Area Counties’ Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) Report for 2009-10

West Virginia public school students did better in math and reading/language arts when they took the WESTEST2 last spring.

The state Department of Education released the results Monday. They show the most improvement among 7th graders who were tested in math and 3rd graders in the reading category. The only drop came in reading testing for 11th graders.

State School Superintendent Dr. Steve Paine says he’s pleased test results were up along with the number of schools meeting Adequate Yearly Progress.

Paine says West Virginia now has a more difficult test than it used to and it’s also more difficult for students to reach mastery. Paine told reporters Monday the goal is to help West Virginia students compete on a national and international level.

“The rigor of this test is very much like the rigor of the Nation’s Report Card and the TIMSS test (International Math-Science test),“ Paine said.

The superintendent says West Virginia will now be able to do comparisons with students in other states and other countries in a very meaningful way.

“We have really raised the bar,“ Paine said. “We have made a self-correction, nobody made us do it, but we did this because we think it’s the right thing to be transparent with our parents and our kids.“

The testing last spring was the second year for the WESTEST2.

Seventy First Annual Dekalb District Sunday School Convention

The 71st annual Dekalb District Sunday School Convention will be held on Sunday, August 22, 2010 at Mt. Liberty Church.

Dinner will be at 5:00 PM and services will begin at 6:00 PM.

Come and enjoy a great evening of Christian fellowship.

The Churches in the Dekalb District include Chestnut Grove, Mt. Liberty, New Mt. Olive in Ritchie County, Tanner Chapel and Tanner United Methodist.

Some Ritchie County Residents Fight Sale of Pennsboro Speedway

The effort is led by Frank Wilson Jr., who claims the speedway’s owner just wants to cash in on the property.

The speedway is owned by the Ritchie County Agricultural and Fair Association.

It hasn’t hosted a race since 2002 and association officials say the property is in poor shape.

Association members voted to sell the 31-acre site earlier this year.

Treasurer Lewis Cottrill says the organization doesn’t have the means to renovate the property.

Holmes Shaver, the property’s realty listing agent, says the site’s proximity to U.S. 50 makes it attractive.

But he says prep work to make the property desirable would cost a lot of money.

Trial Set for Man Accused of Hitting Trooper on WV Hwy 47

Jessie Parsons, 63, accused of critically injuring a WV State Trooper in Ritchie County in April was briefly in court Friday.

He said he’s not guilty of driving under the influence and sending Corporal Andy Pringle to the ICU for weeks.

Friday was the Defense Attorney’s last chance to ask the court to drop charges in the case.

Parsons attorney didn’t file the motion, so his trial will begin on September 13, 2010.

The community is continuing its support of Corporal Pringle and his family.

Troopers in Ritchie County say the family is staying pretty quiet as Pringle undergoes rehab, but they do know he is slowly improving.

Wirt County: State Police Identify Gunman

State Police say they are still unsure why a Wirt County man opened fire on the state police barracks in Elizabeth Wednesday afternoon.

A state trooper and a Wirt County Deputy responded to a call of shots fired at the detachment.

The barracks was empty at the time.

When they arrived they spotted 45-year old Joseph Dennis Harrison who’s from the Elizabeth area.

“When they arrived on scene they encountered the gunman who was inside a U-P-S truck and they were able to make visual contact and he did present the weapon in a threatening manner toward the officers,“ said State Police Spokesman Mike Baylous. “Which led to our trooper firing his weapon at the suspect.“

The trooper fired two shots which left him fatally wounded.

Baylous says the UPS driver was able to get away before authorities arrived on the scene.  The driver fled to a nearby business.

Harrison had hijacked the UPS driver and forced him to drive at gunpoint to the detachment.

Initially it was believed the abduction occurred in Ritchie County, but further investigation reveals the incident was also in Wirt County.

“It was just a chance encounter,“ Baylous said.  “He ran into the gunman and he forced the driver to give him a ride into town to the detachment.“

Baylous says so far, they don’t know what ax Harrison had to grind with the State Police.

Investigators are looking for a link or a past arrest record that may have driven Harrison to his actions.

Baylous says they are hoping to learn more about what prompted the violent actions as the investigation moves forward.

The names of the trooper and deputy have not been released.

Clarence “Bub” Wagner

Clarence “Bub” Wagner
Age 87, of the Deep Valley Community near Greenwood, WV, departed this life on Tuesday, August 10, 2010, at the United Hospital Transitional Rehabilitation Unit in Clarksburg, WV.

Bub was born November 18, 1922 in Deep Valley Community near Greenwood, WV, the son of the late Guy and Ina Wagner.

He worked as a truck driver for Paul McCutcheon for 10 years and later worked for Kiger’s Exxon and Chrysler Sales in West Union, WV for 10 years.

He was a foreman at Ken Mac in Pennsboro, WV for 5 years, and later retired from Payne Mobile Homes in Pennsboro, WV, after 15 years of service.

He was a lifelong farmer and the longest living resident in his community of Deep Valley and Haymonds Ridge, and a member of the Arnold’s Creek Christian Church.

He is survived by two daughters, Beverly (James) Underwood, Sistersville, WV and Barbara (William) McClain, Salem, WV; sister, Ruth Good, Alliance, OH; grandchildren, James (Tammy) Underwood Jr., Middlebourne, WV, Mitzie (John) Johnson, Waverly, WV, Jennifer (Damon) Key, Salem, WV, Kristin (Jack) Ross, Mt. Holly, NC, and great-grandchildren, Laken & Levi Underwood, Darcy Johnson, Rylee Ross, Kaitlyn & Colton Key.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Olive “Irene” Wagner on July 07, 2010; infant daughter, Samilda Sue Wagner; grandson, Clark McClain, and sisters, Sylvia Knowlton and Gladys Quay.

Funeral Services will be 2:00 PM, Saturday, August 14, 2010, at the McCullough-Rogers Funeral Home, Pennsboro, WV with Rev. Wayne Glasure officiating.

Burial will follow in the Coleman-Freeman Cemetery, Crystal Lake Community near West Union, WV. Friends may call from 4:00 - 8:00 PM, Friday, August 13, 2010, at the funeral home.

Nannie Lillian Hardman Dailey

Nannie Lillian Hardman Dailey
Age 84, of Smithville, WV, departed this life on Wednesday, August 11, 2010, at Pineview Continuous Care, Harrisville, WV.

Lillian was born May 02, 1926, at Yellow Creek, in Winston County Miss, a daughter to the late George Washington and Eula Lee (Watt) CT.

She worked for Economy Industries of Ritchie County from 1966-1970 and later as a cook for the former McCoy’s Restaurant in Smithville, WV.

She was a member of the Pythian Sisters #65, Smithville, WV, the Smithville Senior Citizens, and the Hardman Chapel Church of Smithville, where she served as a ladies aid.

She is survived by sons, Herbert “Billy” Hardman (Linda), Smithville, OH, Edward Charles Hardman, Smithville, WV; daughter, Patricia Jane Dearth, Parkersburg, WV; step-daughter, Judith Snider (Bill), Pittsburgh, PA; half sister, Georgia Lee Cade, and grandchildren, Michelle Dearth, Helen Ann Hardman, and Timothy Hardman.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her 1st husband, Harold Hardman; 2nd husband, Edward Dailey; son, Michael Hardman; sister, Annie Mae Jones, and granddaughter, Becky Dearth.

Funeral Services will be 11:00 AM, Saturday, August, 14, 2010, at the Raiguel Funeral Home, Harrisville, WV, with the Rev. Joe Hatcher officiating.

Burial will follow in the Hardman Chapel Cemetery, Smithville, WV.

Friends may call from 4:00 - 8:00 PM, Friday, August 13, 2010, at the funeral home.

Trooper Forced to Use Deadly Force, Hostage Not Harmed

A state trooper in Wirt County used deadly force when he arrived on scene to find a man with a rifle Wednesday.

The initial call, according to a State Police Spokesman, was shots were fired at the State Police Detachment in Elizabeth.

Upon arrival, Sgt. Mike Baylous says the trooper learned the detachment building was empty and the shots were directed toward the building, until the trooper rolled up.

