Sunday, March 07, 2010

Body Found in Steer Creek

Gilmer County Police officials found the dead body of a 76-year woman Saturday evening in the Steer Creek on Rosedale Road.

According to reports, the lady who was using a walker and lives above Steer Creek, must have fallen and rolled down the hill and into the creek.

No further information is available at this time.

============= Update =============

The body has been identified as Nona M. Norman, Age 76, who normally resided in Elyria Ohio.

She was the wife of Donald E. Norman with a family farm in Rosedale area.

Mrs. Norman had been helping her husband with yard work, and apparently wandered to the creek where her body was found.

30th GSC Percussion Ensemble Concert Sold Out

The annual Glenville State College Percussion Ensemble Concert is now sold out for shows on March 25 and 26, 2010 in the Fine Arts Center Auditorium at 7:00 PM.

This is the 30th anniversary of the event which will reflect on some of the best loved music from past concerts. This will allow everyone to enjoy the memories created by hundreds of students and thousands of audience members since 1980.

“I am grateful for your three decades of support and hope that as many ‘Alumni Percussion Ensemble’ members and ‘Alumni Audience’ members as possible return to experience the concerts,” said Percussion Ensemble Director John McKinney.

“Tickets are now sold out for both showings of the concert. This is the fastest they have sold out to my knowledge. We are now putting people on waiting lists in the event that tickets become available,” said GSC Fine Arts Department Administrative Secretary Sheri Skidmore.

For more information or to be added to the waiting list, contact Skidmore at “Sheri.Skidmore@glenville.edu” or 304.462.4130.

DNR Wants an Earlier Start to Squirrel Season

Last week, the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (DNR) released its annual questionnaire for the big game hunting seasons this year. The Small Game opening and closing dates for the 2011-2012 seasons are also included.

The only major change is their recommendation that Squirrel Season open on September 10, 2011.

The DNR proposes prohibiting the baiting and feeding of all wildlife on public hunting land between September 1 through December 31 and during the spring turkey season.

They also propose to lengthen the fall turkey season by one or two weeks in selected counties. The counties selected will be determined after the 2010 spring gobbler season.

Another recommendation of interest is to increase the age limit in the youth hunting seasons from less than 15 to less than 18. The license requirements would remain in effect for ages 15-17.

The DNR is also recommending a controlled black bear hunting season using dogs in Nathaniel Mountain and Short Mountain Wildlife Management Areas, located in Hampshire County.

The DNR proposes to establish a trout catch-and-release area on Shavers Fork in Randolph County. The proposed area would be about a mile long and located in the Stuart Park area. Catch-and-release would be in effect year-round.

Just about everything else will be similar to the 2009-2010 seasons.

All sportsmen should try to get a copy of this questionnaire and study all of the DNR’s proposals.

There is also plenty of room for additional comments and recommendations.

Remember, it is necessary for all individuals and organizations to completely fill out and return the questionnaires to the Elkins Operations Center by April 02, 2010.

Unsigned questionnaires will be discarded.

Top DVD Rentals - 03.06.10

TW = This Week     LW = Last Week     WOC = Weeks On Chart

Recalls - 03.05.10

SHADES BY ETHAN ALLEN
Ethan Allen Global Inc. is recalling Roman Shades sold at Ethan Allen Design Centers since 1999 to December 2009. Strangulation can occur when a child places his/her neck between the exposed inner cord and the fabric on the backside of the shade.
This recall involves all styles and sizes of Roman shades sold under the Ethan Allen brand name. The shades have no labels or markings making reference to the Ethan Allen brand.
Consumers should contact their local Ethan Allen Design Center for a free repair kit.
Consumers can also contact Ethan Allen at 888.339.9398 between 8:30 AM and 4:45 PM ET Monday through Friday or visit www.ethanallen.com.

CHILDREN’S SWEATSHIRTS
LELE & Company Inc. is recalling Children’s hooded sweatshirt sets with drawstrings sold at various stores in California, Georgia, Illinois, and Florida from August 2008 to August. The sweatshirts have a drawstring through the hood, which can pose a strangulation hazard.
This recall involves hooded sweatshirts sold under the “Maria Elena” and “Eddie” brand names. The sweatshirts were sold in children’s sizes 8 through 14, and have various character designs on the front including “Princess,” “Prince” and “Champion.” Style number 4282 is printed on the back of the tag attached to the label.
Consumers should immediately remove the drawstrings from the sweatshirts or return the product to the store where purchased for a refund.
Consumers can also contact LELE at 213.745.8979 between 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM PT Monday through Friday, visit www.leleforkids.com.

BOYS’ JACKETS
Ten West Apparel is recalling Boys’ Hooded Jackets sold at Burlington Coat Factory stores nationwide from November 2006 to September 2009. The children’s jackets have drawstrings through the hood which can pose a strangulation hazard.
This recall involves Ten 1 West boys’ jackets with a drawstring through the hood. They were sold in size 10/12 and are black cotton with a white fleece lining. “TEN 1 WEST” is printed on a hang tag on the center of the back neck.
Consumers should immediately remove the drawstring from the jacket to eliminate the hazard or return the garment to Burlington Coat Factory or to Ten West Apparel for a full refund.
Consumers can also contact Ten West Apparel at 212.564.1007 between 9 AM and 5 PM ET Monday through Friday, or visit www.burlingtoncoatfactory.com.

