AIG Banksters free and clear of any wrong dealing. We're still paying.
  • May 22 a How many oil wells are there in the Gulf of Mexico? Answer: 37,000. Doesn't that seem like enough?
  • May 22 a  A total of 775 banks, or one-tenth of all U.S. banks, were on the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp.'s list of "problem" institutions in the first quarter, as bad loans in the commercial real-estate market weighed on bank balance sheets. There were 702 on the FDIC's "problem" bank list at the end of 2009 and 252 at the end of 2008.   Not yet out of the depression.
  • May 22 a If you're running Windows Xp, here's a great reference page for those pesky how do I questions.
  • May 21 p  Bored? Nothing to do? Yes there is!
  • May 21 p  Tonight the Auction house is hosting a special sale beginning at 7pm
  • May 21 p  Big Community Center will be alive and kicking with Art and Dave on stage.
  • May 21 p Fun Fun Fun but the rain is coming
  • May 20 late p  The little ace cub reporter headed over to the Sch Bd office in wait of a Special meeting just noticed on their web site. he waited... he waited.... Thinking that the elected folks at the Pentagon were up to something... madder  madder he got
  • May 20 late p   fuming, back at the office after wasting 3o minutes, he reread the web based agenda.
  • May 20 late p  Ahhhhh that special meeting is slated for next Thursday.
  • May 20 p Just noticed on the School Board web site, the Board is having a special meeting today at 6:15 for the purpose of hiring a new Superintendent and any other business they want to do. Meeting will be at the Board office on Gump Street
  • May 20 a Most of us know not to trust the government. Here's another example of bogus speak. The nation's premier public health agency knowingly used flawed data to claim that high lead levels in the drinking water did not pose a health risk to the public.
  • May 20 a Got a correction. We posted that Rick Tanner quickly left the last Sc Board meeting without the normal meet and greet time given victorious Morgy Triplett and Dave Mullins. Tanner called yesterday to say that he did the meet and greet thang before the meeting. We stand corrected.
  • May 20 a  Calhoun County Commissioner Bob Weaver operates the hurherald web site. He's got a nice write up on the history and passing of Murder Mountain's Renee Boyd.
  • May 19 p Overcast and drizzily, it's a gray day in Clay
  • May 19 p  The Communicator has a working most of the time copier, supplies and stand for $15. Would be fine for home or smal office.  If you take the copier we'll throw in a working coffee pot. First come first served. Stop by any afternoon to pick up.
  • May 19 a Wake up it's another day in Clay
  • May 19 a On Tuesday, the toll of American dead in Afghanistan passed 1,000, after a suicide bomb in Kabul killed at least five United States service members.
  • May 19 a If anyone knows why we are in Afghanistan, please email.
  • May 19 a Texas has reached its goal of having 10,000 megawatts of renewable energy capacity this year, 15 years earlier than scheduled.  Coal Miners, like it or not,  the writing is on the wall.
  • May 19 a  Last night a call went out for an ambulance run to a man biten by a copperhead snake.  A few minutes later the dispatcher cancelled the call mentioning: They're going to cancel, they don't have insurance.
  • May 19 a  Hope the Obamacare hurries up and gets here.
  • May 19 a From Monday's Sch Board meeting. Afterwards, outgoing Boardster Jim Dawson stayed around to talk with election winners Triplett and Mullins. Greeted, hand shakes all around, best wishes and such. Not so with Ric Tanner who hurried out of the room and headed to his vehicle.
  • May 19 a Me thinks there may be some bruised feelings there.
  • May 18 p Earl Howard Keenan, 77, of Clay, see OBITUARY page
  • May 18 p Madge Young Conner, 96, of Maysel, see OBITUARY page
  • May 18 p From the email bag: I have a few words for clay wva. my name is brenda lowers tommys sister. I think what went on there is the most crazy shit ihave ever heard.people went in and stole everything those poor kids had left .they did not steel it from Renee and Tommy it was the kids everything in the house was gone .you know the worst part is the state police would not even make a report.they stole everything from motorcycles and cars to the kids things. What makes people think this is ok ??  I think there is something wrong here.  truly brenda lowers, tommy young's sister
  • May 18 p  Our school Board met last night. Nothing too exiting from that one page posted agenda but  a few notations.
  • May 18 p The Bd spent over an hour behind closed doors minus the Somber Super. Since Asst Super Kenneth Tanner was included in the secret time, our guess, the final package was agreed on to make Tanner the next Superintendent of schools. Nothing new there. Of course getting their ducks in a row also includes replacing Tanner as Asst and who will replace the replacement. Our guess, Danny Brown to move up to the Board office.
  • May 18 p During the secret time when Somber Super Larry Gillespie was out front with the  peanut gallery, a terse Gillespie felt the Board was following mandatory meeting procedures. Stuff like the meeting agenda... they were following open meeting law ... stuff like giving reasons for going secret... Yelp, that too was proper the way they've being doing it.
  • May 18 p In the real world, we know different. The School system is one of the most flagrant violators of Sunshine law in the county and most likely in the entire state.
  • May 18 p For instance ... Even with a WV Ethics opinion in hand, statewide Ethics opinions galore,  and their own attorney advising them, RB and pal Somber Super think one hour notice of a meeting is "adequate" under the law.
  • May 18 p For instance ... they think saying "personnel matters" is a good enough reason and an allowed reason to go secret.
  • May 18 p  Based on recent election returns, sounds like the entire county wants change. Hope we get it.
  • May 17 a  Had a chance to get some honey do's done this weekend and did em.
  • May 17 a Happy 87th Birthday to Helen Reed Hubbard. Best of birthday wishes
  • May 17 a  Just a  brief review from last week. Last Tuesday's election brought major changes to Clayberry. Senator Randy White fell victim to a mud slinging campaign while Commissioner Fran King ended up having every dept. at the Courthouse working against her.
  • May 17 a  Sometimes the throw the buns out mentality only nets stronger insiders in office.
  • May 17 a After years of walking in lock step no matter what the public wants, voters turned out two School Boardsters, Jim Dawson and Ric Tanner
  • May 17 a While in office, Dawson managed to get hired about every member of his family. Tanner went against the school service personnel and came up short last Tuesday.
  • May 17 a Our two new guys, Morgy Triplett and Dave Mullins come into office right after a new Superintendent is hired. With the school board office top heavy with too many people and 25 too many school personnel on the payroll, our newbees will have a hard time keeping their base of support.
  • May 17 a The losers whined and complained. Buck up! There's always more losers and than winners and no one promised anyone more than one term  in office.
  • May 17 a Last Thursday Renee Boyd was laid to rest. Of Murder Mountain fame. the funeral didn't go without notice. Badges were called to task to keep the fighting parties separated. Common law husband and two sons managed to leave jail long enough to attend as did others of interest to Badges.
  • May 17 a At one point Thursday, our Top Badge was seen running on foot blast blast down Main St while two green shirt mobiles came screaming into town narrowly avoiding  tail ending the front unit in front of the bank.  They were in search of  a juvy in attendance at the wake.
  • May 17 a Should have seen our Top Badge running, a sight for sore eyes for sure!
  • May 17 a Under bright sunshine and warm temps, the third annual Elk River Pedal Paddle Challenge got under way Saturday. Contestants from several states came to Clayberry to enjoy what we take for granted, the beauty of the Elk River valley. They kayaked, biked, and ran.
  • May 17 a  While in Clayberry, those folks added new dollars to our economy. Our elected leaders showed little support for growing that volunteer organized and run event. Tourism is our future and many refuse to admit it!
  • May 17 a  Looking ahead....
  • May 17 a Students across the state are taking the WesTest this week. The week long evaluation comes after 8 months of teaching the test.
  • May 14 p We've got a beautiful weekend coming our way.
  • May 14 p  If you see unfamiliar folks in the county, those carrying bikes and kayaks, smile, tell em howdy and consider....... they're spending new $$$ in Clayberry.Those are the competitors in Saturday's Elk River Pedal Paddle Challenge.   If you're still considering a run at the prize money, the river is running high and fast making for NO portage. Nice cool temps  for the bikers and runners.
  • May 14 p If you're not into that much exercise, there's a cornhole challenge for us old farts. Prize money there too. Action begins at Clay High. Here's the web portal for details.
  • May 14 p  The Communicator made it out the door and includes details on the Bogg v School board decision, election results & commentary, a pretty good update from the County Commission, and  the tidbits that make this place so very special.
  • May 14 p  Since the death of Renee Boyd last Saturday, Badges have been making regular visits to the mountain top retreat responding to what sounds like one heck of a property dispute complete with weapons and out of control behavior.
  • May 14 p Thinking about attending the local community college but don't have the jingle? Check out our homepage web button for financial aid details. Get educated. It's the only thing they can't take from ya!
  • May 14 p Sunshine, warm temps, want to get away from the curtain climbers?... there's a Harley for sale over on Classifieds.
  • May 14p  Get out and have some fun this weekend clickers.
  • May 14 a Paul Gene Moss, 80, see OBITUARY page
  • May 13 p We've got  a new business in the county. Located in Procious, Dave Miller's Septic Services offers certified, licensed, bonded installations and inspections. 304 587-4977.
  • May 13 p Welcome to Clayberry Mr Miller.
  • May 13 p You're not going to believe this but the Communicator is coming out on time, on Friday. As a matter of fact, it's already printed and waiting for distribution Friday in the am.
  • May 13 p Worked all night getting it to bed. No updates until we get in a long nap.
  • May 13 p Note: Over at the BDA Auction House, there's an all new household item auction beginning at 7pm, Friday night. Stuff like Frigs, microwaves, etc.
  • May 12 p  Frances June Duffield Tanner, 82, see OBITUARY page
  • May 12 a Renee Boyd, see OBITUARY page
  • May 12 a Maysel Morris, 85,  see OBITUARY page
  • May 11 11:45pm With a light voter turnout (around 2000), Clayberry voters have turned Commissioner Fran King out to pasture . Two long term School Boardsters were also sent home.
  • May 11   Incumbent Fran King 993 Arlene Tucker 1172.
  • May 11 Three openings on the School Board: Dave Mullins 1362; Morgan Triplett 1121; Beth Cercone 1000, Jim Dawson 993, Dace Pierson 850, Ric Tanner 556, Sonny Butcher 260, Jim Ash 165. Mullins, Triplett and a returning Beth Cercone take office July 1st.
  • May 11 After the last redistricting, Clayberry was divided into two House of Delegate districts, the 29th with three reps and the 33rd with just one.
  • May 11 Incumbent 33rd House of Delegates rep Dave Walker will return to service, District wide Walker 61% to Blankenship's 39%. All votes in. No Republicrat in the fall.
  • May 11  In the 29th House District incumbents returning : Margaret Staggers with 2318 votes, Dave Perry 2300, and Tom Louisos at 2147 votes. Clayberry candidate Barbara Schamberger placed a very distant 5th place.
  • May 11 11th Senatorial District. Made up of Nicholas, Clay, Webster, parts of Fayette, and Uphur Counties, looks like challenger Greg Tucker may have beaten incumbent 11th District Senator Randy White came up short in County Clay. There is a Nov Republicrat challenger in this race.
  • May 11  Interestingly enough, as of Midnight, the Sec of State's web site reports no election returns in Nicholas County.
  • May 11 the most nervous candidate in the field, the unchallenged Circuit Clerk Mike Asbury went home a winner.
  • May 11 All ballots were back to the Courthouse before 9:30pm. All votes were counted and announced by 10:45pm.
  • May 11 With the Sec of State's web site hard to navigate, TV-3's portal has easy to find election results.
  • May 11 Husband asks his wife, 'You never argue when I get mad at you. How do you always control your anger?' 'I clean the toilet,' she replies. 'How does that help?' he asks.
  • May 11 'I use your toothbrush.'
  • May 11 a It's election day in West Virginia. Government and schools are closed for the occasion.
  • May 11 a Voting is our chance to have a real say in our future.
  • May 11 a 615 Clayonians marked their ballots during early voting. Not a record percentage but certainly an indication of the future of elections.
  • May 11 a Tonight is great time to headover to the Courthouse where you can watch every vote being counted. It's always fun to watch the faces and expressions of politicos and wanta bees as the votes are announced over the scratchy PA system. 101.7 FM will also air results as they come in.
  • May 11 a Probably around 1am this site will post results.
  • May 11 a Rain this morning may have an affect on voter turnout. Put on your raincoat and cast your vote.
  • May 11 a VOTE VOTE VOTE
  • May 11 a For three weeks a major oil gusher has been flowing out of control in the Gulf. There is little doubt of the lasting impact on coastal communities and industry. Does anybody else think it's odd that no underwater video has been shown on the boob tube?
  • May 11 a Maybe just maybe, the corporate accident is much worse than reported. maybe five times worser. And, yes worser is a word.
  • May 10 p Great big Howdy to Mike Ramsey over in the Buckeye state. Greetings!
  • May 10 p Renee Boyd was the common law wife of Murder Mountain's Tommy Young Sr. Renee died Saturday. No listing yet over on the Wilson Funeral Home web site. Whatever you've heard, there is one thing for sure. Renee was 100% Mother, always taking up for her kids.
  • May 10 p  Two weeks ago, after Renee was put in hospice care, her three young daughters and a baby were put in foster care one county away. The siblings broke free of foster services and went on the lamb.
  • May 10 p Two days ago, late Saturday night and into the wee hours of the morning, something was going at the top of the mountain. One lady ended up over at Go Mart all cut up and bleeding after being chased thru the woods by a  male.
  • May 10 p With Tommy Sr in jail and Renee passed, all H could be breaking loose.
  • May 10 p  Some things never change. Monday afternoon around 3:20pm, no available ALS staffed ambulance in the county. This time around, there were none available in surrounding counties.
  • May 10 p Non profit 101.7 FM holds their Board meeting at the station this afternoon beginning at 5:15pm. Public is encouraged to attend and be apart of community radio
  • May 10 p  Speaking of the radio.... For 6 years the group has hosted Saturday night outdoor music shows on stage and on the radio. Drawing in 1000s of visitors over the years, the Summer Jam series also brought in tons of money for the county.
  • May 10 p Their Summer Jam producer retired last year. Unless they can find someone willing to take over those duties, the June thru Sept shows are history. How about you?
  • May 10 p Election day is tomorrow. The last of the campaigning is done. It's time to see what the voters decide. The ace cub reporter is always at the ready with predictions. Here goes ...
  • May 10 p After reading all the high dollar campaign literature touting the Chamber of Commerce and Don Blankenship supporting Nicholas County's Greg Tucker, incumbent Senator Randy White emerges victorious once again
  • May 10 p Clay County's Delegate Dave Walker will have a nail biting night Tuesday but come up short , going down to defeat by less than 10 votes. Expect a recount after the canvass.
  • May 10 p Inspite of her open mouth policy and her fellow Commissioners supporting the opponent, Fran King will eke out another term in County Commission. Fran by less than 20 votes.
  • May 10 p Top vote getters in the School Board race, in descending order, Morgy Triplett, Dave Mullins, Dave Pierson, Beth Cercone, Jim Ash and Sonny Butcher. If that turns out to be true and with only two seats available from each district, Dave Pierson will win the third place vote count but not be seated.
  • May 10 p The worries will end for Mike Asbury as he garners every vote cast for Circuit Clerk.
  • May 10 p What did the alien say to the plant? Take me to your weeder.
  • May 9 p The best of Mother's Day wishes to one and all.
  • May 9 p Hello Carol Ramsey in Texas. Glad to have you tuned to Clayberry.
  • May 9 p From the last 7 days....
  • May 9 p Gene King is still fuming about a radish being given as the afternoon snack at Clay Elem. During last Monday's Sch Bd meeting, he blurted out: Give em a radish, That'll behave then!. With teachers retiring left and right, one of the Monday night hires was a lady without teaching degree.
  • May 9 p Tuesday evening during the Town Council long time employees Harold Walton and Ric Triplett quit. They will be sorely missed.
  • May 9 p Our Business Development Authority (BDA) struggled thru another meeting where Boardster Linda Rhodes resigned from duty. Mentioned during the gathering.. did you know, Clay County artists and craftsmen grossed more than $250,000 from sales at Tamarack in Raleigh County.
  • May 9 p Bet you didn't know that!
  • May 9 p  The school system was in court most of last week. It was a continuation of Link's Folly, AKA Big Odor Elem.  At issue was providing a costly right of way to Boggs property located in front of and behind the $8.3m school. The jury decided that the 50+ acres could be accessed by going straight up the side of a mountain.
  • May 9 p  from the git go, it was a mess with no costly overruns. Add another gazillion dollars to that list for court time and lawyers.
  • May 9 p Politicians straightened up signs and added new ones near polling places. Last minute calls to influencials were made. Mail boxes were filled with colorful campaign literature telling us how bad the opponent is, has been, will be or all three.
  • May 9 p Saturday was warm and sunny. We planted tomatoes cut grass and cleaned up the yard. Beautiful Spring day
  • May 9 p Moms were treated like royalty Sunday and rightly so. Sunday night a heavy frost was predicted. So much for a third early planting! $$##!!
  • May 8 p  Timothy Isaiah Tryon, see OBITUARY page
  • May 8 p  From the weather service: A Wind Advisory remains in effect until 11 PM EDT this evening. Gusty westerly winds will continue to usher in colder air into the evening hours. Wind gusts of up to 50 mph are possible... especially across the highest elevations. The winds will gradually diminish tonight.
  • May 8  aWest Virginia often winds up near the tail of the pack. Not so with the food stamp program where we've been excelling for decades.
  • May 8 a In the Boggs v School Board trial... the Dury deliberated for about an hour before deciding, a fair and reasonable right of way is straight up the side of a mountain. The happy School system was victorious.
  • May 8 a  The U.S. jobless rate rose to 9.9% in April, the first increase in three months, but the government’s broader measure of unemployment ticked up for the third month in a row, rising 0.2 percentage point to 17.1%.
  • May 8 a You want to feel old? Bob Seeger turned 65 two days ago.
  • May 7  p Happy Friday afternoon. Sorry for the slow postings. Between getting the paper out late late Tuesday and out of county commitments on Thursday, it's been hectic.
  • May 7 p   HAPPY 7TH  BIRTHDAY JADEN STARCHER
  • May 7 p Tonight at 7pm is a special auction voer at the BDA Auction House at Two Run. Also, great music up at the Big Otter Community Center. See EVENTS page for details
  • May 7 p Early voting finishes up Saturday afternoon. Yelp, you can vote in the County CLerk's office. Get out and do one thing important tomorrow, VOTE!
  • May 7 p From the email bag:  I would like to inform our community that the CCHS FFA Greenhouse has A LOT of very healthy plants and hanging baskets for sale. I have purchased three flats and a basket thus far and intend on buying more. The plants are the best they've had in a long time and well worth the modest price of $10.00 a flat and $10.00 for each hanging basket! Individual plants may also be purchased. I myself have assisted my daughter in watering them and this is definitely the time to help our kids and Mr. Morris. They have a large variety of plants including flowers and veggies, so before you head to Lowe's or Walmart please check out what our kids have to offer right here at home!!!  Thanks!  Vicky Davis
  • May 7 p  Our school system has been in court this week. At issue is the getting more costly each day, Big Odor Elem. Before the court is an easement argument brought by the folks that used to own the site of the current school. The jury began deliberation today before lunch.
  • May 7 p  Last night the BDA met in regular session. They spent much of their time going over things that have been gone over many times before. Much time was spent deliberating by-law changes to correct bogus midnight hour changes made 8  years ago. In 2002 those changes were made to exclude the public from witnessing ANY decision or discussions.
  • May 7 p The new by-laws when enacted will, are suppose to, comply with state code mandates.
  • May 6 a  Katie Elizabeth Smith, see OBITUARY page
  • May 6 a Before noon Wed most internet users found themselves without service. The Hurhearld site next door in Calhoun is reporting no service since last weekend. Sometime late Wed evening, DSL came back to life.
  • May 6 a BDA meets this evening at 5:30 or so in the Courthouse.
  • May 6 a Incumbent Senator Randy White will be doing a live interview on 101.7 FM tonight at 7pm. Challenger, Republicrat Adam Milligin can be heard at 6pm.
  • May 6 a The Communicator made it out the door Wed afternoon. 24 pages of darn good reading and easy on the wallet too
  • May 6 a Early voting continues today. Don't forget, you can vote this Saturday at the Courthouse.
  • May 6 a Did Jimmy Jamie earn $2.2m last year? Does he own a bunch of cars and condos? Does he live in a big mansion? Did he or his sister graduate from Harvard?
  • May 6 a The answer No in each case. As a matter of fact he lives with his mother Shida and makes less than $40,000 a year.
  • May 6 a Jimmy Jamie is a fibber.
  • May 6 a Update coming.
  • May 3 p Joyce Kay Scott, 56, see OBITUARY page
  • May 3 a Other than the rain, Clayberry sidestepped the major storm predictions last night. Flash flood warning is in place for bordering county, Rain.
  • May 3 a The school board meets tonight at 6pm. Get this. The posted the meeting's agenda last week and complied with open meeting laws. Must be election time!
