Women: West Virginia State completed a rare season sweep of Glenville State with a 68-64
Men: West Virginia State ended the game as the Jackets earned their eighth straight win with an 89-83 victory at Glenville State
Community Resources Inc. (CRI) may not be a name easily recognizable to many people. We are actively in the process of changing that. As a non-profit community action agency, CRI assists low-income individuals and families in 11 West Virginia Counties. We provide services such as crisis intervention, emergency utility and heating assistance, assisting with the acquisition of safe, affordable housing and home repair loans. CRI also helps with basic education (GED completion) and employment education and assistance. We weatherize homes to increase energy efficiency and help lower heating and energy bills. Currently we are offering free income tax preparation to qualified individuals.
It is important that Community Resources Inc. remains a strong presence in the communities that it serves, not only for the population that is being served, but also because CRI’s services help filter money back into those communities. For instance, once a home is weatherized, there is a typical $3 savings realized for every $1 invested. This can add up to thousands of dollars in savings over a short period of time. When CRI weatherizes a home, less money is spent on energy bills, allowing more money to be available for other needs and allowing for more money to be funneled back into the community at large.
CRI is primarily funded at the federal and state levels through grant monies, however, we do also operate through additional funding sources such as foundations and private donations. Funding for weatherization is expected to increase with the new administration, however, CRI is constantly challenged with securing additional, non-governmental funds. As an agency, we have been attending city council and county commission meetings in an effort to increase the awareness of our services and to solicit additional funding to help augment our existing availability. We all know that economic issues such as the ones we face will demand increased efforts on our part to remain a strong entity, but we do remain committed to helping others to increase their own self-sufficiency.
For more information on CRI and the services provided by this agency, please contact your local Community Resources Inc. office. Serving Calhoun, Doddridge, Gilmer, Jackson, Pleasants, Ritchie, Roane, Tyler, Wetzel, Wirt and Wood counties.
Lynn Garber, Parkersburg, Manager for Community Resources Inc.
Titan Boys Win in Coal Classic Consolation Game
Gilmer County 46 Buffalo 31
The West Virginia Kids Count Fund has issued its annual report on children’s well-being. This year, the focus is on improving child care.
The early childhood years are critical for later development, the report says, and West Virginia should put a child care quality rating in place. This will ensure every child in child care will receive the highest standard of care.
Kids Count executive director Margie Hale describes the difference between high quality and low quality care.
“In many programs we see teachers standing up, talking down to the children, being plopped down in a high chair,” Hale said.
“What high quality does is there’s a very enriched interaction between the teacher and the child to encourage the child to answer his questions, be on his level. And that’s what happens when you have fewer staff and they’re better trained.”These programs, Hale says, also include a focus on the “whole child.” Besides providing education and supervision, they offer breakfast or lunch and screen for vision, hearing and general health.
During the upcoming legislative session, Kids Count will ask state lawmakers to fund a program to provide financial incentives for child care facilities to improve.
“A quality rating system is a wonderful mechanism for allowing centers to progress gradually so it gives providers a chance to incrementally improve and it provides financial incentives for them to do so,” Hale said.
West Virginia ranked 44th nationally in child well-being. Between 2000 and 2006, the latest year for which statistics were available, West Virginia worsened in several categories. The number of children receiving free or reduced-cost lunch rose, as did the number of high school dropouts and the teen injury death rate.Particularly troublesome to Hale was the increase in the number of low birth weight babies.
“One of the most significant problems is the percent of low birth weight babies and that has gone up again and has gone up every year for years,” she said. “And now it’s at 9.5 percent. West Virginia has the highest rate of pregnant people who smoke.”
To see the report, go to http://www.wvkidscountfund.org or download the attached document.
Erica Peterson/Scott Finn—WVPubcast
Since 1978, French Creek Freddie, the state’s official weather prognosticating groundhog, has been the star of the show at the West Virginia State Wildlife Center at French Creek in Upshur County. On Monday, February 2, Freddie is poised to continue his annual ritual at 10AM. Each Groundhog Day, Wildlife Center staff awakens the grumpy rodent and bring him out of his winter hibernation hole to allow him to look for his shadow and predict the severity of the remaining six weeks of winter. He’s usually right, but after making his forecast before an audience of hundreds of groundhog fans, including news media from around the state, he is more than happy to return to the warmth of his bed. “Everyone is invited to join in the fun of Groundhog Day at the West Virginia Wildlife Center, and afterwards, visitors are welcome to take a walking tour of the nearly 30 species of native wildlife on display, or have refreshments at the area’s Gift Shop,” said Rob Silvester, Wildlife Center Biologist.
The West Virginia Wildlife Center is a modern zoological facility displaying native and introduced state wildlife. Operated by the Wildlife Resources Section of the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources, the Wildlife Center is dedicated to presenting visitors a realistic and factual understanding of our state’s wildlife. Woodland wildlife can be viewed along a wheelchair-accessible, 1.25-mile-long interpretive trail through a mature hardwood forest. Species at the facility include whitetail deer, black bear, wild turkey, and formerly native species that no longer live in the state, including elk, bison and mountain lions. The spacious enclosures allow the animals to interact with their environment and exhibit more natural behavior patterns. Interpretive signs help visitors learn more about each animal’s life history, biology and its relationship with humans.
The West Virginia State Wildlife Center is located in Upshur County in north-central West Virginia, 12 miles south of Buckhannon on State Route 20. Travelers from North can take exit 99 off Interstate 79 and follow State Route 33 east approximately 12 miles to Buckhannon and turn south on State Route 20. Visitors coming from the south can take exit 67 off Interstate 79 at Flatwoods and follow State Routes 19 and 4 north approximately 30 miles to Rock Cave and Route 20. Follow State Route 20 North for 2 miles to the center. Visiting the Wildlife Center is a convenient side trip for travelers on I-79.
