02.24.10 Smoky Mountain Sentinel

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VOLUME 24, ISSUE 8 | WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2010 | WWW.WNCSENTINEL.NET

The homeless shelter for her Regional women’s center aims for Hayesville opening By: Harrison Keely Editor@wncSentinel.net If you’re using this newspaper to keep warm, there’s a better place for you. Plans are underway for the region’s first homeless shelter for women. The shelter, New Life Women’s Center, is the result of executive director Brenda Cormack’s vision to open a faith-based center for women in Hayesville, but even though she heard the call, answering wasn’t easy. “I thought, ‘Is this me? Is this God? I don’t see any homeless people; I don’t think there’s a need for that,’” she said.

NUMBERS Cormack said she still has no idea how many homeless people there are in Hayesville. “No one keeps numbers here,” she said. “It’s devastating because the law enforcement are losing money from the government. A lot of things are not computerized here… Numbers do not ONLINE exist here in this area.” See photos of Yet as Cormack began asking churchthe shelter and es, meeting with local law enforcement listen to the and officials from the health departinterview. ment, she realized that the need was huge. Though there’s no official progress to keep a count of the homeless population in the mountains, Cormack said she’s part of a coalition that’s trying to find the numbers.

UP TO BAT

Penland proposes placing primary school on baseball field

See ”HOMELESS” Page 5A

Owner Robert Pullman discusses The Market’s downfall Editor@wncSentinel.net

When Robert Pullman bought The Market business was booming. Less than two years later, however, the bank is determining the fate of Tusquittee’s historic corner store and Pullman’s home is facing foreclosure. But Pullman believes the story isn’t over. He moved to Tusquittee nearly

two years ago to be closer to his last living relative and begin his family in the mountains, far removed from ONLINE city life. Listen to the When The exclusive inMarket became terview with available in the Pullman summer of 2008, the economy was booming and business was thriving, even at the small corner store which had been open for more

than fifty years. “We bought everything, including our house, pretty much at the peak of the market,” Pullman said, noting that he paid $776,000 for the community business, more than every previous owner. It cost approximately $7,000 every month just to keep the business running, but Tommy’s market sustained itself for six months until the unthinkable happened:

See ”SOLAR” Page 2A

Scott T. Donald/ Contributed Graphic

The new primary school would include 26 classrooms with room to grow.

By: Harrison Keely

See ”MARKET” Page 4A

Mike Ables/ Contributed Photo

Editor@wncSentinel.net Renderings of a new primary school on the land currently occupied by the high school baseball field were discussed by school board members Tuesday. Clay County Schools Superintendent Scott Penland said he recently mentioned the idea to a Padgett & Freeman architect who took the initiative to overlay blueprints on a satellite image of the field. "Last Friday I started getting these e-mails," Penland said. "I didn't pay him anything but he's ONLINE Listen to audio just doing this. He drew up the plans." Architect Scott T. Donald moved the image of from the Feb. the baseball field onto the 17 acres of property 23 school board across Myers Chapel Road, leaving enough room meeting for a second field in the future if necessary. "It does fit rather nicely," Penland said, adding that his only concern was increased traffic on Yellow Jacket Drive. The revised school plan would include 26 classrooms for PreK-2nd grade. The current elementary school would serve 3rd-5th grade, making the middle school 6th-8th. "[The plans] give them their own cafeteria, their own little gym right there in the school," Penland said. "There's a lot of plusses." The primary school would include three playgrounds, a music/ art room, computer lab, special education classroom, and a twosided stage. The current floorplan is 79,000 square feet and serves

Contributing Writer A home located at The Ridges golf course community in Hayesville was lost Saturday to a fire that had likely been smoldering more than 20 hours in the basement. The investigation into a cause is continuing. Clay County Fire & Rescue reported that a neighbor observed smoke coming from the home on 48 Foxfire Drive and called 911 at around 2:40 p.m. Homeowners Charlie & Debby Kohler had gone out of town Friday afternoon and had not returned by the time the fire began. Clay Central Fire Chief Brandon Bailey said he called for assistance from area departments since many Hayesville firefighters were attending a fire school out of the county. “Shooting Creek, Warne, Brasstown and Towns County, GA departments responded,” Bailey said.

Smoky Mountain

Sentin el 116 Sanderson St. Hayesville NC, 28904

Wednesday

By: Harrison Keely Editor@wncSentinel.net Superintendent Scott Penland wants to start school early next year to leave room for making up snow days. But he can't. He presented the school board with two calendars for the 20102011 year. Plan A starts school August 16. Plan B starts August 25. "I think I jumped the gun here," he said. "After all the snow we had I got to feeling really good about the chances of getting the calendar changed this year. I said there's no way they're going to make us stick to that August 25 date. So I proposed two calendars, plan A and Plan B... I think now Plan A needs to be Plan B and Plan B needs to be Plan A." Penland said he heard the state wouldn't budge on moving up starting dates, which would mean

