September
2009
Sept. 30 late p Clay County got
some bad bad news today.
Sept. 30 p Even if the majority
of their employees are from outside the county, we're hearing that Fola
Coal has reduced employee hours down to 4 ten hour days and then
10 days off.
Sept. 30 p So much for Christmas this
year for many in Clayberry.
Sept. 30 p This county has a problem
with communications. Last Friday the Town was suppose to shut off water
service for repairs for most of the day. The Town forgot to notify Clay
County's leading newspaper even tho the paper is within the affected service
area. They also forgot to notify the local radio station, the only up to
the second news platform in the Town.
Sept. 30 p A year ago with good communications
employed, thousands came out to memorialize Sgt. Jamie Nicholas who
was killed in action overseas.
Sept. 30 p One year later, yesterday,
there was a memorial service held for Mr Nicholas which included the dedication
of a beautiful black granite marker.
Sept. 30 p Shame so few in THIS county
knew of the important commemorative.
Sept 30 p Some trivia
Sept 30 p Total clayberry web site
visits in Sept 09 was 60,445
Sept 30 p Those 60,445 looked at a
total of 293,218 pages
Sept 30 p The average number
of visits per day in Sept was 2271
Sept 30p The maxinum number of
clickers in Sept., 2476, occurred on Wed., Sept 23rd.
Sept. 30 What has 75 balls and makes
an old lady cry?
Sept. 30 a Bingo
Sept. 30 a Hump Day Wednesday , last
one in Sept. and we're out cutting firewood. Suppose to be near freezing
tonight. Brrrrrr
Sept. 30 a Delegate Dave Walker has
his latest Legislative Update installment over on the ADVISORY page
Sept. 30 a The rules say, if
a quorum of a government body meets to discuss (even consider) the public's
business, the meeting has to made public with proper posting of a menu,
an agenda. To do ANY different is unlawful, illegal, a smack in the
face to the electorate, the people that hired and pay for the turds.
Sept. 30 a Yesterday afternoon,
without benefit of an agenda, Larry Darryl and Darryl met to discuss their
participation in the on again off again partnership to hire an eco dev
director for the county. What's the chief thing that hacks off Commissioner
Pierson (Darryl #2)? That the BDA went ahead and posted the Help
Wanted ad on this web site.
Sept. 30 a Illegal meetings,
a very sad way of life in the Great Nation of Clay.
Sept. 30 a A few years ago Salisbury
Auto Salvage asked local government officials for some help growing their
junk yard business. No help came. Inspite of that, they've been growing.
Here's
their web sitewhich includes a search feature for used parts. Pretty
cool.
Sep 30 a Ready to dig into a big bag
of chips, a half gallon of ice cream or something else tasty? Best way
to eat less? Sit
beside a fatty.
Sept. 29 p One year ago today,
Clay County first heard of the loss of Sgt. Jamie Nicholas. From 2008,
on this date, we wrote: The costly, worthless oil war came home yesterday
when Clay County's own Jamie Nicholas was killed in action. The word we're
getting is an improvised explosive device blew up his vehicle killing Mr.
Nicholas and two comrades. All the oil on earth isn't worth one life
but it continues. Condolences extended to parents Karen and Burke Nicholas
Sept. 29 p We're close clickers. 6
weeks ago William Whitteker came to Town promising tons of new jobs in
the old Fas Chek grocery store on Main St. From the git go, Mr Witteker
set the written in stone, opening date, as Oct. 1st.
Sept. 29 p Opening any business
is tough. In Clayberry, it's doubly tough.
Sept. 29 p True he promised to have
260 workers on t he job Oct. 1st but wouldn't it be nice to see those glass
doors open with even a few workers on hand Thursday morning, Oct. 1st.
Sept. 29 p Still keeping our fingers
crossed clickers!
Sept. 29 a This last couple days of
Sept. are showing signs of fall. Cool nights have brought out quilts and
covers. Little kids still dressed in shorts shiver each morning as they
wait on their bus.
Sept. 29 a Pick em up trucks
can bee seen carrying split firewood. With all the squirrels squished on
the roadways and deer ready to plow into vehicles, we're ready for the
great tradition of getting into the woods and
blasting Bambi.
Sept. 29 a Big suits tell us
the economy is improving, we know better. Food stamp roles have doubled
in
the last 12 months.
Sept. 29 a No made public public meetings
planned until the BDa meets Oct. 1st, 5pm at the Courthouse. There may
be a war raging away from the public's eye as the BDA voted to press on
with hiring a full time eco dev coordinator last month. In the background,
it sounds like the County Commission is putting the brakes on the hire
with hopes of rekindling a partnership with the CAEZ.
Sept. 29 a Since the CAEZ voted almost
unanimously to stay away from anything to do with the BDA, Darryl and Darryl's
attempts to stop the BDA from hiring... well, just one more example of
what goes wrong when back room dealings are allowed by the voter.
Sept. 29 a The complete list of stocked
ink cartridges for puter printers is now posted on the OFFICE SUPPLY button
on our home page. Best to stop by in the afternoons.
Sept. 27 a Richard Anthony Cavender,
35, see OBITUARY page
Sept. 27 a Wanda Lea Dawson Nichols,
66, of Duck, see OBITUARY page
Sept. 27 a The war in Afghanistan has
lasted twice as long as WW II and few even notice we have lost nearly 450
Americans in the land of rocks and muck. There was no mention of the diminishing
state in Iraq
Sept. 27 a Recovering from the Big
Apple, at home, it was a banner week for Clayberry stuff.
Sept. 27 a The Communicator came out
with a front page article on how well our local educational system really
performs. It was not a happy story. Immediately, those employed by the
Pentagon got "upset" and questioned why we didn't cover all the good that's
going on in the local system. Truth is, when nearly 50% of our graduating
seniors are NOT proficient in reading, how much good can you say?
Sept. 27 a After 19 months of
saying "I am innocent", pillar of the community Jim Knotts plead guilty
twice to molesting a young teenage girl. Using a Kennedy Plea tool,
he did not have to tell the court any details.
Sept. 27 a Last Spring, the Communicator
provided first hand criminal complaint details on AJ Summers. This past
week he was found Not Guilty of everything he was charged with.
Sept. 27 a Mid week, the
County Commission met in reg session. There, they hired one time Commissioner
Peter Triplett to be the puter tech for the County Clerk. In a before the
meeting communiqué, our Sheriff made it plain, if you hire Triplett,
I will immediately filed a lawsuit against the CCC for violating county
nepotism rules.
Sept. 27 a That ages old CCC ordinance
says, a member of an elected persons family can not be hired at the Courthouse
Sept. 27 a A few minutes after 11 am
Wed morning, the Top Badge did just that, a flimsy suit was filed without
the Sheriff paying any fee to do so.
Sept. 27 a Lived up to his word but
someone forgot to tell the Badge, Peter's brother Morgy is no longer an
elected Demorat Committee person.
Sept. 27 a Around the county, laughter
could be heard.
Sept. 27 a Thursday evening 50
or so attended a CCC organized meeting to hear the public's view on consolidating
all the PSDs into one colossal unit. Many spoke. Most were against changing
the status quo of three fiefdoms in the county.