“As the trooper pulled up on the scene, he was confronted by a man with a rifle. The trooper had to shoot, and he killed the man,“ Baylous said.

Authorities have not released the name of the trooper involved in the shooting or the gunman.

However, the suspect had kidnapped a UPS driver in Ritchie County earlier in the day and forced him to drive to the barracks in Elizabeth.  The UPS driver was at the scene when the shooting broke out, but was uninjured.

Authorities continue their investigation, but so far there’s no indication why the man would have targeted the State Police offices or in particular the Elizabeth detachment.

Carolyn “Sue” White

Carolyn “Sue” White
Age 58, of Pennsboro passed away Saturday, August 07, 2010, at her residence, surrounded by her loving family.

Sue was born February 10, 1952, in Clarksburg, a daughter to the late Arthur “Criss” and Mary (Cook) Crissman. She was a graduate of the former Pennsboro High School with the class of 1970 and attended Mountain State Business College.

She was owner of the former Back Porch Studio in Pennsboro for six years and currently the Flower Station in Pennsboro for the last 18 years. She was an original member of the Pennsboro Country Roads Festival Committee, committed to the Pennsboro City Park, “Tracy Lake”, as well as a past member of the Pennsboro Emergency Squad.

Sue was also an avid stock car racing fan as well as a former driver on the local dirt track racing circuit where she drove in the street stock division and had several feature wins. She was a member of the Pennsboro Order of the Eastern Star No. 26 and loved all of her pets, especially her ferrets, Nitrous, Lucky, Little Girl, and Wilson.

She is survived by her loving husband, James White, whom she married July 23, 1990; daughters, Christa Ross Harper (Chris), Parkersburg and Jennifer Ross Goff (Brian), Atlanta, GA; son, Tyler White, Pennsboro; grandchildren, Emma and Sara Harper and Garrett and Gabriella Goff; and one niece, Alexis Bennett Conway (Seth), Rochester, NY.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Mary Ann Bennett and brother, John Crissman.

Funeral services will be 1:00 PM Wednesday from the McCullough-Rogers Funeral Home, Pennsboro, with Dr. James Levos and Pastor Ron Blevins officiating. Burial will follow in the Mount Harmony Masonic Cemetery, Pennsboro.

Friends may call from 4:30-8:00 PM Tuesday and after 9 a.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.

James Alden Williams

James Alden Williams
departed this life on Aug. 05, 2010, in Harrisville.

He was born in Pennsboro on Nov. 02, 1934, to the late Harry and Opal B Williams.

Jim graduated from Harrisville High School in 1953. He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1957-1960 as an aircraft electrician with the 6th Bomb Wing, Strategic Air Command at Walker AFB Roswell, N.M. He retired after 31 years of employment with American Cyanamid/Cytec Industries, Willow Island Plant. He was a member and past president of the Harrisville Lions Club, and St. Luke’s United Methodist Church. He volunteered with the Ritchie County EMS, Boy Scout Troop 80 and Cub Pack 83 of Harrisville.

Jim was very active in church attendance and functions as well as volunteering his time with the Lions Club and helping with various community events. Jim enjoyed most of all spending time with his family and all the friends he made over the years.

He is survived by his son, Gary J. Williams and wife, Crystal, of Harrisville; stepsons, Michael K. Reed and wife, Susan, of Deltona, Fla., and Stephen W. Reed of Pawley’s Island, S.C.; sister-in-law, Oleta Williams of Parkersburg; brother-in-law, Albert K. Britton and wife, Shirley, of Burke, Va.; grandson, Barry Coronado and wife, San Juanita, of Headland, Ala.; niece, Susan Eschete and husband, Marshall, of Mobile, Ala.; nephew, Craig H. Williams and wife, Amy, of Hudson, Ohio; and nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 35 years, Myrna L. Williams; brother, Donald “Buck” Williams; sister, Eva Lou Skipper; and step-daughter, Anita Reed.

Funeral services will be 11 AM Tuesday at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church with the Rev. John Frum officiating. Burial will follow in the Harrisville IOOF Cemetery. Friends may call from 5-8 PM Monday at Raiguel Funeral Home, Harrisville.

The family request donations to the Harrisville Lions Club, c/o Ray Jones, Treasurer, No. 1 Meadowcrest, Harrisville, WV 26362.

State Farmers to Receive Specialty Crop Grant Awards

State Farmers to Receive Specialty Crop Grant Awards
West Virginia Commissioner of Agriculture Gus R. Douglass will present Specialty Crop Block Grant awards to 12 West Virginia recipients at the State Fair of West Virginia in the Gus R. Douglass Annex Building Tuesday, August 17, 2010 at 4:30 PM.

Over the past five years, the West Virginia Department of Agriculture (WVDA) has distributed approximately $650,000 in funding to 118 projects throughout the state through a competitive grant award program. The Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP) is funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and administered by the WVDA. The grant program encourages cooperative efforts to integrate technology at the farm level, improve marketing and promotion of locally grown specialty crops, and increase production efficiency through research projects. Specialty crops include fruits, vegetables, herbs, horticulture goods, nursery stock and value-added products. The types of eligible projects are intentionally open-ended to encourage creative projects.

“The Specialty Crop Block Grant Program has significantly impacted both the quantity and availability of fruits, vegetables and value-added agricultural products in West Virginia,” said Commissioner of Agriculture Gus R. Douglass. “The 2010 grant cycle reflects a commitment on behalf of the farming community to research, grow and market these products and we are pleased to make these grant awards as part of the Program.”

The following grant recipients have been selected by the State Specialty Crop Block Grant Review Committee and are currently undergoing final approval by USDA in Washington, D.C. Tentatively scheduled to take part in the State Fair ceremony are:

1. Marion County Beekeepers Association, “Beekeeper Education”
The Marion County Beekeepers Association will use funds to purchase materials to educate association members and the general public about the importance of the honeybee, both in pollination and producing the honey crop.

2. East Wheeling Community Gardens, “Urban Farm Training Center”
In partnership with a variety of social service and agriculture entities, East Wheeling Community Gardens will demonstrate the viability of innovative urban agriculture. The garden, originally established as a teaching garden for young children, will expand its educational outreach to a community of potential agriculture entrepreneurs while simultaneously promoting community spirit and a healthy diet.

3. Friends of Milam Creek (FOMC), “Friends of Milam Creek Specialty Crop Project”This award will enable FOMC to promote the use of native West Virginia specialty crops in Wyoming County through the distribution of 100 specialty crop seedlings for use in home gardens, the planting of 100 native specialty crop seedlings in the community garden, a media campaign to educate community members on the home use and growing of these crops, and the initiation of a FOMC Gardening Association. The project will lead to the introduction of a local food economy, which will positively impact the economy and health of FOMC communities.

4. West Virginia State University, “Specialty Lettuce and Greens Production by Youth in Aeroponic System for Local Distribution”
This project utilizes an aeroponic growing system to produce specialty lettuce and greens to be managed by youth involved in the Junior Master Gardener program at the Barnett Center in Huntington, W.Va. Along with volunteers from the Huntington Community Gardens Organization, the youth are responsible for developing a market for the lettuce and greens. Youth will learn to be more self-sufficient and the project will test the strength of the local market.

5. E and K Enterprises, LLC (Morgan Orchard), “Morgan Orchard’s Apple Cider Project”
Morgan Orchard’s project will provide a practical example of how a small to medium-sized specialty crop producer can research a potential market niche to upgrade a commodity priced product; implement effective, low cost food safety practices; produce a quality product; and market the product in the local rural area.

6. Gilmer County Economic Development Association, “Farmers’ Market Collaborative”
The Gilmer County Economic Development Association (GCEDA) is partnering with the Future Farmers of America at Gilmer County High School, the Calhoun-Gilmer Career Center Environmental Studies Class, the Culinary Arts Class, and Beekeepers from Last Resort Farm in Ritchie County to target additional youth in the area to enhance the need for agriculture, proper nutrition and the importance of Beekeeping to maximize pollination for a better harvest.