  • May 3 a Also tonight is the County Health Bd meeting at the NH Dyer Bldg on Main St.
  • May 3 Communicator comes out out Tuesday around 4pm. Email your chatters for submission.
  • May 3 a Last call for our online election survey, Those questions are:
  • How many Clay County voters will come out May 11th for the primary? (Percentage of registered voters that get off their butts and vote)
  • In the 2nd Congressional seat race, the question is, will Demorat challenger Virginia Graf receive more Clay County votes than incumbent Shelley Moore Capitol?
  • In the County Commission race, between Arlene Tucker and incumbent Fran King, pick the winner and by how many votes.
  • Will incumbent state Senator Randy White retain his seat and by how many votes?
  • Will 33rd house of Delegate rep Dave Walker be victorious over challenger Ron Blankenship of Calhoun County?
  • Pick the three winners in the School Board race.
  • May 3 a Yesterday's H E White Ramp Feed was a huge success. The place packed and the rampswere delicious and plentiful. Pics coming in the Communicator.
  • May 3 a The 11th Senatorial race is heating up big time. Challenger Greg Tucker has a bunch of attack ads on the radio in his attempt to unseat Randy White. Locally signs are coming up missing. Locally temsions are mounting. Full write up in the newspaper.
  • May 3 a We're in shurdown mode until Clay County's only source for news and views gets out the door Tues afternoon.
  • May 2   5pm The humidity is thick enough to cut with a knife. Gray clouds almost touch the mountain tops. No wind, Very still. The US Weather Office says: showers or thunderstorms could contain a downpour. Rain amounts in excess of 2 inches may occur within the watch area... which could lead to flash flooding. .....  Thunderstorms likely. Some thunderstorms may be severe with damaging winds and large hail this evening. Locally heavy rainfall possible. Lows in the mid 60s. Southwest winds 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain near 100 percent.... Severe thunderstorm watch in effect until 9pm tonight.

    • May 2 p Strong weather almost certainly means the DSL will go down as well as other utilities. No weekend wrap up clickers. You're on your own for now.
  • May 2 a From NWO:  Flash Flood Watch remains in effect from Sunday afternoon through Monday morning.
  • May 1 a From the email bag:  LETS ALL CLEAN UP OUR YARDS, GET RIDE OF THE JUNK AND TIRES  AND CLEAN UP OUR LITTLE COMMUNITY , LETS MAKE IT SHINE. ANYONE INTERESTED IN HELPING DO  A  ROADSIDE  LITTER CLEAN UP (ADOPT A HIGHWAY)  GIVE ME A CALL (304- 587-2930) IF NO ANSWER LEAVE A MESSAGE, WITH YOUR NAME AND NUMBER ,  EVERYTHING IS FURNISHED,  BAGS, GLOVES, VEST, TRASH BAGS.  WE WILL DECIDE LATER ON THE DATE THAT EVERYONE CAN HELP
  • May 1 a  There's a bunch of small non profit groups in the county. Those that take in less than $25,000 per year do not have to file an IRS tax return.
  • May 1 a Big brother is expanding.....
  • May 1 a Hidden in the 2006 Pension Protection Act law is a change that requires ALL non profit groups to file a return. Penalty did you ask? If your group doesn't file returns by May 15th of this year, your non  profit license will be revoked on May 16th. No ifs ands of buts about it. You lose your IRS 501 C status.
  • May 1 a More info from the New York Times is over on the ADVISORY page. Here's a link for the e form that must be filed by all small non profit agencies. No paper returns allowed clickers, all done on the internet.
  • April 30 later p Forgot something... tonight at 7pm over at the BDA Auction House, there's a special auction featuring food products of all kinds
  • April 30 later p When you gio over there, try out Kim's bologna sandwich. Smothered in BBQ sauce and mild peppers, it's a five napkin meal for sure.
  • April 30 p Look in your backyard, the garage or barn... see a bunch of junk?  Once a year the Solid Waste Authority (CSWA) gives us a legal place to dump our stuff including tires. They then pay for hauling it off  to be recycled.  See EVENTS page for details. Don't throw it over a hill in the river, think green and recycle now
  • April 30 p  CSWA reps asked the County  Commission for some $$$ to help cover the cost of another big green dumpster. Larry Darryl and Darryl said nope to the request.
  • April 30 p   Who was one of the first to use the CSWA dumpsters this morning? None other than the Commission Prez Slinkinoooooooger.
  • April 30 p Local businessman Jamie Morris was in the news last Friday when he was busted on three drug felonies down in Nitro at the family owned car wash.
  • April 30 p Wed evening, two days ago, Jamie drove his four wheeler into Elk River. Badges later impounded the thing, the four wheeler that is, according to eye witnesses.
  • April 29 p  While the Sheriff had nothing better to do than act like a fool as a furniture czar, thugs were out at Clay County Park stealing the Special Olympics group public address system. For both the Sheriff and the lowly thugs, how pathetic!
  • April 29 p While we're on the topic of pathetic and sad all rolled into one, lets talk about 2nd District Congresswoman Shelly Moore Capito. Up for reelection Capito is a Republicrat that voted against the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. This month hypocrite Capito: Huntington District Commander Col. Bob Peterson, Congresswoman Shelley Moore Capito and members of the Putnam County Public Sewer District pose with a copy of the $400,000 check that will fund engineering and design of four sewer projects in Putnam County. The money for the sewer projects is made available through funds from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.
  • April 29 p Hypocrite Capito:  On April 7th she was up to the same thing in Mason County with a $900k check
  • April 29 p  3 days ago, Hypocrite Capito:  Huntington District Commander COL Bob Peterson hands a pen to Congresswoman Shelley Moore Capito as Mayor Chuck Blair looks on during the partnership signing ceremony for the East Bank water project. The project is being constructed under authority of the Section 571 Central West Virginia Environmental Infrastructure program and includes construction of a 172,000 gallon water tank and associated piping for the Town of East Bank, WV.
  • April 29 p Voted against the $$$ and then takes credit with photo ops.
  • April 29 p The election is May 11th with early voting now in progress.
  • April 29 p  Thank you KB for the research
  • April 29 a Happy Thursday morning to one and all. With the frost burning off and the grass growing taller and taller, here's our post for this am.
  • April 29 a  The BDA meets at 5:30 followed by a public hearing on moving the three memorial markers over to Courthouse Square. Both meetings will be held in the County Commission room.
  • April 29 a Why move the markers? There was one ADA complaint.
  • April 29 a Of the two public meetings, the Memorial Hearing may be the most passionate. Here's an  email we received: I do not know all the details but the veterans memorial is an integral part of the old courthouse. A facility in the National Historical Register. To move the Veterans Memorial that has been in that location for at least 50 years would be the same as desecration of a grave.       It will also change the very character of the courthouse as the memorial was built as part of the landscape for the building. I bet if someone did some research they would find that the fact that retro fitting the memorial would damage the historical value of the courthouse and to move the memorial does the same. I do believe that would allow the memorial to be grandfathered in. Would Thomas Jefferson House be retrofitted with Elevators? We are talking the same thing. Do not desecrate the memorial of my great uncle and many of my cousins by moving it. John A Sizemore    USA 713-623-1329   Dominican Republic 829-578-9887.
  • April 29 a County leadership often overlooks a long range plan and it appears they're doing just that again.
  • April 29 a CCHS Senior Josh Lively is having one heck of a year throwing 10 strike outs and hitting a home run to centerfield against Roane County Wed afternoon. We won too!
  • April 29 a From yesterday's post... some are asking , what is a Quilt Trail. Glad you asked.
  • April 29 a The idea is to  mount 8 by 8 painted wooden sheets to out buildings like barns. The adornments are painted to look like antique quilts. You can see a Quilt Trail over in Roane County on the way to Spencer.
  • April 29 a Why? The idea is to give tourists a reason for driving around the county. Once in the area, those folks stop at area attractions and spend fresh money.
  • April 29 a Here's a web site from Maryland ( I think) spotlighting a guilt trail already in use.
  • April 29  a Once a year we have a chance to legally dispose of, recycle,  junk. The Solid Waste Authority is offering that during Metal Recycling Days Friday and Saturday. You can also get rid of those unsightly old tires. See EVENTS page for details.
  • April 29 a  With nothing better to do, yesterday our wittle Sheriff transformed himself into a furniture czar. His actions once again sent the county into a laughing rage, the one thing he hates the most. See yesterday's post for details. In the way of a follow up...
  • April 29 a  Clickers, that means our $60,000 a year Badge doesn't have enough to do. For you that have seen drug deals in progress, for you that have tried to get law enforcement to pick up those bags of discarded meth leftovers, and you folks that can't get a sex abuse investigation started even when you know it's going on, call up the portly little fellow, he has nothing else to do.  304 587 4260. Call today while he has nothing to do.
  • April 28 p  Wanda “Jean” Hall, 75, of Lizemores, see OBITUARY page
  • April 28 p This morning's Commission was a two hour affair that produced some good ideas and good 911 information. Briefly, there is an effort to create a "quilt trail" to grow tourism in the county as well as including the Elk River in a "river trail" idea complete with access points, maps and public relations campaign. More details coming.
  • April 28 p Normally there is at least one dumb as nails item during the County Commission meeting. This morning it came from our Sheriff.
  • April 28 p With the meeting in progress our tubby $57,240.24 a year Top Badge went to the center pew where the ace cub report was scribing the meeting and said: TAKE YOUR FEET OFF COUNTY PROPERTY"
  • April 28 p As has been the case for 15 years, meeting after meeting, the Mel Gibson look alike had his shoes up against the oak pew back rest. Being the big tough scribe that he is, in his strongest, firmest voice the reply came "OK"  Others in attendance watched and listened.
  • April 28 p  One of those, Dave Grigsby commented afterwards that the rotund one had his hand on his handcuffs the entire time. Ohh that balding ace cub reporter must be one dangerous hombre!
  • April 28 p Another from the peanut gallery saw the ace reporter out on the street where he yelled out, "Get those dirty feets off that sidewalk" before laughing and driving away.
  • April 28 p Again our wittle Sheriff is in the news. Either someone pooped in his oatmeal or his pink thong must have all bunched up this morning.
  • April 28 p Time for an online straw pole. Email your responses to the following election questions:
  • How many Clay County voters will come out May 11th for the primary? (Percentage of registered voters that get off their butts and vote)
  • In the 2nd Congressional seat race, the question is, will Demorat challenger Virginia Graf receive more Clay County votes than incumbent Shelley Moore Capitol?
  • In the County Commission race, between Arlene Tucker and incumbent Fran King, pick the winner and by how many votes.
  • Will incumbent state Senator Randy White retain his seat and by how many votes?
  • Will 33rd house of Delegate rep Dave Walker be victorious over challenger Ron Blankenship of Calhoun County?
  • Pick the three winners in the School Board race.
  • April 28 a Our illustrious Business Development Authority is holding a rescheduled meeting Thursday evening at 5:30pm according to the posted agenda.  Accepting the just updated coal Master Land Use plan is on the schedule.
  • April 28 a Get well wishes extended to community activitist Fred Sampson of Ivydale.
  • April 28 a Last night the Health Dept folks held a public hearing to discuss the many unhealthy life style choices Clayonians choose to follow. Most of those in attendance were employees of the agency. Fortunately, Clayberry did not come in dead last in any category. We did manage to come in near the bottom in every case. The idea was to organize a volunteer task force to identify areas where improvement is possible.
  • April 28 a OK. Clay County is near the bottom of the list. That's something we already knew.
  • April 28 a  Here's a statewide comparison with  a feature on the left side of the page that allows a one on one comparison with other states.   It too ain't very pretty.
  • April 28 a  There are many that proudly say, the United States has the best health care in the world. Actually, that ain't true. For instance, the U.S. slipped from 18th to 24th in male life expectancy from 2000 to 2009, according to the United Nations, and from 28th to 35th in female life expectancy.
  • April 28 a  Of the industrialized nations, the USA ranks 37th. Dominica, Costa Rica and Morocco all came in higher than us according to the World Health Organization survey.
  • April 27 p Happy 62nd birthday John Humphrey
  • April 27 p  Now down to just two weeks until the Primary election, it's time for an informal, absolutely unscientific, online prediction pole. Email your honest guess for each of the following 6 questions.
  • April 27 p How many Clay County voters will come out May 11th for the primary? (Percentage of registered voters that get off their butts and vote)
  • April 27 p In the 2nd Congressional seat race, the question is, will Demorat challenger Virginia Graf receive more Clay County votes than incumbent Shelley Moore Capitol?
  • April 27 p  In the County Commission race, between Arlene Tucker and incumbent Fran King, pick the winner and by how many votes.
  • April 27 p Will incumbent state Senator Randy White retain his seat and by how many votes?
  • April 27 p Will 33rd house of Delegate rep Dave Walker be victorious over challenger Ron Blankenship of Calhoun County?
  • April 27 p Pick the three winners in the School Board race.
  • April 27 p  Email your responses ASAP. Results will be printed in t he next Communicator. Thanks
  • April 27 early a  Bobbie D. Morriss, 80, of Ivydale, see OBITUARY page
  • April 26 p  Found along Widen Ridge Road, large female dog, blonde in color wearing red collar, Needs a home, 304 587 7914
  • April 26 p From the email bag: Central WV Aging Services is accepting employment applications today at the Health Department in Clay.
  • April 26 p Lets see now... this week
  • April 26 p  County Commission meets Wed morning at 10 am
  • April 26 p  At 7pm Thursday night the CCC will hold a public hearing on moving the three veteran monuments from the current site to the edge of Courthouse Square. Why? A complaint was filed with Americans with Disabilities Act reps about the current site not being wheelchair accessible. By code the move has to be made.
  • April 26 a  44 percent of those making $30,000 per year or less report difficulty obtaining medical care, compared to 11 percent of those making $75,000 per year or more. A similar gap can be found in the category of rents and mortgages, with 37 percent of those making $30,000 or less reporting difficulty making rent or mortgage payments, compared to 11 percent of those making $75,000 or more. However, the percentage of those facing difficulties paying rent has increased dramatically for both groups since 2009.  Here's the Global Research article.
  • April 26 a Banned pesticides that have lingered in food for decades include dieldrin, toxaphene, chlordane, hexachlorocyclohexane and hexachlorobenzene. Although lesser known, they pose risks similar to the infamous DDT and PCBs. What's the most contaminated food today? Answer: Salmon.
  • April 26 a Virginia Graf is working hard to unseat 2nd District Congresswoman Shelly Moore Capitol. Ms Graf will air her views on 101.7 Fm this morning at 10am.
  • April 26 a  more coming later today
  • April 25 a Before the weekend wrap up, there may be several companies taking up the slack for the services once provided by Golden Heart In Home Care. From the email bag:  Central West Virginia Aging Services, serving the elderly and disabled since 1974, will also accommodate any individual in need of services. We are also accepting applications for employment. Anyone needing information may call 304-965-9081, weekdays and I will gladly assist. They may also visit www.centralwvaging.org for an application. Herschel Shamblin
  • April 25 a Sleepy Clay gets all fired up when FEds coming and raid  a business. Happened this past Tuesday when plain clothes with Badges attached rant he employees out of Golden Heart and seized assets. Employees went without two weeks worth of pay. Clients wondered who would assist them and their day to day needs.
  • April 25 a A bunch of us over achievers planted mortgage lifters and banana peppers way tooo early when the temps were in the mid 70s. We thought we could get a jump start on finished product. Wrong! Wed morning we awoke to a frost which wiped out those efforts.
  • April 25 a In his 40s, Jamie Morris had the world at his beck and call. That changed late last when hs spent a night in the slammer after Badges arrested him with three felonies. Around town came word that his transgressions were drug related. Drugs and out of control is nothing new for Morris. The only question is , who were the others with him during the Nitro drug bust?
  • April 25 a School Boardster Gene King is an old fart that has been listening to parent complaints for over 36 years. This past week parents brought a new issue to his attention. Little kids eat lunch around 11 am and many don't make it home until well after 5pm. The parents asked King to work a deal for a mid afternoon snack before the long bus rides home.
  • April 25 a Stepping up to the plate, King went to the Somber Super and others and placed the request. They said they would do something.
  • April 25 a The next day the same parents came back lookin none to happy. Operating on a $18m budget and with all the funds they could possibly need, the snack that came to the curtain climber was.................... one radish
  • April 25 a One radish!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
  • April 25 a O Gene King went ballistic. Bet something gets done now.
  • April 25 a Nearly 150 exercised their right to vote during the first four days of early voting time at the Courthouse.
  • April 25 a Speaking of voting, based on rumored reports circulating around the county on Friday, candidate for House of Delegates Barbara Schamberger should fit in quite well if elected
  • April 25 a Saturday morning a bunch of kids should up for the 100% volunteer run Fishin Derby at Lake Sampson. The weather held good as rug rats from around the county had a healthy day at the Lake. It was great.
  • April 25 a This afternoon is a big orchestrated Memorial Service for the miners killed in the Massey mine three weeks ago. Obama De Bama will be in attendance.
  • April 25 a When will America take back the country and stop allowing such senseless tragedies to continue happening. Other than Don and his henchmen, there is no one in America that thinks this loss is anything more than bottom line first mining.
  • April 23 p Got some good news. Thanks to the kindness and generosity of the county, all funeral expenses for Adam Nottingham have been paid in full.
  • April 23 p Did you know that we have a fast pitch softball team? Me neither but we do. Games are played over at Dundon Stadium. Next game is Sat at 3pm when we take on the Summersville Diamondbacks.
  • April 23 p  This morning Golden Heart In Home Care workers showed up to collect their paydays. Instead, they found a locked front door and not even a note of explanation.  It's a sad day for the workers to be sure.
  • April 23 p  For recipients of the services, the State has stepped in and is getting people switched over to other agencies, agencies that are aren't being investigated by Federal Agents.
  • April 23 p We Care Home Care  from Fairmont is one of those groups stepping up to the plate in Clayberry. They expect to set up an office soon. Their contact number 304 363-7173
  • April 23 p If you're looking for a stable company to handle your needs, it may not be Clay Development Corp (CDC) on Main Street. Last week the IRS placed a lien against their Summersville division to the tune of  $12,105.08. Ouch!
  • April 23 a Today is a great day to something important. Get out and vote.
  • April 23 a Spring is a great time to do stuff. Why not get off your butt and try it. Tonight Bill Greathouse's Rocky Branch Bluegrass will be performing at Big Otter Community Center. In the morning, get those kids out to Lake Sampson for the Fishin Derby. Saturday night sell your old junk, treasures (excuse me), at the BDA Consignment Auction at Two Run. A few extra dimes in your pocket never hurts.
  • April 23 a Trying to find one of those big thick sliced hot bologna sandwichs is hard to find. Laced with onions, BBQ hot sauce, pickles, onions, and spicy mustard, the Auction House restaurant has a killer hot bologna!
  • April 23 a How about some updates.
  • April 23 a  Think mining can be done safely? Yes is the correct answer. Here's a New York Times article on the difference between bottom line only Massey and how mining should be conducted, TECO mining.
  • April 23 a  Locally the big news came from Charleston newspapers on the Federal investigation of Golden Heart in home care based on Main Street. A quick look at the WV Sec of State's office reveals Sharon Jamie as part owner of the company . Once you make the trip, click on the officers and addresses buttons for more.
  • April 23 a Often drug troubled, Jamie Morris is in the slammer for meth lab transgressions. As the coffeehouse crowd learned of the new charges yesterday, they remembered out of control behavior of the 41 year old last year during the Apple Festival.
  • april 23 a Before the big parade, during the motorcycle show, Jamie went out of control with  a Main Street Clay tire burn out. Filling the air with gray smoke, it was a dangerous situation. Maybe due to local infuence, Morris was not dressed down by our Top Badge. Instead, the Sheriff banned ALL motorcycles in this year's grand parade.
  • April 23 a The unchecked actions of one out of control Jamie Morris ruining a fun time for all others. Sadly, ain't that always the case!
  • April 22  later p Job loss is always serious in Clayberry. With all Golden Heart in home care assets seized by the Feds, that's a bunch of people without a pay day. By the way, when the Feds do such, they can go back 60 days or so and withdraw funds from bank accounts. 60 days. Bet there's going to be a bunch of overdrawn checking accounts at area banks.
  • April 22 later p A check of the South Central Jail site revealed Clayberry's Jamie Morris being a reipient of their custodial services. The 41 year old is booked with three felonies to his name, arrested at the family's Nitro car wash. Bond has been set at $75,000.00.
  • April 22 later p  Based on getting busted with a meth lab and weapon in the vehicle just a few years back, our guess, Mr Morris is once again caught on meth making charges.
  • April 22 p A couple years back Jimmy Jamie made Parade magazine for his $2.2m salary. He claimed to be CEO of Golden Heart in home care. That salary left many in this county scratching their heads. Tuesday morning Federal agents raided the local office Golden Heart,
  • April 22 p Some of the Federal investigation has been unsealed with the Charleston Gazette's Andrew Clevenger providing a heck of  a report in the this morning's paper. Here's the 24 hour only link to that opening volley of fine reporting.