Sept. 27 a Even after the Public Service
Commission Big Cheese said her agency to bring a court case against the
CCC and even levy fines , the CCC voted to back off from consolidation
with another look to be made in 12 months.
Sept. 27 a What changed Larry Darryl
and Darryl's minds ? Not what we had to say but one thing. Consolidation
could affect the bottom line in getting new grant $$$.
Sept. 27 a That's the exact same reason
we didn't consolidate 9 years ago when the first effort was pushed.
Sept. 27 a The Town decided to
fix a big water leak on Friday. With water service to be turned off, Clay
Middle shut down for the entire day as did other businesses like Primary
Heathless Care.
Sept. 27 a Not sure if the leak was
fixed. If the wa wa was off, it was for just a few minutes. Bet the
school system ain't too happy.
Sept. 27 a Official notice for
the waterless condition was haphazard at best. Lets see , we have telephones,
emails, flyers, door slots... No notice was provided
local media sources.
Sept. 27 a Rain came Saturday. Flash
Flood watch was noted by the weather service.
Sept. 27 a Saturday night Kayo's BDA
Consignment Auction netted lots of attendees who went after Fenton glass
figurines big time
Sept. 27 a Temps cooled as Clayonians
pulled out sweaters and long pants. The first leaves covered roads.
About the only thing left growing in the gardens are hot peppers. The smell
of wood smoke was in the air. Clayberry is readying for Winter. !!$#@@@
Sept. 27 a In the way of business
as usual, the electric blinked off and back on a gazillion times Sunday
morning.
Sept. 25 Late p When the left hand
doesn't know what the right hand is up to... re-read the Friday afternoon
post now corrected. Oooops
Sept. 25 Late p Here's what we think
a Kennedy plea is all about, “An accused may voluntarily, knowingly and
understandingly consentto the imposition of a prison sentence even though
he is unwilling to admit participation in the crime, if he intelligently
concludes that his interests require a guilty plea and the record supports
the conclusion that a jury could convict him.”
Sept. 25 p Beulah LaVaughan Douglas,
61, of Ivydale, see OBITUARY page
Sept. 25 p With a 100% chance of rain
and thunder boomers slated for Saturday, the radio station's Cornhole Challenge
has been cancelled. Might be rescheduled for later in the fall.
Sept. 25 p We have given BDA member
and community leader Jim Knotts double H since he was arrested, indicted,
and plead guilty to 2 felonies of sexual assault of a minor by a custodian.
Some are saying we are, were, to rough on the guy and there was no reason
to mention that he was also a Business Development Authority member. Here's
what the
rest of the region was told by TV-8 news.
Sept. 25 p Others are saying he didn't
plead guilty. Wrong. True Knotts used what's called a "Kennedy Plea", about
like a no contest plea, he's guilty with sentencing set for Nov 2.
Sept. 25 p Not sure what a Kennedy
plea is but by using that tool, Knotts didn't have to tell the Judge what
he did.
Sept. 25 p Standing guilty of child
molestation, Jim Knotts is looking at 1 to 5 years on each charge plus
two $10,000 fines. Word on the street says Knotts will never spend another
night in the slammer. No ones knows what the Judge will do.
Sept. 25 p In the way of a follow
up..... Ralph Fields was indicted with 40 some sexual assault charges to
a minor and was given a 90 day sentence of which he spent 56 days in the
big house and paid a fine.
Sept. 25 p In other news, last weekend's
Big Apple brought out the crowds and a good time was had by most. The motorcycle
show was marred by an incident or two. See ADVISORY page for details on
that from organizer Dawn Whitely.
Sept. 25 p Whitely doesn't mention
the guy's name , the guy that lit up his tires on Main St before the parade
started. Several of the bikers in the crowd eyeballed the culprit as Clay
County's very own, Jamie Morris. One of the bikers said Morris "really
smoked his tires". A couple more bikers were real mad that the one guy
ruined the event for all others.
Sept. 25 p Our Sheriff made about as
much a commotion when he completely stopped the parade to yell and finger
point at a couple bikers. Instead of pulling the biker off the route, he
stopped the entire parade. Can anyone figure the logic there.
Sept. 25 p Finally, Our Top Badge
sued the CCC this week over hiring practices by the County Commission.
Many are wondering if he had to pay the normal $145 filing fee. He didn't.
Sept. 25 p We asked Circuit Clerk Mike
Asbury who said there is a provision in the state code which allows elected
officials to file suits without paying customary fees.
Sept. 25 p Have a good weekend one
and all
Sept. 25 p Even with Summer all gone,
there's still good stuff to do in and around Clayberry.
Sept. 25 p Don't forgot the Big Otter
and Braxton Jamboree offerings tonight as well as Basket Bingo fun.
Kayo Starcher's Sat Night Consignment auction at Two Run now begins at
7pm.
Sept. 25 p For those seeking
a little more "spirited" an evening, Pat Naylor's Sports Bar at Spread
Park may fit the bill.
Sept. 25 p Want to travel a little
further, Harold Allen and Terri Lively will be performing at Taylor Books
Sat night in Charleston. Good tunes for sure.
Sept. 25 p Mitch Deboard is hosting
a Bow Shoot on Sunday.
Sept. 25 p See EVENTS page for all
the details.
Sept. 25 p Old, fat, lazy? Have the
Kitchen deliver a hand tossed Pizza to your home.
Sept. 25 p 9 years ago,
the County Commission had a bee up its butt and was all in favor of consolidating
our three water providers into one consolidated PSD. It was the hot button
issue back then, had to do it, the world will end if consolidation
doesn't happen. After hearing public protest against the mergers, the only
thing that stopped the plan was word of : if you consolidate, that might
hurt funding for water projects already in the works
Sept. 25 a History repeating itself...
sort of.
Sept. 25 a Last night, in front
of about 40 in the peanut gallery, the Clay County Commission voted to
stop consolidation of the PSDs again and relook at the idea in 12 months.
Only the PSC rep spoke in favor of consolidating. Everyone else for a multitude
of reasons, pretty much said: Leave well enough alone since we have four
water projects ready to go.
Sept. 25 a Back in 2001, actually as
of 1995, Clayberry had $12m committed for projects. Last night when our
leaders said we have four projects ready to go, they were baffling with
BS. The Blue Knob, Lizemores, Nebo, Elkhurst projects are just pipe
dreams for now. There is no $$$ committed to any of em.
Sept. 25 a In the end, the decision
decider was: if you consolidate, it may hurt the county's ability to fund
new water projects. A public hearing to gather public comments and the
only thing that registered was, money. The public was excluded once again.
Sept. 25 a Here's what wasn't said....
Sept. 25 a The US Census predicts our
population will continue to decline thru 2050.
Sept. 25 a There is NO need for the
Town Water Plant. Instead, Queen Shoals will be buying from WV Water Co;
Roane County customers should be serviced by the Spencer plant; the Procious
Water Plant should be shut down immediately with service in that neighborhood
coming from the much much cheaper to buy town plant wet stuff; and Red
Derring's Gauley PSD should handle all the customers from Ida Baptist Church
to the Town. If more wa wa is needed, the very dependable West Virginia
Water Co is coming right up the center of the state.