Call (304) 924-6211 between the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, or visit online at http://www.wvdnr.gov/wildlife/wildlifecenter.shtm .
Varsity girls basketball game on Jan. 30 has been cancelled.
All Jr. High basketball games for January 31 has been cancelled.
The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR) reminds trappers that the trapping season for mink and muskrat ends on Feb. 28, 2009. The trapping season for beaver will end on March 31, 2009. Beaver trappers are reminded that it is illegal to set traps other than underwater killer type traps during the month of March. All beaver pelts are required to be checked at an official game checking station within 30 days of the close of season. On any given day that a trapper presents multiple beavers to be checked, only the first tag needs to be filled out completely. Successive tags for each additional beaver checked on that particular day must have check station name, species, trapper name and license number, date of harvest and county of harvest. All other information may be left blank. Mink and muskrat pelts are not required to be checked at an official game checking station.
Trappers, hunters and fur dealers are reminded that furs shipped out of West Virginia must have a fur shipping tag, which is available at WVDNR district offices and most game checking stations.
The general public is reminded that now, before the trapping season ends, would be a good time to deal with nuisance muskrat or beaver problems. Trappers may be more likely to assist landowners with nuisance problems while their gear is in working order and pelts are prime.—- WVDNR
Primary Road Conditions: Roadways are Snow and/or Ice covered in the following areas Northern Panhandle, Northwest, West Central, Northern Mountains and in Mason, Calhoun, Braxton, Doddridge, Upshur, Fayette county. With Snow and/or Ice spots in the following areas Central Mountains and in Wayne, Lincoln, Jackson, Gilmer, Lewis, Barbour, Mingo, Logan, Raleigh, Mercer, Pendleton, Hampshire county. Elsewhere roadways are mostly clear at this time.
Secondary Road Conditions: Roadways are Snow and/or Ice covered in the following areas Northwest, West Central, Northern Mountains and in Marshall, Hancock, Mason, Braxton, Upshur, Taylor, Fayette, Pendleton county. With Snow and/or Ice spots in the following areas Eastern Panhandle, Central Mountains and in Ohio, Brooke, Wayne, Lincoln, Jackson, Gilmer, Doddridge, Lewis, Harrison, Barbour, Mingo, Logan, Raleigh, Mercer, Mineral, Hardy, Hampshire county. Elsewhere roadways are mostly clear at this time.
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Women’s Basketball vs. WV State 5:30PM Lilly Gymnasium
Men’s Basketball vs. WV State 7:30PM Lilly Gymnasium
Braxton County > Closed
Calhoun County > Closed
Doddridge County > Closed
Gilmer County > Closed
Lewis County > Closed
Ritchie County > Closed
Last updated 01/30/09 7:19AM
Women: Glenville State 77 Davis & Elkins 71
Men: Glenville State 81 Davis & Elkins 73
West Virginia gets a barely-passing grade for the way it identifies and maintains new effective teachers, but the state is still above average overall in a national teacher quality report. The National Council of Teacher Quality report evaluates state policies that impact new teachers, and those with less than five years of experience.
The report first looked how the state identifies new effective teachers. Vice President of the National Council on Teacher Quality, Sandi Jacobs, says states struggle most in this category, including West Virginia.
“One of the things that the state in particular is in a position to do much more easily than districts is to create a longitudinal data system where standardized test data is tracked over time that matches students to teachers and has demographic information so that you’re able to control for certain variables,” said Jacobs. “West Virginia actually has all the elements it would need ... but it’s not using the system in that capacity.”
West Virginia’s Department of Education is making other changes that it feels will help identify effective new teachers. Karen Huffman, West Virginia Department of Education Director of the Division of Educator Quality, says the state is revising its teacher standards.“This is more about informing teachers of the expectations, and we are using teachers to help us write those statements,” said Huffman. “We need the consensus from those people who are working in field who are expert teachers to say this is what should be expected in terms of teacher behavior and performance and these are examples of what that looks like.”
Nathan Estel, a director with state Department of Education, is working to implement the new standards. The Department is partnering with colleges and universities where future teachers are trained.
“That work is about to kick off,” said Estel. “We are looking at approximately a two-year process, so that as we look into the future we have a better pipeline of teachers that we would identify, as this report did, as effective teachers in the classroom.”
The national report also critiqued West Virginia’s ability to retain effective new teachers. The report says pay and benefits, including the state-run retirement system, hurts newer teachers and offers inadequate incentives for them to stay.
“States that have a state-salary schedule, such as West Virginia does, means that districts have no freedom to compensate teachers based on anything except the factors in the state schedule, which is traditionally years of experience and whether or not they have an advanced degree. We strongly encourage states to give that authority to districts,” Jacobs said.
Huffman says pay and benefit policies are based on state law and are more difficult for the Department of Education to address. Also, the department does not support performance-based pay increases that are linked to student test results.
“It’s really a misuse of standardized test scores to evaluate teachers using that kind of data. Again, we think that it is much better to work with our teachers and identify what is it that we want our teachers to know and be able to do,” said Huffman.
The agency plans to present the new teacher standards to the state Board of Education at next month’s meeting.
West Virginia’s overall C- ranking in the National Council of Teacher Quality report is actually above the national average of D+. The report commends the state for giving multiple annual teacher evaluations and instituting improvement plans if a teacher receives a poor evaluation.WVPB http://wvpubcast.org
With the issue of climate change on everyone’s mind these days, people are looking for ways to cut down on energy use. Many people are turning to compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs), which use 75 percent less energy and last up to 10 times longer than incandescent bulbs.