  • April 22 p Big shots often get in trouble. Jimmy Jamie's Dad, Doc Jamie, found himself in the cross hairs of an IRS investigation  a few years back. That resulted in a huge fine and pay back for false reporting.
  • April 22 p While those get their names in the paper, it's the workers that get hurt the worst, those that depend on regular pay checks to make it pay day to pay day. With the assets of the firm froze, local worker pay check are often worthless. We believe that's the case right now.
  • April 22 p How sad sad sad.
  • April 22 a After drinking your genetically modified milk, mass grown bacon, and consuming fruits and veges flown in from a million miles away, Happy 40th Earth Day. NO it's not just about warming oceans, glaciers disappearing and cancer rates up due to the crap in the air!
  • April 21 aYes Sir ReBob! The Communicator made it to the news stands Tuesday afternoon. 24 pages of interesting news and views. Clay County's real newspaper is The Communicator
  • April 21 a During the last election cycle, over 70,000 West Virginia voters voted early. Today is the first day for early voting. Don't take a chance on being sick May 11th, vote early and vote often
  • April 21 a Something happened before lunchTuesday morning at Shida Jamie's Golden Heart home health office located on  Main St. According to eyewitnesses, Federal agents emptied the place of employees and went inside. One of the agents blocked the main entrance as the search was conducted.
  • April 21 a Last night the School Board held a semi public meeting in the High School Library. Semi public because once again, proper notice was NOT given the public.
  • April 21 a Boardster Gene King know how to get the word out to the public. For instance, last night he asked about one employee changing jobs and asked if he was being pressured out of the spot. Of course others said, no way Jose. What they really wanted to say was: Gene keep your ^^##!!! mouth shut.
  • April 21 a Near the end of the 70 minute show, Gene questioned the logic of turning down a $88,000 grant that would have replaced side walks in front of and between Clay Elem and Clay Middle Schools. In front of Clay Elem the sidewalk is about 20 inches wide. In front of the Methodist Church, another place where little rug rats wait on the bus, the sidewalk is the same level as the busy roadway, more or less, none existent.
  • April 21 a Outgoing Somber Superintendent Gillespie replied that it was just too much effort and local match $$$$ to use the free money. He added that he tried to offer the free loot to Mayor Jack Brown but that didn't go over so well either.
  • April 21 a An unhappy Gene King let the conversation end there.
  • April 21 a Last year when grant writer Cindy Willis was given accolades for her outstanding efforts to secure grants, Boardsters were all smiles.
  • April 21 a Turning away grant dollars is something the Pentagon administration would rather have kept quiet.
  • April 19 p As an elected body accepting tax dollars, the local School Board is suppose to conduct our business during public meetings. The school system web site says the meeting will be held Monday April 20th whenever that is.
  • April 19 p If you walk over to the School Board page on that web site, the last agenda is from two meetings ago and it wasn't posted in a timely manner.
  • April 19 p They have a pattern of not letting their bosses (that's us clickers) know when meetings are to be held. Whenever anything important is be decided, they switch such important work to unannounced special meetings. They regularly violate Open Meeting laws in numerous ways.
  • April 19 p Happened into Boardster O Gene King today who said the April meeting will be held Tuesday at 6pm over at the High School.
  • April 19 p Save one, none of the Board gives a hoot about about operating according to state law. Maybe it really is time, past time, for a change. The election is just around the corner.
  • April 19 p This morning Larry Darryl and Darryl went before Judge Jack Alsop concerning the costly lawsuit brought by our Top Badge. What got his thong all bunched up was the CCC refusing to hire his person of choice several months back. The Commission said such a hire would violate the Courthouse's nepotism rule.
  • April 19 p This hearing was to toss the case. No nonsense Jack Alsop disagreed and instead set it for a bench trial August 19th.  Questions came up over other hires by the CCC which appear to violate that same inhouse "we ain't hiring your family" rule.
  • April 19 p We're typing on the next Communicator which comes out Tuesday around 4pm if we don't fall asleep! No updates until we get it to bed.
  • April 19 a From the email bag:  Karen "The Ramp Lady" Pringle will be located between Clay and Two Run starting Monday with her finest batch of Williams River Spring Tonic yet.....it's good for all that ails ya!  7 years and going "strong"
  • April 19 a If you haven't registered to vote, it's time. If you're changing your party affiliation, it's time.  Head over to the County Clerk's office today. Make your voice heard. VOTE
  • April 19 a We read all about the smoke and dust from over in Iceland but think little of it. Clayberry's John Sizemore emailed this:  Thanks for posting the picture of my son on the Clayberry. You guys have seen as much of my son as I have. I am stranded in Africa due to the flight restrictions.  Pretty soon I am going to start out trying to make it home. If I can get approval it will be plane, ferry, train and who knows what else to get the 3000 miles just to wait out this mess in Europe. Johnny 5 was born on the 13th of April and I was supposed to be home on the 16th. So far I have no way of knowing when I will be home. The worst part is I have to stay by the phone and can't even go hunt a wildebeest. Imagine a week in the heart of Africa with nothing to do and can't even go hunting. Well anyway I will have a great story to tell when this is all finished. John A Sizemore  USA 713-623-1329   Dominican Republic 829-578-9887

    • www.dominicanlifestyle.com
  • April 18 p Wrap up from the last seven days or so
  • April 18 p  Glada Lanham let the cat out of the bag when she put her name to seeing Black Shirt Jim Paxton erecting campaign signs while on duty, a real no no.
  • April 18 p New town Badge Chris Davis was seen zooming thru a stop sign at Go Mart without lights or siren audible and not in pursuit of no one as he roared out of municipal limits.
  • April 18 p  Wed morning during the CCC meetings, Health Dept officials informed the Commission they were increasing their efforts to stop all smoking. Their efforts include taking elected officials to court. All that while HEalth Dept employees break their own rules by smoking too close to the Health Center.
  • April 18 p  Mayor and Chief of Police Jack Brown showed his short comings this week with out of control threatening behavior after we reported him bailiffing at the Courthouse. thinking and behaving are not in Brown's play book.
  • April 18 p Politicians and want ta be Politicians were seen around the county as more campaign literature was handed out and colorful signs were nailed to about everything.
  • April 18 p Saturday was the opening day for Little League Baseball in Clayberry. It was freezin but the kids never noticed it. Parents dressed in sweaters and covered with blankets while the kids jumped thru mud puddles and dreamed of being the next Chipper Jones. Volunteers came thru in the candy stand as well as working the fields. It was America at its best.
  • April 18 p Weather wise went from short pants temps to down right chilly willy Saturday night. Our Spring colors peaked as gardeners plowed and planted.
  • April 18 p  All that and a whole bunch more for cheap in the next Communicator due out Tuesday afternoon round 4pm.
  • April 18 p Special Town Council meeting coming this Tuesday afternoon at 6pm.
  • April 16 p Less than 2 cents from each tax dollar goes toward education in this country. More than 50 cents from each peso goes toward war and military. We complain about all those folks on welfare or other government assistance but slightly less than 2 cents of each buck covers all those needs.
  • APril 16 p  With the sun out and dressed in  short sleeves, it's tough to not go ahead and plant those tomatoes right now. We're already busting the envelope with pepper plants but how can we resist!
  • April 16 p Sign of the times: School Boardster Jim Dawson is up for reelection. He ain't never put up a campaign sign in his life. He is now. Another candidate , Dave Mullins,  now has his first signs around the county. Capito doesn't have the strongest foothold on Clayberry. In previous elections, Capito has won her 2nd Congressional seat but without our support. Challenger Virginia Graf also has new signs in this area.
  • April 16 p Dave Pierson, Connie Workman have new campaign cards at area convenience stores. Fran King is knocking on every door in the county
  • April 16 p The election is finally warming up.
  • April 16 p  Tonight Big Otter Community Center is hosting Paul Cottrell and High Mountain Bluegrass. Dance begins at 7pm.. Also tonight, there's a special household goods auction at Two Run beginning at 7pm.
  • April 16 p The biggy of the weekend comes Saturday morning when all the kids get the baseball season underway during Super Saturday activities which  begin at 9am.
  • April 15p  With many of us working to complete, fudge, a qazzilion pages of IRS forms, today is the day Washington smiles.
  • April 15 p Thinking back to Slinky's response to questions on the complaints against our potty mouth Sheriff, a rethunking...  Link tries his best to absolutely avoid ANY acknowledgment that the ace cub reporter exists. With his convincing, sidekick Commissioner Mike Pierson practices the same tactics.
  • April 15 p Yesterday it was the ace cub reporter that asked about the 911 Dispatch Director sending the letter of complaint. Link tried his best not to answer anything coming from the parasite as Mikey Pierson calls him. At first Link said he wouldn't discuss any personnel complaint.
  • April 15 p Here's the rethunking. Since Link is on back pain drugs, had his head turned in t he other direction, maybe he really didn't hear what was being asked. When he mentioned something abut "personnel" complaints maybe he was really was thinking about other recent complaints on a Badge in t he employee of the county.
  • April 15 p Also a rethunking... The Health Dept gang says they're going to step up enforcement of the county smoking ban. They contend second hand smoke is the problem. As they waste taxpayer dollars in such a pursuit, keep in mind, our Legislature carved out a Statehouse exemption so they can light up a torch. Also, all West Virginia Bingo parlors are allowed to offer smoking.
  • April 15 p Guess those that play Bingo or work in the Legislature don't get cancer!
  • April 14 p During this morning's County Commission meeting reps from the local Health Dept told the elected body that they planned to strongly enforce the smoking ban at the Courthouse. They offered to provide new signs or even a class on the 100% indoor ban before taking people to Court. Gulp!
  • April 14 p  Commission Prez Slinky said they would cooperate with the group but thought it would be difficult to enforce much of anything in elected officials' offices.
  • April 14 p Of all the serious issues facing the county, would anybody care or even notice if the Health Dept closed their doors?
  • April 14 p Back in March during the high speed cowboy chase that resulted in the death of Adam Nottingham, our tubby Top Badge used   some pretty bad language over the public's airwaves. During last week's 911 Advisory Committee meeting, the Director admitted receiving complaints on the elected official and forwarding those complaints to the Clay County Commission.
  • April 14 p Near the end of this morning's CCC meeting, a question was asked on what the policy or procedure is for handling such 911 complaints. Slinky poo tried to side step the question with "it's a personnel issue". Didn't work with the policy only question reiterated. This time around after stammering a bit, Slinky admitted they don't have any procedure in place for such complaints but would handle it as best they could.
  • April 14 p Yesterday's post included comments on Mayor and Chief of Police Jack Brown serving as a Bailiff at the County Courthouse.
  • April 14 p Today a hot as a firecracker Jack Brown approached the ace cub report and boy was he miffed. The nearly out of control Brown said he was only relieving Bailiff Gene King for a few minutes and HE WAS NOT A BAILIFF!!!!!!!!!!!
  • April 14 p So torqued was the lad that he added, what he does is none of Glada or the Mel Gibson look alike's business. NONE!
  • April 14 p His tone was certainly threatening. How can we be sure? Besides his face being red and blue all over, as the cub reporter asked for details, Brown said he had to walk away before things (him) got worse. Brown stormed out the backdoor of the Courthouse in high gear.
  • April 14 p Lets see now. Brown was in  uniform, was sitting in the Bailiff's chair, and took papers handed to him by Gene King & put them in the little slot where King keeps the docket.
  • April 14 p We think Glada Lanham was correct all along, that the Town Badge should confine himself to doing Town duties.
  • April 14 p As for none of anyone's business. The easy to get into a temper tantrum Jack Brown has again shown his short comings as a leader capable of getting much of anything accomplished.
  • April 14 p Stomp your feets Stomp your feets....
  • April 14 a  Need a job? How about a nursing assistant? Deadline to apply for free training is this week. See the Community College button on the home page now.
  • April 14 a County Commission meets at 10 am Wed morning. Nice soft seats and lots of entertainment.
  • April 14 a Sometimes we eat too much of a good thing. Take for instance baked beans and the ace cub reporter.
  • April 14 a Sunday evening the wifey served up some great baked beans.  Three servings were enough for Sunday and sunday evening. Left overs provided sustenance Monday at noon, munchies around dinner time and a late night snack polished off the tender gems of goodness.
  • April 14 a Tuesday morning the wifey  made certain  the Mel Gibson look alike knew his hours of sleeping did not come and go without incident. She said the odor in the middle of night was down right debilitating and when she looked over at the sleeping heart throb, he was smiling in his sleep.
  • April 14 a The ace cub reporter aluded another near fatal incidence.
  • April 13 p Adam Nottingham's funeral service was this morning. To help cover the costs, the family is asking for donations. Interested? Forward those funds to Wilson Shamblin Smith Funeral Home.
  • April 13 p From the Clay Human Society's email: Prices for Clay Humane Spay/Neuter program are changing April 15, this increase is not because our costs increased but due to the vet's office increase in prices.
  • April 13 p The opening day for Little League Baseball is this Saturday over at Dundon. The full schedule is on our EVENTS page now.
  • April 13 p When Glada Lanham caught candidate for office Jim Paxton campaigning on the taxpayer's dime, the email line lit up. Others confirmed what they had seen about campaigning while employed on county time.
  • April 13 p To answer another question.  State Code 7-14-15  is pretty clear that NO Deputy Sheriff can run for office. But. The fine print says that the law only applies to civil service covered Black Shirts. Mr Paxton is a non civil service Chief Deputy which allows for his current pursuit.
  • April 13 p While talking about Badges. Tuesday night, 7:36pm, at the triangle in front of Go Mart, Clay, our brand new Town Badge, Chris Davis was seen blasting past a stop sign. No siren or lights were on. Zooming thru the big red octagon, Davis roared up the hill past Holcomb's garage, well beyond town limits, only to turn around and return to his jurisdiction.
  • April 13 p While we're on a roll.... during many Town Council meetings, Glada Lanham has complained that Mayor and Chief of Police Jack Brown spends too much time at the Courthouse doing non-town Badge business.
  • April 13 p  This morning, in full uniform, Jack Brown served as Bailiff during the Jonathan Humphry's hearing. Maybe Glady's been right all along.
  • April 13 p In the Humphrys arrangement, the 34 year old  plead guilty to 10 of the 24 felonies of having kiddy porn on his home puter. Sentencing comes in early May. Mr Humphries remains free on bond until then.
  • April 12 p Samuel Adam Nottingham, 34, of Indore, see OBITUARY page
  • April 12 p  The Library Bd meets in rescheduled session Tuesday evening. Wed morning the County Commission meets.
  • April 12 p  The Jonathan Humprheys trial is off for in the morning. Guess is, he will cop a plea at 9am.
  • April 12 p  Happy 84th Birthday to Glada Lanham. In the way of politics, Glada had  something to say today. According to the long time Two Run resident, Deputy and candidate for office Jim Paxton was seen taking a campaign sign out of his county cruiser and installing it in Mayor Jack Brown's front yard while dressed in uniform and during normal business hours.
  • April 12 p Who saw Black Shirt Paxton campaigning on the taxpayer's dime? Glada and another Two Run resident.
  • April 11 a Everett Cruickshanks, 77, of Harrison died April 9, 2010. Wilson-Shamblin-Smith Funeral Home, Clay, is in charge of arrangements.
  • April 11 a Now seeking another term in office, one time Delegate John Pino will submit to a live interview on 101.7 Fm this afternoon at 2pm. Fred Sampson is the host and moderator.
  • April 11 a Last week was a toughie.    With the loss of 29 coal miners, Don Blankenship still touts an  above average safety record and "things just happen".
  • April 11 a  Two weeks ago it was top administration within the Boy Scouts of America. Now perverts continue to be discovered behind the starched collars. Now it's leading right  to the Pope.
  • April 11 a  We saw extremes on the political horizon. Clueless Palin disputed world scientists while Ron Paul  reiterated flat out truths. Sadly America only heard poor little Sarah.
  • April 11 a Now one week from the tax deadline, a group of NY tax preparers  have been caught filing bogus tax returns totaling nearly $100m.
  • April 11 a Wednesday evening it became public that complaints on our Sheriff have been received by the 911 Dispatch Center. Those complaints center on our Top Badge's out of control potty mouth language during the high speed cowboy car chase a few weeks back. Those complaints have been forwarded to the Clay County Commission for resolution.
  • April 11 a Here in Clayberry only a handful of folks came out to hear from folks seeking office during the Woman's Club Meet the Candidates fundraiser Thursday night at the Courthouse.
  • April 11 a Friday morning the County Commission agenda went up for next week's meeting. There's no mention of an action item addressing our foul mouthed Badge. There's not even a discussion item on his out of control mouth.
  • April 11 a  Phone calls to our CCC are in order. Letters would be even better. Regulated by the FCC and licensed to the Commission, those air waves belong to us. Backbone is in order clickers, it's time to address our problem Sheriff with a letter to the CCC.
  • April 11 a State Road crews covered, patched over, those teeth jarring roadway tank traps. By weekend, sunshine returned to Clayberry. Yard sale signs went up. Campaigners knocked on doors. Kids rode bikes. Bright green grass grew taller. Redbud exploded with color. Apple trees turned pink and white. Cabbage was planted. We looked for Molly Moochers.
  • April 10 a Anna Mae Smith Parsons, 68, of Hartland, see OBITUARY page
  • April 10 a Happiest of Birthdays to JO TANNER
  • April 10 a Hoping for bright sunshine today, there's a bunch of yard sales in progress as well as the Auction House fun tonight, beginning at 7pm. Up at Pat's Bar and Grill,  OPM from Beckley take the stage at 10 pm
  • April 10 a For those wanting to be an informed voter, House of Delegates candidate John Pino will present his views Sunday afternoon at 2pm on 101.7 FM. On Wed April 14th, 10 am,  2nd Congressional District candidate Virginia Graf will submit to questions on the non profit station.
  • April 10 a With Spring comes tasks like putting together new charcoal grills. Being the big tough men that we are, some "issues" can be self created...
  • April 10 a Just because the instructions on top of the box are written in Spanish, that doesn't mean the English version isn't elsewhere in the box, like near the bottom. Reading instructions is a whuusy thing to do! Following them step by step is even more whuusy.
  • April 10 a When those Chinese folks put the parts in the box, they don't include extra screws, washers, rods, and  c clips.  All those parts are important and have a right and wrong place
  • April 10 a  3/4 inch bolts look a lot like 1 inch bolts when laying on your side and the bifocals aren't working right.
  • April 10 a Drilling additional holes usually isn't necessary nor is cutting metal grill legs shorter.
  • April 10 a When completed, the new charcoal grill wheels are suppose to turn.
  • April 10 a When you think it is all done, don't use the English instructions to ignite the charcoal. A second reading of em is sometimes necessary.
  • April 10 a The project may have taken 5 hours but by gummies, it's done and ready for a summer of hamburgers and hot dogs burnt to a crisp. Yahoooo!
  • April 9 a 'suppose to be Spring. Where's the sunshine?? Brrrrr....
  • April 9 a  To date there's been been very little interest in the May election. Oh there's a few yard signs around but not much else. Last night's Women's Club Fundraiser, called Meet the Candidates Night, brought out about 35 or so.
  • April 9 a West Virginia is mourning as we wait on the rescue efforts for the four remaining coal miners. Media keeps calling the loss a tragedy. While true, most lame-stream media outlets don't even mention the dangerous practices of Don Blankenship and others. Stuff like the Upper Big Branch mine was shut down more than 60 times in 2009 for dangerous conditions.
  • April 9 a Since corporations are now considered persons, sure seems like time to file criminal charges and send Blankenship to the slammer. He's done enough for the future of the state.
  • April 9 a Robert C has called for a serious investigation into Big Coal. It's about time.
  • April 9 a The power of Big Coal is nothing new and not just felt in West Virginia. For instance, way back in the 1800s when the Emancipation Proclamation freed most slaves, the law specifically exempted slave coal miners working in the free state of Illinois. History books manage to leave out much of our history.
  • April 9 a  We're still waiting on the first big Molly Moochers to emerge. One strong day of sunshine and the little gems should be about ready to go from the ground to a skillet full of hot bacon grease. Yum yum is just around the corner.
  • April 9 a  For our distant clickers, redbud is in bloom as are the tulips and dogwoods. It's a great time to come visit Clayberry. Check out the EVENTS page for great stuff to do this weekend.
  • April 8 a  Good morning. Wonder where the ace cub reporter's been? After getting the new Communicator out the door on Tuesday, he's been goofing off. The weather's been too beautiful to work!
  • April 8 a Wed evening around 8:30pm, two fishermen found the body of Adam Nottingham near the mouth of the Gauley River where it enters into the Kanawha River. The family now has some closure to the four week ordeal.
  • April 8 a  More closure may be coming...
  • April 8 a Last night during the 911 Advisory Board meeting the question was asked, has 911 Dispatch received complaints on our potty mouth sheriff from the night of the high speed chase.
  • April 8 a The answer was Yes, the center has a policy in place for handling such unlawful use of the public's airwaves, and the complaints have been forwarded to the Clay County Commission, the owners of the FCC controlled frequencies.