Sept. 25 a There's no need to go into
big time debt to build a new Town Water Plant. No new capacity is needed.
The plant will be an unneeded redundancy of service, a very costly redundancy
of service.
Sept. 25 a Worse yet, the plant
design is not appropriate for the Elk River source. Result, even with a
pretreatment section for the raw water, costly membrane filters ($10,000
each right now) will be replaced forcing water rates to spiral but upwards.
Sept. 25 a Truth is, just like they
did when they built the collasal log factory, Town Council is ready to
embark on their next failure without giving it a second thought. They have
taken the water plant sales pitch, hook line and sinker.
Who pays for this upcoming, dismal failure? The entire county this time
and for decades to come.
Sept. 25 a The next thing you will
probably hear? We don't want those grant paid for town sidewalks!! We don't
need or want the new brick lined sidewalks, period lighting, park benches,
nor flower containers. Would make the rest of town look bad will be the
battle cry.
Sept. 25 a How sad a tail spin we are!
Sept. 24 p Lonzo Willie Jarvis,
86, of Ivydale, see OBITUARY page
Sept. 24 p The Town of Clay is looking
to hire someone to be the Town Badge sometime soon. No training required.
Interested? Get ahold of Mayor Brown right now.
Sept. 24 p Need a job? See JOBS page.
Sept. 24 p Did you know there
won't be school at CMS Friday. How about no wa wa service in the Two Run
area of the municipality. Join the crowd, few know about it.
Sept. 24 p Lets see know... there's
a local radio station that could pass the word. Ahh no notice provided
them. There's this web site visited by over 2000 clickers a day.. nope,
no notice given there. There's The Communicator newspaper office... but
alas, once again, no notice given the county's citizen newspaper. The Town
of Clay really knows how to get the word out.
Sept. 24 p How sad.
Sept. 24 a We have a rainy lookin
overcast Thursday morning in Clay. Kind of gloomy to say the least.
Sept. 24 a Want to do something important?
Tonight is a biggy night for Clayonians as a public hearing will be convened
at the Courthouse to gain input before a vote to consolidate all the wa
wa PSDs into one colossal mess. Start time is 6pm in the Commission room.
See EVENTS page for more.
Sept. 24 a You never know how many
if any will show up to voice their views. A couple years back when the
CCC was ready to vote in Charleston mandated flood plain zoning, 300 or
more showed to express their disgust with the plain. At other important
hearings, only a handful decided to take part in the process.
Sept. 24 a Our three existing PSDs
share a common thread, all three rank in the top three (statewide) for
cost of water sold. For those wondering, consolidation can only INCREASE
water rates .
Sept. 24 a Also this evening, over
at 101.7FM, Fred Sampson starts up his on air round table discussion show,
again , at 6pm. Great local content programing returns to WYAP-LP tonight!
Sept. 24 a Many said Knotts would
never get caught. He did. Then came, he would never go to court. He did.
Then, he'll never spend a night in jail. He did.
Sept. 24 a Now, with felony convictions
under his belt, comes, he'll get off with home confinement.
Sept. 24 a We'll doubt sayers will
be answered on Nov 4, 3pm, when pillar of the community and Business Development
Authority Vice Chair is sentenced.
Sept. 24 a In the mean time, Mr Knotts
remains on the BDA and is the salt of the earth. Heck, for that, matter,
he could go ahead and open a daycare center if he wants!
Sept. 23 Late p Happy Birthday
SHERRY MCCLAIN
Sept. 23 p Peter Triplett is
very knowdelgable on about anything related to a computer. This morning
Larry Darryl and Darryl , all three, voted to hire Pete in the capacity
of puter techy in the County Clerk's office. He begins employment in late
Oct.
Sept. 23 p For those seeking a job,
that means Clay Auto Parts will be having an opening.
Sept. 23 p Just after this morning's
meeting, the CCC was served with papers on a suit brought by the Top Badge.
The case stems from the Sheriff wanting to hire Michelle King in his office
(back in July 09) and the CCC saying no way since the King lady is
related to an elected official in the county.
Sept. 23 p Any of that ring a bell?
This county has a nepotisim policy which forbids the hiring of close relatives
of elected officials.
Sept. 23 p That decision to hire Ms
King was made away from a public meeting. State law requires ALL DECISISONS
to be made during a public meeting of the CCC. Once again the illegal vote,
decision, has got us in another costly lawsuit.
Sept. 23 p On that topic, Peter Triplett,
the guy they hired this morning, is the brother of elected Demorat Committee
person, Morgan Triplett. Does that hire violate the county's nepotisim
policy? As soon as the Top Badge witnessed the CCC hire Peter, he
went upstairs and filed the suit.
Sept. 23 p Here's the rest of the story,
what the Sheriff didn't know..... Morgan Triplett resigned his elected
Committman position weeks ago. Our Top Badge got all fired up, filed the
suit, and served the papers himself without checking to see if the
CCC violated the Nepotisim policy supposedly, again
Sept. 23 p He He Ba Haaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa
Sept. 23 p After being arrested
nearly two years ago, Jim Knotts has told everybody, I ain't guilty of
nothing! Yesterday morning with a jury in the ready and after lots of court
time and expense, Jim Knotts plead guilty to Count #115 and Count#118 of
being a pediphile. The guess is, if you're guilty of molesting 11
year olds, what's it matter to add liar to the rap sheet.
Sept. 23 p Sentencing is set for Nov
2 at 3pm before Judge Ric Faemire.
Sept. 23 p How much time will he get?
Was a deal in the plea? Your email comments please
Sept. 23 p A request was made
this morning but a little fat guy for Knotts to be removed from the BDA.
Sept. 23 p As of this morning,
Jim Knotts remains out on bond and a member in good standing of the Clay
County Business Development Authority.
Sept. 23 p Caitlyn McKenna Morton,
see OBITUARY page
Sept. 23 p Jessie Kay "Peachie"
Thompson, 64, of Procious, see OBITUARY page
Sept. 23 p Clayberry visitors: In the
last week a couple emailers reported some kind of virus warning received
by their free versions of AVG and avira.
Sept. 23 p As with any visit to anywhere
on the web, be careful out there and don't go anywhere you think there
is a threat.
Sept. 23 p Here's some interesting
Norton antivirus reading.
Sept. 23 p Since the attack on the
site Augsut 27th, less than 90 google days ago, false positive readings
may be detected.
Sept. 22p We got The Communicator
out the door around 3pm today. 24 pages of good information on Clayberry
and several pages of Apple Festival pics. Our lead story covers the dismal
test performance in the Clay County school system.
Sept. 22p Sometime later this week,
the Big Apple pics will be posted on the PHOTO page.
Sept. 22p Just when the county
was ready for a big long juicy court case, Jim Knotts plead guilty this
morning to counts of being a sexual pervert. More details Wed evening.
Sept. 22p We know have a convicted
felon sitting as Vice Chair of the Clay County Business Development Authority.
Isn't that nice
Sept. 22 p County Commission meets
Wed morning. On the agenda is the hiring of Peter Triplett as a computer
tech for the County Clerk's office. It is customary for the CCC to OK each
hire. Might make for some interesting discussion time during the public
part of the meeting.