But there is also a concern because CFLs contain a small amount of mercury. One Pennsylvania resident recently emailed the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s mid-Atlantic region to ask what she should do:
“The problem with CFLs,” she wrote, “is that these bulbs contain mercury and they need to be disposed of properly but the box does not give any instructions. Should we be more concerned with energy saving or mercury hazards?
EPA’s electronics recycling specialist Dan Gallo, who responded to the question, says the benefits of lower energy consumption outweigh the disadvantages but “EPA promotes and encourages the safe disposal of old CFLs to prevent the release of mercury into the environment,”
“Although CFCs do contain mercury, it is present in trace amounts—five milligrams—an amount that would cover the tip of a ballpoint pen,” said Gallo. “It would take 100 CFLs to equal the amount of mercury contained in older thermometers, which is about 500 milligrams.”
The good news is that old CFC bulbs can be taken to Home Depot, IKEA and Ace Hardware for recycling. And Wal-mart is piloting a CFL recycling program at its stores in the Richmond, Va. area.
Since CFLs use 75 percent less energy than traditional incandescent light bulbs, if every American switched one incandescent bulb to a CFL, it would save more than $600 million in annual energy costs and prevent greenhouse gases equivalent to the emissions from 800,000 cars.
“Using CFLs is a quick and easy way for Americans to save energy and money everyday, while they also protect the environment,” Gallo said.
But if a bulb accidentally breaks, proper clean-up is necessary.
“The first thing you want to do is to get everyone out of room, including pets,” Gallo said. “Open a window to air out the room for at least 15 minutes. If you broke the bulb on a hard surface, take a piece of stiff paper or cardboard and scoop up as much of the debris and residue as you can.”
Gallo advises to use an old glove or sock to protect hands and then wipe up any remaining residue with a moist paper towel. “If you broke the bulb on a carpeted surface, you’ll want to use sticky tape to blot up any residue. Put everything in a plastic bag or a jar that can be sealed with a lid and dispose of it with the regular household trash.”
For more information on CFLs go to:
http://www.epa.gov/osw/hazard/wastetypes/universal/lamps/index.htm
http://www.epa.gov/osw/hazard/wastetypes/universal/lamps/faqs.htm
Postmaster General John E. Potter went before Congress on Wednesday asking them to consider a five day postal service workweek.
Saturday isn’t the only day the Postal Service is considering. Some say Tuesday would be a better choice because it’s considered a low-flow day. And by keeping things running Saturday, that gives people who work through the week the chance to get to the post office.
Reason given for the request: Increase Cost and Internet mail.
Date: Monday, February 2, 2009
Time: 1:00PM
Place: President’s Conference Room in Administration Building
Public is Welcome
When Valentine’s Day falls on a Saturday, as it does this year, it provides an opportunity for a whole weekend to say “Be my Valentine” with dinner, a play, a dance or a romantic getaway at a West Virginia state park lodge or cabin. Special “Sweetheart packages” are available at a state park near wherever you live, including North Bend, Cacapon, Hawks Nest, Pipestem, and Chief Logan Lodge, and reservations are highly recommended.
Sweetheart packages, dinner theaters, and dances are some of the many West Virginia State Park’s programs and events scheduled this year. For information regarding specific Sweetheart/Valentine details, contact 800-CALL-WVA and ask for the park by name. For a complete list of activities and events at WV State Parks and Forests, go online to www.wvstateparks.com and click on “calendar” or call (304) 558-2764 and request a printed Calendar of Events to be mailed.
The North Bend Sweetheart Package includes Friday evening activities and snacks, Saturday breakfast buffet, Saturday dinner and dance with the band “Stepping Stone” providing a great mix of dance favorites. The package also includes room reservations at the North Bend State Park Lodge both Friday and Saturday nights.
“We enjoy having fun at North Bend,” says Gayle McGuffey, event coordinator. The North Bend weekend includes a “caught you being sweet” game where guests are awarded candy hearts to collect prizes at Saturday’s dance. The Tunnel of Love Hike on Friday evening may not be everyone’s idea of a romantic weekend, but those strolling through an illuminated tunnel on the North Bend Rail Trail are rewarded with a hot cocoa break at the gazebo before returning to the lodge. ‘It’s a heart healthy activity combined with a chocolate fix,” says McGuffey. Friday evening also includes The North Bend Sweetheart Game, based on the TV game show, “The Newlywed Game.” How well do you know your sweetheart?
Saturday includes a ‘honey’ of a breakfast and an opportunity to get outside for a short walk to see beaver habitat. McGuffey indicates the dam building activity by resident park beavers is amazing to watch. The weekend also encourages visits to area shops and local stores, a keepsake craft activity with instruction and craft provided by Woolen Willow of Williamstown, W.Va., and more. The Saturday Sweetheart buffet features prime rib and Chef Ingel’s dessert bar. The Sweetheart Dance, which includes finger foods and refreshments, starts at 9 p.m. with the band “Stepping Stone.”
For more information, contact North Bend State Park, (304) 643-2931.The full weekend cost is $270 per couple including taxes and gratuities, activities, dinner and dance. Dinner/dance only options are available.
Hawks Nest State Park, Fayette County – Contact: Willa Grafton (304) 658-5212
If your Valentine is an Elvis fan, Hawks Nest is the place for Valentine’s weekend. Event coordinator Willa Grafton says, “With the voice and moves like Elvis himself, impersonator Frankie Dee is a true entertainer.” There are four options for Valentine weekend fun: dinner and entertainment Friday Night, February 13 at 7:30 p.m., a Saturday Matinee, February 14 at 2 p.m., Saturday Night, February 14 at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday Matinee, February 15 at 2 p.m.