CHILDREN’S BRACELETS
Chandigarh Fashion is recalling Children’s Bangles sold in Flushing, NY and Chicago, Ill. from May 2007 to August 2008. The surface coating on the bracelets contains high levels of lead.
This recall involves children’s bangle bracelets. The bracelets which were sold in packets of 24, are gold with stripes of either red, maroon, black, orange or green.
Consumers should return the bracelets to the store where purchased for a full refund.

OUTDOOR LIGHTING FIXTURES
American Electric Lighting is recalling Outdoor Lighting Fixtures sold nationwide from September 2008 to September 2009. Improper wiring in the light fixtures poses a shock hazard.
This recall involves model AVL outdoor lighting fixtures sold under the American Electric Lighting brand name. The light fixtures are intended for use in parking lots, roadways, commercial environments and office communities. “AVL” is printed on the reflector of each light fixture.
Consumers should contact American Electric Lighting at 800.754.0463 between 8 AM and 5 PM ET Monday through Friday, or visit www.americanelectriclighting.com to schedule a free inspection and repair.

CHILDREN’S FORK AND SPOONS
Peachtree Playthings is recalling Scooby Doo, Tweety and Batman Fork and Spoon Sets sold at Dollar Tree Stores and Deals during January 2010. The middle two prongs of the plastic fork can detach, posing a choking hazard.
This recall involves the Scooby Doo, Tweety and Batman plastic fork and spoon sets. The two-piece set is white plastic with cartoon images on the handle.
Consumers should return the item to Dollar Tree or Deals for a full refund.
Consumers can also contact Peachtree Playthings at 800.290.4831 between 9 AM and 5 PM ET Monday through Friday, visit www.peachtreeplaythings.com.

ROMAN SHADES
Lutron Electronics Co. Inc. is recalling Lutron Shading Solutions Roman Shades sold nationwide from January 2000 to August 2009. Strangulations can occur when a child places his/her neck between the exposed inner cord and the fabric on the backside of the blind or when a child pulls the cord out and wraps it around his/her neck.
This recall involves all custom-ordered made-to-measure motorized and manual Lutron Shading Solutions Roman shades. “Lutron Shading Solutions” or “Lutron Shading Solutions by VIMCO” is printed on the packaging.
Consumers should contact Lutron Electronics at 866.793.4270 anytime, or visit www.lutron.com/CERUSromans to coordinate the removal, repair, and reinstallation of the shades.

ROLL-UP BLINDS
Meijer is recalling Innovations and “At Home with Meijer” Roman Shades and Roll-Up Blinds sold by Meijer nationwide from January 2004 to December 2009. Both products pose strangulation hazards.
This recall involves all Innovations and “At Home with Meijer” Roman shades and roll-up blinds. The Roman shades are made with fabric or bamboo and the Roll-up blinds with bamboo. A label reading “Innovation” or “At Home with Meijer” can be found under the headrail.
Consumers should contact the Window Covering Safety Council for a free repair kit at 800.506.4636 anytime or visit www.windowcoverings.org.
Consumers can also contact Meijer at 800.927.8699 anytime or visit www.meijer.com.

WV Receives $4.4M for Transit Improvements

The West Virginia Department of Transportation has been awarded $4.4 million in federal stimulus funds for transit improvements.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said Friday that the funding will be used to buy four buses, seven vans, nine support vehicles and shop equipment.

The state agency also will use the funding to pay for facility construction and improvements and operating expenses.

NATIONAL AND LOCAL FEEDER & STOCKER CATTLE SUMMARY - WEEK ENDING 03.05.2010

RECEIPTS:    Auctions   Direct   Video/Internet   Total
This Week     348,600   51,800     38,300     438,700  
Last Week     295,700   56,700       4,300     356,700  
Last Year     265,600   48,400     58,100     372,100

Compared to last week, feeder steers and heifers sold unevenly steady with weakness noted early in the week and modest gains reported later in the trading session.

Stocker cattle and calf prices continue to search for a ceiling with grazing types quoted firm to 4.00 higher.

Last week’s slightly weaker fed cattle market tempered demand for feedlot replacements, but did not affect backgrounder’s overwhelming desire to own stockers.

Auction receipts were heavy this past week as country road conditions progressively improved throughout the major cattle production areas.

The Oklahoma National Stockyards sold 12,000 feeders on Monday while the Joplin Regional Stockyards to the north and east moved well over 10,000 head. 

Most other major sale barns also had good runs this week with nearly 350,000 head moving through reported markets across the country.  Missouri’s 20 reported sales totaled over 57,000 head of cattle, which was well over twice as many as the same week a year ago.

However, the nation’s reported auction receipts are still running behind normal for the year (14% or over 360,000 head lighter than the five year average) due to wintry weather interruptions.

February was a short month but most folks were thankful we are not in a Leap Year as they could not have withstood one more day.

This week’s arrival of March and much improved weather gave our first hope of spring, after the relentless winter of 2009-10 that brought all-time record snowfall to places like Omaha, NE; Oklahoma City, OK; Dallas, TX; and Memphis, TN.

Weights and flesh conditions of all classes of cattle have suffered from the bitter cold and there is already a significant increase in the number of cows that have lost this spring’s calves.

Even the best caretakers and the broodiest momma cows had trouble keeping protein and energy levels high enough to stave off this winter’s miserable conditions.