Sept. 22 p A couple months back the
CCC refused to vote in a secretary for the Sheriff's office. Our Top Badge
threatened a court challenge of the decision. So far his saber rattling
have been nothing more than idle threats.
Sept. 22 p Thursday evening (County
Commision room) is the big public hearing on consolidating all the public
service districts into one bigger mess. See EVENTS page
Sept. 21 p The biggy of the year, the
Big Apple, 2009 edition, is over. The volunteers have a little more clean
up and moving of stuff to complete and then they can take a well deserved
breather.
Sept. 21 p Many don't realize how important
the annual event is for local non profits. With warm dry weather and good
crowd size, the income from booth sales help make year long operations
possible.
Sept. 21 p Judge Facemire has a bunch
of trials slated to begin Tuesday morning. Most high profile is State v
Jim Knotts who is facing 129 felony indictments. Not sure if the trial
will come off as scheduled. High dollar defense lawyers often provide last
minute delay tactics.
Sept. 21 p We're working on Tuesday's
Communicator which will include a bunch of Apple pics including Sat's
grand parade.
Sept. 21 p No new updates until we
get it to bed.... unless something dumb happens.
Sept. 19 a Hello Fred H and family
Sept. 19 a Other than a school
bus clipping a vehicle yesterday, all the Apple Festival events came
off without a hitch. With perfect weather predicamentated, today is the
biggy with about 14 hours of good family fun.
Sept. 19 a Don't forget to check out
the car show down at the High School. If you like chrome everything, motorcycles
galore will be lined up in the DHHR parking lot. Maybe not into big crowds
and loud rock n roll ... the outdoor drama Solomon's Secret offers a more
relaxed atmosphere and continues tonight at 8pm.
Sept. 19 a The 2009 Big Apple Festival,
well worth the drive no matter where you live. Well, almost anywhere.
Sept. 19 a Clay County at its
best. Here's the menu
for today.
Sept. 18 a Eddie Mullins died on Tuesday
with his Funeral set for today at 1pm. On Main Street there are Apple Festival
booths everywhere as well as traffic backed up as people try to find a
place to park. With a big long funeral procession coming thru, there should
be a traffic snarl the likes never before seen in Clayberry.
Sept. 18 p Eddie would have loved
it and is probably grinning from ear to ear with that big toothy smile
Sept. 18 p Before getting to
our Apple update.....
Sept. 18 p Three months ago the
CAEZ voted to have nothing to do with a hiring partnership with the BDA.
On Sept. 3rd, the BDA said to heck with the CAEZ and voted to press ahead
with hiring a new economic development director for the county. That unanimous
BDA vote also included the wording of a newspaper and online employment
classified. The deadline for resume submission was set for this coming
week.
Sept. 18 p Other than on the JOBS page
of this web site, still no ad has been placed.
Sept. 18 p In the Great Nation of Clay
it could be the BDA dragging their feet or more likely , a behind the scenes,
away from the BDA radar, closed door effort to stop the BDA initiative
and rekindle the partnership with the 14 to 1 voted, CAEZ.
Sept. 18 p Someday soon the BDA
will realize, even tho they would be providing much of the $$$ for the
hire, they have zero say in the process, zero say in who gets hired, and
will have zero say in what projects the new person will do.
Sept. 18 a Prediction: A blow
up is coming.
Sept. 18p the Clay Middle School Mustangs
tromped Walton 26 to 6. With three games under their belts, the football
season is all wins so far. Has been that way for a couple of seasons. Makes
some wonder what's happening to those up and coming stars.
Sept. 18 p Last night the 2009 Apple
Festival opened for business. Some in wheelchairs, of all sizes and shapes,
Courthouse Square was nearly full. Not too shabby for a Thursday, opening
night.
Sept. 18 p The carnival rides filled
up quickly with yard apes having the time of their life. Not quite Disney
land but for those curtain climbers, they never knew the difference.
Sept. 8 p Today is the first
full day of scheduling. For those not so interested in the maddening
crowds, try the Literary Show at the Library. Holy Cow is going to be there
in the early afternoon.
Sept. 18 p Today is bluegrass time
music wise on the Big Apple stage. With good weather predicted, sure to
be fun.
Sept. 17 p Arnold E. Chapman, 78, see
OBITUARY page
Sept. 17 p Over on the ADVSIORY page,
meet the 2009 Apple Queens and Bell. Congrats one and all!
Sept. 17 p Apple schedules show a big
bunch of fun things to do over the next three days. For those coming
in for the funfest, don't forget the JG Bradley Campground for your overnight
stay.
Sept. 17 p Penny Pinchers, just across
from the Kitchen on Main Street is setting up a haunted house style fun
place for Apple Festival time. Check it out
Sept. 17 a Need some vittles?
Lighthouse Baptist is hosting their monthly free food give away today,
9 to 2pm in the old Ivydale Elem building.
Sept. 17 a Since the depression began
in the Fall of 2007, there's been a lot of talk aboutt he banking industry,
Ever wonder how the Clay County Bank is fairing? With assets up but
profits slightly down, wonder
no more.
Sept. 17 a Food booths are being set
up. The stage is in place. The amusement rides are a ready. Some of the
green Apple banners are on the poles.
Sept. 17 a For the next couple days,
downtown Clay will be a mad house as the 2009 Big Apple gets underway.
See ya there
Sept. 17 a Communicator comes out Tuesday
giving us time to include all the Apple pics in this edition. Deadline
for submissions will be Saturday afternoon. Email your stuff in now.
Sept. 17 a We talked with Tommy Young
Sr last night. The guy told us there is another side to all the stolen
stuff that ends up on Murder Mountain. We hope to interview him this weekend.
Sept. 17 a For all of us diabetic cripples.....
Connies, in the triangle at Two Run, will start offering cones, sundaes,
and shakes later today.
Sept. 15 p Happy 3rd Birthday Chloe
Brooke-Lynn Blanton
Sept. 15 p HAPPY SWEET 16 ERICA
PERDUE
Sept. 15 p Eddie Mullins was one of
those guys that had been around the world and back. He knew Clay County
stories on a bunch of people. He was also one of the guys that spoke his
mind. After a particularly heated exchange with then School Board Prez
JD Morris, Mullins asked Morris if that spot between his ears did more
than hold up a hat.
Sept. 15 p Lawrence Edward “Eddie”
Mullins, 73, of Procious, see OBITUARY page
Sept. 15 p With the passing of his
wife a few months back, Eddie stopped in the Communicator office to swap
stories and pass the time. Those exchanges often included mentioned of
his loneliness without Jeannie.
Sept. 15 p Eddie is already missed.
Sept. 15 p Students are forced to call
most teachers Mr X and Mrs X or Ms Whatever. That ain't the case with all
teachers. Coaches hold a special position in life. No name has to follow
the salutation. It's always Coach. Sort of like the perch of MDs
where they are affectionately referred to as Doc.
Sept. 15 p Tony Samples is one
of those special people. The guy spent years serving as a volunteer coach
to many Clayonians. When Tony calls to question the performance of another
coach, it speaks volumes. Samples asked this site and Communicator newspaper
to publish a short note seeking input on the performance of CCHS Football
Coach Frank Klemans.