Henry found a small fire in a downstairs wall and quickly attacked the spot. Within seconds a blast occurred, sending a fireball rocketing through the home, propelling a firefighter onto the lawn surrounded by fire. The blast shot out of the home's doorways and within minutes the entire 4,000 square feet home was engulfed in flames. The fire department then determined the structure was unsafe to reenter and the home was declared a total loss. One firefighter was treated and released from Murphy Medical Center. Bailey reviewed photos and critiqued the fire with members of the department Monday afternoon. Studying the unusual behavior of the fire and the resulting events could assist professional associations nationwide in providing safety Harrison Keely/ Sentinel Photo training, those familiar with the loJanice Minette subtly dances on the set of the Licklog Players performance “Hot n’ Cole” at the Peacock Playhouse. cal incident said. Read about the show on 1B and go to Facebook.com/NewsSentinel to see more photos and exclusive video.

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See ”CALENDAR” Page 5A

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Fire swallows Ridges resort home “That gave us adequate water supply, engines and firefighters on scene." A team of four firefighters with two handheld attack lines tackled the downstairs of the home, directed by Shooting Creek Fire Chief Joe Davenport. An upstairs team of four Towns County firefighters with two attack lines was directed by Clay Central Assistant Fire Chief Andy ONLINE Lundquist. See dozens An initial size of pictures at up found no Facebook.com/ flames or heavy NewsSentinel smoke and doors and windows did not have abnormal temperatures. An interior search for the source of the fire was performed by a team of firefighters led by Assistant Fire Chief Adam Henry. When the team found no source for the fire on the first search, the decision was made to reenter the house.

Penland loses battle to start school early

See ”SCHOOL” Page 2A

HomeownersCharlie and Debby Kohler were traveling away from home when a neighbor called 911 to report smoke billowing from the house on Foxfire Drive in Hayesville.

By: Mike Ables

By: Harrison Keely Editor@wncSentinel.net If it sounds too good to be true, it's solar power. The Clay County School Board is considering the installation of solar panels on school property after a proposal from Sunrise Energy Ventures at the Feb. 22 school board meeting. Dean Cotter, a representative of SEV, said the school district would be paid to generate solar electricity, adding up to $646,000 in revenue over 20 years per at a rate of 2 cents per kilowatt hour. Superintendent Scott Penland said Blue Ridge Mountain EMC originally brought the option of solar power to his attention. Shortly thereafter, Penland invited Cotter to present the idea to the school board.

Economy closed Tommy’s doors By: Harrison Keely

Clay schools considering solar power

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NEWS

Wednesday , February 24, 2010

Solar:

BRIEFS

t $POUJOVFE GSPN QBHF "

Alzheimer’s Project Series: The Alzheimer's Project: A 4-Part Documentary Series t .BSDI 1BSU UIF .FNPSZ -PTT 5BQFT t .BSDI 1BSU (SBOEQB %P ZPV LOPX XIP * BN XJUI Maria Shiver) t .BSDI 1BSU .PNFOUVN PG 4JMFODF t .BSDI 1BSU $BSFHJWFST Time: 9:30 a.m. to 12 noon each Tuesday Place: Clay County Senior Center 196 Ritter Rd, Hayesville, NC 28904 828-389-9271 Discussion will follow each showing. Caregivers & others that work with older adults are encouraged to attend. Certificates of Attendance will be provided. ** If the public schools are closed for bad weather, the film showing will be moved to the following Tuesday.

Superintendent’s Honor Roll Paul Anderson James Andrews Ethan Barrett Brooke Baumgarten Kimberly Bourne Kari Brege Carley Brewer Emily Cherry Gina Cherry Megan Cherry Rachelle Coker Cassidy Coleman Clint Coleman Cale Crawford Emily Curry Yesha Datas Anna Davis Berkleigh Dew Scarlett Dockery Shiann Earles Austin Eller Jakob Elliott Amber Garrido Jackson Geraldi Meredith Geraldi Crystal Green James Hadas Claire James Sarah James

Callie Jamison Caroline Kelley Tommy Kelly Jeremy Kirby Alexa Kurrimbukus Jens Lattimer Wendy Lavender Natalie Leatherman Logan Ledbetter Blake Ledford Judith Ledford Megan Ledford Elisabeth Lee Kylie Leek Ethan Long Sam Lusty Joshua Maddox Megan Mallamas Candice Mathis Laurie McEwen Paige McQuade Maggie Mills Shanna Monkus Ben Murray Jonathan Mustin Brooke Muzik Elijah Nicholson Alexander Nordmann Ashley Nunn

Kayla Owens Tiffany Owens Cheyanna Penland Kalen Phillips Randi Reeder Austin Robertson Austin Shively Jesse Somervell Paisley Staton Sarah Stegner Wesley Stephens Andrea Talley Alice Thompson Jamey Tiblis Samuel Trull Kyle Vardo Samantha Voutsinas Cory Walker Zach Wall Jacob Wallace Kayli Watkins Kristina White Emilee Whitener Kalie Whitlow Tara Wickersham Jylian Wilde Haley Woodard Jeremiah Woodard Heather Worley