  • April 8 a That means, if you don't appreciate the out of control mouth of our little Badge, write, address, your letters of complaint to Larry Darryl and Darryl. Their next public meeting is Wed April 14th.
  • April 8 a Town Council met Tuesday night where they discussed the soon to be started sidewalk improvement project. From those discussions: the first phase will be between the Farm Store and the welfare office; project includes  brick trimmed sidewalks, benches, new street lamps and poles; and trees; and the second phase (more money) grant has been applied for.
  • April 8 a Senator Randy White was in attendance at the meeting. He encouraged the group to stay on track, don't try and cut corners,  and get as much of the $$$ as possible. He felt that "Streetscape" funding may dry up in the near future.
  • April 8 a In the way of help, Senator White provided Council an additional $10,000 from what most of us still call Budget Digest funding.
  • April 8 a Central Appalachia Empowerment Zone (CAEZ) also met Tuesday afternoon. From the Eco Dev Committee, one note.
  • April 8 a CAEZ owns the old Valley Fork school site which includes a free standing Gymnasium building. That structure is used by community groups for everything from Basket & Volleyball games to cheerleader practice and social occasions.
  • April 8 a The Eco Dev folks recommended that Director Lupardus find grant $$$ to replace the leaking roof, replace floor tiles, install  a bathroom, heating, and dry coat the foundation on the end near the baseball dugouts.
  • April 5 p Lots of  public meetings going on this week. For those that attend the Library Bd meetings, see the ADVISORIES page for a schedule change.
  • April 5 p For those that  take in Town Council meetings, you might have a tough time Tuesday. The meeting agenda calls for the meeting place and date but no time mentioned. With the group changing times during the last two meetings, you're on your own as to when they start.
  • April 5 p  from the email bag: The Clay County Golden Delicious Festival meeting has been postponed till April 8th at 6:30 p.m.
  • April 5 p We understand the Governor ordered Homeland Security to begin  search efforts for Adam Nottingham......   The ATM machine up at Pat's Bar and Grill was ripped out of the floor several weeks ago. It was retrieved Saturday.  We had a couple more caught making Meth last weekend.... Those stories and a lot more in Tuesday's Communicator. Should be at the news stands sometime around 4pm if all goes well.
  • April 5 p No updates until we get that puppy to bed.
  • April 4 late p  Mancel Harold Martin, 91 of Ivydale , see OBITUARY page
  • April 4 late p  Man it was just too pretty to stay inside and work the web site. Bright sunshine, very warm temps, and bright blue skies. Love it.
  • April 14 late p It's not too often that the public gets invited to a public meeting. Heck, over at the School Board they refuse to post meeting agendas and often change meetings dates and times to further confuse the people that pay the bills.
  • April 14 late p From the email bag:  The Monthly Business meeting of the Big Otter Volunteer Fire Dept is scheduled for Monday, April 12, 2010 at 7:00 PM.  Stop in and say "hello" to your Fire Fighters and Support members who are working together to keep your Fire Department open and growing.  A quilt made by Ester Deal will be on display.  Mrs. Deal has donated the quilt to be raffled next month.  Proceeds to benefit the BOVFD.   Everyone is welcome to attend the meeting.
  • April 14 late p And  they even gave us a week's notice. How refreshing!
  • April 2 late p    From the email bag:  The picture that you posted on your website about the car in the river was that of our daughters', Kelli Walls.  We would like to THANK the guy who found her beside the road the morning of the accident and took her to Go-Mart for help.  We do not know who he was and have not heard anyone say, so please just let him know how thankful we are for what he did for her that morning.   Again, THANK YOU.
  • April 2 late p Just when you think the whole country's screwed up, we get an email like that. How refreshing
  • April 2 late p After covering up the names of 1000s of leader pedophiles, now they're saying, it's the parents fault!
  • April 2 late p  And then there's Blue Cross Blue Shield that told parents, their new born baby had preexisting conditions and would not be covered.
  • April 3 late p Did you know that Blue Cross Blue Shield switched from being a non profit to a greedy for profit corp?  They did several years back.
  • April 3 late p  How about a guy that is too fat to go to jail? Yelp!
  • April 2 late p Did you drywall your home in the mid 90s?  Might better aught a read this posting.
  • April 2 a Willard C. Westfall, 62, see OBITUARY page
  • April 2 a Hello Jerry Mullins in DC. Thanks for the help
  • April 2 a Ok Ok  no more April Fools days postings.
  • April 2 a According to BDA by laws, it only takes one officer and two members to have a meeting quorum. They didn't have that magic number last night. Those that did attend jaw boned for nearly two hours. From all that .....
  • April 2 a Ivydale's Fred Sampson has come up with some outrageous notions over the years. One of those pipe dreams was to force Big Coal to use mitigation funds to actually do something good for the county. He came up with an effort to force the coal producers to build a dam and lake.
  • April 2 a  Around the county, we just laughed. The BDA told the guy, you're on your own Fred.
  • April 2 a With few in the county thinking he had ANY chance, with a Herculean effort, Sampson forced their hand and today we have Lake Sampson near Wallback complete with a walking trail and shooting range. The place is open year round and is a welcome addition to our tourism offerings.
  • April 2  The BDA is talking about building a two lane highway between Hartland and Rt 19 over in Nicholas County. In that process would be the creation of 1000s of acres of flat land.
  • April 2 a Dumb ole Fred wants an airport built on some of that proposed flat land.  According to Sampson, the WV Air National Guard needs a grassy air strip to practice their maneuvers with those big cargo planes. He says that since most of the places they land around the world are non paved strips, for safety sake, they need a close to home grassy strip to practice.
  • April 2 a  When he first made public that pipe dream, the county laughed.
  • April 2 a Last night Mr Sampson told those attending the BDA non meeting, he had talked with reps from the Yeager Airport based group and they are very receptive to the idea, agree there is a need for such a facility, and the Big Brass is willing to work on such a mega project in Clayberry.
  • April 2 a Not saying it's going to happen but at least one person is working on something worthwhile. Who knows, maybe some day, in addition to Lake Sampson there will be a Fred Sampson Airport.
  • April 2 a Enjoy the weekend.
  • April 2 a Next Communicator comes out Tuesday. Deadline for submissions is Saturday at 5pm. Email in your submissions right now!
  • April 1 a Got a "relay" call this morning concerning tonight's BDA meeting. Their agenda calls for the meeting to be held at 5:30 at the Auction House Restaurant. According to the relay person (that's Karen Nicholas), the meeting will be held in the County Commission room at the Courthouse. The start time was changed to 5:30 to accommodate guests tonight..
  • April 1 a Need a Job?  Check the JOBS page now.
  • April 1 a  Clay's Business Development Authority meets this afternoon beginning at 5:30pm. Location for the public meeting is the Clay Auction House Restaurant at Two Run according to the meeting agenda posted at the Courthouse.
  • April 1 a Interesting enough, when asked about the meeting (Wed mid day), the restaurant folks  didn't know anything about it. As a matter of fact, plans were being made to host an Easter egg hunt at that time.
  • April 1 a Newswise, it's been quiet for a few days . Not no more!
  • April 1 a This morning the School Board issued a memo saying they would abide by Open meeting Laws in the future. Thinking back over the years and even the meeting they held four days ago minus a posted agenda, quite a change
  • April 1 a At noon today our Top Badge is suppose to issue an apology to the county for his use of potty mouth on the police radios two weeks ago.
  • April 1 a After years of coming in dead last or near dead last in about every poll taken, Clay County came out on top in the most recent  County Health Rankings Report. Finally!
  • April 1 a County Commissioner Slinkinoooooger told his fellow Commissioners, in the future, he's going to put the county first instead of the school system.
  • April 1 If those aren't noteworthy enough.... This morning all the elected and appointed county officials met at Tudor's for breakfast. At the gathering they all agreed (signed their names too) to honor a letter of understanding to not tell any fibs and put county interests ahead of personal agendas.
  • April 1 a Google unveiled Gmail Autopilot, a feature that automatically reads and responds to your email.    British supermarket chain Waitrose placed ads in newspapers announcing the availability of a new fruit, the pinana (a combination of pineapple and banana).   And, the Swiss Tourism Board announced it was seeking volunteers to join the Association of Mountain Cleaners.
  • April 1 a  Here's some other top news stories that occurred on this date in history.
  • March 30 a  Retta Agnes Beckett, 81, of Ovapa, see OBITUARY page
  • March 30 a With the full faith and credit of the government backing them, we expect results from Badges. From an article in the Charleston Gazette: the percentage of major crimes -- murders, robberies, rapes -- solved has dropped from 22.9 percent in 1991 to 16 percent in 2007.
  • March 30 a 16%!
  • March 30 a We also depend on the Postal Service. Remember when they delivered twice a day? With costs rising to all time highs due to a silly way of funding retirees, now the USPO is considering cutting out one day of service and no one is complaining.
  • March 30 a Religious nuts in the Middle East, we add an "ist" to them. There are a lot of ists in the world. Does anybody else think those extreme Christians in Michigan should be called Christianists?
  • March 30 a   "The ink has not yet dried on the health care reform bill, and already some deplorable health insurance companies are trying to duck away from covering children with pre-existing conditions," said Sen. John Rockefeller (D-WV), one of the senate's most ardent backers of reform. "This is outrageous."
  • March 30 a   With the month coming to an end, there are no public meetings. Darn! Love those things.
  • March 30 a Don't forget the big benefit concert over at CCHS tonight. See EVENTS page for details.
  • March 29 p  With light rain coming down and just a glimpse of sunshine once in a while, it's a yuck day on Clayberry.
  • March 29 p All eyes are on WVU this week as we head to the final four and a national championship. Here's an interesting  you tube video on WVU.
  • March 29 p Republicrat Capito has had a lock on the 2nd District for over a decade. Many challengers have come and gone. This morning Virginia Graf graced the Courthouse for her first visit to Clayberry in her journey to capture the seat. For those interested in a change, here's her web portal.
  • March 28 Happy last Sunday in March. Time is racing by. What a week!
  • March 28 p As revolutionary as LBJ's Medicaid program in 65, Obama De Bama managed to insure 32 m more Americans. Back in 65 only 10 Republicrats voted for the social program. In a few years, watch them all beat their chests and say how hard they worked for insurance for all.
  • March 28 p  Also on the Federal level, there's another indication that Mountain Top Removal is on its last legs. Regulators now agree with tree huggers, damage caused by MTR is irreversible and must be stopped.
  • March 28 p All TVs have been on WVU and their march to a national basketball championship. So far, lookin good! The last time we got this far along was in 1959 when Jerry West was at WVU and we lost the final game by 1 point. Go Mountaineers!
  • March 28 p Most tourist stops have a central focus, something as a the main draw. We might have it here. Judging by the size of the potholes, we might bill ourselves as the Grand Canyon of the East.
  • March 28 p  Adam Nottingham remains missing. Around the county are rumors that the police chase and actions are being investigated by the Feds. We'll never know if those rumors are true unless there are some kind of formal charges levied.
  • March 28 p Saturday morning a couple dozen Clayonians met in the CCC room with a goal of cleaning up Buffalo Creek and marketing it as a trout stream and a place of beauty. They have a big task ahead.  Their first effort comes in April when they clean out trash and tires along the BC&G RR tracks. Limestone treatment comes next if Federal $$$ become available.
  • March 28 p There is a bigger problem. It's the number of sewer lines, "straight pipes" as we call em, from toilets into the small creek. During the Saturday morning meeting came word that there might be a way of forcing those dozen of so dwellers to install septic systems.
  • March 28 p Not quite a record but clickers to this site were many during the last seven days: Monday 2125; Tuesday 2163; Wed 2054; and Friday 1984. Thanks for stopping by and come back soon.
  • March 28 p We saw growth during the last seen days. The Saturday Night Auction is adding first and Third Friday night auctions to their schedule. Upstart Tiff's Tees on Main St is growing into bigger digs as they move into the old insurance office across from the Welfare building.
  • March 28 p The Communicator came out Tuesday chucked full of the information found no other place. By Saturday some subscribers emailed and asked why their source of news wasn't in their mailboxes. We don't know. The 20 page award winning journal was mailed as usual.
  • March 26 late p from the email bag: Haily Deems has excepted the honor of being in the Governor School of Arts or the GSA and only 15 in the whole state of WV were excepted but as parents we would like to say congratulations to our daughter Haily job well done Bo and Darlene Mullins
  • March late p We've got the 2010 CCHS Baseball schedule on the ADVISORY page.  Over on Clay High's web site, they've still got the 2008 season posted.
  • March 26 a Nasty looking weather this morning in Clayberry. Weathercasters are calling for a light dose of snow mixed with rain and wind. Yuck
  • March 26 a Most of us know the importance of an up to date, informative, attractive web portal. The CAEZ had one which they never once updated. That's been replaced with a new one that went on line a couple weeks back. The $5000 investment, take a gander.
  • March 26 a Three years ago the BDA invested $100s and remain web siteless unless you call this place holder something.  Slinky poo has a web portal he calls the Clay County Commission site. It too sucks for dead air.
  • March 26 a New Eco Dev Coordinator Amanda Moore provided the CCC a progress report during Wed's Commission meeting. That report included mention of working on a web site for her private agency's efforts.
  • March 26 a Don't let this gloomy weather hold you back from a weekend of fun activities. Tonight the Apple Festival folks are hosting fundraiser stuff over at the Lion's Club Casino on Main Street. Big Otter Community Center has a live music show.  A Benefit Gospel Sing at Lizemore Elem. The Auction folks host their weekly offering Sat night beginning at 6pm
  • March 26 a And, want to help grow Clayberry. The Buffalo Creek is loaded with logs and e coli to beat the band. A reorganized Buffalo Creek Watershed group meets Sat morning in the CCC room at 10am. Cleaning that stream would greatly improve changes for growing tourism in these parts. Get off you duff and do something good for the county
  • March 26 a Back on the auction.... Each Saturday night Kim and Brian host a consignment auction, a place for you to take your junk and walk away with some jingle in your pocket. Big News!! Beginning in April they will be hosting Special Auctions, all new stuff, the first and third Friday night of each month.
  • March 25 p When the Communicator started nearly 15 years ago, the idea was to provide real news and give Clayonians a place to voice their concerns. The Adam Nottingham debacle (read latest Communicator for insight) has many in the county talking. Check out the ADVISORY page to see what many in the county are thinking about these days.
  • March 25 a Just the facts mam.... From the April edition of Trains magazine, this: West Virginia coal averages 12,500-13,000 BTU heat value, whereas Powder River (Wyoming) coal averages only 8,000 BTU.  But WV coal contains 1.2% to greater than 3% sulfur, whereas Powder River coal has only 0.8% sulfur.  On the spot market as of 10/23/09, WV coal was selling for $50-$56.15 a short ton, whereas Powder River coal was selling for $9.25 a short ton!
  • March 25 a Thanks MR for the reference
  • March 25 a Any questions other than Big Coal in W Va is dead and has been for years.
  • March 25 a It's time to switch to a sustainable economy, wonder if anybody has thought of switching to say, tourism?
  • March 25 a  Just between you and me, no one is looking, tell the truth, did you have a great time during your pot smoking years? Looks like California is going to be the first state in the union to legalize recreational pot use. Taxing the crap out of it makes sense too.
  • March 25 a As our leaders tell us things are improving, sales of new homes in the U.S. unexpectedly fell in February to a record low. This depression might not be over yet!
  • March 25 a It's about this time of year when local and state education leaders start proclaiming great progress in edumacating our youth. Here's the Nation's Report Card broke down state by state and after spending billions, it ain't pretty. Guess what we're going to talk about in the next Communicator.
  • March 25 a As for Adam Nottingham, still no word.
  • March 25 a Local meth heads have real bad housekeeping habits. Thinking green is not in their vocabulary. When they get done with their production batch, they bag up the remnants and toss the trash bags along the road. Easy to spot are the spent match books and Heet gas line dryer bottles. The smell is real bad too.
  • March 25 a For those that have a habit of cleaning up messes along their roads, those good samaritans, be real careful. That's nasty stuff in there.
  • March 25 a Sometimes found in the debris are addressed envelopes, bank deposit slips and other identifying markers. Getting Badges to come and take a look can be next to impossible. Actually, impossible.
  • March 24 late p  Violet Clarice Ryan, 86, of Ivydale, see OBITUARY page
  • March 24 p  Jesse Norton is a dog lover, a guy not willing to shoot a stray dog. That's not the case for our Sheriff or Animal Control officer. Mr. Norton's complete story is in today's Communicator
  • March 24 p  This morning Jesse made a presentation before the County Commission. He asked for an investigation into how Dog Warden Walter Stutler does his job. He asked stuff like, is the guy allowed to shoot dogs, carry a gun, does he have the training for such actions, does he have one of those long reach poles to catch dogs, and what is the county's policy on catching strays.
  • During 24 p During the discussion, interesting details came out. Stuff like, the Sheriff told Norton to just shoot the animal. Stuff like, when the Dog Warden came out, Walter put two shots in the dog and called the job done.
  • March 24 p The stray could have been your pet. Not no more clickers.
  • March 24 p In the way of answers, Commission Prez Slinky said the county follows state code as its procedure manual. Jesse's concern seems to already be making a change.
  • March 24 p According to the Slinkster, Clayberry now has an agreement with another county where that county will supply a tranquilizer gun and drugs when needed to safely remove a stray from your property.
  • March 24 p Nice change, lets see if we use the tranquilizer method.
  • March 24 a Yelp, it's back. The Communicator hit the newsstands Tuesday afternoon featuring all the juice on the most recent Grand Jury work, the most recent CCC meeting, and of course the events leading in the Adam Nottingham report.
  • March 24 a County Commission meets this morning at 10 am
  • March 22 p  From the email bag: missing in the lizemore/adonajah area:  male black pug puppy.  he is 3 1/2 months old.  he has a white spot on his chest.  please call 587-7023, 587-4448, or 587-4367 with any information
  • March 22 p We're in shut down mode until we get the Communicator out the door Tuesday afternoon.
  • March 22 p We've got Delegate Dave Walker and Dave Perry's Gold Dome updates now posted over on the ADVISORY page.
  • March 22 p No update on Adam Nottingham as of 2:45
  • March 21 p   Our look back on the last seven days includes
  • March 21 p After laying off 157 men and after receiving a generous tax break from the County Commission, Consol (Fola Coal) had enough $$ to purchase other holdings for $3.5 billion
  • March 21 p  The Spring Grand Jury met behind closed doors and provided "True Bills" on each presentation. Full details in Tuesday's Communicator
  • March 21 p Tuesday night many in the county listened as Badges gave chase to a white van driven by Adam Nottingham. Our top badge provided potty mouth commentary along the way. In the community of Alta, before the vehicle even came to a complete stop, Nottingham was out and running towards the Gauley River. He hasn't been seen since.
  • March 21 p By Wed's evening, locals were expressing outrage over a high speed chase that endangered everyone along the way and the lack of search and recover efforts.
  • March 21 p Wed, Thursday, Friday, Sat and now Sunday, no one from local fire departments responded. Family and friends manned row boats and traveled both sides of the high and fast running river. Volunteers rafters pledged to also get on the scene.
  • March 21 p Sat night nearly 100 filled Courthouse Square for a candle light prayer vigil remembering Adam Nottingham. No not one elected official using the time for exposure but real people, young and old, common people, the ones that really matter in Clayberry, came out in force.
  • March 21 p  Full details in Tuesday's Communicator
  • March 21 p The weekend came as did the sunshine. Gardens were plowed, New bulbs were planted. Kids rode on bikes. Porches were cleaned off. The snow shovel was put away.
  • March 20 a Five nights ago after a mad hat, high speed chase, Adam Nottingham ended up in the Gauley River. To date, there has been no formal search for the guy. TV folks said the reason was  high water conditions.
  • March 20 a That comment came just  a day after rescue crews in the same area spent countless hours before retrieving the body of one of their own. Adam wasn't no saint but his family needs closure.
  • March 20 a Tonight, 8pm, the family of Adam Nottingham is holding a prayer vigil in front of the Courthouse. Bringing a candle would be nice.
  • March 19 a Get out of the house and enjoy yourself this weekend. Lots of sunshine coming our way.
  • March 19 a Good music tonight at Big Otter Community Center. Auction Saturday night A couple fundraisers on Sunday.
  • March 19 a For those interested in the Auction House Best burger mentioned last night. Forgot to mention their call in number 304 587 7273
  • March 19 a  Tuesday night was the high speed car chase in Clay and South to Fayette County. Last night TV 3 identified the chasee as Adam Nottingham as they interviewed the guy's family. They questioned no search and rescue efforts in progress.
  • March 19 a  Others are questioning why there was a high speed chase in the first place. The first Badge in the chase (Jack Brown) had already identified the fellow and 911 dispatch identified the owner of the van. Those that listened in to the chase  heard the Green Shirt mobile back off from the race. Good move Bailey!