7. Mineral County Farmers’ Market Association, “Mineral County Farmers’ Market Marketing Campaign”
This project will focus on an intense marketing campaign to increase the sustainability of three farmers’ markets in Mineral County by continuing to grow a customer base, increasing the number of vendors selling specialty crops and increasing consumer knowledge on farmers’ markets and the fresh produce they provide.

8. The Center for Sustainability Studies of Davis & Elkins College, “Randolph County Community Gardens”
This award will be used to develop and apply a viable model for community gardens and truck gardens in small West Virginia towns via the establishment of community gardens at the Kump House Education Center and a second site within an economically challenged neighborhood, also in the city of Elkins. Eventually, the project will provide an inexpensive nutritional supplement for low-income residents who would not otherwise have access to garden plots.

9.Little Patch on the Lane Farms, “From Farm to Family”
This project will utilize a program with the assistance of Putnam County WVU Extension agent following the high tunnel season extension program designed by Dr. Lewis Jett, WVU Extension Specialist. The program will serve the residents of Putnam County by educating them in five core fields: plant based education, health and wellness, environmental stewardship, community development and the ease of home gardening.

10.Wood County Development Authority, “Parkersburg Downtown Farmers’ Marketplace”
In 2008, the Downtown Farmers’ Marketplace was established in Parkersburg and has since established a loyal customer base. This award will help increase the number and variety of specialty crops at the Market, as well as increase the sales and the number of patrons.

11. Dr. Donald E. Trisel, Ph.D, “Nosema Education and Testing Services for Beekeepers”
Nosema apis and N. ceranae are being implicated as potentially important contributors to the Colony Collapse Disorder. Beekeepers from across WV will be able to send in samples of bees for a free microscopic analysis to determine the degree of infestation. This community service research project will allow individual beekeepers to make informed decisions regarding the management of their colonies to maximize honey production.

12. Monroe Farm Market, “Monroe Farm Market: Increasing Production and Distribution of Value-Added Products”This project will allow Monroe Farm Market (MFM), a group of producers whose goal is to provide farm-fresh specialty products to customers in Monroe County, Charleston and Beckley, to increase demand for value-added products through enhanced access to production facilities, marketing and distribution that ensures quality products reaching the consumer.

Luvenia Grace Maze

Luvenia Grace Maze
Age 95, of Thornville, OH, went to her heavenly home at her daughter’s residence on August 02, 2010.

She was born December 29, 1914 at Annamoriah, WV, the daughter of the late Ebby and Luvenia Smith Maze. Luvenia was a homemaker and was a member of Harrison Street UM Church, Harrisville, WV where she taught sunday school for 16 years. She was an avid reader and loved gardening, singing and going to church. She especially enjoyed her grandchildren, her cats and birds.

She will be sadly missed by her family, including two sons, Billie W. Maze of Harrisville, and Charles L. Maze of Elyria, OH; two daughters, Mary Greathouse of Warren, OH and Ona Bell Sims of Thornville, OH; half sister, Ethel Rader, of Mt. Zion, WV; several grandchildren; great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.

Mrs. Maze was preceded in death by her husband, William Glen Maze; son, Gerald Maze; sisters, Frankie Davis, Laurie Maze, two infant brothers; and three great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at 1 PM, Saturday, August 07, 2010 at Harrison Street UM Church, Harrisville with Rev. Eddy Howard, Rev. John Frum, and Rev. Carl DeVaughn officiating. Burial will follow at the Maze Cemetery, Munday Road, WV.

The family will receive friends at the home of Billie Maze, 225 Dogwood Lane, Harrisville, Friday from 2PM-8PM, and also Saturday from 12-1 PM at the church.

Raiguel Funeral Home, Harrisville is handling the arrangements.

Leahroy T. Lambert

Leahroy T. Lambert
Age 73, of St. Marys, WV, died August 02, 2010 at his residence.

He was the best husband, father and grandfather the family could ever ask for.

He was ill for only a short time, but this allowed his family to take care of him, providing love and comfort as he had done during their life with him. With the assistance of Hospice, the family was able to take him home which was his wish. He died peacefully with family present.

He was born December 04, 1936 in Pennsboro, WV, the son of the late Alfred A. Lambert and Milgrum Rosalia Drake Lambert Adams.

Leahroy graduated from Pennsboro High School in 1955 and served in the US Navy from 1955-1976. He retired from GE Plastics after 20 years. He was a member of Harris-Ritchie Post 3554 VFW.

He is survived by his wife, Jacqueline Dean Jackson Lambert; children, Cindy Summers (David) of Harrisville, Alfred Lambert (Dana) of Staunton, VA, Gypsy Lambert of St. Marys, Debbie Kidder (Jeff) of Parkersburg, and Karla Mathis (Bonner) of Memphis, TN; brothers, Jack Adams (Joyce) of Houston, TX, and Graydon Lambert (Loraine) of St. Marys; sisters, Helen Wells (Fred) of Cleveland, and Connie Jean Garner (Benny) of St. Marys; grandchildren, James Michael, Shandon, and Jeffrey Kidder, Matthew and Jenna Summers, Kris Wise, and Beth Beck; great granddaughter, Karly Wise; brother-in-law Paul Jackson (Betty) of Ramona, CA; and special friend Delno Hayhurst.

He was preceded in death by brother, Cody Adams in Vietnam; sister, Rosalia Lambert; nephew, Buddy Garner, and step-father Edward Adams.

Funeral services will be held at 2 PM, Monday, August 09, 2010 at Raiguel Funeral Home, Harrisville with Rev. Alan Adams officiating. Burial will follow in the Hardman Chapel Cemetery, Smithville. Friends may call at the funeral home Sunday from 4-8 PM.

The family would like to thank all who provided care and comfort to Leahroy and his family.

Madge Crane

Madge Crane
Age 95, of Waterford, died at 1:45 PM Monday (August 02, 2010), peacefully, in her home, after a courageous 33-year fight against bladder cancer and the last few years with chronic lung disease.

She was born on January 14, 1915, at Tariff, Roane County, WV, daughter of Isaiah Daniel and Elsie Carper Looney, both descendants of Revolutionary War patriots. She attended Glenville College, where she met her future husband, Dwight M. Crane. She later graduated from Salem College with an A.B. degree. She took additional hours at Marietta College, where she was privileged to be in one class with her granddaughter, LaDonna. Her last college hours were completed at Ohio University.

Madge and Dwight Crane were married on December 28, 1936, at Oakland, Md. They raised registered Angus cattle on their farm near Harrisville, WV, and their sons showed prized feeder cattle at Jackson’s Mill while in 4-H and FFA. Dwight was drafted in 1944 while teaching at the one-room Mitchell School in Ritchie County, WV, and, due to a shortage of teachers, Madge took over his school. Family members have been told many stories about the three-mile walk each way to and from school with her oldest son, Bill, through the fields and up the dirt roads. These walks helped instill a lifelong love of animals (especially birds) and flowers she spotted along the way. This was a very rough time because she had to raise two boys, teach and manage the farm.

After Dwight returned in 1946 from serving in the Philippines and Korea, the family settled down on a 220-acre farm, raising large gardens, canning, butchering and doing all the other jobs that go with farming. Almost all the time there were more than 100 Angus grazing the pastures on the Crane Farm.

In 1961, the Cranes left the farm and moved to Waterford. They found one school, Watertown Elementary, where there were two openings - Madge taught fifth and sixth grade and Dwight taught seventh and eighth. It was a happy decision since they could now travel during the summer months. Madge saved the best work of her students during the year and showed it in a full booth at the Waterford Fair for 25 years. They had taught 14 years when Dwight died suddenly. The Watertown community was very supportive and comforting during this sad time. Madge continued teaching at Watertown, but at times it was very difficult because so much about the school reminded her of Dwight. In appreciation for her work with students, the fair board chose her as parade marshal of the Waterford Fair the year she retired (1986), an honor she valued highly. Her teaching career spanned 54 years, although with time off to raise her family, she taught 37 years. She taught in three states - Kentucky, West Virginia and Ohio. Her first three schools (Indian Creek in Lewis County, Ky., and Triplett and Knight in Roane County) were one room. Her next school (Amma, Roane County) had two rooms. Mitchell had one room, and Ellenboro (Ritchie County, WV) had several rooms. Watertown had four rooms.