Sept. 15 p Coach Tony Samples'
request for input is now posted over on the ADVISORY page.
Sept. 15 p A small handful of
volunteers have been laying plans for the 2009 Big Apple for the last 10
months. With the opening night planned for this Thursday evening, Town
is coming alive.
Sept. 15 p Already the carnival
rides are being set up. Traffic cones are setting around on the ready.
By this time Wed. night, vendors will be setting up booths along Main Street.
Traffic snarls and no parking will be the norm thru Sunday afternoon.
Sept. 15 p Around 11pm July 4th 2008,
a major water line ruptured on Main Street damaging the brick paved Courthouse
Square. Instead of a smooth surface, the brick now have sharp edges hooving
up and variances in elevation.
Sept. 15 p After a full 14 months of
people falling in the area, the County Commission has done NOTHING in the
way of repairs.
Sept. 15 p for those with time on their
hands, the August 09 and Old Courthouse Repair pics have been added over
on the PHOTO page. I know I know, something got goofed up in the transfer.
Sept. 14 p Esta Jane Bird, 87,
of Procious, see OBITUARY page
Sept. 14 p Hazel Gay Woods, 71,
of Leatherwood, see OBITUARY page
Sept. 14 p West Virginia finally made
it to the top of at least one poll. Sen
Jay is way up on the list.
Sept. 14 p BILL MOYERS: Why is
public insurance, a public option, so fiercely opposed by the industry?
WENDELL POTTER: The industry doesn't want to have any competitor. In fact,
over the course of the last few years, has been shrinking the number of
competitors through a lot of acquisitions and mergers. So first of all,
they don't want any more competition period. They certainly don't want
it from a government plan that might be operating more efficiently than
they are, that they operate. The Medicare program that we have here is
a government-run program that has administrative expenses that are like
three percent or so.
Sept. 14 p Here's the
full scoop.
Sept. 13 p Before the weekly wrap-up:
Clay Middles School's girl's volleyball game slated for Monday has been
rescheduled to Wed at Spencer. You ain't off the hook Monday, practice
instead.
Sept. 13 p Need a job? This just in:
Myers Amusement Company Wants to hire 2-3 people for 4 days. Please call
Allen Myers at 872-6894
Sept. 13 p from the last seven days
or so...
Sept. 13 p Joseph Stiglitz, the
Nobel Prize- winning economist, said the U.S.
has failed to fix the underlying problems of its banking system after
the credit crunch and the collapse of Lehman Brothers Holdings Inc.
“In the U.S. and many other countries, the too-big-to-fail banks have become
even bigger,” Stiglitz said in an interview today in Paris. “The problems
are worse than they were in 2007 before the crisis.”
Sept. 13 p For our Republicrat buddies:
On every
major measurement, the Census Bureau report shows that the country
lost ground during Bush's two terms. While Bush was in office, the median
household income declined, poverty increased, childhood poverty increased
even more, and the number of Americans without health insurance spiked.
By contrast, the country's condition improved on each of those measures
during Bill Clinton's two terms, often substantially
Sept. 13 p Monday evening the School
Board (Pentagon) continued their massage of figures and reported how well
our kids are doing in math and reading. Truth is, that ain't true, our
schools in particular as well as USA schools in general are lagging far
behind other industrial nations.
Sept. 13 p Throwing more money and
getting few results. Par for the course.
Sept. 13 p While the rest of the world
legalizes pot, on Tuesday, the helicopters continued their assault
on Clay County's underground economy, pot
production , with the apprehension of Earl Walls.
Sept. 13 p 57 employees (40 from Clay
County) were laid off Wed when Emily's Trucking was shut off of Fola property
for safety violations. So far this year, that contract added up to $1.2
m coming into the county.
Sept. 13 p A before the public County
Commission meeting meeting, the CCC offered no support for the company
in their attempt to get back on the job.
Sept. 13 p Safety violations sound
serious unless you're talking about a broken windshield wiper, window crank
and broken headlight.
Sept. 13 p Our good corporate partner
, Fola, those are the folks that refuse to pay for local ambulance service
service fees.
Sept. 13 p Kanawha County Health Dept
sold off their in-home health care business. From the Charleston Gazette,
Sept. 10th: Shida Jamie, owner of Golden Heart In-Home Care Services
......, submitted a winning bid of $400,000.
Sept. 13 p Ms Jamie has a store front
in Clayberry as does Doc Jamie who often makes the news over welfare
fraud convictions, penalties, court cases, and IRS collections/seizures.
Sept. 13 p Finally some growth.....
While the BDA takes baby steps, here in Clayberry, all on their own,
we have some up beat news. First the Henry Clay reopened. Then Pat Naylor
opened a new Sports Bar beside Spread Park complete with gaming, pool tables,
George Dickel, dance floor, weekend bands and pool tournaments. Connie's
Biscuits in the triangle at Two Run purchased a soft serve ice cream maker
and plans to offer, sundaes, cones, and shakes.
Sept. 13 p It's official, accordng
to County Health Czar Jay Carper, swine flu has been confirmed in Clayberry.
Sept. 13 p Got some more good news.
Our senior statesman RT Sizemore made it thru two back surgeries, is up
walking around and ready for release sometime later this month. Best news
is, according to son Eddie, RT is once again standing up straight.
Sept. 13 p After a Wed am CCC meeting
where the elected ones appeared poised to continue plans to consolidate
all the local water providers into one conglomerate, Thursday night, Clay
Roane PSD made it clear, they want no part of the consolidation effort
and voted just that sentiment.
Sept. 13 p Friday night the CCHS Panther
team lost their 13th in a row. Since taking the helm four years ago,
Coach Frank Clemans has an overall record of around 6 wins and 25 losses.
Sept. 13 p Even though the bleachers
remain full each week, the locals are getting restless and more than murmuring,
Off with the Coach's head!!!!
Sept. 13 p This just in: ATTENTION
wanted, athletes, students, parents, and alumni, If you are unhappy with
Frank Klemans as coach and or teacher, please write : Tony Samples: PO
Box 114, Procious WV 25164. Thanks
Sept. 13 p 5pm Sunday, once again,
Clay Ambulance has NO back up crews and NO paramedics available. How sad.
How Bad. And, how often we hear it.
Sept. 12 a A bunch of WVU fans want
to watch the ball game today but with no luck on the TV satellite systems
serving the area. The game will be broadcast on ESPN 360.
Sept. 12 a If you're a Frontiernet
DSL customer, you can watch the match up on your puter. Click here
to get started.
Sept. 12 a CAEZ's Director Connie Lupardus
is in
the news.
Sept. 12 a With 17 penalties, the CCHS
Panthers didn't have a chance against Single A Ritchie last night, 22 to
13 was the final.
Sept. 11 p Happy 50th to Edward Sizemore
over at Maysel
Sept. 11 p Happy belated Birthday wishes
to Cole Ryan Fitzwater.
Sept. 11 p Tonight the Panthers take
on Ritchie County over at Schoonover/Bradley Field. Game starts at 7:30pm.
They're still looking for their first win. 101.7 FM will
be sportscasting the game for those unable to be at the game.
Sept. 11 p Eight years ago Al
Qieda attacked the USA. We lost over 3000 Americans in that attack.