Although, the thin and rugged appearance of a large portion of the available feeder and stocker calves have prospective buyers salivating at their immediate weight-gain potential.

At Valentine, Nebraska, top quality 5 weight steers averaged 125.11, with 6 weights 114.22, and over 200 head of 740-750 lb steers averaged 108.92.

This week’s reported auction volume included 55% over 600 lbs and 45% heifers.   
Auction Receipts:  348,600   Last Week:  295,700   Last Year:  265,600

Regular Sale from Buckhannon Livestock Market in West Virginia on March 03, 2010
 
Steers,4  Head
 
Weight    M&L 1          M&L 2               
300-400   110.00-113.00  109.00
400-500   107.00
 
Slaughter Cows, 5  Head
            Pct Lean Weight Range   Avg. Dress    Lo Dress
  Boners    80-85    1280           50.00
  Lean      85-90    995-1155       47.00-49.00   42.00-4.000
  
Heiferettes, 2 Head
  1000-1200 lbs.     50.00
 
Stock Cows,1   Head
          Age 6-9        
M&L1      525.00
 
Baby Calves Returned to Farms, 5  Head            Beef                Dairy
          Newborn to 4 Weeks                      15.00-35.00
          100-150 lbs              70.00-110.00
          150-200 lbs              235.00



Jackson Co Livestock, Ripley , WV Weighted Average Report for Saturday February 27, 2010
 
Cattle Receipts:  98          Last week:                    Last year:  
Slaughter cows made up 8% of the offering, replacement cows 14%, and feeders 78%.
The feeder supply included 22% steers, 46% heifers, and 32% bulls. Near 14% of the run weighed over 600 lbs.
 
Feeder Steers                Medium and Large 1
 Head   Wt Range   Avg Wt    Price Range   Avg Price
    2    340-345    343    115.00-128.00     121.45
    2    387-387    387       105.00         105.00
    2    472-472    472       117.00         117.00
    2    662-662    662        91.00          91.00
    1    935-935    935        86.50          86.50
                             Small 1
    1    335-335    335       104.00         104.00
    1    605-605    605        72.00          72.00
                             Medium and Large 2
    2    565-565    565     88.00-96.00       92.00
    2   1035-1040  1038     57.00-68.50       62.74
                             Holstein Medium and Large 2
    1    640-640    640        65.00          65.00
    1    795-795    795        65.00          65.00
 
Feeder Heifers                Medium and Large 1
 Head   Wt Range   Avg Wt    Price Range   Avg Price
    1    245-245    245       107.00         107.00
    3    258-258    258       110.00         110.00
    1    335-335    335       114.00         114.00
    5    371-390    379       110.00         110.00
   12    440-442    442     96.00-108.00     107.00
    6    502-502    502       103.00         103.00
    1    550-550    550        89.00          89.00
    1    710-710    710        87.00          87.00
                             Medium and Large 1 - 2
    1    505-505    505        97.00          97.00
                             Medium and Large 2
    1    395-395    395        83.00          83.00
    2    437-437    437        84.00          84.00
    1    500-500    500        91.00          91.00
 
Feeder Bulls                Medium and Large 1
 Head   Wt Range   Avg Wt    Price Range   Avg Price
    4    375-375    375       122.00         122.00
    7    450-496    489    105.00-114.00     112.82
    8    512-512    512       110.00         110.00
                             Medium and Large 2
    2    447-447    447        87.00          87.00
    1    540-540    540        89.00          89.00
    1    650-650    650        66.00          66.00
    1    955-955    955        60.00          60.00
 
Bred Cows                  Medium and Large 1 - 2 Young
 Head   Wt Range   Avg Wt    Price Range   Avg Price
    1   1200-1200  1200       625.00         625.00   Per Head  1-3 Months Bred
    1    875-875    875       650.00         650.00   Per Head  4-6 Months Bred
    3    905-1185  1028    475.00-775.00     657.97   Per Head  7-9 Months Bred
                            Medium and Large 1 - 2 Middle Aged
    2    945-1130  1038    650.00-725.00     690.84   Per Head  4-6 Months Bred
    1   1295-1295  1295       725.00         725.00   Per Head  4-6 Months Bred
    3   1200-1360  1253    650.00-750.00     686.17   Per Head  7-9 Months Bred
                            Medium and Large 1 - 2 Aged
    1   1035-1035  1035       460.00         460.00   Per Head  4-6 Months Bred
    1   1250-1250  1250       600.00         600.00   Per Head  7-9 Months Bred
                            Small 1 - 2 Middle Aged
    1    890-890    890       435.00         435.00   Per Head  4-6 Months Bred
 
Slaughter Cows                Breaker 70-80% Lean
 Head   Wt Range   Avg Wt    Price Range   Avg Price
    1   1445-1445  1445        57.50          57.50   High Dressing
                               Boner 80-85% Lean
    3    975-1385  1122     45.50-48.50       46.40
    2   1190-1360  1275     40.00-42.50       41.17   Low Dressing
    1   1435-1435  1435        43.50          43.50
                                Lean 85-90% Lean
    1    940-940    940        46.00          46.00   High Dressing

Lewis County Commission Approves Pay Raises

Lewis County commissioners agreed to give a $1,200 annual raise to each full-time employee, but some county workers may see even larger increases because of contractual agreements and an attempt to bring those salaries even with others having similar seniority and duties.

The elected officials will also see a pay increase, as Lewis County will be moving up from a Class IV county to a Class III county because of increases in projected tax revenues.