“Our two shows last year had folks asking for more,” according to Grafton. ‘‘’That’s all right,’ if ‘you’ve lost that lovin’ feelin’,’ our weekend at Hawks Nest is sure to rekindle ‘young love’ or maybe just help you remember Elvis and some great songs from 1953-1977. What better weekend to ‘put on your blue suede shoes’ and bring your sweetheart, friends, group or family for the fun we have at Hawks Nest dinner theaters?”
The event is packaged with dinner, entertainment, overnight lodging and breakfast, or choose dinner and entertainment only. All dinner theaters at Hawks Nest are listed on the park’s Web site, http://www.hawksnestsp.com and click “events.”
Stonewall and Canaan Valley resorts and Blackwater Falls also offer weekend options.
Canaan Valley in Tucker County is introducing American Mountain Theater, a Branson-style production Valentine’s Day weekend and at other dates this winter. Contact Canaan Valley at (304) 866-4121 for information.
Stonewall Resort, located in Lewis County, offers a package that includes lodging, dinner and champagne and spa options. Call Stonewall at (304) 269-7400 for information and to make reservations.
The restaurant for Blackwater Falls in Tucker County will feature a Valentines theme and the park offers room and cabin options. Call Blackwater Falls at (304) 259-5216 for weekend options and reservations.
West Virginia State Parks restaurants that are open year-round with full-service include: Stonewall, Pipestem, Cacapon, Canaan Valley, and Twin Falls resorts, North Bend, Hawks Nest, Blackwater Falls, and Chief Logan Lodge.
Calhoun County > 2-Hour Delay
Doddridge County > 2-Hour Delay
Gilmer County > 2-Hour Delay
Lewis County > 2-Hour Delay
Ritchie County > Closed
Last Updated 01/28/09 8:47PM
Date: Monday, February 2, 2009
Time: 7:30PM
Place: Sand Fork City Hall
Hosted By: Mid-Ohio Valley Beekeepers Assoc. & WVU Ext. Service
Date: January 31, 2009
Time: 8AM-4PM
Place: WVU-Parkersburg
City: Parkersburg, WV
Contact: Teresa, 375-4919
Http://www.angelfire.com/nb/movba
Twelve seniors from nine area high schools have been selected as finalists in the third Magic 106.5 FM West Virginia Wesleyan American Scholar competition.
Online voting is currently under way and will continue through Jan. 30 up to 11:59PM. The final results will be announced on Feb. 5.
The American Scholar winner will receive a four-year tuition and fees scholarship to attend Wesleyan, valued at more than $90,000. The first runner-up will receive $5,000 and $2,500 will be awarded to the second runner-up. These awards will be combined with other Wesleyan scholarship programs. The American Scholar program is also sponsored by U.S. Cellular, Mountain Valley Bank and Mission West Virginia.
Finalists for the scholarship competition include: Ashley White from Buckhannon-Upshur, Kaleb Wilfong from Tucker County, Ellis Wyatt from Harman, Joel Abraham from South Harrison, Skylar Alonso from Liberty, Arielle Baker from Fairmont Senior, Brandon Cochran from South Harrison, Cora Freeman from Gilmer County, Nolan Harvath from East Fairmont, Gabrielle LaFata from Morgantown, Marissa Pulice from Fairmont Senior and Kayla Rose from Braxton County.
Freeman is a member of the National Honor Society at Gilmer County High School and was one of her school’s representatives at Rhododendron Girls State. She is the class treasurer and a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Freeman is an active member of the Church of God of Prophecy where she creates, plans and implements the Kid’s Praise Program and serves as the children’s church teacher. In addition, she volunteers her time at the Sunbridge Nursing Home and works 16 to 25 hours per week at a local restaurant. She is the daughter of Velma and Larry Freeman of Sand Fork and plans to pursue psychology or English.
The scholarship winners are selected through a scoring system that includes evaluations from the scholarship committee members and online votes at http://www.wvmagic.com.
| Title | WOC |
1 | Plum Spooky Janet Evanovich, St. Martin's | 1 |
2 | The Host Stephenie Meyer; Little, Brown | 33 |
3 | Black Ops W.E.B. Griffin, Putnam | 2 |
4 | Scarpetta Patricia Cornwell, Putnam | 5 |
5 | Cross Country James Patterson; Little, Brown | 7 |
6 | Fire and Ice Julie Garwood, Ballantine | 2 |
7 | The Story of Edgar Sawtelle David Wroblewski, Ecco | 29 |
8 | The Hour I First Believed Wally Lamb, Harper | 8 |
9 | Running Hot Jayne Ann Krentz, Putnam | 2 |
10 | Eclipse Richard North Patterson, Henry Holt | 1 |
Varsity Girl’s Game at Wirt has been cancelled on January 28
A vote in the U.S. House of Representatives is expected later in the day on Wednesday on more than $800 billion economic stimulus plan.
WV First District Congressman Alan Mollohan will vote YES.
WV Second District Congresswoman Shelley Moore Capito will vote NO.
WV Third District Congressman Nick Rahall will vote YES, a “BIG” YES.
State Schools Superintendent Doctor Steve Paine says county school students need to get 180 days of school instruction time each year. “I think this year has really brought the issues to the forefront,“ Doctor Paine says.
We’re in the middle of a Winter in West Virginia that has brought many, many snow days for county school students. That means a lot of counties will likely fall well short of the 180 day requirement for school instruction days this year.
Part of the problem is that, by law, the school year cannot start before August 26th and must end before June 8th. That’s where Paine says changes are needed.