  • March 19 a About any vehicle even an old Pontiac van, can keep up or out run another car. No one can outrun a Badge radio. Seems with all of today's technology, sure seems like the day of the dangerous cowboy chase could be eliminated. Sure would be safer.
  • March 18 late p  Judy Ellen Dye, 50, see OBITUARY page
  • March 18 p  The University of Wisconsin issued a nationwide health report including county by county findings in West Virginia. For once Clayberry didn't come in penultimate (thank you Fred) but we came in third from the bottom based on social and economic issues like children in poverty and social inequality.
  • March 18 p Burger today?  We eat a bunch of em in this country and county.  Do you think they take a cow, grind it up and that's hamburger? Wrong O! Instead, packers cut up pieces from many different cows from many different locations, grind it all together, and call that hamburger. Those pieces that are ground up, you don't want to know which parts  are in the mix.
  • March 18 p Hamburger meat is one of the top carriers of E Coli.
  • March 18 p Hamburger recalls are legendary.
  • March 18 p How about something different. Something more healthy.
  • March 18 p The Auction House Restaurant over at Two Run begins their healthy Friday "Auction House Best" burger tomorrow.  The patty is actually a ground up roast making for  a leaner burger and much much fresher taste. $4.75 is the price for something that tastes great and without the ecoli threat.    They deliver too!
  • March 18 a Last fall when it got down to 35 degrees, we bundled up with gloves and toboggans. This morning it was that same temperature.  With Spring on our minds, we thought it's a little chilly as we went out the door coatless.
  • March 18 a With the sun burning off the frost, the whites look whiter and brighter. For all of our long distance clickers, Springtime is a great time to come visit Clayberry. How about this weekend.
  • March 18 a Tired of paying high satellite bills for TV? Try HULU for on online boob tube satisfaction.
  • March 18 a America depends on the web for everything from news to staying in contact with friends and family via social networking. Businesses are even more dependent on the virtual world for everything from warehouse orders to credit card purchases and sales. Like it or not, we're all connected via a wire.
  • March 18 a Last year Senator Jay penned a bill that allows federal agents to shut down the internet at a whim , whenever they decide there is a "threat".  Who determines a threat? They haven't said. The bill is still pending and now level headed thinkers, civil libertarians, are seeking changes from the Big Brother tactics.
  • March 18 a Three weeks ago during the Tommy Tommy trial in Charleston, noticed something. Almost all the "support" personal in the wood paneled room were texting away on their handheld mobile devices. From guards, to marshals to secretaries, when they got a second, their heads went down and they went to communicating via their cell phones. Out in the hallway, in the rest rooms, wherever, they were at it.
  • March 18 a Do you take a message while sitting on the throne? How about at a restaurant, while eating dinner? How about when you and the sweety are wild and passionate? Is social media better than sex?
  • March 18 a We've been selling remanufactured Ink In a Blink printer cartridges for about 6 months now. 'Noticed something this week with some of the new printers on the market. Those rascal manufacturers (HP for instance) detect that it's a remanufactured cartridge and put up a monitor screen telling you such.  The cartridges work fine and is much much cheaper than new ones, but that little balloon screen pops up.
  • March 18 a The Communicator comes out on Tuesday. Deadline for submissions is Sat at noon. Send in your submissions ASAP.
  • March 17 late p  Gary William (Patric) Sines, 58, see OBITUARY page
  • March 17 p Top of the day to each and every this St. Patty Day.
  • March 17 p First an ooops from last night's accounting of the high speed car chase. That cruiser the guy smashed into was not the Sheriff's less than two weeks old Chevy. Instead it was one of the older Ford units.
  • March 17 p As for the bad guy, the one that jumped in the ice cold water... he hasn't been found. Most assum he, a Nottingham subject, died.
  • March 17 p In addition to a drug bust yesterday at Clay High, the Spring Grand Jury finished its duties and returned all true bills. The list includes;
  • March 17 p  Rocky Keener Burglary, malicious wounding, battery, deadly weapon
  • March 17 p Ethan Cody Nichols grand larceny, conspiracy, contributing to the delinquency of a minor
  • March 17 p Andrew J King  Burglary, dest of property
  • March 17 p Bruce Belt Burglary, conspiracy x 3  arson dest of property
  • March 17 p Amanda Belt same as Bruce
  • March 17 p Joshua Nottingham   Receiving concealing transferring   contributing to the delinquency of a minor
  • March 17 p Henry Stutler  Sexual Assault 1st degree
  • March 17 p RIchard Lee LeFever  Malicious wounding, battery, wanton endangerment, kidnaping, brandishing
  • March 17 p Kenneth Norton Failure to pay child support
  • March 17 p Clara Jean Duttine   Burglary dest of prop
  • March 17 p And finally how about this one: Melissa Postelwait Thompson  Welfare Fraud
  • March 16 late p  Ahhh another quiet Spring night in Clayberry. TV turned off and heading to bed. Not all tho....
  • March 16 late p A little after 10pm Town Badge Jack Brown asked for assistance with a white van burning up the roads, fleeing in the Maysel area.  Brown : I got one running! Sounded like the white van headed up Blue Knob and then over on Lick Branch which comes down near Pierson Lumber Co. as they headed South on Rt 16
  • March 16 late p Reports of the guy going 70 mph were heard. At one point the dispatcher said the fellow may have a gun.
  • March 16 late p Over the scanner, "HE AIN'T STOPPING"
  • March 16 late p  With our Sheriff and his three week old cruiser trying to block the guy, it didn't, he didn't, and the new cruiser was smashed. Sheriff " STOP THAT S!! OF A  B*****... He hit my cruiser... He's a fleeing Felon now!!!  Get on him Get on Him!!
  • March 16 late Somewhere in the mix a Green shirt from Fayette County laid out spike strips just North of the Town of Gauley Bridge. Sounded like they worked.
  • March 16 late  10:37 p  "He's out on foot.. We'll get him!"
  • March 16  10:49  "He went in the water somewhere... We've got the canine here... He's on the river bank now searching for him."
  • March 16 late That 1991 white  Pontiac van is registered to an Edwards subject on Upper Sycamore Road.
  • March 16  11:11pm "We're still looking for him"
  • March 16 11:51 p Other scanner traffic " Gun shots fired, Little Italy,"
  • March 16 late p  The excitement never ends in Clayberry but the ace cub reporter needed a beauty nap and did such
  • March 16 p There's a bunch of us that check out the Jail web site on a regular basis. Gettin the scoop so to speak. The State folks are making it tougher. Now to see a pic, you have to be able to add!
  • March 16 p This site has made it four weeks without an attack.
  • March 16 p   Everybody that plays on the internet wants to have anti virus, anti-malware, trogan, rootkit detection and anti everything.  Bill Gates has a new free service , Security Essentials, that does just that and in real time. Here's a link to the site and this one to CNet reviews. Might be worth a try and the price is right.
  • MArch 16 p A couple notes. Because it's free, Gates and his crew are able to log everything you do online. Also, if you are running a bogus copy of Windows, you're screwed. Be warned.
  • March 16 a  Elizabeth J. “Jeanette” Legg, 78, of Indore, see OBITUARY page
  • March 15 late p There are some hot parents in the Northern end of the county. Here's a sample email: My child attends Big Otter School.  Today he did not get off the bus until 5:10 and he normally gets off at 3:50.  Word is that they did not have a substitute to drive their bus home.  One parent, who is a family member, called the school at 10 minutes til 4:00 and the students had not left the school yet.  She was told that the kids were being taken care of and that someone was on their way from Clay to come and pick them up.  Not only does this seem a little bit ridiculous, but the parents were also not notified.  I did not receive a call directly from the school or from the school computer.  Does this sound crazy or is it just me?
  • March 15 late p  Fola Coal laid off over 150 employees last month. They said the market wasn't good. We said they only care about the bottom line. To heck with hard working employees.
  • March 15 late p Things ain't too bad: CONSOL Energy Inc. will buy the Appalachian exploration and production arm of Virginia-based Dominion Resources Inc. for $3.5 billion. (Right click into a new window to open)
  • March 15   As a matter of fact, Consol, the parent company of Fola had their best year ever in 2009. CONSOL’s revenue for the fourth quarter was $1.24 billion
  • March 14 late p Just a couple notes from the last seven days..
  • March 14 Without jobs, without security of keeping jobs, with foreclosures are record highs, most of us know, the depression ain't anyway close to being over. Many of us armchair economists feel this is just the calm before the second storm. Now, the big boys are starting to voice similar concerns.
  • March 14 During World War II, federal revenues roughly tripled as a share of the gross domestic product (GDP) and the number of people paying income taxes expanded tenfold, from 3% of the population in 1939 to 30% by 1943. In 1940, a family of four needed close to $80,000 of income in today's dollars before it paid any federal income taxes at all. By the war's end, it saw its effective tax rate rise from 1.5% to 15.1%. (Today such a family only pays a federal income tax rate of about 6%.) But taxes weren't the only way the war was paid for. Spending on nondefense programs was cut almost in half, from 8.1% of GDP in 1940 to 4.4% in 1945. More interesting reading on war spending and how Dubbya sunk the nation.
  • March 14 Exxon made roughly $30 billion off the last OPEC price spike. That's enough to buy quite few politicians. Naturally, though they will never say it, big oil companies are OPEC's biggest fans. Gas prices keep going up and up.
  • March 14 Here's the gas price finder for your use
  • March 14  From Monday's CAEZ meeting.  Boardster Red Derring asked: Are you all in financial problems? Response from Office Manager, Yes.
  • March 14 Monday night, after a foot chase and search, found him in a culvert, Jacob Young was picked up and lodged in jail. Might sound better to have all three Young's off the street but larceny continued in Clayberry with Badges investigating all corners of all humble community.
  • March 14 County Commission met last Wed morning with the peanut gallery packed. The Ambulance Director reported runs being down in Feb making slim financials even slimmer. The committee of three that did the Economic Development Coordinator hiring now has a new name, Clay Economic Collation which plans to continue meeting and directing the new Coordinator's daily tasks. Interesting, the decision making group and funded entirely by tax dollars, has never posted an agenda.
  • March 14 Reps from Big Otter Fire Dept told the CCC that things were now quiet in BOFD land. That's a good thing it sounded. They said volunteers are returning to the much needed emergency service provider which a month ago was ready to be closed down or at least , face a serious review by the State Fire Marshall's office.
  • March 14 For those seeking work, during the CAEZ and again during the CCC meeting, 2 new daycare jobs are coming our way with funding from Capitol Resource Agency. Interested? Contact CAEZ
  • March 14 Clay Solid Waste Authority met last Wed where they announced plans to hold a Spring Metal and Junk Clean Up day sometime in Late April or early May.
  • March 14 The biggy for last week came Saturday when the true kindness and generosity of Clay shown during a fundraiser for a lady afflicted with cancer. Organized by volunteers and held at CCHS, a volleyball tournament, beauty pageant, spaghetti dinner, silent auction, raffle and stage show netted over $3100.
  • March 14 With snow behind us, yards were raked, trash was picked up, kids got on their bikes, tons of salt was washed off vehicles, kids put on short pants, and the wild onions around the yard grew taller. Still no Spring Easter flowers yet, but they're just around the corner.
  • March 14 And something else was growing. Known as potholes, the tank traps are everywhere. For those with dentures, better apply an extra coat of adhesive. For motorcyclists, watch out,  they will swallow up your two wheels.
  • March 14 The School Board meets at Clay Middle School Monday night at 6pm. The online agenda is available for public review.
  • March 13 a Basket Bingo at HE White this afternoon and auction tonight at Two Run.
  • March 13 a Email notice: 2-Blue will perform at the "Bucks for Becky" fundraiser Saturday March 13th at 7:00 concert.  Also performing will be "The Krave" with band members Josh Lively, Glen Boatwright and Beth Morris along with Abigail Moore, Brooklyn Gould and Becky's kids.  Donations at the door will go to the "Bucks for Becky" Fundraiser.   Spaghetti dinner for just $5.00  from 5-7 p.m. All at Clay County High School  Earlier in the day will be a volleyball tournament, silent auctions, St Patty's day pageant and concessions featuring homemade BBQ's and more. Becky Sizemore Hancock is a young wife and mother with 3 children who has cancer. Come out and have a good time with us for a good cause.
  • March 13 a We agree. Get out of the house and enjoy the day.
  • March 13 a  Flouride in the water has been controversial since inception decades ago. With some calling it a carcinigon and all knowing it's a chemical production waste product, now there's concern where the stuff is coming from. China for instance.
  • March 12 a Welcome to Friday in beautiful Clay County West Virginia
  • March 12 a There's everything from Art & Dave to V Ball Tournaments, Bingo and Auctions happening this weekend starting tonight. Check out the EVENTS page for details
  • March 12 a  This just in from the DEP: Application has been marked technically complete.

    • West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection  This mailing is to advise the public that the application has been marked technically complete for Renewal of an Article 3/4 permit S201398 for FOLA COAL COMPANY LLC, PO BOX 180 WV STATE RT 16, BICKMORE, WV 25019.  This application is for renewal of existing Article 3 Permit S201398 to Surface,
    Auger and Highwall mine coal in the Clarion, 5-Block, Stockton, Coalburg and
    Winfrede seams of coal. The permit is located in Clay and Nicholas County, Longitude 81° 3´ 20.0000" Latitude 38° 20´ 31.0000" (Coordinates from USGS Topographic Map).
  • March 12 a Here's the checklist of progress  and the map, all available via the web.
  • March 12 a Being the pharnoids that we are, those grocery store shopping cards are worrisome. We've always thought, that's Feds watching your every bite. Some say I have nothing to hide.
  • March 12 a Here's one more step where Big Brother is that much closer to mandatory use of ID cards.
  • March 12 a 2120 people viewed this site  Tuesday. Thanks and come back often.
  • March 11 p Clay Roane PSD meets tonight (7pm) at the Procious Water plant. World is invited
  • March 11 p Gasoline costs 70 cents more per gallon today than one year ago. And, we're still buying the stuff
  • March 11 p BOLO: Lost Wed night, black and tan Shepherd collie mix female from the Maysel area. Need help locating please, she was just spayed and we don't want the stitches breaking. See her? Dial Linda 304 382-1434  THanks
  • March 10 late p  What do you call a Pope dressed in nun's clothing. Answer: Transsister
  • March 10 late p A couple years back the local Health board voted to enact a smoking ban  in every business in Clay. They said they were doing it for our own good and to prevent second hand smoke from attacking us.
  • March 10 late p Locals went ballistic but it didn't matter, the Board did it anyway. Fortunately, our elected Town leaders enacted their own ordinance which allows each municipal business to decide if the place will allow smoking.
  • March 10 late p Back then we raised two issues. One was can appointed folks make a law and Two, if they can do that, then what's next, no ice cream for fat people?  People thought we were just kidding around
  • March 10 late p We weren't kidding. A proposed law would eliminate the use of salt in ANY restaurant in New York state.
  • MArch 9 p the Communicator and 20 pages of informative reading made it to the news stands this afternoon. With five solid pages on the Tommy Tommy trial plus the latest on the late Monday night pick up of Jacob Young, sure to make for some great reading.
  • March 9 p Last week Joe Morris testified against Sr. The same day his car wash blew up. Last week Dana Holcomb testified against Sr. Afterwards, at least one of his customers cars parked at his business were vandalized. Pay back?
  • March 9 p Sunday night Jacob Young was picked up. Coincidental? Maybe but more likely just an indication that there are a lot more thugs in Clayberry ready to take advantage of your endeavors.. Recently several other vehicles have been swiped and or damaged.
  • March 9 p County Commission meets Wed morning at 10am Interesting of note, the agenda calls for the hiring of Amanda Moore as the new Eco Dev person but calls the position a part time temporary position. Hmmmmmmmmmm..
  • March 8 late p in the Tommy Tommy trial, guilty guilty guilty and six times more.
  • MArch 8 p  As of 2:24pm, no verdict yet in the Tommy Tommy trial in Charleston.
  • March 8 a  Kenneth Edward Roop, 63 , see OBITUARY page
  • March 8 a Around 9 am this morning the jury began deliberations during the Tommy Tommy trial in Federal Court. We'll provide the verdict when available and a complete write up in Tuesday' Communicator.
  • March 8 a CAEZ meets twice this afternoon. 4pm is the Eco Development Committee meeting followed by the full Board at 6pm. Public meeting and always interesting to watch.
  • March  7 a With all the cell cams capturing world events, it's important that our government get a a handle on the "spin" more quickly.
  • March 7 a About the only thing left is for airport security to say turn around and spread em. Those pesky ACLU people as well as many religious groups are against such.
  • March 7 a Town Council held their monthly meeting Tuesday evening where the first word came public on a log factory backup that flooded nearby neighbor John Osborne's basement. In addition to town labor to clean up the mess, cost in materials, around $1200.
  • March 7 a Thursday evening during the BDA meeting, Amanda Moore was announced as the new Director of Economic Development for the county. She starts tomorrow. Funds for the position come from the BDA and County Commission along with moral support from the CAEZ. When asked what each group wanted Ms Moore to get started on,  according Mike Boggs, NONE had laid out ANY plan of attack.
  • March 7 a The hiring process took over 18 months.
  • March 7 a Joe Morris' car wash at Bickmore blew up most likely because of a natural leak.
  • March 7 a Thursday night, the red, home meals, Jeep from the Clay County Senior Center at Two Run was stolen. Some are saying they saw the vehicle tooling around the streets of Clay that night. It was recovered the next day in Pisgah.
  • March 7 a After years of finger pointing, Tommy Young Sr and Jr went on trial for federal crimes of stealing, reselling, and conspiracy. Sr took the stand himself and said no way, he wasn't apart of the thievery and didn't know the people that did such deeds.
  • March 7 a After four days of testimony, few  admitted to actually seeing the dynamic duo at work. As a matter of fact, those that ended up with stolen goods admitted they were glad they hadn't been indicted for stealing! Other than already convicted criminals testifying to protect their own butts, nobody admitted to knowing much.
  • March 7 a That's other than those that got stuff swiped.
  • March 7 a Big long trial write up and hopefully a conclusion, in Tuesday's Communicator.
  • March 7 a Bright sunshine filled the weekend sky. We washed tons of salt off vehicles, restocked firewood supplies, and drove around with windows rolled down. Most of the snow pack disappeared. Even tho temps saturday never got above 40 degrees, we were in t shirts and sneakers. Old timers call this time of year, pneumonia weather.
  • March 7 a Finally from the last seven days, we concluded our online fundraiser. Many donated generously to keep this web effort alive. Thanks each and every. Already we've invested in a new flatbed scanner with better image capturing abilities as well as a new keyboard and mouse.
  • March 7 a You are appreciated.
  • March 6 a Suppose to be beautiful this weekend. Wash the car. Clean up the yard. Play with the kids. It feels like winter is behind us. Do something !!
  • March 6 We've spent much of the week coming going or sitting during the Tommy Young Sr and Jr trials. Thursday afternoon it looked like the whole process would be tossed. Didn't happen. Friday evening all the testimony was in as were the closing remarks. The jury will begin their process Monday morning at 9am.
  • March 6 a  All the juicy details will be in Tuesday's Communicator and most likely, the verdict as well.
  • March 6 a  During Friday's testimony, the Feds had a nice lookin young man dressed in nice shirt and tie. The guy admitted to hundreds of crimes and professed a working relationship with our Murder Mountain gang, Tommy Sr and Jr. He spoke in a matter of fact sort of way, as if his crime  efforts were a legal enterprise.
  • March 6 a His field of expertise? He was a "cloner". His employers would need a title for a certain make or model of vehicle and his job would be to find such a vehicle, often a clunker, purchase it and the legal title, then furnish the title and vehicle ID plates to the underworld for attachment to a stolen ride.
  • March 6 a He said he had done such work hundreds of time.
  • March 6 a Tommy Young Sr also took the hot seat. Sr denied knowing any and all the bad guys, repeatedly said he couldn't remember various dates and activities. and fired back questions to the Prosecutor instead of answering. He had her miffed to say the least. Fun to watch but not sure if the approach will work to his advantage.
  • March 6 a Around 6:30pm, with the jury looking pooped out, the decision was made to take the weekend off and begin deliberation Monday morning at 9am.
  • March 6 a You never know what a jury will do but a comment on those 4  men and 8 women. They paid attention and looked like they had their wits about em. Quite a change from others!
  • March 4 p During the Thursday evening Business Development Authority meeting, Amanda Moore was announced as the new Economic Development Director for the county. With a $30,000 salary, she begins work Monday March 8th. Her  temporary place of work will be upstairs in the Courthouse in the WVU Extension Service office.
  • March 4 p Thursday morning the car wash at Bickmore blew up. With the WV PSC and Fire Marshall investigating, the coffeehouse crowd thinks: a natural gas line leak caused the explosion.