Commissioners met Thursday in a work session to iron out the new budget, which would go into effect July 01, 2010. The final budget must be sent to the state level by March 31, 2010.

Deputy County Clerk Debbie Hull said the estimated carryover from this current budget should be at least $1 million. That will act as a savings account, she said, as the preliminary budgetary figures indicate that the county will have $5,823,817 in revenues without the carryover and have $6,182,897 in expenses. But the county also has more than $3 million tucked away into a building fund and another $2.4 million in a general savings account.

Hull also said expenses were overestimated, so as to build a more conservative budget. The money for those workers receiving the extra pay increases will come from the money formerly spent on the salary of a courthouse employee who will be retiring.

Commissioner Bob Rinehart said he would only want to consider the modest pay raises, which also includes $600 annually for part-time employees, because of the red ink projected in the preliminary figures. He added the carryover amount is only an educated guess.

County leaders did receive some good news from the state level just prior to their budgetary discussions.

The employees’ retirement contributions will only be raised to 12.5% this year, and it will go to 17% over the next four years. The state had wanted to jump the county contribution nearly 6 percent beginning this year. The change will result in an $80,000 difference in this budget. Another savings in the proposed budget comes from health insurance. Hull said she projected a 30% increase in the cost of premiums, but said it appears the increase will be around 15%.

Sheriff Mike Gissy requested the ability to increase two law enforcement deputies to the rank of sergeant, which would result in a $600 annual pay raise in addition to the $1,200 agreed upon by commissioners. Deputies would be required to meet certain eligibility and testing standards before getting the increase in rank.

The commissioners also discussed trimming the sheriff’s requested $50,000 overtime budget to just $38,000, which they said was more in line with the average amount over the past few years. Rinehart noted that the department has three deputies with military connections, and if they are called into active duty, it could cut deeper into the overtime budget.

Gissy also requested an $80,000 budget for the purchase of new patrol vehicles, which would be the more rugged sports utility vehicles. Rinehart said he would rather see that item be at $50,000, which would cover the cost of the Ford Crown Victoria cruisers.

Commissioner Pat Boyle had hoped to use any excess hotel/motel tax revenues to fund special projects, such as the county’s community centers.

But the county ordinance spells out specific percentages for the Lewis County Park, the public library and the Jane Lew Park. The county’s two Convention and Visitors Bureaus automatically receive the first 50% of any collection. State law requires the money to be disbursed immediately after it is received, and the county would have to amend its current ordinance if it wished to include other tourism, historical or recreational aspects in that budget.

Flashback: What Happened on March 07, ....

•  1834 - The Virginia General Assembly passed an act declaring Mill Creek in Jackson County to be a public highway.

•  1849 - The Virginia General Assembly passed an act which incorporated the Philippi and Buckhannon Turnpike Company to construct a road from Philippi in Barbour County to Buckhannon in Lewis County, present-day Upshur County. Subscription books were opened under the direction of the following commissioners: in Philippi, under Lair D. Morrall, Edwin D. Wilson, Charles S. Hall, Isaac H. Strickler, and Elam D. Tolbert; and in Buckhannon, under D. S. Hazelden, Mifflin Lorentz, James Miller, George Bastable, and George W. Miller.

•  1866 - The United States Congress validated the inclusion of Jefferson County and Berkeley County in the state of West Virginia.

•  1873 - The governor approved an act authorizing cemetery associations to sell land for other purposes than burial.

•  1881 - The first African-American Baptist Church in Wheeling, the Ebenezer Baptist Church, was opened on Tenth Street.

•  1891 - The West Virginia Legislature passed an act regulating the construction of booms. It was approved by the governor on March 12.

•  1891 - The West Virginia Legislature passed an act regulating the use of scrip to pay employees, stating that the scrip must be redeemable for legal tender. It became law without the approval of the governor on March 19. In 1889, the State Supreme Court had overturned a similar law. However, since that time, Daniel B. Lucas and Homer A. Holt had joined the court and upheld this new law against the opposition of Judges Henry Brannon and John W. English.

•  1950 - West Virginia University head basketball coach Lee Patton was killed in an automobile accident.

•  1960 - African-American students from Bluefield State College picketed outside the Colonial Theater and the Granada Theater in Bluefield, Mercer County, in protest of their segregated seating policies.

•  1973 - In a report to the West Virginia Legislature, the United States Bureau of Mines stated that none of the large coal slag pile dams in West Virginia were as dangerous as those suggested the previous year following the Buffalo Creek Flood.

•  1995 - Kanawha County Commission declares Friday a holiday, costing taxpayers $100,000.

OddlyEnough: Recession? What Recession?

PACF Receives National Award

The PACF was honored with a 2009 National Effies Award for Community Leadership. These awards are a project of the Effective Communities LLC to recognize effective philanthropic practices.

The foundation’s awards for 2009 included: $348,681 in competitive grants to 72 different organizations and 13 humane societies; $239,365 in scholarships to 250 students; $20,600 in emergency and mini-grants; and approximately $1 million in designated and advised grants.

Affiliate community highlights included:

•  Doddridge County’s affiliate, DCCF, making $6,200 in grants and scholarships;

•  Jackson County’s affiliate, JCCF, raised $94,000 to support community nonprofit organizations’ projects through its annual “Charity Challenge”;

•  LKACF raised $15,000 to help build a scholarship fund for Calhoun and Wirt County students; and $5,000 for its Gilmer County support fund.

