ADVISORIES
Last Update  March 10,  2009
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Clay County Public Library

is asking the community to help us raise the $10,000 that we need to make our state-funding match by June 30, 2010.  We are asking you to become a sponsor of the library.  We are going to display three different plaques in the library with the names of the sponsors at the following levels:  Bronze for $50, Silver for $75, and Gold for $100.  If you cannot afford these levels we will accept any donation with great appreciation and post your name in the library and the local newspapers as being contributors of the library fund. Please see one of the board members: Jacob Nichols, Dale Mullins, Karen Nicholas, Kathy Fortner, or Timothy Hopkins to become a sponsor.  Donations will be accepted at the library or they can be mailed to:  Clay County Public Library, PO Box 60, Clay, WV  25043.
3/10/2010

CONSERVATION POSTER CONTEST

  Elk Conservation District and Conservation Auxiliary invite you to participate in a national conservation poster contest sponsored by the National Association of Conservation Districts.  To participate, please notify the Elk CD office before the April 1, 2010 deadline and someone will pick up your posters for judging. EACH CHILD WHO ENTERS WILL RECEIVE A PRIZE.  Winners will receive T-shirts.  Overall winner receives cash.
  Theme for 2010 is “Conservation Habits = Healthy Habitats”:
• What is Conservation?
• What is a Habitat?
• Flowering plants need pollinators (bees, insect, beetles and birds).
• People, plants and animals all depend on each other.
   The judging will be based on the entry’s conservation message, visual effectiveness, originality, and universal appeal. All posters created by kindergarten through twelfth graders at school or club or camp and entered in local competition will be considered. Grade categories are: K–1, 2–3, 4–6, 7–9, and 10–12.  Poster size for K-6 is half sheet, or 14” x 22”.  Poster size for 7-12 is full sheet, or 22” x 28”.  The 2010 Stewardship title “Conservation Habits = Healthy Habitats” must be on the front of your poster. (Don’t use any other title.)
  Any media may be used to create a flat or two-dimensional effect (paint, crayon, colored pencil, charcoal, paper or other materials). Back of each poster MUST have student’s name, grade level, teacher’s name, and school.  Entries must be submitted no later than April 1, 2010 to be eligible. For more information about the poster contest, please call our office at 304-364-5105, or visit the NACD website at:  www.nacdnet.org/education/contests/poster   3/8/10

Notice
The Big Otter Volunteer Fire Dept. is accepting sealed bids on a 1973 White tanker truck.  Please mail bids to:  BOVFD  PO Box 61  Nebo, WV  25141.  If you have any questions, call 304-587-2068 between 8:00AM and 4:00PM. 3/8/10

Notice
Thursday night is Bingo Night at BOVFD.  Doors open at 5:00.  Early Bird starts at 6:00.   Regular games start at 6:30.  The Concession Stand is open to the public from 5:00 to 7:00.     3/8/10
 

Lake Sampson Youth Fishin' Derby
April 24th, 2010.

   Last year’s derby was a huge success.  We had over 200 children participate. Any person or businesses willing to donate to the derby, please contact Connie Sizemore at 304-587-4492.  All donations go to the young sportsman (boy or girl).  Donations are money (which helps buy tackle to be given out), fishing tackle, or snacks.   Sponsors at this time are Clay County Health Department, Clay County Bank, AM Printing, Laker Fishing Tackle, Zoom Bait Company, Danielson Company, O. Mustad & Son Inc., Bank of Gassaway, Cole’s Wildlife Artistry, Kanawah Valley Chapter Trout Unlimited, Rodd-N-Bobbs, Beyond the Backyard and Plano Molding.   Watch for more information.  Thank You for supporting today’s youth.   “HOOKED ON FISHING NOT ON DRUGS   3/8/10
 
 

“Turn Gold Into Cash”