  • March 4 p TV-3 announced: A person was flown to the hospital after an explosion at a car wash in Clay County. The explosion happened around 9:15 a.m. Thursday at the car wash along Route 16 in Bickmore. A woman who witnessed the explosion described it as a flash fire that put itself out. She also tells WSAZ.com Montana Legg was washing the back of his pick-up truck when the explosion happened. We're told Legg was hit by debris. Legg's grandfather lives across the street so he came and got him and took him to his house and called 911. When emergency crews got on scene Legg was taken to the high school's football field and flown to a local hospital. Legg was dazed, but we're told he was walking around. The owner of the car wash tells WSAZ.com someone broke into his coin machine late Wednesday night.  Witnesses say Legg had to go to the grocery store across the street to get quarters before he started washing his truck. The State Fire Marshal is on the scene trying to figure out what caused the fire. However, the owner says they haven't ruled out a natural gas leak. No one else was hurt. Two walls of the car wash have collapsed.
  • March 4 Courtroom etiquette calls for those housed in the slammer to be in civilian clothes during a  trial and for that matter, even coming and going the courtroom, jurors are not suppose to see the orange jump suits and shackles. Any transgression is a real no no.
  • March 4 p  Charged with conspiracy and hauling stolen goods to and from many states, the Tommy Tommy trial continued Thursday in Charleston. For the most part the Feds kept stacking up the facts and double checking any and all possibilities of a slip up.
  • March 4 p In response, the defense team did their best disputing each and everything established by the Govt. Agents.
  • March 4 p Can the government track your every move via your cell phone? The answer is Yes.
  • March 4 p  During afternoon testimony an AT&T rep went over page after page of tele records with the movement, time of day, and location of each phone call as far back as 2004. How interesting was it? Even a security guard was heard snoring over in the corner.
  • March 4 p Around 3pm came the Uh oh. When of the Fed's star witnesses, a guy already housed in the slammer let slip, that he, another witness, and Tommy Young Jr all rode the same van to the Courthouse and are housed in the same jail. There was instant silence and then the sound of the entire courthouse gasping for air. All the parties went up front for a quickie huddle that wasn't so quick.
  • March 4 p With the jury out of earshot, defense attorney Jane Moran said such words were equivalent to marching the accused thru the courtroom in shackles and dressed in orange.
  • March 4 p  The trial continues Friday but me thinks there is a big big problem.
  • March 4 a  The Saturday League's A Team Tournament was scheduled for last weekend but snow wiped it out. That rescheduled tournament begins this afternoon at 5:30 continues on Friday at 5pm and then finishes up Saturday beginning at 1pm. All the fun takes place at Clay Middle School.
  • March 3 late p  Business Development Authority (BDA) meets Thursday, 5pm, over at the Auction House restaurant at Two Run. They're getting a meal and a tour of the place. The Saturday night consignment auction and now weekday diner is the BDA's only success story after being in the business of growing zero jobs for over 14 years.
  • March 3 late p  Day two of the Tommy Tommy trial is in the history books. From those proceedings, a couple notes.
  • March 3 late p Witness after witness  went to the hot seat and made their statements. Some were owners of the stolen goods while others were locals like neighbors ( Gary O Brion), buyers (Stump Morton), and Badges (Sheriff and Paxton).
  • March 3 late p With the events well over a couple years old, memories were vague at best for many.
  • March 3 late p With each witness sequestered so as not to hear what was said before em, Black shirt Jim Paxton came after the Sheriff and his story jelled well.
  • March 3 late p The Feds used cell phone records as evidence on Wed.
  • March  3 late p One of those stolen "bobcats" was equipped with global posting, GPS. About as soon as it turned up missing from the fenced in OH work yard, it was located in Maysel West Virginia.
  • March 3 late p So how do they get the equipment started, on a trailer, and out of sight so quick? According to the testimony Wed., Sr had a key for each piece!
  • March 3 late p With no paper trail on either Tommy and no one actually seeing the dynamic duo steal anything, things were looking good for the Youngs. And then And then....
  • March 3 late p A fellow dressed in jail orange was brought into the courtroom. Operating under a plea agreement (he could be facing life behind bars for his transgressions), the fellow spilled his guts. He said he worked for Tommy Sr, often drove trucks pulling stolen equipment, often helped locate equipment, was paid $500 per caper, stored the hot stuff on his brother's farm in Jackson County, and identified others in the Tommy team as a Mexican and a great big red headed guy in his early 20s.
  • March 3 late p  With the clock slightly passed 5pm, Sr's defense man was  cross examining the guy in orange and giving him double H all along the way. The idea is to make sure the jury thinks the guy is willing to say anything to save his own skin. Not sure if that's really true but defense attorney Mat Victor is making mince meat of the lad.
  • March 3 late p Trial continues Thursday morning, 6th floor, Byrd Fed Bldg in Charleston. No admission charge either. Look for the proceedings to continue Friday too.
  • March 2 late p We've got a big oooooooooops. Turns out even tho the Lady Panthers lost in Sectional Tournament action, they will play at least one game in regional contests. They take on Tolsia Thursday night during Region IV action.
  • March 2 late p Darn. Broke a month long record of not making any mistakes! The month of March anyway.
  • March 2 late p  After a lengthy jury selection, the Tommy Young Sr and Jr thievery trial got underway. 'got to watch some real interesting maneuvering in the Federal Courtroom.
  • March 21 late p  Dana Holcomb testified that he had purchased  four pieces of equipment from Sr.  Some kind of little backhoe thang was picked up along side a road and had the key in it. No it wasn't on Tommy's land and No Tommy didn't hand him the key. Three trailers were later bought and one of them didn't last an hour before Deputy Paxton seized it. Did Dana see Sr drop off the trailer? Answer, Nope.
  • March 21 late At one point, the defense attorney fellow asked Holcomb: Are you glad you weren't arrested for trafficking in stolen goods? Holcomb: Yes
  • March 2 late p As a guy that purchased the backhoe from Holcomb, Joe Morris was also on the stand.
  • March 2 late p In that testimony and others brought forth today, NONE had a written bill of sale and all had paid cash. The defense folks brought to light that Clayberry likes to buy, sale, barter and do so on a  cash basis without ANY paper trail.
  • March 2 late p Lets see now, that little backhoe cost $35,000, was  almost new when stolen, Holcomb bought it for $4500 and then resold it to Joe Morris for around $9000. Should any eyebrows have gone up?
  • March 2 late p As for Tommy Jr.,, no one has identified him as being more than a  tagalong .
  • March 2 late p  Here's a cute one. The 6th floor courtroom has a bunch of flat screen monitors on each table. The Prosecutor asked each witness to identify Sr. Each time he was behind the monitor, sometimes with his head turned sideways making the task to ID difficult. Cute!
  • March 2 late p  Trial continues all this week. Other witnesses include our Sheriff and Black Shirt Paxton. Should make  for a great lead story in the next Communicator!
  • March 2 a Hello Bob Taylor over at Bentree. Glad to have you tuned in!
  • March 2 a  The Lady Panthers lost to Sissonville Monday evening ending the season in Sectional Tournament play
  • March 2 a Clay Town Council and the Clay Library Board meet tonight at 6pm. That's a new start time for Council.
  • March 2 a With their Director and staff at the Mardi Gras, the CAEZ meeting has been postponed until next week.
  • March 2 a  During Monday night's School Board meeting, one of the proposed school schedules for next year includes class time, year around. There are four proposed schedules to chose from. Each includes a full week off for buck season. Some things take priority!
  • March 2 a  The Tommy Sr and Jr . thievery trial begins Tuesday morning with a motion hearing at 8:30am and trial to follow (maybe) at 9am. Judge Johnston will hear the proceedings in Federal Court, Charleston.
  • March 2 a This is it, the last day of the begging for dollars online fundraiser. Thanks each and every for your support of this web channel. If you can help with keeping this effort afloat: Delta, 2278 Main St  Clay WV 25043
  • March 2 a Those comments are appreciated. Well, except for the person that said a hog had more brains in the A*** than those in the ace cub reporter's head. Shame Shame Shame on you
  • Feb. 28 p From the email bag: MISSING FROM LAURAL FORK RD OFF OF UPPER SYCAMORE RD,MALE DOG FULL BLOODED BLOOD HOUND, REDDISH COPPER COLOR WITH STAR SHAPED WHITE SPOT ON CHEST WITH BLACK TIP TALE,  HAS A BLAZE ORANGE  COLLAR  ON WITH NAME TAG AND PHONE NUMBER ON IT, HE ANSWERS TO THE NAME OF COPPER, WEIGHS ABOUT 90 LBS, MISSING SINCE AROUND MIDNIGHT SATURDAY FEB 27TH IF YOU HAVE SEEN THIS DOG PLEASE CALL 587-7906 OR 587-2187, IF NO ANSWER CALL 587-2930, THIS IS A CHERISHED PET OF A LITTLE GIRL AND BOY.
  • Feb. 28 p  School Board meets tonight at 6pm in the Standard Bryant Annex building on Gump Street. Don't even bother checking their web site for an agenda. It ain't there. Those elected folks don't give  a hoot about following the law of the land, open meeting laws.Maybe it is time to elect new folks to the Board.
  • Feb. 28 p The Lady Panthers tip off tonight at 7pm in WVSSAC Sectional Tournament action as they take on Sissonville in the home court contest. Go Lady Panthers!
  • FEb 28 p  First time in weeks that we haven't mentioned an upcoming winter blast. Today Calyonians can actually see black payment. Maybe Spring has sprung.
  • Feb. 28 a Last day of a short month where snow dominated conversations throughout the county. Some notes....
  • Feb. 28 a After two major blizzards and winds topping 90 mph, thousands are without electricity up North. In Clayberry, the harsh winter continued but few were, are without utilities
  • Feb. 28 a If the Patriot Act hadn't been approved for another year, Sunday would have looked much different. Sunday could have meant the government was no longer given permission to wiretap the phones of Americans and seize their records and property. Obama De Bama approved the Patriot Act.
  • Feb. 28 a 2nd amendment words guarantee gun owner rights. Should state laws trump Federal rights for the 90 million USA gun owners?  The Supreme Robes will let us know.
  • Feb. 28 a England says every dog owner might have to take a ‘competence test’ to prove they can handle their pets. Maybe we need that on this side of the pond.
  • Feb. 28 a Locally, winter continued with snow fall each day bringing closed schools, canceled events and mad rushes to the grocery store for restockings. With each pass of the snow plow and salt treatment, more pot holes were seen.
  • Feb. 28 a The Lady Panthers won their first game in Sectional Tournament play. Their second game was postponed due to bad weather.
  • Feb. 28 a The Health Bd managed to get in a quarterly meeting this past week. Minus Don Samples, get well son Don, the great divide continued as they discussed the need to install a costly ($10,000) door lock system. Director Klotzbach was passionate with her view that such additions are not necessary or wanted at her department. With two Board members on her side, so far, Klotz is winning the battle.
  • Feb. 28 a The Communicator made it out the door complete with a dandy red thong complete with an ever so cute cartoon image of our Top Badge. The ace cub reporter remains alive.
  • Feb. 28 a Some things never change. Sunday morning, 9:25am, over the 911 scanner: Clay Ambulance does not have a unit to respond.
  • Feb. 28 a For months this site has been attacked by the internet gremlins resulting in a roving virus coming and going. Five days ago those attacks were stopped (all together, knock on wood) by cleaning out unused "scripts" left over from in the past, services on the site.
  • Feb. 28 a  Even the web cam is back up and running.
  • Feb. 28 a Several people emailed to tell us of blue screens, black screens, and no screens after a compromised page was viewed. We're sorry for all the hassles but when the big boys with all the best high tech gurus get it (Wall Mart for instance, NATO, Dept of Defense), anybody can get ravaged. We think this site is clear once again. Thanks for the patience.
  • Feb. 28 a Not to get too preachy..... Until "cloud" system web searching becomes common, the best defense is a good strong security system, systems, Over on the LINKS page is a link to a free version of Malware antibytes. The free version of AVG also does very well. Free is just. Neither offers real time, as it's happening, protection.
  • Feb. 28 a  May we suggest you spend a few bucks and purchase the full versions of those or some other reputable anti virus, bot, root kit, malware, trogan , software.
  • Feb. 28 a We're down to two days left in our once a year, online begging for bucks fund drive.  So far many have been generous, thank you.
  • Feb. 28 a Up to the minute reporting, obituary data base, timely pictures from County Clay, and interesting observations on life in small town America.... worth anything to ya? It's time to support Clay County West Virginia's only source for such and more.
  • Feb. 28 a Mail your hard earned resources to Delta; 2278 Main Street, Clay WV 25043
  • Feb. 28 a With a new month coming, lots of public meetings coming our way this week plus the Tommy and Tommy Federal trial, keep it tuned to Clayberry , your source for news and views.
  • Feb. 27 a Sick of staying home? Don't forget the Saturday League "A" Team B Ball Tournament today over at CMS. And the big BDA Saturday Night Consignment Auction  at Two Run. Deals start at 6pm. Want to get your curtain climber signed up for Little League, that's today too. See EVENTS page for more.
  • Feb. 27 a  From the email bag: The CCHS Panther Wrestling Team has Danny Suite, 119 weight class wrestling for the State Championship tomorrow (Saturday) evening in Huntington
  • Feb. 27 a Health officials in Vancouver have already provided 100,000 free condoms to the roughly 7,000 ahtletes and officials at the Games. That's about 14 condoms per person. But as of Wednesday, those supplies started running dangerously low.
  • Feb. 27 a One week ago today, people were wearing short pants with even a few motorcycles out and about. We could mention another so many inches of snow and bad side road conditions but it's too darn depressing!
  • Feb. 26 late p Big Knob Hunting Club has  a new pretty cool looking web site now available online.
  • Feb. 26 late p  The Communicator and this web portal create controversy. Not for gossip but for the printing of the words and actions of our elected and appointed leaders. Truth is, many West Virginia counties have similar issues it's just there isn't a media source to broadcast such outrageous transgressions.
  • Feb. 26 late p Seems we've hacked off Traci Duffield Welch who wrote on facebook: Waddell has reached a new low - he is now publishing how many kids get reduced or free lunch! It is bad enough that people have to do w/o b/c of layoffs & no jobs out there, but he has to add to the embarrassment. I HATE THAT NEWSPAPER & I HOPE IT GOES TO HELL WHERE IT BELONGS! YOU DO NOT DELIGHT IN THE PROBLEMS OF OTHERS!
  • Feb. 26 late p  I never heard of a newspaper going to Hell   Wonder if she's going to contribute during our online begging campaign.
  • Feb. 26 late p Also,  from Miss Traci: I just don't get why people buy his paper - he is against everything that people in this county do! He supports  "outsiders". I used to work w/ a woman who's daughter went to school w/ him & she said that he had "mental" problems in school & always wanted to stir up trouble. I don't think half of the crap he prints or puts onine should be ... See Moreallowed. People try to pay their bills but he puts in civils suits - plus he judges people of their crime b/f they are ever brought to trial. HE DOES NOT deserve to be called a reporter & that communicator does not deserve to be called a newspaper
  • FEb 26 late p Got to admit, Waddell must have mental problems after battling the blue bloods of Clayberry for nearly 30 years. Speaking of 39 plus years ago, our little ace cub reporter did lead a walk out when Sonewall Jackson High School officials refused to let males wear short pants to school. Got five days in D Hall for that caper. That nasty pesky wittle rascal!!
  • Feb. 26 late p How about you, enjoy getting a dose of life in Clayberry? Even the  embarrassment of seeing the number of families on the free lunch program buried deep in the bowels of the Dept of Education web site. Some things although public, should never be spoken or written. NOT!
  • Feb. 26 late p Now's the time to support this effort with a donation. How about a nickel a day donation. Mail your hard earned support to Delta, 2278 Main Street  Clay WV 25043
  • Feb. 26 late p Thanks
  • Feb. 26 p  Tonight's Sectional Tournament Game between the Lady Panthers and Sissonville has been rescheduled for Monday March 1st at 7:30pm.
  • Feb. 26 p Music at Big Otter Community Center has been canceled for tonight.
  • Feb. 26 a Clay County is covered with 3 to 6 inches of new white powder. Making about 16 days this term, schools are closed again today. It is truly being one of those winters we'll remember and go down in the history books. 46 county systems are either closed or operating with delays.
  • Feb. 26 a Outside,  8:00 am, that white crap continues. Be careful, check our weather report button to the left. More coming.
  • Feb. 26 early, (actually 11:08 Thursday evening), Clayberry Schools are on a two hour delay. Sleep in Friday morning.
  • Feb. 26 a Ever wonder how many kids are in each school, class, how many on free or reduced lunch, ethnic make up? Here goes
  • Feb. 26 a Big Odor Elem
  • Feb. 26 a Clay Elem
  • Feb. 26 a H E White
  • FEb 26 a Lizemores
  • Feb. 26 a Clay Middle
  • Feb. 26 a Clay High
  • Feb. 26 a Running Windows XP? Every question answered.
  • Feb. 25 late p   Anna Faye (Osborne) Rose, 78, see OBITUARY page
  • Feb. 25 late p First cancellation: Big Otter Community Center will be closed Friday night
  • Feb. 25 late p  It is snowing like crazy as of 9pm. Around 4 inches are on the ground since dark.
  • Feb. 25 late p In addition to the white stuff the wind is raising a ruckus. What did the wind sound like before we had trains?
  • Feb. 25 late p The only real question is, when will Sarah call?
  • Feb. 25 late p  Since switching to  stronger antivurs and malware software we've been having trouble connecting to the Wilson Shamblin Smith Funeral Home site. Turns out they have two web addresses. For those that like to have a direct link in their favorites folder, here's the one we're having luck with, http://www.funeralplan2.com/CarlWilsonFuneralHome/.
  • Feb. 25 p   Hazel Maxine Fitzwater, 82, see OBITUARY page
  • Feb. 25 p  W went to war in Iraq so those folks could eventually enjoy some of the civil rights Americans enjoy. Enjoyed.
  • Feb. 25 p Our war effort (Patriot Act) removed many of our civil rights we said we were fighting for. When Dubbya slinked out of office, with Sen Jay telling us rights would be restored,  and a bright new hope in office, many thought civil rights like the right to know what you're being arrested for, would return.
  • Feb. 25 p Last night the Senate, the Demorat controlled Senate, voted to renew the Patriot Act.
  • Feb. 25 p  In addition to elected officials, there are 4,525 total lobbyists from 1,750 companies that include 207 hospitals, 105 insurance companies and 85 manufacturing companies. Guess who's running the ship of state?
  • Feb. 25 p  Bill Gates has produced some great and not so great products for the PC. Windows 2000, millennium, and Vista come to mind for the later. Guess what operating system is running the Winter Olympics?
  • Feb. 25 p We're trying to keep this web portal virus free and up and running. We think the latest infection has been removed by removing old "scripts" from enhancements no longer being used. We also shut off the web cam and removed the link over to Wilson Shamblin Smith Funeral home for a few days.   As  citizen journalists we work for free. The cost of keeping the site ain't.
  • Feb. 25 p  Once a year we go online and beg for bucks. With the snow coming down and temps around 20 degrees, it's that time again. Heck, isn't being able to email the Mel Gibson look alike and give him both barrels worth a nickel a day?
  • Feb. 25 p For all those that have already contributed, thank you very much. For those that click on the Clayberry site daily / weekly, how about you? First hand info, nice pics, links to interesting independent news stories, and corn ball humor. Not to mention misspelled words and quirks of reason.
  • Feb. 25 p Mail your check to Delta; 2278 Main Street, Clay WV 25043
  • Feb. 25 p Thanks in advance.
  • Feb. 25    7:10 am  Clay County Schools are closed Thursday.
  • Feb. 25  a Looks like we've got about 3 inches of snow on the ground and flurries continue.
  • Feb. 25 a  Big News! Last night the Lady Panthers got out to an early lead and held on for a victory  in Sectional B Ball Tournament action. They play again Friday night when they take on Sissonville at CCHS. Go Lady Panthers!!!!!!!!!!
  • Feb. 24 late p  After a huge clean up and out, this site has made it about 5 hours without spotting anything malicious. We may have wiped out that living in the back room attack gremlin. If anybody sees anything, any flags go up, let us know.
  • Feb. 24 late p The homepage web cam is still down. Coming back soon maybe.
  • Feb. 24 late p The clean up deleted some info like stuff on classifieds and obituaries. We'll try to retrieve what we can.
  • Feb. 24 late Greg Wagner from Maysel did the script and code deletions. He does website design too. Email Greg at dyingtime@Frontiernet.net
  • Feb. 24 late p Around 7:30pm the snow started falling again. Clayberry may get 3 inches tonight and a like amount on Thursday.  All of a sudden nobody cares. This late in the season, we know it's fleeting at best. Kids of course are waiting for the "Sarah" call.
  • Feb. 24 late  The Pledge of Allegiance means nothing when someone is forced to recite it. In one school system a 13 year old was taken from the classroom by Badges for refusing to stand and recite.
  • Feb. 24 late p The Fourth Amendment use to be very strong on keeping Badges out of your home without a warrant in hand. One Federal Appeal Judge says the 4th is all gone.
  • Feb. 24 late p  While we're preparing to struggle thru another snow. Clayberry's John Sizemore lives in the Dominican Republic where short pants are norm.