Sept. 11p George Dubbya declared
war on the group. First we blasted rocks and mountains in Afghanistan in
search of Big Bin. No luck. Then we headed to Iraq, a country that had
NO involvement in 9/11. There we wiped out their govt, their leaders, their
water systems and over one million of their people. Nope, no
Al Qieda there either.
Sept. 11 p Now we're back in Afghanistan
blasting away at more rocks.
Sept. 11 p When will we admit, Al Qieda
is nestled in the backyard of our our so called friends, Pakistan and Saudi
Arabia
Sept. 11 p Last week the old
Henry Clay reopened for business. Finally a place to hide out in downtown
Clay. Food service is suppose to start up right now.
Sept. 11 p Tonight Pat Naylor is opening
his Sports Bar in Peachy's brick building beside Spread Park. Gambling,
George Dickel, 42" plasma TV, and food. What else could you ask for?
Sept. 11 p Well, live bands each
Fri and Sat night, Wed evening Jam sessions, and big strong bouncers to
keep any trouble away from the place.
Sept. 11 p Word on the street has it
that swine flu has been contracted here in Clayberry. Health Czar Jay Carper
confirmed that report last night.
Sept. 11 p Make sure you pick up the
latest edition of The Communicator so the following post will make some
sense or cents for us.
Sept. 11 p Our lead story covers the
Fire Dept. mess where providers are jockeying for service areas. Local
providers met with regulators (State Fire Marshall) Sept. 8th where the
guy didn't want to hear any BS on anything except what's best for the people
being served.
Sept. 11 p How refreshing.
Sept. 11 p Money is behind everything
in Clayberry. Such is the case with the "boundary" dispute. When ambulance
runs and chasing the $$$ came up during that Charleston meeting, the state
folks proclaimed in no uncertain terms, stop it and quit the bickering.
Sept. 11 p Wed morning the County Commission
met where they heard more discussion on consolidating the local PSDs into
one large mess. Why do it? What benefit will water customers reap? Still
no answers from Larry Darryl and Darryl
Sept. 11 p Clay Ambulance Director
Bev King told the CCC of plans being laid to station an ambulance
at the Big Otter Fire Dept with original plans calling for an Oct 1st start
date.
Sept. 11 Whoahhhhhhhhhhh came the reply
from the elected ones. In no uncertain terms, Bev was told to get a written
agreement and present it to the Commission for OK BEFORE anything happens.
Sept. 11 p Some think we don't have
many kind words for Linky poo. This time, good thinking on the part of
the CCC.
Sept. 11 p Last night Clay Roane PSD
met at the old of date and needs to be shut down, Procious Water Plant.
There four of the Boardsters voted to fight any consolidation efforts.
Chair Dave Grigsby was the lone hold out on the vote.
Sept. 11 p When Grigsby was appointed
to the Board by neighbor and then Commissioner Jimmy Sams, he was told
the PSD would be consolidated out of business in just a couple months.
It's been years now and Clay Roane is still slogging along.
Sept. 11 p See ADVISORY page for the
rally cry.
Sept. 11 p One week from today the
2009 edition of the Big Apple will be in full swing. Tomorrow is the karaoke
competition over at CCHS. Open to the public too.
Sept. 11 p Around town, people are
cleaning up store fronts and decorating for the big event. Be sure to read
the Big Apple web site for details as well as our EVENTS and ADVISORY pages.
Sept. 11 p Delta's tourism road map
comes out next week. We still have a spot open for your business to advertise
their wares. $50 is the price for a year long advertising program.
Sept. 10 a Obama De Bama said last
night that preventative care saves money. Ahh.
False.
Sept. 10 a Not government healthcare
but market based healthcare is cheaper. True
Sept. 10 a Obama's speech was
the "the first time an American president has spoken directly to the nation's
schoolchildren about persisting and succeeding in school." False.
Both Bush I and Reagan addressed curtain climbers and Reagan's was 100%
political in nature.
Sept. 10 a The W
Va Supreme Big Robes are hearing a Clayberry appeal today. Short:
Kimberly
Thomas v. Joseph B. Morris- No. 090859. Petitioner, Kimberly Thomas, appeals
from the denial of a Petition for a Domestic Violence Protective Order
from both the Clay County Circuit Court and the Clay County Family Court.
Both Courts determined that the petitioner failed to establish by a preponderance
of evidence that an incident of "domestic violence" or "abuse" had occurred,
as defined by West Virginia Code §48-27-202(5).
Sept. 10 a It's actually a double whammy
today with Dr Jamie there as well. Short: Defendant Sharooz S.
Jamie, M.D., appeals the circuit court’s order granting partial summary
judgment in favor of plaintiff Highmark West Virginia, Inc. d/b/a Mountain
State Blue Cross Blue Shield. The court granted summary judgment in favor
of Mountain State on its claims that Dr. Jamie violated a Participation
Agreement by submitting incorrect insurance claims, and granted summary
judgment in favor of Mountain State on Dr. Jamie’s counterclaims that Mountain
State had violated the Agreement and committed fraud.
Sept. 9 p Pete Robert Bishop,
52, of Bomont , see OBITUARY page.
Sept. 9 p Bill Taylor, 80, see
OBITUARY page
Sept. 9 p Wanta be a Badge and close
to home? See JOBS page now
Sept. 9 a County Commission meets this
morning at 10 am. In the agenda is a plan for Clay Ambulance service to
provide a satellite station at the Big Otter Fire Dept. Since BOFD has
long planned to offer an ambulance service in their end of the county,
the Clay Ambulance idea is a good plan to reduce potential competition.
Septa 9 a Clayberry has been thru the
satellite station notion in the past. Back then the we had an Ambulance
Authority running the whole shebang. Those satellite stations netted no
additional revenue and were short lived.
Sept. 9 a Communicator made it out
the door Tuesday afternoon. 24 pages of in depth reporting on life in the
Great Nation of Clay. we've got a bunch of pics from last weekend's Labor
day Celebration too.
Septa 9 a Green Shirt Bailey was heard
on the scanner Tuesday afternoon as he rode around in a helicopter
nabbing what sounded like pot growers. One suspect, our guess Walls, skid
addled with Bailey in hot pursuit on foot in the Reed Fork neighborhood.
Septa 8 a A second arrest, Steve
Perdue, came around 5pm. with Perdue's long history of alcohol and drug
use and years in t he court system, our guess, once again, caught with
illegal substance.
Sept. 9a Last night during
the School Board meeting, Kenneth Tanner apprised the Boardsters of wonderful
results during last year's testing. Although Tanner read his findings in
public, he said the information was top secret and from some super secret,
private web site.
Septa 9 a Here's the top
secret data on Clay Middle School which did not meet adequate yearly
progress.
Septa 9 a Here's the top
secret data comparing Clayberry to all the other counties in the state
for the last couple years.
Septa 9 a Here's the top secret stuff
comparing Clayberry's proficiency
level in math and reading compared to other counties.
Septa 9 a The School Board nodded in
approval on Kenneth Tanner's progress report. RB Legg commented on wonderful
performance. Not sure why they were so happy.