  Coming to Clay Lions Club, Main Street, Clay, West Virginia on March 26th from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. convert your old gold jewelry into cash. The Gold Refinery will be present to test, weigh and pay cash for your unwanted gold.
  The Gold Refinery has provided the following information. As you have seen on television and read about in the newspapers, the price of gold is at a historic high. The Gold Refinery is a fully licensed, professionally trained team of representatives. The Gold Refinery tests everything right in front of the customer and pays cash on the spot. Keep in mind you are selling gold for scrap which means the price will not reflect sentimental value, craftsmanship, antique value or aesthetics of jewelry. You will get top dollar on your gold jewelry and this is a good time to sell your outdated, mismatched, or broken 8k or higher jewelry. Testing methods are used to check jewelry (if you are unsure if it is costume jewelry or gold). There is no obligation to sell, the decision is entirely up to the customer. The price is based on the troy ounce of 24-karat gold, the pure form of the metal. Divide the karat of your jewelry by 24 for the percentage of purity. For example 18k is 75% pure. The karat stamp on jewelry should be used as a gauge, but it can be inaccurate. For example, 12k gold is often marked as 14k. Precious stones can be removed from your jewelry for you to take home. The Gold Refinery will buy, at top dollar, your necklaces, bracelets, rings, earrings, white gold, gold watches, platinum, silver, dental gold and gold coins. If it’s been a long time since you’ve warn it, why not sell it?
   The Gold Refinery will be making a donation to the Clay County Golden Delicious Festival based on the percentage of purchases made during this event. All gold sales transactions will be considered a private business transaction between the Gold Refinery and guests selling gold. This “gold” night of fundraising will also include the annual live charity auction being held at the same location to benefit the festival. You may visit our website for a full list of items to be auctioned: www.claygoldendeliciousfestival.com or feel free to call for more information at 304-587-4492 (days) 304-587-7353 (evenings /weekends)     2/27/10
 
 

Senator Randy White

March 5, 2010
  People ask me all the time what I like about being a legislator. They have trouble thinking there can possibly be anything satisfying about seemingly endless meetings, constant debate and deliberation, and the monotonous floor sessions. What they forget, however, is that every meeting, debate and session has a purpose and a lasting effect on the state we love.
  Being a part of a “part time” legislature gives us many advantages over other states. First and foremost, we are a group of people who work side by side with other citizens of the state. We are not an aloof bunch – we know West Virginia; her problems, her strengths and her potential. We are committed to making sure she meets every potential and takes care of every citizen. Surely this is a noble cause.
  However, do not let our title fool you: during session, we are anything but “part time.” The hours of deliberation, research and discussion make this the busiest time of the year of my colleagues and I, but also the most fulfilling. As I look back on the last few weeks, I know that we have done our best to ensure that West Virginia will continue to have a great future.
  With several days left in session, multiple bills have finished legislative action that I know will make a difference to West Virginians. One such piece of legislation is Senate Bill 349. This bill would require all child care centers to have a written evacuation plan in case of natural disaster, fire or other threatening situations. This plan would be required in order for the centers to be licensed, and will prevent our children from getting hurt or separated as a result of lack of planning. This bill makes me think that our children will be more safe, which is one of the primary reasons I wanted to be a legislator in the first place.
  Another bill which has completed legislative action is Senate Bill 477. This bill would establish a centralized filing system within the legislature for public reports. This would allow the public to access reports easier and be more involved with our government. In a country where we stand next to democracy, we can never forsake the necessity of public information.
  One of the most important bills that has gone through the system is House Bill 4040. The legislation will require school boards to make a plan to ensure the mandatory 180 school days for all students. In the wake of the terrible winter weather, we must do all we can to make sure West Virginia children have the opportunity to be in school for as long as possible. Through this bill, we will help our children solidify a more promising future as they become more educated and productive citizens. This has been signed by the governor and will go into effect July 1, 2010.
  These last few days are sure to be busy as we decide to approve or deny the remainder of the bills that have been introduced. No matter how many hours I work this session, I know that the great citizens of West Virginia will appreciate the effort and tenacity it takes to run our government.
 