  • Feb. 24 p After a bunch more deletions, folder changes and password upgrades, we're bringing this site back up. As of 4:10pm, we're debugged. If anybody sees any kind of problem, please email
  • Feb. 24 p Tonight the Lady Panthers take on Poca in Sectional Tournament action over the CCHS.
  • Feb. 24 p  Communicator made to the news stands Tuesday afternoon. It's a keeper for sure and well worth the 70 cents.
  • Feb. 24 De Bug test post 2:57p
  • Feb. 23  Bug alert on this site. Be careful. No updates until we find the little gremlins
  • Feb. 22 p Andrew George Guthrie, 47, see OBITUARY page
  • Feb. 22 p Last year Fola Coal asked for a $13m coal value reduction. After  a discussion with the State Tax Dept., they got a $6m reduction.
  • Feb. 22 p  This year, on just one piece of property the state reduced value from $24.7m down to $14.8m. After a Board of Review a couple weeks back and with a nod from the big boys in Charleston, Larry Darryl and Darryl agreed to reducing value assessments on one tract to just $13.1m.
  • Feb. 22 p Wasn't that generous of our elected folks.
  • Feb. 22 p Three days later Fola laid off 157 workers and reduced hours on the remaining workers.
  • Feb. 22 p Full details in Tuesday's Communicator. Hard to find info and just 70 cents cheap!
  • Feb. 22 p Now back to typing.
  • Feb. 22 p  Arthur McCoy Morton, 90 of Lizemores, see OBITUARY page
  • Feb. 22 a  With a light drizzle coming down, there's a bunch going on this week.
  • Feb. 22 a You wouldn't think that a Board of Health meeting would be exciting but sometimes there are. That group meets tonight at 6pm in their Main Street digs.
  • Feb. 22 a The Lady Panthers did pretty good this season and are in sectional tournament action this week. With the games being held at CCHS, Jason Nichols provided this scoop: This week the Region 4 Section 1 girls basketball tournament will be held at Clay County High School.  In events like this, the WVSSAC sets the admission prices and entry policies.  therefore, school employees will have to pay to enter the game(s) this week.  and, prices will be set by the WVSSAC.  coaches from other teams (with coaches cards) will be allowed free entry.  Ticket prices for game are $6 for adults and $5 for students. Also, the schedule for this weeks tournament are as follow:

    •    Monday, Feb. 22 Game 1:  Herbert Hoover vs. Sherman           7:30pm
       Wednesday, Feb. 24 Game 2:  Hoover/Sherman winner vs. Sissonville      6:00pm
    Game 3:  Poca vs. Clay          8:00pm
       Friday, Feb. 26. Game 4:  Winners of Game 2 and Game 3        7:00pm  .
  • Feb. 22 a The Buffalo Creek Watershed group is trying to reorganize Tuesday night, 6pm. Interested in working on an important project? Call the County Clerk's office for more.
  • Feb. 22 a County Commission meets Wed morning beginning at 10am.
  • Feb. 22 a Enjoy the better weather by taking in a public meeting. It skeers the crap out of our officials when the public shows up and watches their actions.
  • Feb. 21 late p  We're busy typing on the next edition of the Communicator due out Tuesday mid day. Actually, the sun was so nice, we were out goofing off most of today!
  • Feb. 21 p Briefly, from the last seven days....
  • Feb. 21 p Jimmy Kearns put the School Board on the spot Monday might when he bluntly asked each if they were in favor of changing bus routes to provide greater attendance at H E White Elem. Translation: Keeping the school open
  • Feb. 21p With guarded responses, all five said Yes to the changes. Good answer
  • Feb. 21 p School closed and two hour delays marked last week during this winter to remember
  • Feb. 21 p  BUT! friday the weather broke. Sunshine was seen for the first time in ages. Temps went up and the snow pack went down. Saturday and Sunday broke out motorcycles and even some short pants. Now instead of snow, we've got one big muddy mess but we'll take it!
  • Feb. 21 p Observation: The BDA Consignment Auction at Two Run had near record crowds Friday and Saturday nights. Their weekday restaurant is doing likewise. Proof, if you build it, they will come
  • Feb. 21 p Other than the weather, the biggy news came Friday when Fola told 157 workers, you ain't workers no more. Those that remain will be working shorter shifts. That news came just three days after Fola was given a huge tax reduction on their Clayberry holdings during the CCC Bd of Review.
  • Feb. 21 p This time Big Coal told the truth, the economy is so bad they can't sell what they've got on the ground. This time environmentalists, Robert C , Jay and anybody else that speaks the truth,  were spared a media thrashing.
  • Feb. 21 p Each February we do an online begging drive to support this humble little operation. We started that effort Wed. Can you lend a hand? Where else can you get the scoop on the Great Nation of Clay? Where else can you get the info on a daily basis?
  • Feb. 21 p We know the economy is tight and few have much extra jingle but, isn't it worth say a nickel a day to see what's going on? Send your donation to Delta; 2278 Main St; Clay WV 25043
  • Feb. 21 p Thanks
  • Feb. 19 p Maxwell Mullins, see OBITUARY page
  • Feb. 19 p Back in Dec Fola Coal put up the smoke screen citing those D### tree huggers as the reason 500 employees would have to be laid off Feb. 7th. After a huge media campaign to support the good corporate neighbor, Judge Chuck Chambers backed off and allowed the valley fill permit to stand for another 12 months.
  • Feb. 19 p All along, many new the truth and tree huggers had nothing to do with it....
  • Feb. 19 p This evening Fola announced an immediate layoff of 157 employees. Those remaining on the job will be on a reduced work schedule.
  • Feb. 19 p Big Coal. It's always the bottom line that counts.
  • Feb. 19 p Those are the same corporate neighbors that our County Commission gave another gazillion dollar tax break to during last week's Board of Review tax dodging day.
  • Feb. 19 a Vina Jackson, 86, of Wallback, see OBITUARY page
  • Feb. 19 a  Tonight the Lady Panthers play their last home game of the season. With a pretty good season under the belt, they're heading off to tournament action next week. Go Lady Panthers!
  • Feb. 19 a  Great music at Big Otter Community Center tonight
  • Feb. 19 a  Check out the EVENTS page for more
  • Feb. 19 a  Finally a morning with a two hour delay. There's even mention of a little sunshine today. Great!
  • Feb. 19 a  8 years back our Business Development Authority got all bent out of shape when the Communicator provided coverage of the group's effort to attract a metal culvert maker to the Filcon Industrial site. So torqued up was the BDA Chair that he invited the ace cub reporter out back for something more than an ice cream social. So torqued up, at their next meeting, they formed a super secret committee that would meet behind closed doors to handle any future misnegotiations.
  • Feb. 19 a The BDA was grinning ear to ear when they heard the guy's plan to employ dozen's and set up a permanent home for his up and coming operation.
  • Feb. 19 a The company (Amcor) ended up over in the Amma Industrial Park along I-79 in 2003.
  • Feb. 19 a Amcor has been out of business for some time with its holdings being sold off to the highest bidder today.
  • Feb. 19 a Whether it's nice pictures or a behind the scenes look at Clayberry, this site and the Communicator, are the only sources for such info. The three owners are paid zero, ninguno, nothing, for their daily efforts.  Feb. is the one time of year when we come to you begging for $$$.
  • Feb. 19 a To keep this source of information up and running, send your check to Delta; 2278 Main St; Clay WV 25043
  • Feb. 19 a thank you
  • Feb. 18 p Tonight's tournament action at Clay Middle has been canceled.
  • Feb. 18 p  Fred Sampson's Roundtable Discussion show on 101.7FM has been canceled for tonight.
  • Feb. 18p After days of snow and nasty, one week ago today God provided a boost for the ace cub reporter when he deposited that pink Victoria Secrets envelope in the wrong mail box. My how such a little thing can perk one up!
  • Feb. 18 a   70 kids behind ya yelling and screaming is tough. Icy road conditions make it even tougher for bus drivers. Yesterday a bus slid in a ditch in the H E White Elem neighborhood.  A bus and a car smashed together at Clay Elem. No injuries other than sheet metal.
  • Feb. 18 a How icy was it this morning? Over in Roane County, loaded buses stopped in the road because the black ice was so bad.
  • Feb. 18 a  Over at the Middle School, there's a tournament tonight. Get out of the house and have some fun.
  • Feb. 18a Each Feb. this site does an online begging campaign to keep this web portal up and hobbling along. We go at it for about 10 days or so. NAG Nag Nag.     Pictures, notices, boil water orders, up to the minute info, and virus attacks, that's clayberry.org.
  • Feb. 18 a We're suppose to be  a for profit company but the truth is, in this humble little county, we can only keep the web doors open with the help of advertisers and you. Yesterday 2250 clickers views this site. If each one of those donated $1 , we could finish off this drive today.
  • Feb. 18 a How about it? Delta; 2278 Main St; Clay WV 25043
  • Feb. 17 late p  With roads in poor condition, around 11pm, Sarah made it official, Clay County Schools will be operating on a two hour delay Thursday morning.
  • Feb. 17 p  We're making some changes in an attempt to stave off those pesky internet gremlins. Notice the web cam has been shut down as a starter.
  • Feb. 17 p Big snow flakes beginning Wed afternoon. Clayberry has an additional 6 inches of snow as of 9pm Wed. Roads are snow covered and slick as goose snot.
  • Feb. 17 p Deadline for The Communicator is Friday afternoon.
  • Feb. 17 a Frontier's internet long distance and internet service went down yesterday afternoon and stayed that way for most of the evening. Will have updates this morning.
  • Feb. 17 a For those interested, winter continues with two hour school delays, slick roads, and more snow coming.
  • Feb. 16 p The Pentagon holds Board meetings at various schools during the year. Last night it was H E White Elem's turn to host the public meeting. After sappy sweet intros and accolades of such a wonderful facility, the elected folks went thru the normal blah blah blah.
  • Feb. 16 p  They got down to business when Fran Naylor and Jimmy Kearns led the charge for keeping the school open. Open?  Locals know the plan has always been to shut the rural school down as soon as possible with the return of split classes being the first step.
  • Feb. 16 p  Fran Naylor provided the set up. Her speech was to change bus route boundaries to capture more students for the school while reducing bus times for the riders. Boardster Beth Cercone thanked Naylor for the input noting that sometimes the Board isn't aware of such possibilities.
  • Feb. 16 p The Board can make such changes if they want to. When Big Odor Elem was planned, there wasn't enough students to justify the place so Poof, kids from Widen etc were rerouted to the new facility.
  • Feb. 16 p With the set up, solution spoken by Ms Naylor, Jimmy Kearns set the hook. He asked each Boardster if they would support changing the routes (IE: keeping HE White open). With microphone in hand, each were on the spot and with over 50 voters in the peanut gallery, each had to respond. Each did.
  • Feb. 16 p Boardster Gene King, unequivocally, Yes. Ric Tanner: he's supportive of any logical solution;  RB commented that this district set the record for supporting the Excess Levy and thus, he would be supportive with "No Problem"; Jim Dawson was all supportive of the school and increasing attendance by attracting Kanawha County kids; and finally, Beth Cercone: after saying the math would have to be worked out and if it works out, she was in favor.
  • Feb. 16 p  With around 250 Excess Levy votes in the neighborhood (next vote on the Levy comes Jan 2011), the School Board has no choice but keep the natives in line with Yelp, we love HE White Elem!!
  • Feb. 16 p One of the biggest headaches for the Pentagon is keeping that little school open. They want nothing short of  the place shut down.
  • Feb. 16 a   54 county school systems closed for the day including Clayberry.
  • Feb. 16 a Overcast and big snowflakes coming down by 8:30 this morning.
  • Feb. 16 a Bank spending on lobbying increased 12% to nearly $30,000,000.00 last year. Wonder where those $$$ came from?
  • Feb. 16 early am  Two hour delay for Clay County School System Tuesday
  • Feb. 16 a Yippity Do Dah !
  • Feb. 15 p A big blast of wind, ice and snow pelted Clayberry earlier this afternoon. Didn't last more than a few minutes but it was real.
  • Feb. 15 p The last day to seek a property tax reduction before the Board of Review is Tuesday at 2pm. Don't complain if you don't speak up now.
  • Feb. 15 a  Early this morning, there was no hint of snow in the air. By 8 am the white stuff began. By  9 am  great big snow flakes were coming down in torrents. Winter continues.
  • Feb. 14 p Lets see now, in between the snow, ice, sleet, rain, we had ice snow sleet rain and cold temps. ....
  • Feb. 14 p Just as in 1984, Big Brother is watching your every move and the Justice Dept. says they don't need any kind of warrant to monitor you where ever you walk, stand, sleep, or even take a dump.
  • Feb. 14 p  Back decades ago Prez Regan lied to use when he reported Star Wars technology could then laser blast a rocket from the sky. Now that laser technology is real.
  • Feb. 14 p And believe it or not, there's still a vicious war going on taking American lives without any good reason.
  • Feb. 14 p Here at home we picked up kernels of new or misplaced information.
  • Feb. 14 p New: According to the Assessor, if you list your property for sale, that sky high list price can be used to increase your tax burden. Assessor Teresa Lane said it twice this week then got miffed for us reporting the information
  • Feb. 14 p  New: Clayonians a plenty own a small percentage of a parcel of a piece of underground coal, oil or gas. The heirship holdings can amount to near nothing. During Minerals Day last Thursday, Assessor Lane was asked: If  one of those percentage owners gets a tax break, do the others owners get a similar break. The answer was No.
  • Feb. 14 p What that amounts to is, if 50 people own 10 acres of coal and want to protest high taxes, all 50 need to come before the County Commission each February and ask for reductions.
  • Feb. 14 p During Minerals Day, we found out a couple more things. One: The State Tax Dept makes alot of mistakes and two, if you appeal those tax increases, they often back off and reduce taxes.
  • Feb. 14 p This site made it another week without a cyber attack.
  • Feb. 14 p Bad weather kept schools closed for much of the week.
  • Feb. 14 p The Kitchen restaurant closed their doors.
  • Feb. 14 p With all the snow and yuck, we needed something to perk things up. We got it Thursday mid day when the USPO stuck a pink Victoria's Secret monthly statement envelope addressed to the Sheriff in the wrong mailbox. Of course we gave it back but not before taking a picture and posting that image along with this question: Wonder what color thong the Top Badge wears?
  • Feb. 14 p The county went wild with giggles, laughter, and offered mean spirited questions. It was great until a little before 5pm Thursday
  • Feb. 14 p  In full uniform, the Sheriff roared to the Communicator office at 4:59. After busting thru the door and knocking stuff array, an absolutely out of control Poopster was ready to kick one lovable huggable ace cub reporter's arss. Had there not been a witness present, he would have done just that. He did promise threatening future retributions for the Mel Gibson Look Alike.
  • Feb. 14 p Badges don't like witnesses.
  • Feb. 14 p  We elected the guy to office a few years back to rid the county of druggies.  We were so desperate for relief from drug crimes, we knew we were electing the guy often referred to as Deputy Death, but did so anyway. We saw that out of control, temper tantrum laced side Thursday afternoon.
  • Feb. 14 p The ribbing hasn't stopped. During the recent ball games, all his close buddies raised the issue and got the Sheriff even madder. The coffeehouse crowd continues with comments until the Top Badge comes past. Most likely, that makes him even more miffed.
  • Feb. 14 p  Friday night was Homecoming at CCHS. The  place was packed from wall to wall and the crowd stayed the entire evening. Saturday night the Panthers lost their B Ball contest by one point in the last seconds of the home game.
  • Feb. 14 p  Braving the threat of snow and cold temps, 101.7 FM packed the Senior Center Saturday night for their annual Valentine's Dance. It was a blast!
  • Feb. 14 p Thru out the county, Moms and GranMoms were escorted to local eateries for a meal out and time with the family. It was Valentines Day.
  • Feb. 14 p With the threat of another winter storm coming our way Sunday, kids, parents, and teachers alike asked just one question: Will we get a snow day Monday?
  • Feb. 14 p Monday is a holiday with schools scheduled to be closed. Due to the number of snow days this year, the Pentagon took away the holiday and turned it back to class time.
  • Feb. 14 p Weather may change those plans right back to a day away from the books.
  • Feb. 14 p Clickers, throw another log on the fire, you may need it.
  • Feb. 14 p   Andy Subrick, 79,  see OBITUARY page
  • Feb. 14 p Weekend wrap up coming late this evening and Yes, we'll get back to ole pink thong then.
  • Feb. 14 p Happy Valentine Day wishes to one and all. Take the sweetie out while we've got some sunshine and blue skies.
  • Feb. 13 a Happy Birthday Brianna and Jason Brown.
  • Feb. 13 a With more snow flurries coming down, it's time to get out of the house.
  • Feb. 13 a Put on your dancing shoes and head over to the Senior Center tonight at 7 for a Sweetheart Dance hosted by the radio station. No cover charge and lots of good music, raffles, and The Tiffinator.
  • Feb. 13 a  CCHS Basketball action continues tonight at 7:30. The home team needs all the support it can get!
  • Feb13 a  Want to make some $$$? Clean out your closet and take the junk over to the BDA Saturday night Auction which begins at 6pm. Take your wares over early  and you may leave with a pocket full of jingle.
  • Feb. 13 a Leaders tell us, get a good education and you will get a a good job. Good advice except if you live in W Va.
  • Feb. 13 a  Cabinet Secretary Kelley Goes just released The Best Career Opportunities in WV thru 2016 report. The new findings were provided the Legislature near the beginning of Feb.
  • Feb. 13 a From that report, the top 10 job growth areas are in order of growth: Home Health Aides, Security Guards, Fast Food workers, Personal Home Care Aides, Retail Clerks,  Bill Collectors, Social Service Assistants, Pharmacy Technicians, Dental Assistants, and Medical Assistants.
  • Feb. 13 a When you tell your kids, get an edumacation and you can get a job close to home, those are the jobs your kids are looking at.
  • Feb. 13 a  Prepared by the best minds Broadway Joe could come up with and with the biggest load of massaging the finished product, that's the best spin they could come up with. How sad.
  • Feb. 13  Also, 75% of our job openings from now thru 2016 will be to fill existing positions.
  • Feb. 13 a Goes from the Commerce Dept. predicts  a 24,000 job growth between 2006 and 2016, 10 years. That's only 2400 new jobs in the entire state each year. Of those new jobs, slightly more than half will require any kind of advanced education.
  • Feb. 13 a Get that college degree and pack up, that's your future in West Virginia.
  • Feb. 13 a Did you know, all the manufacturing jobs (employees) in the entire state could sit in the WVU's football stadium and there would still be empty seats.
  • Feb. 13 a We'll get back to the Sheriff soon.
  • Feb. 13 a Life's short, have some fun this weekend.
  • Feb. 12 a Happy TGIF one and all. Tonight the Panthers play in home court action as well as live music at Big Otter Community Center. It's also Homecoming Night at the game.
  • Feb. 12 a Each year 101.7 FM hosts a Valentine Dance open to the public and without a cover charge. That happens tomorrow night at the Senior Center, Two Run.
  • Feb. 12 a Check out the EVENTS page for all the weekend happenings.
  • Feb. 12 a NExt week we start our online begging drive to keep this online portal afloat. In addition to you the clickers, advertiser revenue helps a bunch. Thanks and next week the begging begins.
  • Feb. 12 a Welcome incumbent David Walker to Clayberry as an advertiser. Check out his election messages behind the home page button.
  • Feb. 13 a What was a hum drum week of snow and yuck turned newsworthy when our Top Badge went out of control Thursday afternoon. Read yesterday's pm post for the story and check out the home page picture that got it all started.
  • Feb. 13 a  In response to the Sheriff's actions, we received emails on the topic. Here's one: Thanks, Andy.  That just made this snow-pocalypse week all worth it! What's next for our top badge.....a shopping spree at Bed, Bath, and Behind?
  • Feb. 13 a  Here's another: SORRY TO INFORM YOU BUT THE SHERIFF CAN'T FIT IN ANY OF VICTORIA'S CLOTHES HE NEEDS TO GO ON A WATER DIET FIRST
  • Feb. 13 a And: YOU ARE A GENIUS You've now discovered why nothing gets done in clay co. when crimes happen. all of the police officers are either comparing underwear in the sheriffs office or cup sizes.
  • Feb. 13 a  Someone asked why he didn't go ahead and beat the stuffins out of the ole Mel Gibson look alike. Answer: Badges learned long ago to do their dirty work without witnesses around. Yesterday afternoon when the Sheriff went crazy, there was another person in the office.
  • Feb. 13 a  Here's the best part clickers, think of all his buddies calling him and asking, what's the best color thong to go with my uniform? And, whenever he walks down the hall, street, where ever, every time people stop talking, our wittle Badge will be thinking they're talking about him.
  • Feb. 13 a Yesterday was Minerals Day before the County Commission. That's the time when mineral owners can contest taxes assessed on their underground coal, oil, gas, salt, and gold holdings. Many did and reported taxes doubling or tripling as well as year after year goof ups from the State folks. Those that came yesterday displayed maps, core drillings, and other records disproving state tax dept findings and tax increases.