•  The Mason County affiliate, MCCF, launched three new endowment funds, including a Fund for Youth; and Ritchie County’s affiliate, RCCF, gave $100,000 to its new library due to a gift from State Sen. Frank Deem, R-Wood.

Doddridge, Jackson and Ritchie County Community Foundation affiliates celebrated 10th anniversaries in 2009 and Little Kanawha Area and Mason County affiliates, their fifth.

In 1999 the affiliate concept was launched. Affiliates operate like subsidiaries. PACF’s Ritchie County Community Foundation was the first such entity in West Virginia. PACF also has affiliates in Doddridge, Jackson, Little Kanawha Area (Calhoun, Wirt) and Mason counties.

In 2006, the foundation was recognized as one of the first foundations in West Virginia to be commended for receiving National Certification, having met the National Standards for Community Foundations, reflecting the highest standards of practice.

The community foundation is a nonprofit public charity created by generous local citizens that builds permanent resources to meet area charitable needs. While the foundation has some expendable funds, it works to build permanent funds called endowments that exist forever for the area’s benefit. Each endowment annually distributes part of its earnings for charitable purposes. Donations are gathered into fund types that address community needs and reflect donors’ unique personal interests and goals. The foundation acts as a giant umbrella, sheltering many separate funds and is tax-exempt. It is a public foundation, giving it more favorable tax status than a private foundation and offering many significant tax advantages for donors.

The foundation manages two basic types of funds: unrestricted and restricted. Unrestricted funds meet the communities’ greatest needs without restriction as to recipient or purpose. These funds supply Community Action Grants twice a year under a common grant application and coordinated regional process. For more information, go to the foundation’s Web site at www.pacfwv.com or contact any foundation offices: 304.428.4438 for Parkersburg or 304.372.8588 for Ripley.

Weekly Horoscope: 03.07-13.10

Aries (Mar 21-Apr 19) - Broaden your outlook on the 7th and 8th, through travel or discovering information that will enable you to expand your interests and meet new people. Whatever you are working on or trying to pursue on the 9th and 10th should be done secretly. The less interference you have the better, once you have everything in place it will be much easier to sell your plans to the people that may oppose you. Greater interest in what others are doing on the 11th, 12th and 13th to bring about much needed reform will grab your attention. Participate volunteer or do whatever is necessary to have your voice heard. An entertaining approach to a problem will win support and favors.

Taurus (Apr 20-May 20) - Focus on what you can do for others on the 7th and 8th not what they can do for you. Offer your time and talent not your cash or someone may try to take advantage of your generosity. If you do lend money don’t expect to get it back. Wheel and deal all you want on the 9th and 10th. Travel if it will help you seal a deal with someone you’ve wanted to do business with for some time. A problem at home will flare up if you are too impulsive or stubborn. Don’t let your emotions stand in the way of good judgment on the 11th, 12th and 13th. You will lose if you are too possessive or you use force to get your way. Passion not power will be what helps you get your way in the end.

Gemini (May 21-Jun 20) - Careful what you say to who on the 7th and 8th. You can be easily misinterpreted leading to obligations that you may not want to honor. A relationship you have with someone will take a sudden change based on what you do or say. You can help out or offer information on the 9th and 10th that will benefit an organization that you want to do more with in the future but don’t go overboard or you will be taken for granted. A little will go a long way on the 11th 12th and 13th. Focus on your responsibilities and finding ways to make what you have to accomplish more fun and you will end up receiving the help you need in order to do the best job possible.

Cancer (Jun 21-Jul 22) - You have no excuse on the 7th and 8th. Set your mind on what you can accomplish and start the ball rolling. You cannot let the responsibilities of others rest on your shoulders when it is vital that you focus on your own advancement. With a few minor adjustments you can turn a personal relationship or business partnership around on the 9th and 10th. Speak from the heart and you will be able to manipulate any situation you face. Don’t hold back, be bold and frank about what you need and want. Make a few changes at home on the 11th 12th and 13th and you will find it easier to get along with the people you live with and those in your neighborhood.

Leo (Jul 23-Aug 22) - You may feel the need to move quickly on the 7th and 8th regarding an emotional matter when you should be sitting back and seeing what happens. Friendly suggestions or a short trip to visit someone that can offer good advice should be considered. Channel your energy wisely on the 9th and 10th. If you are aggressive you will end up in an argument that will be difficult to win. An experience with someone from a different background will help you understand your situation better. You have to be honest about the way you feel on the 11th 12th and 13th or someone will question your motives. Plan an entertaining outing that will win favors and help you avoid a fight.

Virgo (Aug 23-Sep 22) - Everything you do on the 7th and 8th should lean towards making your relationships with family friends and colleagues better. Offer your suggestions but don’t feel obligated to pay for someone else’s mistake. Socializing with peers will lead to an interesting proposal on the 9th and 10th. Add your thoughts and before you know it you will have a great opportunity to reach one of your long time goals. Taking an unorthodox approach to a health problem will lead to a poor diagnosis on the 11th 12th and 13th. You are best to be straight about the way you feel and what your intentions are when dealing with institutions or anyone in a position of authority.