 

Delegate Dave Walker

March 5 2010
 West Virginia is known for some of the most loyal, hardworking and trustworthy Americans around. We are a state
built on labor, neighborly families, and mutual understanding. Throughout the legislative session, I think about the great
families of West Virginia and different ways in which I can help their everyday lives.  This past week, I had the great
honor of watching three of my sponsored bills get passed and feel a step closer to ensuring the future success of this
great state.
  One such bill is House Bill 4397. This bill would require an increase to a minimum of 800 state troopers by July 1,
2014. This will not only add more jobs to this state, but will make us all more safe in our everyday lives. The state
troopers perform a priceless service for our families - we know this. But what we don’t know, or think about, is how
hard their work is. These extra men and women will increase the troopers’ efficiency and effectiveness throughout
West Virginia.
  I also was thrilled to see House Bill 4669 pass the house. This bill would greatly help our teachers and education
system by allowing certain exceptions from particular state statutes for those schools who fall under the innovation
zone. Our children’s future is too precious for this bill not to pass. Anything that encourages educational innovation is a
winner in my book.
  No part of the educational process should be overlooked but I feel as if that is often done. This past week, I helped
pass House Bill 4512 in order to help School Bus Operators in this fine state. This bill updates laws about certification
testing, wages of those training school bus operators, and the definition of a “supervisor of transportation.” With this
bill, we can help a group of hard working employed persons as well as the overall system of school transportation, and
I sincerely hope it passes the Senate.
   We now have few days left in our legislative session. They will be full of debate, deliberation and hard work as us
legislators iron out the details for new and changed state laws. I can make only one guarantee: anything I pass will help
this state achieve its fullest potential. Together we can make West Virginia continue to prosper and continue to grow.

Delegate Margaret Staggers

March 5, 2010
   I was reading an article in Readers Digest the other day titled “50 Secrets ER Doctors Won’t Tell You.” As a practicing emergency physician I found it of particular interest. I mention this article because a few weeks ago I discussed House Bill 4152 which would make it a misdemeanor to make three separate calls to 911 for non-emergency related issues. This article in readers digest supports the fact that this is not just a problem in West Virginia but across the nation.
    Arthur Hsieh, a paramedic in San Francisco, said “Don’t call us for a broken finger. If there is no real emergency, you’ve just clogged up the system.” This ties in with my previous statements that when people abuse the 911 system it can negatively effect first responders and those seeking 911 services. This in-turn wastes taxpayer dollars and can divert emergency service providers from time critical situations.
    Dennis Rowe, a paramedic, was quoted in the Readers Digest article as saying ”Don’t hang up after you tell us what’s wrong. The operator may be trained to give you instructions in CPR and other medical procedures that could be lifesaving.”
    This comment relates specifically to a bill I am currently sponsoring. House Bill 4217 which would require the West Virginia Enhanced 911 Council to propose emergency medical dispatch procedures to be adopted by all 55 county commissions and their respective 911 call centers. In other words, this bill would require emergency medical dispatchers to get formal training on how to walk callers through different life saving procedures, such as Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR).
    There were several bills passed by the House this week as the State Capitol was bustling with activity. Wednesday marked the deadline for bills to be passed by its house of origin, either the House or Senate. From Wednesday through the rest of the Session members of the House will be reviewing only Senate bills and vice versa.
    Bills passed included House Bill 4130 which would create the West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals Public Campaign Financing Pilot Program. House Bill 4652 would establish a school calendar committee for each county. Also, House Bill 4666 would establish a grant program for substance abuse prevention.
    If you would like to follow the progress of any of the bills this session and the daily action of the Legislature, visit the 79th Legislature on the web at http://www.legis.state.wv.us/. Additionally, streaming audio of all committee meetings and floor sessions can be heard by following the links on the legislatures homepage.
    As always, I open my door to questions, comments, and concerns from the people in the 29th District. You can reach me at, Room 201E, Building 1 State Capitol Complex Charleston, WV 25305, by phone at (304) 340-3197 or by e-mail at mstagg@mail.wvnet.edu.
 