  • Feb. 13 a Although the Commission won't make their official decisions public until next Tuesday Feb. 16th, it appears all that protested tax increases will be rewarded with a decrease.
  • Feb. 16 a  Before the Sheriff's temper tantrum Thursday, we were giving Assessor Teresa Lane some online grief. Let's get back to that...
  • Feb. 16 a A lot of those coal holdings are broke up into heirship where the protester may own just 1/3 of 1/8 of 1/10 % of the reserve. When the County Commission asked: If the tax is reduced on this person, do all the other owners (not here protesting) get their taxes reduced? From Assessor Lane, the answer: No.
  • Feb. 16 a She added that she follows CCC directives and she doesn't have any way of knowing all the property owners since they could be on different "numbers".
  • Feb. 16 a Interesting, from then on, each time the CCC heard from a protester, they asked the Assessor to include all other mineral owners in the reductions.  She nodded in agreement.
  • Feb. 16 a  One other observation from yesterday. Tax protesters didn't have so much interest in assessments or appraisals. They wanted to know the bottom line, how much will their tax burden end up being. Often the CCC would turn to Ms Lane and ask that very question.
  • Feb. 16 a Although she had all the tax print outs with  her and a calculator in hand, she didn't do any cyphering. She didn't provide any figures.
  • Feb. 16 a Instead she waited for others to provide the answer.
  • Feb. 16 a One big Hmmmmmmmmmmmm....
  • Feb. 16 a  Lets see now, the Sheriff is all torqued up and the Assessor is even more miffed. It's been a good week so far!
  • Feb. 11 p  Clay County Schools two hour delay called for Friday. Stay up late and then sleep in kids and teachers.
  • Feb. 11 p Around lunch time we posted a pink Victoria Secret's envelope addressed to the Top Badge on our home page. The monthly statement was stuck in the wrong post office box by mistake. Before we returned the thing to the USPO, we snapped the picture.
  • Feb. 11 p  At 4:59 Top Badge came a storming thru the Communicator's front door slinging it open so hard, it knocked aside a nearby wooden rack.
  • Feb. 11 p With about a  45 second burst of potty mouth, the irate Badge called the ace cub reporter about every potty mouth name in the book. "YOU DIRTY ROTTEN SON OF A  B****" ....  You CROSSED THE LINE!!!!!!!!!!!... I PROBABLY SHOULD TAKE YOU OUT OF HERE AND KICK YOUR A***!!!!... YOU BETTER WATCH OUT!!! .. YOU'VE HAD IT NOW!!!! ...
  • Feb. 11 p Me thinks our wittle Sheriff was a bit miffed.
  • Feb. 11 p Each Kick you a*** and crossed the line this time was shouted at least twice.
  • Feb. 11 p In the same heated breath came  other threats that  taking a picture of an envelope stuffed in the wrong PO box is ILLEGAL.
  • Feb. 11 p  Lots more said and we'll get to that ASAP but while in uniform with his arms flaying, finger pointing, jowls taunt, the Sheriff was asked twice, "Anything else?"
  • Feb. 11 p Ahhh that didn't make him any happier clickers.
  • Feb. 11 p  As he stormed back thru the door he slammed it so hard, a piece of the window blind broke and fell to the ground.
  • Feb. 11 p Not sure where we crossed the line. Maybe it was questioning whether he wears his pasties under or over his bullet proof vest. Not sure.
  • Feb. 11 p  It's common to say someone's  shorts are all bunched up. In this case, our Top Badge's thong may be all wadded up!
  • Feb. 11 a Weathercasters missed the mark last night when they predicted a ton of snow hitting Clayberry. The news was enough to clear the bread off many grocery store shelves but we didn't get the big dump. Good
  • Feb. 11 a  Most roads remain snow covered and slick as snot. Be careful out there.
  • Feb. 11 a The B Ball schedule called for a home LKC game at CCHS tonight. If they hold that contest it has been moved from the home court.
  • Feb. 11 a Been meaning to mention, our new Town Badge (paid for with grant $$$) went to work Monday morning early. Been on day shift so far.
  • Feb. 11 a  Campaigning for office is different in this office. Instead of big TV ads, the norm is to make phone calls, knock on doors, put up a few posters, and leave campaign cards laying at area convenience stores. Who's winning so far? Winning might be too strong a word bu Jim Paxton has the first calling cards laid out.
  • Feb. 11 a It's never easy getting a straight answer from a politician. Yesterday our local Assessor, Teresa Lane, refused ANY comment on non profits and do they have to pay property taxes.
  • Feb. 11 a In yesterday's afternoon post, we called her Wittle Miss Teresa and mentioned her being "miffed".
  •  Feb. 11 a To provide a straight answer , we posted that section of the code over on the ADVISORY page for your edification. Thanks KB for the research.
  • Feb. 11 a Without aid of the Assessor's office, we figure since non profit CAEZ is allowing the for- profit BC&G RR to use the campground and lodge for money raising purposes, the state is allowed to collect property taxes on it.
  • Feb. 11 a There.That wasn't too hard was it Teresa. Didn't hurt a bit!
  • Feb. 10  9:50 pm  Clay County Schools will be closed Thursday. Sleep in young uns
  • Feb. 10p Looking for work? See the JOBS page now
  • Feb. 10 p  Tammy Rose provides environmental articles and updates at The Communicator. We didn't know it, but she has  written a lot more than we knew about.
  • Feb. 10 p Snow sometimes blowing sideways and back up, continues to fall today, Main roads are driveable with many side roads snow covered and slick slick slick.
  • Feb. 10 p If you check over on the Charleston Federal Building web docket, comes this: Daily Calendar for Friday, February 12, 2010 9:30 AM 2:09-cr-223 Judge Johnston  USA v. Tommy Edward Young Sr.& Jr.-Pretrial Motions Hearing District Courtroom B - Room 6600 Charleston
  • Feb. 10 p Feb. is the month the CCC listens to appeals for lowering tax rates. Few take the time to do so. Scheduled today was non profit CAEZ Director Connie Lupardus. According to the CCC, Big Lup was to be there to protest high values assessed  on the recently put under roof Lodge building over at the Campground.
  • Feb. 10 p During CAEZ meetings the question came: Why is a non profit even being taxed?
  • Feb. 10 p As the public meeting was ending today around 1:20, the ace cub reporter asked Assessor Teresa Lane: Why is a non profit being taxed?
  • Feb. 10 p Her response, " I have no comment for you."
  • Feb. 10 p  Me thinks little Miss Teresa is miffed.
  • Feb. 10 p Best of get well wishes extended to Connie Lupardus  for  a speedy recovery.
  • Feb. 10 a  Roger D. Hartwell, 63, see OBITUARY page
  • Feb. 10 a At 7:30 this morning the air was different. It wasn't snow coming down nor sleet. Instead there was a fine ice dust in the air. Be careful out there today.
  • Feb. 10 a County Commission meets this morning at 10 am for a regular session. Not sure if Big Otter Fire Dept. will be discussed in public but it should be.
  • Feb. 10 a at 1pm the CCC convenes again to hear property tax rate disputes like non profit CAEZ's complaint that they are being taxed for a lodge building they own over at the JG Bradley Campground three years ago. Currently, for profit BC&G RR Co Op operates the facility although the use agreement for the building and land has been severed.
  • Feb. 10 a One of the advantages to being a non profit is not being taxed.
  • Feb. 10 a Speaking of non profits, there are problems up north with the Big Otter Fire Dept.
  • Feb. 10 a During their Monday night Board meeting serious issues on equipment being in disrepair were made public. How serious? Fire Chief Marna Killingsworth was suspended from duty for 90 days after a lengthy secret time.
  • Feb. 10 a Other resigned their volunteer positions in support of Marna.
  • Feb. 10 a  Knowing in advance how hot button the meeting could be, 2 Badges were in attendance during the meeting.
  • Feb. 10 a Fire Departments receive ratings from a  state insurance group. During their recent inspection, things were so bad, the State Fire Marshall's office was called. The Fire Marshall has regularity authority for such volunteer groups and can shut them down when things get too bad.
  • Feb. 10 a About a month ago the County Commission considered calling in the Fire Marshall for an inspection code named an "evaluation".  Instead they agreed to give a newly elected Board of Directors a couple of weeks to solve a "problem". Me thinks the problem ain't solved yet.
  • Feb. 10 a The BOFD has been a troubled agency for several years. Old and new factions struggle with power sharing duties, keeping enough volunteers on the job, equipment maintenance, and fund raising needs. Personality clashes are common and often affect decisions made. During some meetings, name calling, finger pointing, and near fights raised many an eyebrow.
  • Feb. 10 a Volunteer groups often go thru such crunch times. Sometimes the power shifts work out better for the agency. For the sake of the residents in that service area, hope that's the case this time.
  • Feb. 10 5:15am  Clayberry schools are closed for the day
  • Feb. 10 a It's about 13 degrees and there's about a half inch of snow on the ground. Not sure what Sarah saw this morning, maybe ice, but all the wittle ankle biters are oh so happy.
  • Feb. 10 a About 47 other county school systems are closed or operating on a two hour delay today.
  • Feb. 9 late p  Holly Ray Chapman, 59, see OBITUARY page
  • Feb. 9 p  No  CCHS B Ball game tonight. Cancelled due to the weather.
  • Feb. 9 p  At 4:30 it looks like the all day rain is changing to sleet. be careful out there
  • Feb. 9 late am Sheila Thorne was named the Person of the Year just last month. We're already getting emails to nominate Sarah the school messenger for the next award.
  • feb 9 late am  Needless to say, Sarah called off school this morning around 7:20 am
  • feb 9 late am The Panthers are suppose to play Sherman (from Boone County) tonight at CCHS. No word yet on whether the game is still on.
  • feb 9 late am   As of 10 am A light slushy rain is drizzeling over Clayberry. Me thinks the bad stuff may be coming tonight and tomorrow.
  • Feb. 9 5 am  Clay County School's are on a two hour delay. Salt shakers are out working the roads. Other county system's have closed for the day. Early morning scanner traffic mentioned ice on the roads.
  • Feb. 9 5 am  Be careful out there one and all.
  • Feb. 8 p  Glen Sutton found a beagle. Yours? Call him 304 587 4600
  • Feb. 8 p You advertise your house for sale and list a price. Can that listed price raise the assessed value of your home? The answer is Yes according to Assessor Teresa Lane. Read all about it in Tuesday's Communicator.
  • Feb. 8 p  Still typing on the Communicator. Goin to be a good one. No updates until it gets to bed.
  • Feb. 8 a We sat by the phone last night waiting for Sarah the School Voice to call and cancel or delay school for today. She didn't call.  We're mad at Sarah big time. Sarah is a poop butt!
  • Feb. 8 a  About the only cancellation we have as of 8am today, tonight's Lady Panther B Ball game has been canceled.
  • Feb. 7 p We're busy typing on the Communicator, no weekend wrap up .. just a couple notes
  • Feb. 7 p  The big snow that we was suppose to hit us this weekend, turned out the thang went all around us. Maybe 6 inches of snow on the ground with the roads mostly cleared up by Saturday afternoon. Power outages reported in the Northern end of the county. Now the cold cold temps are heading our way. Brrr!
  • Feb. 7 p Kids (and teachers) are waiting beside the phone for a "Sarah" call. None so far, 5:02pm
  • Feb. 7 p If the weather cooperates, we've got a full week coming our way.
  • Feb. 7 p Want to try getting your property taxes reduced, next chance is  Monday morning, 10 am, in the County Commission room.
  • Feb. 7 p With many "problems" facing them, including having very few firefighters at the ready, Big Otter Fire Dept. meets Mondya evening at 7pm
  • Feb. 7 p Lady Panthers have a home game Monday night, 7:30pm. Boys play Tuesday evening at home.
  • Feb. 7 p Solid Waste Authority meets Wed, 5:30pm, upstairs in the old King Jewlery Store building on Main.
  • Feb. 7 p That nasty ole Hawiian President ain't done nothing! Well, except for making 25 tax cuts since coming to office and that's without ANY Republicrat help.
  • Feb. 7 p Obama de Bama has been criticizing the Republicrats for talking out both sides of their mouths. Like, they ALL votes agains the Recovery Act which dropped billions into local projects but then showed up for the ribbon cutting ceremonies and took credit while the cameras were rolling.
  • Feb. 7 p  Her's a Badge that responded to a snowball battle by pulling his weapon. Dumb Dumb Dumb.
  • Feb. 7 p The real football championship was held yesterday Take a look at the team names. Nice.
  • Feb. 7 p Here's one of the sites chocked full of pics. Here's a second for reaaal football images.
  • Feb. 6 a At 9 am we've got about 6 inches of snow on the ground and the crap is still coming down. A wet, perfect for making hard as a rock, snow balls.
  • Feb. 6 a In West Virginia 42,000 are without electric service. Here in Clayberry for most, the power is blinking off and on . We'll post as long as the juice flows.
  • Feb. 6 a Maybe its true what the electric Gods say, it's cheaper to let a big snow clear the right of ways. With the huge Dec 19th storm doing most of the work, seems to be working.
  • Feb. 6 a  Many roads around the state are closed. Most all activities are canceled.
  • Feb. 5 p  Margaret “Maggie” King, 20, of Clay, see OBITUARY page
  • Feb. 5 p With everyone huddled in their homes, as of 7:30pm, lots of rain but no sleet of snow to report in Clayberry.
  • feb 5 p Tonight's CCHS Panther canceled B Ball game has been rescheduled for Tuesday February 16th.   Saturday night's Lady Panther has been rescheduled for Monday night February 8th. Thanks JH for the info
  • Feb. 5 p Noon  Clay County Schools are closing two  hours early. The little darlings are heading your way.
  • Feb. 5p Tonight's Panther B Ball game has been canceled.
  • Feb. 5 p By the way... Two hour delays of early outs, that's still counted as a full day of instruction. Thought you'd like to know!
  • Feb. 5 a With only one win under our belts, Roane County comes to CCHS tonight for home court B Ball Panther action
  • Feb. 5 p Girls Basketball game Away against Poca has been canceled for tonight. 2-5-10
  • Feb. 5 p Girls Basketball game Home against South Harrison has been canceled for tomorrow  2-6-10  and  rescheduled for Monday 2-8-10 to be played at Clay County High School. Home game
  • Feb. 5 p LKC Wrestling Tournament  Match for Sat 2-6-10 has been canceled - This match has been rescheduled for Wednesday at Roane County
  • Feb. 5 p As of Noon, Clayberry is experiencing rain with a temp of 37 degrees. No ice sleet snow yet. Keep your fingers crossed clickers.
  • Feb. 5 a  Check the EVENTS page for Big Otter fun things to do
  • Feb. 5 a  With nasty ice and snow predicted... we'll post until the Leonard Lines go down.
  • Feb. 5 a Batten down the hatches, the Alberta Clipper may be heading our way this time.
  • Feb. 5 a  Last night the BDA didn't have a formal meeting due to lack of quarrel and no agenda posted. They did have a lively discussion which included...
  • Feb. 5 a  Making plans to walk arm in arm with Big Coal at planned rallies to save mountain top mining practices in the state. When they were told the days of MTR are already over, no one accepted reality.
  • Feb. 5 a They also talked about improving the interior at the old State Road garage at Two Run which houses the Saturday night consignment auction business. Support a local business? Other than Big Coal, it'll be a first for the BDA.
  • Feb. 5 a  One interesting tidbit from that gathering. The Adkins, the folks that operate the auction, have opened a weekday lunch diner in the same business. Owner Kim Adkins recently overhead Mayor Jack Brown bad mouthing the place as being housed in a dirty, condemned building and he'd work to get it closed down. Kim overhead the conversation and straightened out the Mayor in short order.
  • Feb. 5 a It's tough enough to operate a business in this county without elected officials working or at least talking about working against ya.     One big atta girl to Kim Adkins.
  • Feb. 5 a We think the puter bug has been gone from this site for  36 hours. Anyone seeing anything, please email
  • Feb. 5 a Next week we start our annual begging for dollars campaign and we need each one of you! Be safe!
  • Feb. 4 a The Clay County Business Development Authority is suppose to meet the first Thursday of each month, 5 pm, CCC room. Haven't noticed a posted agenda as required by law but what's new?
  • Feb. 4 a Tonight the Panthers take on Calhoun in home court action. For those unwilling to get out on the roads or live too far away, 101.7FM will be sportscasting the event.
  • Feb. 4 a Speaking of roads, be sure to check out the weather report for Friday and the weekend. Looks like a 50 50 chance at ice, sleet, and some of the white stuff. Be safe.
  • Feb. 4 a Deadline for the next Communicator is Saturday at noon. Got anything on your mind? Maybe the shape of the economy, burning stuff you're not suppose to burn, putting convicts into asbestos laden buildings, removing trash cans in downtown Clay, the upcoming election... Email your chatters ASAP
  • Feb. 4 a   Web site hacking has become a real sport for some. This site has received its fair share of attacks mostly from malicious Iframe injections. Thanks for all that have emailed with info on the pages infected.
  • Feb. 4 a  Stepped up security was added last fall. Last  night we cleaned the  site once again and turned off php scripts after spotting a "script" that didn't look too healthy. Until last night we didn't even know what a php was!
  • Feb. 4 a We're in good company. A few months back Wal Mart's site was hit with the same  brand of Iframe assault. We're vigilant but those bad guys finally made it to Clayberry. We're always behind the rest of the world!
  • Feb. 4 a  When we originally set up the site, we started with  a "front page" program for layout. Turns out that old outdated stuff is also a vulnerability. As we go thru and delete old files, some things can goof up. Take for instance the homepage button for instant weather reports. The time and temp is now screwy but the link still works. Will try and correct that problem ASAP.
  • Feb. 3 p  Right now the weather report is just mentioning the S word and the county is going bonkers with fear. Settle down clickers, we've lived thru 14 inches dropped in five hours or less. What's an inch to fear?
  • Feb. 3 p  Feb. is the only month of the year that you can seek a reduction in your property taxes from the County Commission. Yesterday was one of those times when you could make the request. No one did. Next opportunity Thursday. Call the County Clerk's office for details.
  • Feb. 3 p  Up at the Pentagon, the School Board met Monday night where Gene King got a jab in with his request and success at reducing mileage rates for those that travel around on the taxpayer dime. Much of the meeting was spent behind closed doors, twice they went secret Monday evening. The norm is to discuss anything controversial during those away from the public times so as to present a united front back where the taxpayers can see em.
  • Feb. 3 p  Clay Town Council met Tuesday evening. There was no mention on when the new Badge comes to work.
  • Feb. 3 p  A dozen years ago the Town built a new state of the art log factory that was designed to vacuum those offending poop clusters at 500 mph to the new facility at Pisgah. Nice idea but there are some real problems.
  • Feb. 3 p  In the Two Run area of the Town, between Go Mart and the Bank of Gassaway, big gobs of grease plugs up the system and back up. Even with all restaurants using grease traps to catch the cholesterol, still log jams. How bad? So bad, according to the operator, Go Mart is considering suing the Town.
  • Feb. 3 p Mid day Wed, state regulators along with local smoke Czar Jay Carper and town reps were seen eyeballing Go Mart's grease trap.
  • Feb. 3 p By the way.... Go Mart has their grease trap pumped out on a regular basis and has the documents to prove it. If you ask the town for  a paper trail, bet you won't find it.
  • Feb. 3 p  And finally on those missing from action curb side trash cans.... A few are back in service but according to the Mayor, the balance are in too bad a shape to set back out for use.
  • Feb. 2 2010 Ruth Elizabeth Simmons, 88, of Clay, see OBITUARY page
  • Feb. 2 2010  Lenore S. Hardman, 80, see OBITUARY page
  • Feb. 1 later p  Archie Graham Schoonover, 94, see OBITUARY page
  • Feb. 1 late p  Carl Wayne Hudnall Sr., 51 of Indore, see OBITUARY page
  • Feb. 1 late p Mail in filings for office are still coming in. Attorney Barbara Schamberger has filed for a House of Delegates run in the 29th.
  • Feb. 1 p  The Sunday wrap up post has now been corrected. Fingers weren't working right!
  • Feb. 1 a We have daylight almost til 6pm. The days are finally getting longer. Thank goodness!
  • Feb. 1 a  We've got a full week coming our way. Tonight the School Bd meets at the Standard Bryant Annex on Gump Street. Nothing too exciting on the agenda but did note the addition of time limits on each discussion time speaker. They might be afraid Dave Mullins would want to speak!
  • Feb. 1 a Tuesday at 4 and 6pm CAEZ meets. At 5 on Tuesday Clay Town Council convenes. Thursday , 5 pm, brings out the BDA folks.
  • Feb. 1 a On top of that, CCHS Basketball season is in full swing this week with lots of home court action Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights.

    • Feb. 1 a  2/3rd's thru the winter we're all dried out with itchy skin from taking too many hot steamy baths. We're sick of winter! Groundhogs have it better. They go to sleep in Nov and awaken in Feb. with one thing on their mind, sex.
     

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