“We’re going to have to be a little bit more flexible on the start end of the calendar and on the back date of the calendar,“ he said on Wednesday’s MetroNews Talkline.
“We’re going to have to provide for some degree of flexibility and my opinion is that local districts, generally they have calendar committees that consist of teachers and parents and others, that as they get together we need to hold them accountable to get 180 days of instruction.“
Paine says students need that instructional time in the classroom . At the same time, he says West Virginia must do a better job of training its teachers through professional development programs.
“In order to have a first rate workforce, we must set aside resources to develop our people. We don’t do that well in education because we don’t have enough resources.“
The school calendar includes a number of days that have been tacked on over time, some in lieu of pay raises, and that’s why Paine says it makes sense to review how the days in the school year are being spent.
“What I’m suggesting is that we extend the calendar beyond those dates so that teachers could engage in that quality professional development in addition to making sure that kids get 180 days of instructional time.“
WV Metro News
WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY - THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE HAS ISSUED A WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY THROUGH 4PM WEDNESDAY FOR THE FOLLOWING COUNTIES: DODDRIDGE, GILMER, AND RITCHIE.
Matilda Joy Lorentz Furr
Age 84, of Glenville departed this life on Jan. 27, 2009 at Sunbridge of Glenville following an extended illness.
She was born Sept. 19, 1924 in Gilmer County, a daughter of the late John and Theodosa Brike Lorentz. Mrs. Furr was a homemaker and member of the Kanawha Drive Independent Church.
Surviving are one son and one daughter, David Furr of Cox’s Mill, W.Va., and Donna Sebastian of Las Vegas; and two brothers, Hoy and Don Lorentz of Belpre.
On Sept. 23, 1950 she was married to Holbert M. Furr who preceded her in death July 7, 1993. Mrs. Furr was also preceded in death by three brothers, Doy, Roy and John Lorentz.
Funeral services will be conducted 11AM Friday at the Ellyson Mortuary, Inc., Glenville with Rev. Ronzel Roberts officiating. Burial will follow in the Cooper Cemetery on Panther Run. Friends may call from 5-8PM Thursday at the Mortuary.
Ellyson Mortuary, Inc. is assisting the family of Matilda Joy Furr with arrangements.
The West Virginia Secondary School Activities Commission has approved a change in the format for playing sites for softball and baseball regional playoff games.
Starting this spring, semifinals and finals in all three classes for softball and baseball will be held at home sites of the participating teams.
Previously, the regional playoff games had been played at predetermined sites, but the state softball and baseball coaches associations were concerned about the cost effectiveness of teams playing at neutral sites when both were faced with long trips.
As an example, the baseball coaches sited last year’s Region 3 baseball finals between Greenbrier East and George Washington that were played at the Woodrow Wilson High School baseball field in Beckley. That meant a trip of around 50 miles for each of the participating schools.
According to the WVSSAC, the host sections will rotate each year.
WVMN
Description: College
Date: Thursday, 01/29/2009
Time: 9:00PM
Place: GSC-MCCC 315A
For more information contact Kipp Colvin at ext. 7412.
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Women’s Basketball at Davis & Elkins (Elkins, WV) 5:30PM
Men’s Basketball at Davis & Elkins (Elkins, WV) 7:30PM
Issued by The National Weather Service
Charleston, WV
4:01 am EST, Wed., Jan. 28, 2009
... FLOOD WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT THROUGH THIS EVENING…
THE FLOOD WATCH CONTINUES FOR
* PORTIONS OF NORTHEAST KENTUCKY… SOUTHEAST OHIO AND WEST VIRGINIA… INCLUDING THE FOLLOWING AREAS… IN NORTHEAST KENTUCKY… BOYD… CARTER… GREENUP AND LAWRENCE KY. IN SOUTHEAST OHIO… GALLIA AND LAWRENCE OH. IN WEST VIRGINIA… BOONE… BRAXTON... CABELL… CALHOUN... CLAY… GILMER... JACKSON WV… KANAWHA… LINCOLN… LOGAN… MASON… MINGO… NICHOLAS… PUTNAM… ROANE… WAYNE… WEBSTER AND WIRT.
* THROUGH THIS EVENING
* A LARGE AND MOIST STORM SYSTEM WILL CONTINUE OVER THE AREA THIS MORNING WITH WITH MAINLY RAIN. THE SIGNIFICANT AMOUNT OF OVERALL PRECIPITATION… ON TOP OF ALREADY SATURATED OR IN SOME CASES SNOW COVERED GROUND… MAY LEAD TO FLOODING PROBLEMS.
* RISES IN SMALL STREAMS AND CREEKS… AND PONDING OF WATER FOR THE USUAL VULNERABLE LOW LYING AREAS AND DITCHES… ARE EXPECTED. MAIN STEM RIVERS MAY ALSO EXPERIENCE SIGNIFICANT RISES.
A FLOOD WATCH MEANS THERE IS A POTENTIAL FOR FLOODING BASED ON CURRENT FORECASTS.
Coal Classic Basketball in Beckley
Greenbrier West 45, Gilmer County 35
Next Game: Saturday, 10:30AM
Buffalo vs. Gilmer County (Class A boys consolation)
Games Played at the Beckley-Raleigh County Convention Center
Braxton County Schools - Closed
Calhoun County Schools - Closed
Doddridge County Schools - Closed
Gilmer County Schools - Closed
Lewis County Schools - Closed
Ritchie County Schools - Closed
Last Updated 01/27/09 07:59PM
A large West Virginia bank has turned down an opportunity to take more than $197 million from the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Capital Purchase Program.