Madge belonged to the Waterford Methodist Church, where she served on the missionary board for many years; Mount Moriah 506, Eastern Star; Delta Kappa Gamma; Ohio Retired Teachers (life member); Marietta chapter of the D.A.R.; Roane County Historical Society; Society of Boonesborough; and the Lower Muskingum Historical Society (charter member). She was in Literacy Volunteers for three years. With her son, Phillip, she co-authored a family history on their ancestor, Robert Looney, and a second book about his 10 known children. She traveled extensively in the U.S. and to Europe with a teacher tour in 1979, visiting eight countries.

She is survived by three sons, William C. Crane and wife, Sharon, of Pullman, WV, George E. Crane and special friend, JoAnn Silliman, of Georgetown, Texas, and Phillip L. Crane and wife, Teresa, of Waterford; five granddaughters, LaDonna (Randy) Sarie of Charleston, WV, Anita (Don) Shumake of Parkersburg, Charlene (Tom) Tuttle of Charleston, S.C., and Judy (Joel) St. Amant and Jessica Crane of Georgetown; two grandsons, Col. William E. (Tina) Crane of Charleston, W.Va, and Dwight Daniel Crane of Waterford; great-grandchildren, Ryan Shumake, Tommy and Sam Tuttle, Nicole, Derek and Joshua Crane, Catherine, Elizabeth and Margaret Saria, Laura Blakeman and Evan St. Amant; one sister, Merle (Bill) Noble of Reynoldsburg; sister-in-law, Velma Looney of Aiken, S.C.; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her father in 1973; her mother in 1997; her husband; three brothers, Charles, William and Robert Looney; and two sisters-in-law, June Looney and Erma Looney.

Visitation were 2 to 4 and 6 to 9 PM Wednesday at McCurdy Funeral Home, Beverly. Funeral services will be at 1 PM Thursday at the Waterford Methodist Church, with the Rev. Russell White. Burial will be in Waterford Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be sent to the Beverly-Waterford Rescue Squad, P.O. Box 146, Waterford, Ohio 45786; or Marietta Hospice, 210 N. Seventh St., Suite 400, Marietta, Ohio 45750.

Icie L. Reed

Icie L. Reed
Age 95, of Harrisville, died August 03, 2010 at Pine View Continuous Care, Harrisville.

She was born October 17, 1914 near Oxford, Doddridge County, the youngest child of Charles and Virginia Wilson Bee. She was the last immediate member of her family.

Icie was a homemaker and worked for 36 years in Harrisville garment factories. She was a foster grandparent for 3 years at Smithville Elementary School. She attended King Knob UM Church where she had served as substitute Sunday School Teacher, Trustee and Pastor Parish Committee.

She is survived by two sons, Eldon Reed, and Louis Reed (Joann) all of Harrisville; seven grandchildren, Lewis Reed (Pam) of Macfarlan, Mike Reed (Anita) of GA, Angie Wornstaff (Jeff) of VA, Donald Reed Jr. (Laurie) of PA, Jennifer Nuttern (David) of GA, Melissa Reed, and Jeff Fury (Amanda), all of Parkersburg; ex-daughter-in-law Mary K. Reed of St. Marys; step-grandson Tim Basham (Christie) and 3 children of St. Albans, WV; thirteen great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandson, Landon Allen Banks; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 49 years, Dewey (Dude) Reed in 1982; one son, Donald Ray Reed, Sr.; two daughters-in-law, Glenda (Eldon) Reed and Doris (Louis) Reed; seven brothers, Lenny, Ephrim, Sherman, Gus, Ola, Otis and Cecil Bee; two sisters, Mary Summers and Vallie Courtney; and one granddaughter.

Funeral services will be held at 11 AM, Friday, August 6, 2010 at Raiguel Funeral Home with Rev. John Frum officiating. Burial will follow in the Harrisville IOOF Cemetery. Friends may call at the funeral home Thursday, from 4-8 PM.

Dayle Lester Marks

Dayle Lester Marks
She departed this life on July 30, 2010 after a long illness. She was born on February 03, 1937.

She was preceded in death by her parents Lawrence and Lillie Farley Lester, brothers Edward, Garland and Bill Lester and sister Ina Derosette.

She is survived by husband John Marks of Pennsboro, WV; three daughters Brenda and Bob Wayne of Exchange, Linda Minor of Exchange and Rhonda Marks of Weston; son James Derosette; brother Junior Lester of Parkersburg; sisters Lou Houghton Carte of Strange Creek and Laura Harmon of Oak City, TN; two adopted children Criss Marks and Sarah Richards; 8 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren.

Friends called Monday, August 02, 2010 from 11 AM to 1 PM at the Hardman Paletti Funeral Home, Weston and funeral service was 1pm with Mitch Richards officiating. Burial followed at Weston.

Wilma Lee Cox

Wilma Lee Cox
Age 56, of Orlando, FL, formerly of Pennsboro, passed away June 21, 2010, as a result of an auto-pedestrian accident.

Memorial services will be today, 1:00 PM at the McCullough-Rogers Funeral Home.

Visitation will be one hour prior to services.

Flash Flood Watch in Effect Through Thursday Evening

Issued by The National Weather Service
Charleston, WV
3:30 AM EDT, Thursday, August 05, 2010

===================

Issued by The National Weather Service
Charleston, WV
10:15 PM EDT, Wednesday, August 04, 2010

... FLASH FLOOD WATCH IN EFFECT THROUGH THURSDAY EVENING…

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN CHARLESTON HAS ISSUED A

* FLASH FLOOD WATCH FOR PORTIONS OF WEST VIRGINIA… INCLUDING THE FOLLOWING AREAS… BARBOUR… BRAXTON... CALHOUN... DODDRIDGE... GILMER... HARRISON… JACKSON… LEWIS... MASON… PLEASANTS… POCAHONTAS… RANDOLPH… RITCHIE... ROANE… TAYLOR… TYLER… UPSHUR… WEBSTER… WIRT AND WOOD.

* THROUGH THURSDAY EVENING

* A FEW ROUNDS OF THUNDERSTORMS ARE EXPECTED TO OCCUR ACROSS THE WATCH AREA… UNTIL A COLD FRONT MOVES THROUGH BY TOMORROW EVENING. WITH THE SOUPY AIRMASS IN PLACE… TRAINING THUNDERSTORMS COULD EASILY PRODUCE BETWEEN ONE AND TWO INCHES OF RAIN IN ONE HOUR. IN SEVERAL AREAS… THE GROUND IS WETTER THAN NORMAL FOR EARLY AUGUST DUE TO RECENT RAIN. ANY LOCATION THAT RECEIVES REPEATED HEAVY RAINFALL COULD SEE FLOODING OF SMALL STREAMS AND CREEKS.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

A FLASH FLOOD WATCH MEANS THAT CONDITIONS MAY DEVELOP THAT LEAD TO FLASH FLOODING. FLASH FLOODING IS A VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION.

NWS: SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WATCH

Issued by The National Weather Service
Charleston, WV
1:43 AM EDT, Thursday, August 05, 2010

SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WATCH REMAINS VALID UNTIL 4 AM EDT EARLY THURSDAY MORNING

=========================

Issued by The National Weather Service
Charleston, WV
2:19 PM EDT, Wednesday, August 04, 2010

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE HAS ISSUED SEVERE THUNDERSTORM WATCH IN EFFECT UNTIL 9 PM EDT THIS EVENING FOR THE FOLLOWING AREAS

IN WEST VIRGINIA THIS WATCH INCLUDES 26 COUNTIES

IN CENTRAL WEST VIRGINIA

BRAXTON CALHOUN CLAY GILMER JACKSON NICHOLAS ROANE TAYLOR WEBSTER

IN NORTHERN WEST VIRGINIA

BARBOUR DODDRIDGE HARRISON LEWIS PLEASANTS POCAHONTAS RANDOLPH RITCHIE TYLER UPSHUR WIRT WOOD

THIS INCLUDES THE CITIES OF… BRIDGEPORT… BUCKHANNON… BURNSVILLE… CHARLESTON… CLARKSBURG… CLAY… COWEN… CRAIGSVILLE… CROOKSVILLE… ELIZABETH… ELKINS… FAYETTEVILLE… FLATWOODS... GASSAWAY... GLENVILLE... GRAFTON… GRANTSVILLE... HAMDEN… HARRISVILLE... HUNTINGTON… HURRICANE… IRONTON… MARLINTON… MIDDLEBOURNE… MONTGOMERY… NEW HAVEN… OAK HILL… PADEN CITY… PARKERSBURG… PENNSBORO... PHILIPPI… POINT PLEASANT… POMEROY… RAVENSWOOD… RICHWOOD… RIPLEY… RUSSELL… SISTERSVILLE… SOMERSET… SOUTH CHARLESTON… SOUTH POINT… SPENCER… ST. MARYS… STOCKPORT… SUMMERSVILLE… SUTTON... TEAYS VALLEY… VIENNA… WELLSTON… WEST UNION AND WESTON.