From the Desk of Delegate Perry:
  The regular session comes to a close next Saturday, but the legislature has much more to do before then. Wednesday was crossover day of the legislative session. Crossover day of the session is the last day to consider bills on third reading in their house of origin. The number of bills to pass the House was 137 and 183 in the Senate.
   One of the bills to pass the House this week would allow Huntington and other cities to attach a lien on insurance proceeds to help clear away debris from burned-out buildings where the owner abandons the property.
  The Senate passed the state vehicle fleet bill which would eliminate exemptions place on these vehicles by the Department of Administration. It would also place the entire fleet under one office.
  The Senate also passed a bill that would allow the state Parkway Authority to operate additional toll roads around the state. Senate Finance also added an amendment that would set a $1 per plaza EZ-Pass discount for residents of counties adjacent to the turnpike.
  Bloggers and others could face criminal charges if they use a false name to post online language meant to cause emotional or physical injury to others under a bill passed by the House. Repeat offenders of such activity would face felony charges and a possible prison term of up to two years.
  The Senate has scrapped a bill that would allow charter schools in West Virginia. The bill’s sponsor told the Senate that the bill will be back, despite opposition from teachers’ unions, in the near future.
  Early in the session, the legislature passed the school calendar bill. This week, the House passed a bill that would reserve seats on the committee overseeing the new process to teachers, administrators and school workers.
  The House passed two measures this week that would change how money is spent on political campaigns, and how much information the spenders have to reveal publically about themselves.
  State officials say the state’s budget picture weakened by more than $31 million in February. However, collections so far for the budget year remain ahead by $24 million.
  The fund that provides benefits to jobless West Virginians while they seek work has dropped below $100 million, and officials fear it will run out of money by October. West Virginians’ unemployment rate last month was 9.3 percent.
  Be sure to follow the legislature on Facebook and Twitter as we wrap up the end of session Saturday, March 13. Those interested can also listen to the House  floor activity on the last night of session by going to the legislature’s webpage.
3/7/10
 
 

Bucks for Becky Fundraiser

   A pressing need in the community hopes to bring friends to Clay County High School for a good cause with the planning of the "Bucks for Becky" fundraising event.  March 13th has been selected as the day for multiple events being planned to benefit Becky Sizemore-Hancock. This fundraising event includes a volleyball tournament and a St. Patricks Day Pageant with concessions available during the day.  For the evening, a $5.00 / plate spaghetti dinner from 5:00-7:00 p.m. and a live concert at 7:00 p.m. are being planned featuring KRAVE (acoustic 3 member band), Joe Slack, 2-Blue and more; a donation at the door is expected for entry into the concert.  Additionally, there will be a silent auction and raffles held with all profits being applied to "Bucks for Becky".
    Becky Jo (Sizemore) Hancock is the daughter of Jackie and Connie Sizemore of Maysel and a CCHS graduate  in the Class of ’93. She has been married to Robert for 15 years and is the mother of 3, Brittani 13, Alejandra 11, Nicholas 7, and step-mother to Joseph.  Becky is employed full time with the University of Charleston.  After many tests, Becky has been re-diagnosed with thyroid cancer. Becky had thyroid cancer 3 years ago and had the thyroid glands removed. Thyroid cancer is an uncommon type of cancer. With radiation, she did well. Becky has had regular six month scans ever since and in September 2009, Dr. Mary Faw, of CAMC, called her back in because of abnormal test results. With further tests and blood work, they found enlarged lymph nodes along with a reoccurrence of cancer in the thyroid beds. With this news, they have referred her to Dr. Rao, endocrinologist at Duke University Hospital in Durham, North Carolina. Dr. Rao has seen Becky several times for blood work, tests, scans and biopsies.  Becky Jo recently spent time at Duke University for a week of treatment. Please keep Becky in your prayers.
    An account has been set up at Clay County Bank to accept donations.  Teams for the volleyball tournament are $50.00 / team with double elimination. The winning team will receive t-shirts.   For information, please call Christa Ramsey at 587-9946 (evenings).  Entry into the St. Patrick's Day pageant (non-glitz) is $40.00 with 2 chances to win in each category ages 0-14 Please call 587-4890 for pageant information before March 10th deadline for entry.  For other questions, feel free to contact Connie Sizemore 587-4492 (days) or Terri Lively 587-7353 (evenings).         2/24/10
 
 