Septa 9a 35% of Clay Elem students
are NOT proficient in reading. 55% of the students at Lizemore Elem
are less than proficient in reading. 45% of the High Schoolers were in
less than good standing in reading.
Sept. 9 a 39% of the students in Clay
Elem, Big Odor and the Middle School were below proficient in math.
Sept. 9 a Here's the details on the
other rural elementary school, HE
White where 40% of the kids lag behind proficiency standards. If you
compare those most recent test scores with last
years, you can see a real drop in performance. Now that' something
to brag about!
Sept. 9 a Some think this county has
a great educational system. Those that live "south of the Hartland bridge"
may feel differently when they read
the most recent (Dec 2008) state Bd of Education educational audit
of Lizemores Elem.
Sept. 9 a Maybe that's why it's so
top secret.
Sept. 9 a Shhhhhhhhhhhhhh... Don't
tell anyone.
Sept. 7 p Dale Robert Duffield, 39,
of Ivydale, see OBITUARY page
Sept. 7 p Communicator comes out Tuesday
afternoon. No updates until we get it out the door.
Sept. 6 a Labor Day weekend is the
one time of year set aside for the worker. No cards to mail and no gifts
to buy. Just a day to sit back and enjoy. This year with millions unemployed,
losing their homes, filing bankruptcy, and with even more fearful of the
future, few are encouraged.
Sept. 6 a After 8 years of greed on
Wall Street and incompetence in the White House, we thought the new Hawaiian
Prez would mend the country overnight. That's not been the case.
Sept. 6 a Here's our over the shoulder
look from the last seven days
Sept. 6 a Now Afghanistan, August was
the deadliest month yet in that war. Few even make mention.
Sept. 6 a The 8 year anniversary of
Sept. 11th is coming up, who cares
Sept. 6 a In 2008, 25 U.S. banks were
seized by officials, up from only three in 2007. So far this year, the
Feds
have taken over 88. But, who cares.
Sept. 6 a Continuing the downward
spiral of our country, the unemployment rate jumped to a 26-year high,
Again, ho hum, who cares
Sept. 6 a Closer to home, Town Council
worked their magic of hiring a full time person to replace resigned Brenda
Baird. They did so without advertising the position and after a closed
door meeting.
Sept. 6 a The count down continues
for new to the county William Whitteker and Panserco who has until Oct
1st to upgrade the old Fas Chek building, install multi telephone lines,
and hire 200+ workers. Greatest thing since canned soup or a guy
to be hanged on Oct 2nd, Mr Whitteker has 25 days left to determine his
fate.
Sept. 6 a After three months of hearing
about a partnership with the BDA, the Central Appalachia Empowerment Zone
(CAEZ) made it very clear Tuesday evening, they don't want anything to
do with the BDA nor it's stagnant, dysfunctional operation.
Sept. 6 a On the plus side, the Business
Development Authority (BDA) made some progress. Thursday evening. They
voted to turn the old Filcon industrial site over to a realty company for
disposal. Asking price: $149,999
Sept. 6 a After dorking around
with the CAEZ for 90 days without any luck, the BDA voted to press forward
with the hiring of an Economic Development Director for the county. Their
lone partner will be the County Commission. The listing is now posted over
on the JOBS page.
Sept. 6 a This weekend, the local radio
station finished off it's summer time tourism draw with a Small Town America
Labor Day Celebration. Yesterday there were cloggers, great bluegrass music
and late night rock n roll in downtown Clay. Balloons, hot dogs, parade,
little kids grinning, and old folks tapping their feet under beautiful
blue skies, moderate temps and no humidity. Today is lawn mower racing,
corn hole competition and more tunes from great West Virginia musicians.
Sept. 6 a What a great way to polish
off nice summer months.
Sept. 6 a Enjoy Labor D
Sept. 5 a Last night the Panthers took
it on the nose, 23 to 7
Sept. 5 With one full week of school
under our belts, it's time to celebrate this weekend of Summer. Full WYAP
Small Town America Celebration schedule over on the EVENTS page and on
their kiosk in the parking lot.
Sept. 5 a A fun way to spend Saturday
and Sunday in the heart of the Appalachia Mountains, Clay County West Virginia
Sept. 4 a Tonight the Panthers take
on Braxton County in home field action beginning at 7:30pm. For those living
afar, you can listen in via 101.7 FM by going to www.wyap.com and then
click the blinking ON AIR button. Works best if you use the Winamp audio
player.
Sept. 4 a Go Panthers!
Sept. 4 a You're not going to believe
this. Our beloved Business Development Authority accomplished something
last night.
Sept. 4 a First they agreed to
sell the long troubled Filcon industrial site thru realty pro, Bruce Bienvenue
with WV Land Farm and Home Realty Co in Big Otter. Asking price? $149,000.
Sept. 4 a Who knows, the land may finally
turn into a world class worm farm!!
Sept. 4 a As for waiting around for
some kind of partnership with the CAEZ, screw em was the battle cry. Heck
with em and full speed ahead in hiring an economic development specialist.
Sept. 4 a The new hiring partnership
will be between the BDA and County Commission (CCC) with Commissioner Mike
Pierson and BDa Boardster Mike Boggs in charge of hiring and overseeing
the new hire. The BDA will have little if any say in what the new specialist
does.
Sept. 4 a Although most feel the newbee
high dollar hire will be little more than a secretary for CCC Prez Slinky,
the plan is to have someone on the job before year's end.
Sept. 4 a No matter what happens down
the road, the BDA finally got off their collective butts and made decisions.
Sept. 4 Under new management,
the Henry Clay is open for your gambling pleasures once again.The food
side of the tavern will start up soon.
Sept. 4 a 14 years ago today John Davis
and the ace cub reporter were working on the very first edition of The
Communicator. Interviewed in that first edition were County Commissioner
RT Sizemore (troubled ambulance service was the topic) and Dr Dick Hunt
on all the problems facing public schools with an emphasis on the evils
of consolidation.
Sept. 4 a Since then, the independent
paper that no one said would survive has grown and thrived. Since the beginning
our stance has always been, the media should be the govt's watch dog not
a lap dog. Thanks for your support as we continue to change Clayberry with
lots of sunshine.
Sept. 4 a Can anyone think of a more
fertile place for watching lame brain government in action.
Sept. 4 a The radio station is gearing
up for the Small Town America Labor Day Celebration this weekend. Details
on the EVENTS page.
Sept. 4 a Anyone can be in Sat's parade.
Just decorate your car, truck, wagon, bike, or whatever and be at the old
Starcher Furniture Bldg on Main St at Noon:30. Got an old tractor, truck
or antique car? Come out Saturday for sure.
Sept. 4 a Communicator comes out Tuesday
with our deadline at 5pm today.
Sept. 3 a Clay County's Business Development
Authority (BDA) meets this evening at 5 in the Courthouse.
Sept. 3 a Communicator comes out next
Tuesday. Deadline for submissions, Friday at 5pm
Sept. 3 a Wed afternoon, Clay County's
Bobby Lewis was named state USDA Rural Development Big Cheese
Sept. 3 a A bunch of you responded
by quickly submitting resumes for the Town secretary job being vacated
by Brenda Baird. Wed afternoon Town Council called their second meeting
of the week where they hired Felicia Cogar away from the Clay Co PSD to
fill the position. Town Recorder pushed hard for the hire as she did back
a year ago when Ms Baird was hired.