Cora Virginia Higgins Weekley

Cora Virginia Higgins Weekley
Age 95, of Parkersburg, died at her home Sunday, August 01, 2010.

Cora was born November 09, 1914, at Petroleum (Rusk Community) in Ritchie County, WV, a daughter to the late Henry M. (Harry) and Alice Tennant Higgins.

She was a graduate of the former Cairo High School with the class of 1935. She then graduated with the first class from the Wood County LPN School and later from Parkersburg Community College in 1959 as an RN. She retired as an Obstetrical Nurse from Camden-Clark Memorial Hospital in 1979. She was a long term member of the Daughters of America and served as a Past State Councilor for the organization. Cora was an avid traveler and visited all the lower 48 states, was a talented seamstress, a voracious reader, and attended Bethel Presbyterian Church, Waverly, WV.

She is survived by her three daughters, Nancy Gates (Richard), Waverly, WV, Sharon Pawlowski, Cincinnati, Ohio, Mary Alyce Liadis (Steve), Naples, FL; four grandsons; three granddaughters; five great-grandsons; three great-granddaughters; one great-great-granddaughter; five nephews; six nieces; and her special friend and caregiver, Lois Gainer.

In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband, Howard O. Weekley in 1983; son-in-law, Ronald Pawlowski; granddaughter, Cheryl Gates in 1994; six brothers; and two sisters.

Memorial contributions in the name of Cora can be sent to the Bethel Presbyterian Church, Old St. Marys Pike, Waverly, WV 26184.

Funeral services will be 11 AM Saturday, August 07, 2010, from the Leavitt Funeral Home, Parkersburg, with the Rev. Kenneth Calebaugh officiating. Interment will follow in the Evergreen North Cemetery, Parkersburg. Friends may call from 6-8 PM Friday at the funeral home.

Iron Workers Local Accepting Apprenticeship Applications

Iron Workers Local 787 Joint Apprenticeship Committee (JAC) will accept applications Monday for its apprenticeship program.

Those interested must fill out the application in person at 303 Erickson Blvd. in Parkersburg during regular business hours 8:00 AM to Noon and 1:00 PM to 4:30 PM.

Applicants must be at least 18 years of age, capable of performing work of the ironworker trade, be a high school graduate or have a GED and pass an aptitude test given by the Parkersburg Workforce office.

In addition, the applicant must have lived within the service area for at least one year prior to qualify for application. The area covered by Local 787 in Ohio includes the counties of Athens, Meigs, Morgan, Noble and Washington.

In West Virginia the counties include Calhoun, Doddridge, Gilmer, Jackson, Lewis, Mason, Pleasants, Ritchie, Roane, Upshur, Wirt and Wood. If selected, a candidate must pass a substance abuse test.

The Iron Workers Joint Apprenticeship Training Program provides instruction in the classroom as well as on the job. Classes are in the evenings and Saturdays, allowing on-the-job learning while getting paid. The goal is to educate new workers how to safely, efficiently and effectively perform all aspects of the trade.

Classes consist of a variety of applications, including structural, ornamental and reinforcing as well as mathematics, welding and rigging.

The apprenticeship is a four-year program with wages beginning at 50% Journeyman scale with full benefits. Increases are given every six months until training is complete.

Applications will be kept on file for a year. No applicant will be rejected on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin or sex. Iron Workers Local 787 JAC will take affirmative action to provide equal opportunities in apprenticeship.

Church-Camp

Heather Dawn Church and Adam Lester Camp of Parkersburg announce their engagement.

The bride-to-be is the daughter of Kevin and Cindy Quinn of Rockport and Doug Church of Smithville, WV.

She is the granddaughter of Donald and Leota Ankrom of Rockport, Howard and Precila Quinn of Rockport, and Faye Church of Elizabeth.

She is a 2006 graduate of Parkersburg Christian School and a 2008 graduate of Washington State Community College with an associate’s degree in applied science, majoring as a physical therapy assistant. She is employed by Camden-Clark Memorial Hospital in the rehabilitation department as a physical therapy assistant.

The prospective bridegroom is the son of Dave Camp of Parkersburg and Cathy Camp of Texas. He is the grandson of the late Geraldine and Lester Camp and John and Vonda Marlow of Little Hocking. He is a 2006 graduate of Parkersburg South High School and is employed by UPS.

A wedding is planned for August 28 , 2010at the Tri-County Worship Center with a reception immediately following.

Nancy Mae Craig

Nancy Mae Craig
Age 66, of Smithville, Hazelgreen Community, passed away July 31, 2010, at Glenville Care and Rehab Center.

Funeral services will be 3 PM Monday at Raiguel Funeral Home, Harrisville, with Pastor Brian Groves officiating.

Interment will be in Hazelgreen Cemetery. Visitation will be Monday from 1-3 PM.

Delphia C. Marks

Delphia C. Marks
Age 73, of Rt. 1 Pennsboro passed away at 2:30 AM on Friday, July 30, 2010 in United Hospital Center of Clarksburg following an extended illness.

She was born in Mullins, WV on February 03, 1937: daughter of the late Lawrence Lester and Lillie (Farley) Lester.

On February 04, 1987, she married Johnnie Marks, who survives.

Mrs. Marks is also survived by four daughters: Brenda Wayne and Linda Minor both of Exchange, WV, Rhonda Marks of Weston and Sara Richards of West Union, two sons: James Derosette of Texas and Chris Marks of Fort Hood, TX and three step-sons: Johnnie I. Marks of Hurst, TX, Carl Marks of Fort Worth, TX and Gene Marks of Pennsboro, WV.

Also surviving are nine grandchildren, three step-grandchildren and one great grandchild. She is also survived by one brother: Lawrence E. Lester, Jr. of Ritchie County, two sisters: Laura Harman of Oak Ridge, TN and Lura Carte of Strange Creek, WV and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Mrs. Marks is preceded in death by three brothers: William, Garland, and Edward Lester and one sister: Ina Derosette.

Mrs. Marks was a homemaker. She loved to quilt and enjoyed vegetable and flower gardening. She also enjoyed canning the vegetables that she grew. Mrs. Marks was not afraid to work and was a pretty good carpenter.

Family and friends will be received at the Hardman-Paletti Funeral Home 730 N. Main Avenue Weston on Monday, August 02, 2010 fro 11:00 AM until 1:00 PM.

Funeral services will be held on Monday at 1:00 PM from the Hardman-Paletti Funeral Home chapel with Pastor Mitch Richards officiating. Interment will follow services in Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens of Jane Lew, WV.

Hardman-Paletti Funeral Home of Weston is in charge of arrangements for Delphia C. Marks.

Ritchie County Student Receives Scholarship from GSC

•  Ritchie County High School graduate Sara Rollins has been awarded three scholarships from Glenville State College for the 2010/2011 academic year.

She is the recipient of the Benjamin H. and Betty M. Bailey Scholarship.

Established in 2006 by Dr. Benjamin and Mrs. Betty M. Bailey, this scholarship is awarded to West Virginia students attending Glenville State College. First preference is given to students from Calhoun County, West Virginia. Students from the following Central West Virginia counties: Braxton, Clay, Gilmer, Lewis, Nicholas, Roane, Upshur or Webster will receive second preference with the award going to a student from any remaining West Virginia county in the event no qualified student is otherwise available.