Libra (Sep 23-Oct 22) - Don’t take what others say to seriously on the 7th and 8th. Troubles with someone you work with will develop if you engage in gossip. Being preoccupied will lead to mistakes and mishaps. Delays while traveling can be expected. Discipline and hard work will pay off on the 9th and 10th. You can make some changes to your home that will encourage you to use your skills in a broader spectrum that will allow you greater earning potential. Put time aside for love and enjoy the company of someone special. Networking and socializing will bring about opportunities on the 11th, 12th and 13th. Use unusual methods to sell your services and you will attract the right buyers.

Scorpio (Oct 23-Nov 21) - Speak up and flaunt your skills on the 7th and 8th. You will attract the right kind of attention and can multiply your results through promotion and offering hands on assistance to utilize what you have to offer. Positive changes are heading your way. Keep your emotions out of the equation on the 9th and 10th. Think and make your moves based on what’s actually happening, not what you want. You have to be business oriented if you want to collect the rewards you deserve. Listen to your head not your heart on the 11th 12th and 13th. Travel may be enticing but it will also cost more than you anticipate. Stick to basics, moderation and the concept that less can be more.

Sagittarius (Nov 22-Dec 21) - Don’t express your true feelings on the 7th and 8th or you will face complaints and criticism. Expect someone you love may limit your ability to do as you please. Sit back and see what others are doing on the 9th and 10th before you make promises that you may live to regret. You don’t always have to make the first move. Nothing is for sure especially with regard to your relationship with friends family and neighbors. A move or change at home may be your only choice. Don’t let anyone disrupt your plans on the 11th 12th and 13th. Enjoy the company of someone who has something to offer you in return without restricting your freedom. Stay in control.

Capricorn (Dec 22-Jan 19) - Don’t rely on old friends or ideas on the 7th and 8th when it comes to work or dealing with institutions. You are better to wipe your slate clean and start all over. You may want to be practical on the 9th and 10th but your heart will take you in the opposite direction. Pushing someone to do things your way will be met with opposition. Honesty will be the only way to find common ground. Equality will be the name of the game on the 11th 12th and 13th. You will do best when you allow others to bring knowledge and experience to the table. An unusual approach to the way you would normally do things will turn out surprisingly well. Have a little faith in others.

Aquarius (Jan 20-Feb 18) - Your charm will come in handy on the 7th and 8th but don’t count on it lasting if you aren’t completely honest regarding your intentions. You may be forced to deal with institutions on the 9th and 10th. Confess to any problems you need to conquer. Now is not the time to try to do things on your own. Ask for help and be ready to accept whatever assistance is offered. Don’t blame others for your shortcomings or poor habits. Emotional manipulation must not be used on the 11th, 12th and 13th if you expect to get the help you need to move forward in a positive manner. Reevaluate what’s happened in the past and you will find it easier to give in to what needs to be done now.

Pisces (Feb 19-Mar 20) - Overreacting overdoing and overindulging will all lead to mishaps on the 7th and 8th. Stop before you jeopardize your future and your reputation. Turn your focus on something you can do to help others on the 9th and 10th. Volunteer your services and you will meet someone you can share common interests with. A passionate encounter will give you a new lease on life. Keep things out in the open on the 11th 12th and 13th or you may end up on the losing end of a situation that develops between you and someone you care for. If a commitment is not being offered you have to back away and get on with your life. It’s time to set new rules and give an ultimatum.

Ask the Doctor: Various Causes for Lung Illness

DEAR DR. DONOHUE: I appreciate your column, but I take exception to something you keep repeating that makes it hard on people like me. Since childhood, I have had bronchitis and asthma and I have lost count of the number of times I’ve had pneumonia. Recently I have been diagnosed with chronic bronchitis and emphysema. I have never smoked.

My husband never smoked. When I started with a new lung specialist, he asked me about smoking twice and sounded skeptical when I told him I was never a smoker.

When you call chronic bronchitis and emphysema the “smokers’ ailment,“ I get grief from people who take your word as gospel. Will you give people like me a break?
- D.T.

ANSWER: Chronic bronchitis and emphysema are the two chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases, COPD. Chronic bronchitis is an ever-present cough due to airway irritation and airways that are filled with pus.

Emphysema is dilation and destruction of air sacs - alveoli, the cellophanelike structures through which oxygen passes into the lungs and carbon dioxide exits them. Shortness of breath is its hallmark symptom. The fact is that 90 percent of those with COPD are current or former smokers. You are a victim of numbers.

Not all COPD can be traced to smoking. Dusts from grains, cotton and silica can bring on COPD. Miners often come down with it. Secondhand smoke is another cause. Frequent childhood lung infections could be the reason for some cases of COPD. And genes definitely play a role.

You get the same reaction that people with cirrhosis get. Most of the public automatically assume that alcohol is the cause of all cirrhosis. It definitely is not.

I am sorry you suffer from an unfounded rush to judgment when you tell people your diagnosis. I’ll try to mention the nonsmoking causes of COPD in the future.

Dr. Donohue regrets that he is unable to answer individual letters, but he will incorporate them in his column whenever possible. Readers may write him or request an order form of available health newsletters at P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475.

TRUTH OR TRADITION? : ME AND JESUS- 60

Me and Jesus have it all worked out.  We don’t need religion or a church…Truth or Tradition?

A Personal Relationship.
While it is quite true that we can have a personal relationship with Jesus,  and should have,  is it true that we can have such a relationship without religion and without the church?  In view of much modern day religious belief and practice,  I can understand why some would want to turn their back on religion,  but let’s be careful that we don’t “throw the baby out with the wash.”  A counterfeit bill means there is a real one out there somewhere.