United Bankshares, the parent company of United Bank, previously received preliminary approval for the funding, but announced Tuesday it was no longer interested in the money.
Agreeing to take the money would have required United to agree to certain restrictions. Bank executives say they now believe it is in the best interests of the company’s shareholders if United does not take the TARP money.
The company has also announced Fourth Quarter earnings. They were $16.5 million up slightly from $16 million from for the fourth quarter of 2007.
WV MetroNews
Date: Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Time: 9:00AM
Place: GC Commission Room at Courthouse
Copyright MMVIII-MMXIII The Gilmer Free Press. All Rights Reserved
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This scandal is an example of what happens when checks and balances are removed after a school board is stripped of authority. When elite people at the top have absolute control they always ensure that their interests are served first and if they can get by with it there is never any trickle down money left. Our school system is comprised of dedicated employees including custodians, maintenance people, school bus drivers, cooks, secretaries, aids, teachers, and others. All of them working together make the school system function. Elitists don’t understand it, but even a few hundred dollars more a year would have meant lots to the left out employees. Worst of all the scandal sends a distinct message that merit has nothing to do with monetary rewards. If the principal at Normantown with its highest achievement rating in the County had been singled out for a pay increase citizens would have been glad for her, but when the GCHS principal gets an equal sum with all the turmoil over there citizens exhibit stark disbelief. We can’t blame all the scandal on Blankenship because his decision had to be approved and maybe ordered from Dr. Phares’ office. What do you say Dr. Phares?
By Champion for Fairness on 06.19.2013
From the entry: 'CommunityConcerns™: Fairness of Mr. Ron Blankenship’s Pay Raises For Top Administrators Onl'.
This issue of raises simply indicates the “dictator mindset” of Ronald Blankenship that has permeated since his first day on the job?
It is also a move to “own employees”?
By Al C. on 06.19.2013
From the entry: 'CommunityConcerns™: Fairness of Mr. Ron Blankenship’s Pay Raises For Top Administrators Onl'.
o Mr. Phares was blindsided? You think? Or was it just show?
If that truly was the case, it would indicate clearly that feedback from Blankenship, Mattern, and Heinline has been:
(1) Lacking (2) Incomplete (3) With held (4) Dishonest OR all of these.
If Mr. Phares and Mr. Linger have been taken across by these employees of theirs, then it is past time to clean house of the incompetent and inept employees.
We now >know< that Mr. Phares >knows< there is something emitting a foul odor in this whole Gilmer County saga.
Mr. Phares we appreciate your presence here in Gilmer. Thank you. Now maybe you are getting a better picture of
the inadequacies of your underlings. We are waiting for you to do something now.
By thanks for the visit on 06.19.2013
From the entry: 'CommunityConcerns™: Fairness of Mr. Ron Blankenship’s Pay Raises For Top Administrators Onl'.
It has never made a bit of sense to pay “administrators” top salaries when teachers get much, much less and are the ones responsible for the education of the children. In a world run by common sense, schools should be run by the teachers who teach the children, not “administrators”. Parents and teachers together would do a much more effective job of making sure children were receiving the best possible education for each individual child.
This “one size fits all” nonsense has gone far beyond ridiculous. Paying administrators and directors to sit in offices and run the schools is tantamount to putting a tractor trailer on the highway and sitting in a dark room with a joy stick to run it.
By Karen Pennebaker on 06.19.2013
From the entry: 'CommunityConcerns™: Fairness of Mr. Ron Blankenship’s Pay Raises For Top Administrators Onl'.
You can’t make this stuff up.
Dr. Unphares travels from Oz to speak to the stupid little people.
He obviously had no clue what is going on in this county. Praise for Blankenstein? What has improved under the fuhrer? Did Blankenstein rudely ignore everyone and pretend to be doing something important on his cell phone as he normally does? Does anyone have any ideas what he is doing on that phone? Simmons must have been about ready to burst with pride. He brought a biggy into the county. If the county could buy Bill for what he is worth and sell him for what he thinks he is worth, our money problems would be solved.
I’m going to print this story out and date it. I just can’t figure out whether to file it under “lies” or “humor”.
Y’all will have to excuse me now. I’m headed for the vomitorium.
By Burnt Weiney on 06.19.2013
From the entry: 'Breaking News: Dr. Phares’ New Beginning Commitments to Gilmer County'.
Dr. Phares permitted himself to be blind sided by assuming that all he had heard from his State operatives told the full story. After delivering his carefully drafted talking points everything went down hill from there and Ted Matterin was there to mouth what he thought Dr. Phares should say next. Dr. Phares was astute enough to realize what had happened to the County and he used his good judgement to do what was right. What we need to do now is to keep a close watch to ensure that there is no backtracking by the State. Let’s not forget that credit for getting Dr. Phares to attend the meeting goes to Bill Simmons.
By R. D. Haskell on 06.19.2013
From the entry: 'CommunityConcerns™: Fairness of Mr. Ron Blankenship’s Pay Raises For Top Administrators Onl'.
West Virginia is famous again. Maybe Mr. Phares should also visit the school and board in Logan. The student who wore the NRA t-shirt to school, now threatened with a year in jail. It put West Virginia on national satellite radio news.
By go NRA! on 06.19.2013
From the entry: 'WV State School Superintendent Visting Gilmer County on Monday, June 17, 2012'.
Quit blaming poor Mr Blankenship. He is reportedly only being paid 127k per year for his 3 day week.
He great at performing the “The Charleston” dance for us.
Turn up the speed. Turn up the volume. Watch and enjoy.
By go ron go on 06.19.2013
From the entry: 'WV State School Superintendent Visting Gilmer County on Monday, June 17, 2012'.