Rollins will also receive the Ernest L. Arbuckle Scholarship.

This scholarship was established though the generosity of Ernest L. Arbuckle, retired local banker and strong Glenville State College supporter. In addition, she will also receive the John C. Shaw Scholarship. This scholarship was established in 1985 by John C. Shaw, President of Glenville State College from 1901-1908. This scholarship is awarded to academically talented freshmen from West Virginia.

Rollins is a freshman who will be majoring in English and Music. She is the daughter of Terry Rollins of Macfarlan.

For more information about Glenville State College Scholarships, contact the GSC Foundation office at 304.462.6380.

Mary Lou Ward-Stephan

Mary Lou Ward-Stephan
of Parkersburg, passed away July 25, 2010, at St. Joseph’s Hospital at exactly 87 years of age.

She was born in Ritchie County, WV, on July 25, 1923, a daughter of the late Wilbur C. and Metta C. Wilson Matheny.

She was a retired office manager for Camp Hearing Aid Center and had worked in the cosmetology profession as a manicurist for many years. During World War II she worked at Timkin Factory in Canton, Ohio. She was a 1941 graduate of Harrisville High School. She was a longtime member of Good Shepherd Episcopal Church. Also, a 66 year member of Harrisville Chapter 29 Order of the Eastern Star, and Hope Rebekah Lodge 30 of Harrisville, a former member of G.F.W.C. of Parkersburg, and Elks Lodge #198 of Parkersburg.

She is survived by her loving family and only child, Donna Gayle Ward-Jack and her only grandchild, Charissa Elizabeth Jack, both of Parkersburg, other family members include several sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, cousins, nieces and nephews as well as many special friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husbands, William Glen Ward and Robert James Stephan; and two brothers, Kester Duane Matheny and Donald Gail Matheny.

Services will be 11:30 AM Wednesday at Good Shepherd Episcopal Church, 903 Charles St., Parkersburg with Father John Seville as celebrant. Burial will follow in Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Visitation today 5-8 PM at Leavitt Funeral Home, Parkersburg and 10:30-11:20 AM Wednesday at the church.

Memorial contributions in memory of Mary Lou Ward-Stephan may be made to Parkersburg Humane Society, P.O. Box 392, Parkersburg, WV 26102.

Mary Kathleen (Jackson) Gorrell

Mary Kathleen (Jackson) Gorrell
Age 90, of Davisville, went to be with the Lord July 25, 2010, at Marietta Memorial Hospital.

She was born August 16, 1919, in Cisco, WV, a daughter of the late Morello Jackson and Nellie Byrell (Leep) Jackson.

She was a member of Fairlawn Baptist Church, but attended Cedar Grove Methodist Church after moving to Davisville. She worked for American Viscose and Camden-Clark Memorial Hospital where she was a nursing assistant.

She is survived by her sister, Genevieve Mackey of Washington, WV; several nieces and nephews, Donald Jackson (Karen) of Davisville, Helen Carr of Parkersburg, Sandy Haynes (Mike) of Williamstown, Mike Jackson (Marie) of Walker, Steve Jackson (Donna) of Williamstown, Lois Townsend (Steve) of Parkersburg, Tina Copenhaver (Mike) Fayetteville, NC, and Kay Lowther (Ron) of Waterford, Ohio; great niece, Denise Lloyd; great nephew, David Jackson; several other great nieces and nephews that loved her very much; cousin, Dora Ann Carr; and special friends, James McKenzie (Janet), Debbie Smith and John Moore (Brenda).

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, William J. Gorrell; three brothers, Donald, Ronald and Bernard Jackson; and nephew, Mark Jackson.

Services will be 1 PM Thursday at The Leavitt Funeral Home in Parkersburg with the Rev. Brian Long officiating. Interment will follow at Evergreen North Cemetery. Visitation will be Wednesday 2-4 and 6-8 PM at the funeral home.

Amick

Gerald “Brownie” and Eleanor Maxine West Amick Sr. of Route 1, Cairo, WV, (Nutter Farm area) Ritchie County will be celebrating their 60th anniversary Friday, July 30, 2010.

The couple were married this date 1950 at the 13th and Liberty Street Church of God by the Rev. J.N. Richardson.

Mrs. Amick is the daughter of the late George F. and Roberta Belle Powell West of Volcano, WV. She is retired from the Ritchie County Board of Education after 22 1/2 years of employment.

Mr. Amick is the son of the late George H. and Mary L. Clayton Amick, of Route 1, Cairo, WV. He is retired from the U.S. Postal Service as a rural mail carrier. He is a World War II veteran serving in the Pacific Conflict. He also had the recent privilege to go to Washington, D.C., on the Honor Flight to view the WWII Memorial.

Mr. and Mrs. Amick are the parents of three children, Diana L. Amick Bungard (Emerson) of Davisville (Little Stillwell), Judy Amick Boyd (Richard) of Deer Park, Texas, and “Gerry” Gerald B. Amick Jr. of Route 1, Cairo. They have one grandchild, Rachel E. Boyd of Deer Park, who is a graduate this year from Baylor University, Waco, Texas.

Cards would be appreciated and may be sent to the Amicks at Route 1, Box 43, Cairo, WV 26337.

Bonnie’s Bus Offers Mammograms at Harrisville Medical Center

The 40-foot long Bonnie’s Bus, a digital mammography center on wheels, will visit Ritchie County this month, offering digital mammograms and breast care education to women.

A service of WVU Healthcare, Bonnie’s Bus will be at the Harrisville Medical Center on Wednesday, July 28, 2010 from 8 AM to 4 PM.

The mammograms are not free, but billing to insurers is provided. Women who lack insurance may be matched to government or nonprofit charities. A physician’s order is needed for a mammogram. For a Bonnie’s Bus appointment, call the Harrisville Medical Center at 304.643.2937.

During its first year on the road in 2009, Bonnie’s Bus travelled 9,000 miles, visited 20 counties, and provided nearly 400 mammography screenings. The goal for 2010 is to make at least 60 site visits throughout West Virginia with a focus on communities that have the highest breast cancer mortality rates.

Bonnie’s Bus represents a statewide partnership of women’s groups, clinicians, public health professionals and other community leaders working to help reduce the number of deaths from breast cancer in West Virginia.

Made possible by a generous gift from West Virginia natives Jo and Ben Statler to WVU’s Mary Babb Randolph Cancer Center, Bonnie’s Bus is operated by WVU Hospitals. The bus is named after Mrs. Statler’s late mother, Bonnie Wells Wilson.

For information on Bonnie’s Bus, see www.hsc.wvu.edu/mbrcc/bonnie.

Harper - Willis

Amy Beth Harper and Joseph Alan Willis together with their parents announce their engagement.

The bride-to-be is the daughter of Mark and Jan Harper of Cairo. She is the granddaughter of Ray and Sandra Harper of Cairo, and the late Denzle and Mary Ingram of Cairo. She is a 2007 graduate of Ritchie County High School and a 2010 graduate of West Virginia University at Parkersburg with an associate’s degree in nursing. She is employed at St. Joseph’s Hospital as a registered nurse.

The prospective bridegroom is the son of Norma Willis of Parkersburg and Kenny Willis of Waverly. He is the grandson of Patricia Harness of Parkersburg, and Daniel and the late Lula Willis of Waverly. He is a 2004 graduate of Parkersburg High School and is attending West Virginian University at Parkersburg. He is a maintenance intern at Toyota Motor Manufacturing in Buffalo, WV.

An open wedding is planned for July 31, 2010, at the Bonds Creek Freewill Baptist Church, Ellenboro, WV, at 2:30 PM with the reception following at the Bonds Creek Youth Center.

A Cost to the Counties for the Special Election?

The state is not picking up the entire cost for the special primary in the upcoming U.S. Senate election.

Originally, the language in the U.S. Senate Succession bill said that the state would pay for the entire $5.9 million related to the costs of the election.