-GRASSLANDS-

   Braxton and Clay County landowners interested in restoring, enhancing or protecting grasslands may receive funding through the Grassland Reserve Program (GRP).  Landowners must have their applications submitted to the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) or Farm Service Agency (FSA) at the Gassaway USDA Service Center by close of business on March 10, 2010 to be considered for rental contract funding this year.
     The Grassland Reserve Program has a continuous signup period. Applications accepted after March 10, 2010 will not be ranked until the next ranking period is announced. NRCS and FSA have Service Centers throughout the state to help landowners with the application process.  GRP provides financial assistance to producers in the form of rental agreements and easements. GRP provides funding to purchase conservation easements, long term rental agreements and offers landowners the opportunity to protect, restore, and enhance the grasslands on their property. The program emphasizes support for working grazing operations, enhancement of plant and animal biodiversity, and protection of grassland and land containing shrubs and forbs under threat of conversion.
     For GRP, the 2008 Farm Bill provides priority for enrollment of expiring acreage from the Conservation Reserve Program (GRP) and is limited to 10 percent of the total acres enrolled in any year. Eligible lands can be enrolled into a permanent easement or a rental contract of 10, 15, or 20 years. Restoration agreements based on a 50 percent cost-share may be placed on land enrolled under a rental contract or easement. Easements compensation is based on the Geographic Area Rate Cap or on an offer made by the landowner whichever is less.
     NRCS encourages landowners who are interested in this voluntary program to contact the Gassaway USDA Service Center/FSA/NRCS Field Office today to apply. Additional information on GRP and other conservation programs is available on the Web at www.wv.nrcs.usda.gov. You may also contact Steven C. Nestor, County Executive Director, 304-364-1503 or Pam Yost, Assistant State Conservationist for Programs, at  304-284-7572 or pamela.yost@wv.usda.gov.  2/24/10
 
 

Clay County 4-H Clubs Frozen Food Sale

   It's time for the spring bulk frozen food sale.  Order forms may be picked up in the Extension office.  March specials include: California blend vegetables-12 lbs, $27; Blueberries- 10 lbs, $25; Red Raspberries- 5 lb, $30.  Many more different fruits, vegetables, meats,breads and dessert items are offered. Dead line to place an order is March 12th. For more information contact the WVU Clay County Extension Office at 587-4267    2/19/10
 
 

St. Patrick’s Day Pageant

   This Pageant is open statewide.  It is in conjunction with “Bucks for Becky” for Becky Jo Sizemore Hancock.  It will be held on Saturday, March 13th, 2010 at the CCHS Auditorium in Clay  WV.  There will be 2 titles given in each category.  There will be pageant attire in the first segment and the second half will be St. Patrick's attire (which we want you to feel free to use your imagination)  This is a Natural Pageant. ABSOLUTELY NO GLITZ!   Crown & Trophy  will be awarded to the  Pageant winners, along with 1st and 2nd place receiving trophies.  Crown & Sash will be awarded to the St. Patrick's attire winner.
Categories:
0 months - 12 months Baby Miss  10:00/11:30
1 - 2 years  Wee Miss  10:30/12:00
25 months - 4 yrs Tiny Miss  11:00/12:30
4-6 yrs  Little Miss 1:00/2:30
7-11 yrs Little Miss Preteen 1:30/3:00
12-14 yrs  Miss Preteen  2:00/3:30
$40 entry fee   --  No Refunds
Covers Both Categories
Contact
Vicky Ramsey  or Heather Stephenson
at 304-587-4890
Send application and entry fee by March 10, 2010 to: Vicky Ramsey  2833 Wallback Rd  Wallback, WV  25285
 
 

CROP INSURANCE

   Braxton and Clay farmers are reminded that the final date to apply for crop insurance on most insurable spring-planted crops for this year is March 15, 2010, according to the Raleigh Regional Office, USDA Risk Management Agency. Current policyholders also have until March 15 to make any changes to their existing contracts. Crop insurance provides protection against losses due to natural perils such as drought, hail, wind, and excessive moisture. The March 15 sales closing date applies to Corn, Soybeans, and Tobacco. Farmers may also want to inquire about Crop Revenue Coverage, a revenue plan that offers protection against market price declines for crops like corn and soybeans. Producers are strongly urged to contact a local crop  insurance agent as soon as possible for premium quotes and more details. For a list of crop insurance agents, contact the local USDA Farm Service Agency office or log on to 2/9/10
 