The Body Of Christ.
Paul declares that God hath put all things under his (Christ) feet,  and gave him to be the head over all things to the church,  Which is his body,  the fullness of him that filleth all in all.  (Eph. 1:22-23).  The church is the body of Christ.  Of how many bodies is Christ the head?    …the head…..the body….. Doesn’t that suggest only one?

The Body Is One.
Paul writes: For as the body is one,  and hath many members,  and all the members of that one body,  being many,  are one body:  so also is Christ.  (1 Cor 12:12).  The body (the church)  is made up of many members,  but there is only the one body.  Can I have a relationship with Christ,  and not with His Body?

Added To The Church.   After the gospel was first preached on the Day of Pentecost,  Luke records that the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.  (Acts 2:47).  The Lord adds the saved to the church.  Can I be saved and not be a part of the church?  The church was purchased with the blood of Christ (Acts 20:28).  Can I have a relationship with Christ apart from that which He loved enough to shed His blood to purchase?

The Savior Of The Body.
Paul affirms that Christ is the head of the church:  and he is the saviour of the body.  (Eph 5:23).  When the Lord returns,  what is He going to save?  The Body.  The Body is the Church.  The Church is made up of the Saved.  Can I have a relationship with the head,  and not with the body?  Can I be a part of the Saved and not be a part of that which He is going to save…..the Body…..the Church?

The Family Of God.
The Church is the Family of God.  (Gal. 3:26-27).  The new birth of water and of the Spirit puts one into the Family.  (John 3:1-8).  Can I have a relationship with Christ and not be a part of the Family?  Does God have illegitimate children?

The Church Is The Bride Of Christ.
Someday the Bridegroom is coming to claim His Bride (Matt. 25:1-13).  Can I have a relationship with Christ and not be a part of His Bride?  Does He have relationships with others besides His Bride?  Is He unfaithful to His Bride?

Steer Creek Church of Christ,  3466 Rosedale Road,  Stumptown WV 25267
Minister: Gene H Miller,  3281 Rosedale Road,  Shock WV 26638-8410.
Phone:  304.462.0384     E-Mail:  “ghmiller@rtol.net”  Web Site:  steercreekchurchofchrist.org

Billy B. Blake

Billy B. Blake
Age 74, a lifelong resident of Burnsville, WV, passed away Friday, March 05, 2010 at Braxton Healthcare Center in Flatwoods after a long illness.

He was born on January 26, 1936 a son of the late Pete and Fanny Riffle Blake. He is survived by two brothers and three sisters.

Funeral services were held at 2:00 PM on Sunday March 07, 2010 at Stockert-Sizemore Funeral Home in Flatwoods, WV, with Rev. Delmas Singleton officiating.

Burial was in K of P Cemetery in Burnsville, WV.

Friends called from 12:00 Noon to service time on Sunday.

Herald Brooks Middleton Jr.

Herald Brooks Middleton Jr.
Age 58, of Pennsboro, passed away March 5, 2010, at United Hospital Center in Clarksburg.

Funeral services will be Monday at 11 AM at McCullough Rogers Funeral Home, Pennsboro, with Pastor Dave McCauley officiating.

Interment will follow at the Salem Masonic Cemetery.

Visitation will be today from 2-5 PM.

Thomas “Hollywood” Burnside

Thomas “Hollywood” Burnside
Age 54, of Elmira, died March 02, 2010 at Thomas Memorial Hospital.

He was born October 15, 1955 at Sutton a son of the late Russell and Maysel James Burnside.

He is survived by wife, Tina Nottingham Burnside; daughter, Shwanna Renee Keiffer at home; brothers, Carles of Pennsboro, General of Ohio, Elijah of Duck, Elisha of Elmira and Branty of Florida; sisters, Mary Tanner of Ripley, Helen Harmer of Ohio and Glenna Starcher of Reedy.

In addition to his parents he was also preceded in death by sisters, Freda and Thelma Louise. Service was 1 PM Saturday, March 06, 2010 at Richard M. Roach Funeral Home, Gassaway.

Burial was in the Pleasant Hill Cemetery, Wallback.

Friends called two hours prior to the service at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers donations may be sent to the family for funeral expenses.

Sheldon H. Rinker

Sheldon H. Rinker
Age 82, of Alum Bridge passed away on Tuesday, March 02, 2010 in United Hospital Center of Clarksburg after being diagnosed in 2007 with Lewy Body Dementia and complications from surgery.

He was born in Mapleton, PA on May 28, 1927: son of the late Frederick Rinker.

On July 21, 1973, he married Judy R. (Regester) Rinker, who survives.

Also surviving are five children: Angela Flesher and husband James of Copley, Scott Lloyd Rinker and wife Mary of Elizabeth, WV, Frederick J. Rinker of Grafton, Robert A. Rinker and wife Mandy of Waynesfield, OH and Jennifer Rinker of Fairmont. He is also survived by 12 grandchildren: Clarissa Hill (Nick), Brandy Mullins, Cassy Savidge, Megan, Hannah, Allyson and Adam J. Rinker, Sarah and Brandon Flesher, and Shyanne, Sadie and Jaden Parks and two great grandchildren; Gavin and Layla Hill. Mr. Rinker is also survived by one brother: Thomas Rinker of McVeytown, PA, one sister: Myrtle Boozel of McVeytown, PA and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his father, Mr. Rinker was preceded in death by one brother: Alton Rinker and three sisters: Geraldine Meukel, Malvine Eley and Anna Shoop.