However, a number of supplemental bills passed in the latter days of the special session capped the initial appropriation at $3 million, $1.5 million from the state general revenue fund and $1.5 million from the Governor’s contingency fund. The cap came from a State Senate amendment opposed by the House.

“The original version that passed the House said a minimum of $1.5 million from the Governor’s contingency fund so if it goes over $3 million, that original legislation could be read, I think, to take $1.5 (million) out of the general revenue and you take the rest out of the contingency fund,“ House Minority Leader Tim Armstead (R) explained to the commission.

However, Delegate Armstead said the original bills were changed after some opposition came from the Senate regarding the money in the rainy day fund. Senators amended the bill to say no more than $1.5 million could be taken from the contingency fund creating the cap.

Ultimately, the minority leader says he believes the state will have to pay the costs due to the language in the original succession law passed on Monday.

“Despite all the discussions about supplementals that were up there, as I read the legislation and I think in our discussions with counsel up there, the legislation requires the state to pay for the election,“ Armstead says.

Kanawha County Delegate Doug Skaff (D-30th) also attended Thursday’s meeting. He agreed that the state would have to eventually pay the bill, and sees it possibly happening in a separate appropriation once the primary is completed.

“Will we come back if we need more money and this costs more to do what it takes to make sure this was paid for? I think the resounding answer was yes,“ Skaff said.

Commissioner Carper agreed with Skaff’s assessment saying he sees a quiet appropriation coming in the near future. However, the commissioner also said he hopes they won’t wait until the regular legislative session in January since many of the expenses will come due right after the primary is completed.

The special primary for the U.S. Senate is set for Saturday August 28, 2010. The early voting period for that election begins on August 20, 2010 and will run until August 25, 2010.

Beulah Elliott Heffner

Beulah Elliott Heffner
Age 90, of Big Springs, WV, died Wednesday, July 21, 2010, at Hubbard House Hospice, Charleston, WV.

She was born July 29, 1919, a daughter of the late Ira Newton and Leafy Kyer Elliott.

She was a former employee of Mid-Atlantic Glass Compny and Harrisville Garment Company.

She was a 1939 graduate of Harrisville High School and a member of Prosperity Baptist Church.

She is survived by son Roy Payton (JoAnne) of Leesville, S.C.; two stepsons, Larry (Loretta) Heffner of Lewisburg, W.Va. and John Heffner of Parkersburg, and a stepdaughter, Martha Heffner of Panther, W.Va. Also surviving are grandchildren, Cheryl and Michael Payton, James, Richard, Ann, Melissa, Sephanie, Joanna, Shaundra, Michael, Yvonne Barrett and Chris Bailey and several great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by four sisters, Bessie Britton, Mary Tingler, Myrl McLauglin and Lucy Slaven.

Funeral services will be held at Stump Funeral Home, Grantsville, on Saturday, 2 PM.

Interment will be in the Ellenboro Masonic Cemetery.

Visitation will be held today from 6-8 PM at the funeral home.

County Clerks Have Little More Than a Month for Special Primary Election

County clerks throughout WV have to work on overdrive to get ready for Special Primary Election for U.S. Senate set for Saturday, August 28, 2010.

All 55 clerks in the state have just more than a month to meet all of the requirements of the law dealing with U.S. Senate succession.

Ballots for military members and those serving overseas will have to go out next week, by July 29, 2010.

There will also be a five day period for early voting in August.

Education Reforms Die on the House Floor

The West Virginia Legislature’s Special Session is over after a disagreement arose between the State Senate and the House of Delegates over the Governor’s education agenda.

Both chambers moved to end the session Wednesday after the Senate refused the House’s amendments on Senate Bills 2004 and 2008 bringing the total failed education reform bills to four.

SB 2004 would have required compulsory health screening for school children, but the House amended the bill to only make the screenings recommended.

That took the bite out of the original intent of the bill. However, House Education Committee Chair Mary Poling (D-Barbour) defended the amendment on the House floor Wednesday afternoon.

“This is a public education policy statement. Out of it comes the desire to say a child’s education is affected by that child’s health,“ said Delegate Poling.

However, Ritchie County Delegate Woody Ireland (R) criticized the education committee for the amendment. He also got a shot in about the intent of this education session.

“What we did was take a ridiculous bill and made it worthless. I think that applies to a number of these as a matter of fact,“ said Delegate Ireland.

He also said the bill’s passage would only help the conscious of the lawmakers not the people of the state.

“Let’s not do something that allows us to go out of here this evening and say, ‘Look what good boys and girls we are! We passed a health screening bill.‘ When in fact we didn’t do jack-nothing.“

The other bill in question, SB 2008, would have changed the way teacher’s evaluations are conducted in the state. The House amended version would have limited classroom observation time and also reduced the number of evaluations for new teachers.

In addition, the House also removed a provision from another bill that would have given incentive pay to teachers in low income or minority schools. The Senate ended up accepting that bill, SB 2009, as amended. The main intent of that bill is to establish a pilot program to increase academic achievement at such schools and monitor it for five years.

Overall, 11 bills were passed with only four going back to the legislation that came out of the education reform working group established this summer. Many of the passed education reforms deal with establishing pilot programs to be studied only for a short time.

The rest of the successful legislation related back to state appropriations, establishing the upcoming U.S. Senate race, and removing the sunset provision for the family court of appeals.

Copeland-Gaston

Mr. and Mrs. William Copeland Jr. of Pennsboro announce the engagement of their daughter, Victoria June Copeland, to Jonathan Brent Gaston, son of Mr. and Mrs. John Gaston, also of Pennsboro.

The bride-to-be is a 2005 graduate of Ritchie County High School and earned an associate’s degree in business administration from West Virginia University at Parkersburg. She is employed by Specialty Graphics.

The prospective bridegroom is a 2000 graduate of Ritchie County High School and earned a bachelor’s degree in social studies education from Glenville State College. He is employed by Roane County Schools.

A wedding is planned for July 24, 2010 at Boggs Fork Community Church in Spencer. A reception will follow at the Boggs Fork Community Church Annex Building. The couple resides in Spencer.

Winfrey-Cowan

Together with their parents, Penny Rhea Winfrey and Ashley Paige Cowan announce their engagement.

The bride-to-be is the daughter of Debbie Winfrey of Stephenville, Texas, and Jerry Winfrey of Panama. She is the granddaughter of Joy Curtis and the late Perry Curtis and the late Ed and Addean Winfrey, all from Rising Star, Texas. She is a 2003 graduate of Rising Star High School and a 2009 graduate of Tarleton State University where she earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing. She is a registered nurse at Comanche County Medical Center.

The prospective bridegroom is the son of Theresa and Thomas Cowan of Smithville. He is the grandson of Ada and Millard Riggs from Chevauxdefrise and Kaydean Cowan from Holden Beach, NC, and the late Dennis Cowan of Weston. He is a 2002 graduate of Ritchie County High School and a 2008 graduate of Glenville State College where he earned a bachelor’s degree. He is employed by Stallion Oilfield Services out of Cleburne, Texas.

A wedding is planned in July 2010 at Stonewall Resort in Roanoke, WV.

The couple resides in Stephenville, Texas.

NWS: Flash Flood Watch in Effect

Issued by The National Weather Service
Charleston, WV
3:13 PM EDT, Wednesday, July 21, 2010

... SCATTERED SHOWERS AND ISOLATED THUNDERSTORMS… WITH HEAVY RAIN… WILL CONTINUE TO AFFECT NORTHERN BRAXTON AND SOUTHERN GILMER COUNTIES…

AT 3:06 PM EDT… SCATTERED SHOWERS AND ISOLATED THUNDERSTORMS… WITH HEAVY RAIN WILL… CONTINUE TO AFFECT NORTHERN BRAXTON AND SOUTHERN GILMER COUNTIES.

EXPECT RAPID RISES ON CREEKS AND SMALL STREAMS… ESPECIALLY FROM CEDAR CREEK… AND BURNS RUN AMONG OTHERS.

EXCESSIVE RUNOFF FROM HEAVY RAINFALL WILL CAUSE ELEVATED LEVELS ON SMALL CREEKS AND STREAMS… AND PONDING OF WATER ON COUNTRY ROADS AND FARMLAND ALONG THE BANKS OF CREEKS AND STREAMS.