Sept. 3 a By the way, Brenda Baird
says she heading over to Clay Primary Care for part time employment instead
of laying on the couch, watching TV, and eating HoHos.
Sept. 3 a Another by the way..... During
Tuesday's Council meeting it was announced they stopped flouriding the
wa wa back on Aug. 11th. Some pipe got ate up by the cancer causing fluoride
and they decide not to make repairs. The Town wa wa plant supplies
the stuff to Clay Roane and Clay Co PSDs. The Town is
back to trying to make clean drinkable wet stuff minus the medicine. Good.
Sept. 3 a Years ago the BDA boys decided
to change their by laws so just four of em constitute a quorum. During
the last ten years, they've spent their time running in circles, accomplishing
little and doing their best to operate behind closed doors. During one
episode of the public finding something out, the BDA set up their own secret
inner circle, executive committee, committed to making major decisions
away from the public place.
Sept. 3 a More recently, the BDA asked
the CAEZ and Clay County Commission to partner in funding for an economic
development coordinator position. The CCC went right along.
Sept. 3 a Even after some earlier arm
twisting by various elected local officials, Tuesday evening, the Central
Appalachia Empowerment Zone (CAEZ) said NOPE to any partnership with the
BDA. Comments were along the lines of: Are they legitimate to do
anything?; How can four people constitute a quorum?; the BDA is a
joke!; and consensus from all: the CCC needs to appoint more capable
people to the BDA
Sept. 3 a The BDA just got bit
in the butt for their years of questionable practice and rightly so.
Sept. 3 a With the cob webs gone and
a new coat of paint, the historic Henry Clay Hotel is about ready to reopen
for business. Yesterday the state lottery folks were inspecting the electro
games.
Sept. 3 a WYAP's Small Town America
Celebrates Labor Day festivities includes lawn mower races and a corn hole
championship, both on Sunday afternoon. Interested in either or both? Details
on the EVENTS page.
Sept. 2 a After winning a gaziilion
dollar court case against CDC and after the Mayor told her she had to work
a full work week, Town secretary Brenda Baird turned in her resignation.
Sept. 2 a During last night's Town
Council meeting, the elected ones decided they didn't have enough time
to accept job applications for the full time with benefits position. Instead
today at 5pm they plan to hire someone (most likely a secretary from Clay
Co PSD) they like from an old pool of resumes.
Sept. 2 a How about it Clayberry, interested
in a real job. Get your resume over to Mayor Jack Brown NOW. Keep in mind,
no one in that old pool of applicants has ANY experience with the duties
of Town secretary.
Sept. 2 a It's now , today, of quit
whining about not having a job.
Sept. 2 a How many times have you run
out of printer ink or toner and had to run to WallMart, K Mart or wait
three days on the UPS guy to bring your cartridges?
Sept. 2 a The owners of the Communicator
and this web site also operate an office supply center at their 2278 Main
street storefront office. Basically copy paper, rubber stamps and printing.
Sept. 2 a In two weeks Delta plans
to start offering remanufactured cartridges from the Ink in a Blink chain.
If you're interested in having a local place to purchase printer supplies
at reasonable prices, call, email, leave a note on the front door with
the cartridge model number you use and they will stock em.
Sept. 2 a How cheap did you ask? As
much s 25% cheaper than Staples OR Wall Mart and close to home!
Sept. 2 a Better web posting
coming later today.
Sept. 1 a Jon Cody Phillips, 25, of
Lizemores died Aug. 29, 2009. Wilson-Shamblin-Smith Funeral Home, Clay,
is in charge of arrangements.
Sept. 1 a First day of a new month
with temps down in the 40s. Some turned on their heaters last night. The
rest of us sat around with goose bumps.
Sept. 1 a We've got a full day today
with Clay Town Council meeting in the old Chevy dealership at 5pm. On the
menu is the sewer rate increase and hope to start soon, water plant
Sept. 1 a Central Appalachia Empowerment
Zone (CAEZ) holds their annual dinner this evening over at the community
college at Valley Fork. Free food!
Sept. 1 a We've got a road out
Widen, Harrision, Paddy Ridge way that has a very dangerous "slip". So
bad is the roadway, school buses are being rerouted off the road.
Sept. 1 a Senator Randy White
called to say he's on the problem and has gotten the State Road folks in
Charleston to put the repair job on their priority list.
Sept. 1 a Instead of beating our heads
against the wall, maybe we should lean on our higher up elected officials
for the big challenges. White's one of em that available and has shown
results!
Sept. 1 Last week during the
CCC meeting, reps from the fire departments told Larry Darryl and Darryl
they were real upset over OES Director Pat Beets' recent decision
to change of service boundaries of each department. After the intense discussion,
Commission Prez Linky told those assembled to revert back to old guidelines.
Linky made that decision without a vote of the Commission.
Sept. 1 a Yesterday Pat Beets said
to hold your horses. What the Fire Chiefs were saying just ain't true.
From the Beets conversation: the fire department boundary decision was
made more than 2 years ago; about 3 months ago the FDs agreed to make minor
changes to those boundaries with the OK of Beets; and the Aug 18 2009 FAX
to state officials which caused all the stir, " I sent over what I thought
was what they wanted, it was just confirmation of the original decision
and the minor changes.
Sept. 1 a Beets added he didn't
care about the service area of each fire and ambulance service just "that's
it's fair to the public".
Sept. 1 a a meeting with the
State Marshall's office has been set up for Sept. 8th. A rep from each
Fire Dept has been invited to the meeting.
Sept. 1 a In Clayberry, there's usually
something behind each argument. Something not said in public but the basis
of the dispute. Most often, it's $$$ issues. In this case , it may be a
battle between the service area of the new Lizemore Ambulance service and
that conflict with the oft troubled , more established, Clay Ambulance
service.
Sept. 1 a Just a guess clickers.
Sept. 1 a One last word from OES Director
Beets: the Red Cross and other non profits have agreed to assist with the
three homes wiped out by last weekend's monsoon flooding.
Sept. 1 a Two weeks ago today William
Whitteker came to town with a grandious plan to set up a new commuications
center in the old Fas Chek building in downtown Clay. Almost immediately
our Top Badge threatned the guy with arrest. Almost immediately others
started their own campaign to get the guy tossed out of the county.
When Clayonains went to the Courthouse asking for advice, they were told
not to do ANYTHING until after the County Commission meeting last Wed.
Sept. 1 a The CCC met last week and
never even mentioned the guy or his Panserco company.
Sept. 1 a After two full weeks, the
Sheriff's promise to arrest hasn't happened.
Sept. 1 a All the time, Whitteker continues
his effort to fix up the old store and be under way Oct 1st. True the guy
may be from a different planet but so far, he ain't asked for one tax dollar
and told perspective workers: don't quit your day job.
Sept. 1 a Whitteker has a tough row
to hoe, may be a total hoax or the best thang since canned soup BUT, what
have we got to lose? We will know Oct 1st.
Sept. 1 a This morning, the Charleston
Gazette provided a
third installment on Whitteker and his less than Saintly background..