Mr. Rinker was a self employed television repairman. He was a tinker extraordinaire and a master storyteller. He was a member of the Studebaker’s Drivers Club and was a troop leader with the Boy Scouts of America.

Family and friends were received at the Hardman-Paletti Funeral Home 730 N. Main Avenue Weston on Friday, March 05, 2010 from 4-7 PM Funeral services will be on Friday at 7 PM from the Hardman-Paletti Funeral Home chapel with Reverend Clifford West officiating.

The Lewis County Honor Guard will conduct Military Honors at the funeral home following services.

Hardman-Paletti Funeral Home of Weston is in charge of arrangements for Sheldon H. Rinker.

03.07.10

Today: 03.07.yyyy

Today is Sunday, March 7, the 66th day of 2010. There are 299 days left in the year.

Thought for Today: “Caveat actor.“ (Let the doer beware.) _ Latin proverb.

Today’s Highlight in History:

On March 7, 1850, in a three-hour speech to the U.S. Senate, Daniel Webster of Massachusetts endorsed the Compromise of 1850 as a means of preserving the Union. (Critics bitterly denounced Webster for endorsing a compromise which included a provision for returning runaway slaves to their owners.)

On this date:

In 1793, during the French Revolutionary Wars, France declared war on Spain.

In 1876, Alexander Graham Bell received a patent for his telephone.

In 1926, the first successful trans-Atlantic radio-telephone conversations took place, between New York and London.

In 1936, Adolf Hitler ordered his troops to march into the Rhineland, thereby breaking the Treaty of Versailles and the Locarno Pact.

In 1945, during World War II, U.S. forces crossed the Rhine River at Remagen, Germany, using the damaged but still usable Ludendorff Bridge.

In 1960, Jack Paar returned as host of NBC’s “Tonight Show,“ nearly a month after walking off in a censorship dispute with the network.

In 1965, a march by civil rights demonstrators was broken up in Selma, Ala., by state troopers and a sheriff’s posse.

In 1975, the U.S. Senate revised its filibuster rule, allowing 60 senators to limit debate in most cases, instead of the previously required two-thirds of senators present.

In 1981, anti-government guerrillas in Colombia executed kidnapped American Bible translator Chester Allen Bitterman, whom they accused of being a CIA agent.

In 1994, the Supreme Court, in Campbell v. Acuff-Rose Music, Inc., ruled that a parody that pokes fun at an original work can be considered “fair use” that doesn’t require permission from the copyright holder.

Ten years ago:
•  Texas Governor George W. Bush and Vice President Al Gore were the big winners in Super Tuesday primaries.
•  The Nasdaq composite crossed the 5,000 mark for the first time before retreating.
•  Country singer Frank “Pee Wee” King died in Louisville, Ky. at age 86.

Five years ago:
•  President George W. Bush nominated John Bolton to be U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, an appointment which ran into Democratic opposition, prompting Bush to make a recess appointment.
•  The presidents of Syria and Lebanon announced that Syrian forces would pull back to Lebanon’s eastern Bekaa Valley by March 31, but that a complete troop withdrawal would be deferred until after later negotiations.
•  A prison fire in the Dominican Republic killed 134 inmates.

One year ago:
•  Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton met with Turkish leaders in Ankara, where she announced that President Barack Obama planned to make his own visit.
•  Western-backed Palestinian Prime Minister Salam Fayyad submitted his resignation (however, he retained his position under a new government).
•  Former Metropolitan Opera general manager Schuyler Chapin died in New York at age 86
•  Former child actor and singer Jimmy Boyd (“I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus”) died in Santa Monica, Calif. at age 70.

Today’s Birthdays:
Comedian Alan Sues is 84
Photographer Lord Snowdon is 80
TV personality Willard Scott is 76
Auto racer Janet Guthrie is 72
Actor Daniel J. Travanti is 70
Former Walt Disney Co. chief executive officer Michael Eisner is 68
Rock musician Chris White (The Zombies) is 67
Actor John Heard is 64
Rock singer Peter Wolf is 64
Rock musician Matthew Fisher (Procol Harum) is 64
Pro Football Hall-of-Famer Franco Harris is 60
Pro and College Football Hall-of-Famer Lynn Swann is 58
Rhythm-and-blues singer-musician Ernie Isley (The Isley Brothers) is 58
Actor Bryan Cranston is 54
Actress Donna Murphy is 51
Actor Nick Searcy is 51
Golfer Tom Lehman is 51
Tennis Hall-of-Famer Ivan Lendl is 50
Actress Mary Beth Evans is 49
Actor Bill Brochtrup is 47
Opera singer Denyce Graves is 46
Comedian Wanda Sykes is 46
Singer-actress Taylor Dayne is 45
Rock musician Randy Guss (Toad the Wet Sprocket) is 43
Actor Peter Sarsgaard is 39
Actress Rachel Weisz (wys) is 39
Classical singer Sebastien Izambard (Il Divo) is 37
Rock singer Hugo Ferreira (Tantric) is 36
Actress Jenna Fischer is 36
Actress Audrey Marie Anderson is 35
Actress Laura Prepon is 30