IN HILLY TERRAIN THERE ARE HUNDREDS OF LOW WATER CROSSINGS WHICH ARE POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS IN HEAVY RAIN. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO TRAVEL ACROSS FLOODED ROADS. FIND ALTERNATE ROUTES. IT TAKES ONLY A FEW INCHES OF SWIFTLY FLOWING WATER TO CARRY VEHICLES AWAY.

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Issued by The National Weather Service
Charleston, WV
2:22 PM EDT, Wednesday, July 21, 2010

... A LINE OF SHOWERS AND THUNDERSTORMS WILL AFFECT NORTH CENTRAL WEBSTER… NORTHERN BRAXTON… NORTHERN CALHOUN… SOUTH CENTRAL LEWIS… SOUTHERN GILMER AND SOUTHWESTERN UPSHUR COUNTIES…

AT 2:12 PM EDT… A LINE OF SHOWERS AND THUNDERSTORMS WERE LOCATED ACROSS WIRT… NORTHERN CALHOUN… EXTENDING WEST THROUGH BRAXTON COUNTIES. SEVERAL SHOWERS WILL MOVE OVER THE SAME AREAS… EVENTUALLY REACHING NORTH CENTRAL WEBSTER AND SOUTHWESTERN UPSHUR COUNTIES THROUGH 3:30 PM.

WIND GUSTS TO 30 MPH ARE POSSIBLE WITH THESE STORMS. VERY HEAVY RAIN WILL FALL FROM THESE STORMS… AND WILL CAUSE WATER TO POND ON ROADS AND QUICKLY FILL ROADSIDE DITCHES AND SMALL STREAMS.

EXCESSIVE RUNOFF FROM HEAVY RAINFALL WILL CAUSE ELEVATED LEVELS ON SMALL CREEKS AND STREAMS… AND PONDING OF WATER ON COUNTRY ROADS AND FARMLAND ALONG THE BANKS OF CREEKS AND STREAMS.

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Issued by The National Weather Service
Charleston, WV
12:43 PM EDT, Wednesday, July 21, 2010

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Issued by The National Weather Service
Charleston, WV
10:04 PM EDT, Tuesday, July 20, 2010

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Issued by The National Weather Service
Charleston, WV
10:19 AM EDT, Tuesday, July 20, 2010

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN CHARLESTON HAS ISSUED A FLASH FLOOD WATCH FOR PORTIONS OF WEST VIRGINIA.

INCLUDING THE FOLLOWING AREAS:
BARBOUR… BOONE… BRAXTON... CABELL… CALHOUN... CLAY… DODDRIDGE... FAYETTE… GILMER... HARRISON… JACKSON… KANAWHA… LEWIS... LINCOLN… LOGAN… MASON… MCDOWELL… MINGO… NICHOLAS… PLEASANTS… POCAHONTAS… PUTNAM… RALEIGH… RANDOLPH… RITCHIE... ROANE… TAYLOR… TYLER… UPSHUR… WAYNE… WEBSTER… WIRT… WOOD AND WYOMING.

* FROM 2 PM EDT THIS AFTERNOON THROUGH WEDNESDAY EVENING

* THUNDERSTORMS WITH HEAVY RAINFALL WILL INCREASE IN FREQUENCY THIS AFTERNOON AND CONTINUE THROUGH WEDNESDAY AS A FRONT PUSHES SOUTH THROUGH THE REGION. THE GREATEST THREAT WILL BE THIS AFTERNOON INTO THIS EVENING AND DURING THE DAY WEDNESDAY WITH THE SUNS ENERGY. HOWEVER… HEAVY RAIN IS POSSIBLE AT ANY TIME WITH GOOD MOISTURE AVAILABLE IN THE ATMOSPHERE UNTIL THE FRONT MOVES SOUTH.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

A FLASH FLOOD WATCH MEANS THAT CONDITIONS MAY DEVELOP THAT LEAD TO FLASH FLOODING. FLASH FLOODING IS A VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION.

Geology! Rocks at West Virginia’s State Parks in 2010

“Geology underlies it all.” That’s the theme of a summer program at West Virginia State Parks that invites visitors to learn about some very, very old geologic formations that are a big part of what makes West Virginia unique. Visiting geologists will present talks and lead exploratory walks as part of the popular “Geology! Rocks” series, according to Blackwater Falls State Park Naturalist Paulita Cousin.

“Ken Ashton and other geologists from the West Virginia Geological and Economic Survey, located at Mont Chateau Research Center, are guest geologists making presentations at 11 parks in 2010,” says Cousin.  “Blackwater Falls and the nearby area have a very interesting geologic history.  In addition to the program, we use the booklet ‘Geology of Blackwater and Canaan Valley’ to help guests understand our area.” The program format is an Evening presentation and a walk the following morning.

The lively and informative Evening slide show focuses on how the land now known as West Virginia originally formed. Slides taken around the state illustrate the importance of West Virginia’s hundreds of millions of years of geologic history to the present mineral wealth, economy, breathtaking scenery, and the geology of the particular park.

The presentation answers questions such as: How did the mountains form? Can dinosaur remains be found in West Virginia? Can I find gold in West Virginia? Did glaciers ever cover the state?  On display will be maps, geologic articles, and general information about West Virginia’s rocks and fossils.

A morning activity takes a closer look at the area’s rocks, fossils, and terrain on a guided geologic walk in one to two hours.  The visiting geologist will point out how the history of the ancient rocks can be deciphered from the clues the rocks themselves reveal.

The remaining programs for Geology! Rocks series are scheduled at these parks and dates. Please call the park for specific times and meeting sites.

•  Blackwater Falls – Evening;  July 26; Morning Walk, July 27 – 304.259.5216
•  Lost River – Evening, July 27; Morning Walk, July 28 – 304.897.5372
•  Cacapon – Evening, July 28; Morning Walk, July 29 –– 304.258.1022
•  Tygart Lake – Evening, August 02; Morning Walk, August 03 – 304.294.4000
•  Beech Fork State Park – Evening, August 05; Morning Walk, August 06 – 304.528.5794
•  North Bend – Evening, August 06; Morning Walk, August 07 – 304.643.2931
•  Pipestem – Evening, August 12; Morning Walk, August 13 – 304.466.1800

Geology! Rocks programs are open to the public to attend the Evening program and/or the Morning Walks.  There is no fee.  Groups as well as individuals are welcome.

For information about WV State Parks and Forests, visit www.wvstateparks.com.

For information about West Virginia Geological & Economic Survey, visit www.wvgs.wvnet.edu.

Unemployment Rates Fall in 20 WV Counties - June 2010

West Virginia’s unemployment rate inched upward one-tenth of a percentage point to 8.6% in June 2010.

Twenty-five counties reported higher unemployment rates in June.

The rates in 10 counties were unchanged from May.

Monongalia County recorded the lowest unemployment rate, 5.9%. Clay County’s 13.8% was the highest rate in the state.

Less than half of all counties reported increasing unemployment rates as well.

The number of counties recording an unemployment rate considered much worse than average when compared to the state rate dropped sharply.

This group included Hancock (13.0%), Mason (13.7%), and Clay (13.8%).

The number of counties recording an unemployment rate considered better than average when compared to the state rate declined slightly.

This group included Taylor (7.2%), Jefferson (6.8%), and Monroe (6.8%).

Following is the Data for our area counties:

Three More Counties Eligible for Disaster Aid

The West Virginia Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced three additional counties have been designated eligible for infrastructure disaster aid for the February 5-11, 2010 severe winter storm and snowstorm.

The counties are Grant, Mineral and Monongalia.

West Virginia became a presidentially declared disaster area on April 23, 2010.

Counties previously designated include Berkeley, Brooke, Doddridge, Hampshire, Hancock, Hardy, Jefferson, Marion, Marshall, Morgan, Ohio, Pocahontas, Preston, Ritchie, Tucker, Tyler and Wetzel.

There are now 20 designated counties under the declaration.

The state, local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations may apply for funds on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of disaster-damaged facilities.