Folks. Go read the original OEPA audit when the school was taken over without any warning or any period of time to remedy issues that were found. You will find that one of the ‘points’ it made was to only ‘move/reassign’ any employee who was not preforming as required. Well, Blankenship has done that deed. The person who was to be ‘protected’ and kept on the job is still there. The complaints continue around the high school. Elite power brokers wanted to keep someone employed. That has been successful to date. So the complaints will roll on. We all know locally what its all about and the Charleston gang has been a slow education. The CUBES and what they were/are about has slowly come to the surface in Charleston too. They have been slow to catch on but they are coming.
By anonymous on 06.19.2013
From the entry: 'WV State School Superintendent Visting Gilmer County on Monday, June 17, 2012'.
As to the school situation. R.F.Ronson, you are wondering why the purchase agreement for the Crooked Run Property has not been disclosed? Well, well, well. Do you expect that to happen since Blankenship has kept the Gilmer citizens and school board in the dark now…...which will be 2 years comes July 1 ? If you keep all information secret, you have to make fewer lies and answer fewer questions? That is the Gilmer County standard operating procedure, you know. Well, it was, until Gilmer Free Press came along and gave the citizens a voice.
By following state orders? on 06.18.2013
From the entry: 'WV State School Superintendent Visting Gilmer County on Monday, June 17, 2012'.
Wasn’t Jim Phares hired as a “temporary” state superintendent? Marple was sent home last November right after the election. Has that job been advertised yet?
Remember, the job requirements have now been “dumbed down” for the position. Ol’ boy system at work?
By who's lined up ? on 06.18.2013
From the entry: 'WV State School Superintendent Visting Gilmer County on Monday, June 17, 2012'.
Dr. Phares, will you explain why information for the purchase agreement for the Crooked Run school is not disclosed to the public? Tax money will be used to purchase the land and it is bad government when details are withheld. Citizens understand that Ron Blankenship committed to pay an exorbitant price per acre for the land that far exceeds land value prices in the area and 75 acres will be purchased when that much land is not needed. When asked about financial details about the land purchase Mr. Blankenship has said that they will be disclosed at the proper time. Why the carefully guarded secrecy? Is the State fearful of the truth coming out?
By R. F. Ronson on 06.18.2013
From the entry: 'WV State School Superintendent Visting Gilmer County on Monday, June 17, 2012'.
This the funniest thing that I read in some time. To even think about impeaching president Bush after 5 years of Obamaama. I do not think that Obamaama should be impeached either, he should be tried for treason.
We all know that Obaama will be reading this too.
By JIM [1] on 06.18.2013
From the entry: 'G-Comm™: Not Impeaching Bush Is Sure Paying Off!'.
The great fact manipulators can spin absolutely anything to support their chosen position. That doesn’t mean it’s correct. For instance, 100% of students taking a test becomes a 100% attendance rate.
By Believe It on 06.18.2013
From the entry: 'WV State School Superintendent Visting Gilmer County on Monday, June 17, 2012'.
So I am reading that State Board of Education newly hired replacement is coming to Gilmer County. Thats great. Are we going to hear that Normantown is being closed? Thats been speculated. Or will he tell us in five or ten years Gilmer will get control back. Guess we only have until Monday evening to wait.
With luck, the children’s champion, Mrs Starkey, will ask relevant questions. Don’t hear much out of the other four. Cat got their tongue? The rest must have been either bought off or told to be quiet. Both?
One thing is for sure. The State Board of Education cannot brag about what a great job they are doing with the intervention counties. There are NO statistics that would support a statement to that effect.
By anonymously on 06.17.2013
From the entry: 'WV State School Superintendent Visting Gilmer County on Monday, June 17, 2012'.
You want to stop DC and the Feds from saying schools and Teachers are failing. Whose going to stop Charleston. They do it and take them over.
By Riddle Me This on 06.17.2013
From the entry: 'Senate Republicans: No Child Left Behind Should Give Governors More Say'.
From appearances the 911 Center is dead. Or is it? Its been reported that the Commissioners have been having secret meetings with the GSC Power Brokers. GSC wants that 911 Center. Capture that revenue stream. Takes a lot of green to feed the pig you know. When the Commissioners get what they think is a good deal personally, the College will get the 911 Center….and the Commissioners will have no extra work or responsibility. Its always whats best for them, not whats best for Gilmer County.
By just watch on 06.16.2013
From the entry: 'G-OB™: Administrative Assistant to The Director of Office of Emergency Management-Gilmer Co'.
It’s about things they have no clue about and the lack of people skills. This underscores the county commission’s lack of attention to detail and inability to get things done when things get technical.
This isn’t the only situation coming to a head. I predict a major falling out that’s going to cost the county commission. I hope they have several hundred thousand dollars set aside.
By Anon on 06.15.2013
From the entry: 'G-OB™: Administrative Assistant to The Director of Office of Emergency Management-Gilmer Co'.
What was the real reason the Administrative Assistant for OEM quit? It had to be more than just cutting hours. I have heard so many negative things about the Director and how she does things. When will the County Commission do something about her? She seems to think she is a one-woman show and she runs everything. Oh, I forgot, she is friends with one commissioner and he gets her anything she wants. It makes you wonder what will happen when another emergency happens and she can’t be found.
By Fairness in GC on 06.14.2013
From the entry: 'G-OB™: Administrative Assistant to The Director of Office of Emergency Management-Gilmer Co'.
This is another example of the county commission not taking care of their responsibilities. The OES is obviously an ongoing “That’s how we do it in Gilmer County” semi-disaster. The OES positions are critical to this county when we face our most difficult times. Yet the county commission seems to be content with kicking another can down he road. Instead they need to kick something else down the road.