 

NOTICE

  H1N1 flu vaccine and seasonal flu vaccine is available at the Clay County Health Department, located in the N.H. Dyer Health Center on Main Street in Clay.  The flu clinics will be held EVERY Monday and Wednesday from 9 a.m. till 3 p.m.  You do not need an appointment.  There is no charge for the H1N1 vaccination, and the seasonal flu vaccination charge is $15.00.  Please call 587-4269 if you have any questions.    2/7/10
 
 

CCGDF Auction

    The first fundraiser of the Clay County Golden Delicious Festival is their annual “Charity Auction” to be held on Friday, March 26th, 2010 at the Lions Community Building at 6:30 pm.  Auctioneer will be Jeanie Davis of Jeanie’s Real Estate.  Keep watch at www.claygoldendeliciousfestival.com for an update on items available.  Any person or businesses wishing to donate an item, contact Terri Lively at 304-587-7353 or Connie Sizemore at 304-587-4492.  Thank you for supporting your Festival! 2/7/10
 
 

ELK CD PLANT SALE

Elk Conservation District is conducting a plant sale of the following items as a service to the residents of Braxton, Clay, Nicholas and Webster counties:  apple, cherry, peach and pear trees; blackberries, raspberries, strawberries, and blueberries.  Items are sold “bare root.”   Quantities are limited and will be sold on a first-come first-served basis. Replacement guarantee is valid for 60 days only. Order deadline is March 15, 2010.  Pick up date is March 31, 2010.  NOTE THAT ORDERS WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR PICK UP AT THE CLAY COUNTY COURT HOUSE ON MARCH 31ST.  For additional information, call Mike Shamblin at 304-587-4267, or call the ELK CD Office at 304-364-5105, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.    1/20/2010
 
 

SEEDLINGS FOR CONSERVATION

   Elk Conservation District is now taking orders for white pine, Scotch pine, Norway spruce, and black walnut seedlings which may be used to complete   conservation practices such as erosion control, reforestation, Christmas tree establishments, shelter belts, windbreaks, and wildlife shelter.  Cost is 75 cents  each for 2-3 year seedlings.  There is no replacement guarantee on these seedlings.  Minimum order of each type is 25 seedlings.  Final order depends on response and availability.  Deadline to place an order is March 15, 2010.    Pick up date is March 31, 2010.  NOTE THAT ORDERS WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR PICK UP AT THE CLAY COUNTY COURT HOURSE ON MARCH 31ST.   For more information, call Mike Shamblin at 304-587-4267, or call the Elk CD Office at 304-364-5105.  Elk CD serves Braxton, Clay, Nicholas and Webster Counties.               1/20/2010
 
 

Big Otter Community Center
Music Line Up.

March 12 at Big Otter Community Center the Douglas Brothers Band will be performing.
Music starts at 7 p.m. Concessions are available as well as a 50/50 drawing.

March 19 at Big Otter Community Center, Allegheny Outback Bluegrass  will be performing.
Music starts at 7 p.m. Concessions are available as well as a 50/50 drawing.

March 26 at Big Otter Community Center the Calhoun Country Band will be performing.
Music starts at 7 p.m. Concessions are available as well as a 50/50 drawing.
 
 

CLAY ROANE PSD’S
 WATER HAULED HOURS
MONDAY – FRIDAY
8:00 AM – 3:30 PM
SATURDAY AND SUNDAY
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM

   IF YOU NEED TO MAKE OTHER ARRANGEMENTS TO HAUL WATER, PLEASE CALL THE OFFICE DURING HOURS  LISTED ABOVE AT 548-5209
 
 

Clay County Public Library
Hours of Operation:
Tuesday- 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Wednesday- 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Thursday- 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Friday- 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Saturday- 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Closed Sunday and Monday
 
 

Local Scanner Frequencies

Clay Ambulance   453.125
Clay Fire               453.020
Clay Sheriff          460.125
Med Base             155.340
Clay Bd of Ed      463.625
King's Wrecker    460.575
Green Shirt Dispatcher  42.10
Green Shirt car to car  42.26
Char Weather   162.400
Spencer Weather   162.500