Will the commission wake up and take care of business? Maybe when they get bit in the posterior. What they don’t know is that is coming fast. You can only push people so long.
By Anon on 06.14.2013
From the entry: 'G-OB™: Administrative Assistant to The Director of Office of Emergency Management-Gilmer Co'.
3 to 5 minutes?...you kidding me?
I called the city police one morning regarding a window of my vehicle being shot out and the response I got was “the Chief is in the shower right now, he can be there in about 45 minutes.“
They are not even on duty 24/7 so how could they respond that fast???
By Anon. on 06.14.2013
From the entry: 'West Virginia School Building Authority Moves Towards Safer Schools'.
I pray Ms. Starkey attempts to ask her usual questions and then see if Blankenship ignores or turns his back on her in front of his boss.
Please call him out on this Phyllis, better yet ask Phares why Blankenship acts this way!
By Anon. on 06.14.2013
From the entry: 'WV State School Superintendent Visting Gilmer County on Monday, June 17, 2012'.
Is there some announcement coming at this meeting?
Anything of substance, anything positive?
Many have the “Missouri attitude”. Its called “show me”.
By anonymous on 06.14.2013
From the entry: 'WV State School Superintendent Visting Gilmer County on Monday, June 17, 2012'.
I will not call these comments from the power company outright lies.
I will say they created this problem all by them self.
They tried to cut meter reading expenses, and now that it did not work out,
they are doing the two-step dance trying to get around it all. This problem
started when Allegheny Power sold out. Was then continued forward.
They did admit to having meter reader “positions” not filled.
This is a clear statement as to what they were up too. We all know there
is NO shortage of people looking for jobs.
I hope the public service commission are able to see through the
“smoke” that Mon Power is making.
By just saying on 06.14.2013
From the entry: 'First Energy Got Behind on Meter Readings'.
Does America sponsor wars? The Syrian Rebels are sworn supporters of Al-Quadia.
We are helping them with weapons, ammunition and now military support.
Al-Quadia has clearly stated they are at war with America? Skip B., you are correct.
By can anyone explain on 06.14.2013
From the entry: 'G-Comm™: An American Awakening to the Addiction of War'.
Why not just put up a “War-Free Zone” sign like they do with “Drug-Free” signs at schools? A Constitutional amendment will have about as much impact. Does ANYBODY think that because we withdraw from wars that they will stop?
By Skip Beyer on 06.14.2013
From the entry: 'G-Comm™: An American Awakening to the Addiction of War'.
No doubt that the OEM director has the commissioners buffaloed.
But then would that be very hard to do? Think not.
By watching the CCC dogs and pony gang on 06.13.2013
From the entry: 'G-OB™: Administrative Assistant to The Director of Office of Emergency Management-Gilmer Co'.
Does this court reversal sort of makes me wonder if the PA and Judge BOTH were out of bounds? As well as the welfare office?
Do they receive any punishment other than we now know about what is going on?
By anonymous on 06.13.2013
From the entry: 'IN RE: LILITH H.: Supreme Court of Appeals of West Virginia Reverses Gilmer Circuit Court Decision'.
Think all of Gilmer County would wish the solution of repairing our dysfunctional state run school system would be as simple as the County Commission issues. Maybe Mr Jones and some other could fix both the school problems and the Commission problems. Most who are up to date, would say it is all egos causing both problems.
By just saying on 06.13.2013
From the entry: 'G-OB™: Administrative Assistant to The Director of Office of Emergency Management-Gilmer Co'.
Now we know WHO YOU ARE Roy Jones! Yeah, we would like to have our COUNTY BACK, INSTEAD of the give back to the county blah blah blah. Sometimes you can see a wolf in sheeps clothing if you look at their feet, and your feet need a good washin…
By Anon B anon on 06.13.2013
From the entry: 'Daily G-Eye™ : 06.13.13'.
The OEM Director needs to be accountable for work that is not being done in the county. She keeps information to herself and never shares with her staff. The CC just lets her do what she pleases because they are not NIMS trained and they believe everything she says. When will she be accountable for how she runs Emergency Management? The firemen in Gilmer County do not want to work with her after she made an A** of herself during the June 2012 storm. Does that not show that most of the volunteers in the county have not confidence in her ability to do her job?
By Fairness in GC on 06.13.2013
From the entry: 'G-OB™: Administrative Assistant to The Director of Office of Emergency Management-Gilmer Co'.
I am so excited about this construction and the facilities that are coming. I appreciate those who have the resources to give back to Gilmer County. Thank you.
By Roy Jones on 06.13.2013
From the entry: 'Daily G-Eye™ : 06.13.13'.
We have had negative rumors mentioning CPS/ DHHS and our local court system for sometime now. This rather confirms that wouldn’t you think?
By anonymous on 06.12.2013
From the entry: 'IN RE: LILITH H.: Supreme Court of Appeals of West Virginia Reverses Gilmer Circuit Court Decision'.
Looks like the Director and the CC were looking for a clean sweep of the office. Remember how they tried to terminate the Asst. Director. Maybe the CC should call and ask the previous Admin Assistant to reapply.
By Roy Jones on 06.12.2013
From the entry: 'G-OB™: Administrative Assistant to The Director of Office of Emergency Management-Gilmer Co'.
There is a lot more to this story than is in print here. The individual who was previously employed in this position, according to reliable sources, had their work hours reduced from 15 weekly to only 6 hours. So…....how come now the county is advertising for a 10 to 15 hour position?
By something smells on 06.12.2013
From the entry: 'G-OB™: Administrative Assistant to The Director of Office of Emergency Management-Gilmer Co'.