Cotter said SEV would find and rent suitable Clay County Schools property or acquire land and build, all while covering "every dime of the cost." "Other than you tying up that property, you have no cost," he said. "We cover everything: engineering, environmental, build-out, maintenance." SEV is able to fund solar projects because of the government's increased commitment to subsidize renewable energy in recent years, Cotter said. Federal and state tax cuts make the project cost-efficient. Martin's Creek Elementary and Middle School in Cherokee County is one of 12 projects SEV is currently installing in Cherokee and Clay counties, Cotter said. SEV would lease anywhere from 6-10 acres from Clay County Schools for about 20 years, Cotter said. The land would probably be surrounded by a three meter tall fence. "You can walk up to it and you're not going to get zapped or anything by it," Cotter said. Cotter said he prefers not to install solar cells on rooftops, noting that the noiseless technology can be on property up to two miles away, although it's better to be closer. The solar cells would be built to withstand up to 90 mph winds. School Board member Kerry Stanton asked Cotter about any possible zoning issues. "There's not much of an issue down here," Cotter said. "We've met with all of the inspectors and we don't anticipate that to be too much of a problem at all."

Isaac Hogsed NathanHollifield Meletha Hoopaugh Alexander Horn Austin Hurt Alek Ingram Dakota Ingram Raymond Iurilli Jessica Jamison Weston Jordon Derek Kendall Erik Kinsey Keisha Kitchens Alan Lamb Ariel Lancaster Michael Ledford Hunter Lewis Drake Long Robert Lund Caleb Maddox Alyssa Maney Tyler Marcoux Shea McCoy Paloma McMullin Ross Miller Jared Moore Kristen Moss Kyle Moss Daniel Mull Hilary Nelson Cody Neumann Sara Newell Jacob Nicholson Ed Norris

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Sarah Nunn Chelsea Oliver Genero Olvera Lucas Parker Trevor Parker Justin Parrish Jacquelyne Patterson Rebeca Petrie Kyle Phillips Jordan Pope Sarah Puett Matthew Reynolds Jonathan Rickett Paul Roche Audrey Rogers Anna Sherlock Katelyn Shively Hannah Struchko Charlie Swafford Caleb Tallman Lauren Thompson Brittany Timpson Brittany Updike Elizabeth Updike Selina Victoria Ballie Walters Orren Weaver Dalton Wheeler Danielle Williams Dylan Williams Chad Woody Heather Woody

Harrison Keely/ Sentinel Photo

Dean Cotter from Sunrise Energy Ventures discusses the possibilities of building a solar energy farm on Clay County Schools property at the Feb. 22 school board meeting.

Because there's no cost-efficient way to store energy, excess power would be rolled into the traditional power grid, Cotter said, noting that the school's meter would seemingly roll backwards until the energy is needed at night. Cotter suggested solar cells could be ideally installed on the land opposite the baseball field across Myers Chapel Road. "I don't think land here is going to be a problem," he said. "Which is interesting, because in this area, finding flat land is challenging." Cotter said panels could even be installed in a flood plain. Chairman Charles Penland expressed concerns about being able to use the nearby Cherokee Indian village property if necessary. A letter of intent is required from the school system if it's interested in proceeding, Cotter said,

adding that documents could be finalized within 60 days. "We've got nothing to lose," the superintendent said. Cotter said the sooner the project begins, the better. "We want to start something by the end of 2010," he said. "It's got to be finished by September of 2011. There are some reasons that we don't want to dillydally around, but it's nothing that has to be started next week." Monitors could be set up on the infrastructure to provide data for an educational website, Cotter said. The site would show how much energy is being produced at the moment, how much has been created since installation, the amount of money the cells have saved the district, and the growing positive environmental impact, he said.

READING SPOTLIGHT

Warm up with a mystery by the fire By: Dorothy Ethridge

Principal’s Honor Roll Michelle Alwine Danika Anderson Scott Anderson Lucas Beaver Austin Brose Joey Burch Meredith Butler Katherine Byxbee Abby Chester Emily Christensen Kyle Claus Margaret Cothren Blake Cox David Craig DJ Crowder Joy Crowder Justin Daley Brody Dancer Kelsey Danto Brian Dey Kelsey Donner John Eller Zak Evans Ashley Faggard Kenneth Farnsworth Jeffrey Ferguson James Fleitas Sebastian Forrester Kelli Fox Sumner Garner Angelica Geraldi Rose Goyette Austin Hedden Kyle Henrikson

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Smoky Mountain Sentinel

Guest Writer Sit by the fire with a new book from Moss Library: Jilliane Hoffman's Plea of Insanity is an explosive legal thriller by a writer who knows the law inside and out. A little Patterson...a little Grisham or Cornwell...Hoffman's fast-paced plot keeps you guessing till the end. Stephen Frey's Hell's Gate--A disillusioned star litigator goes to forge a new life in Big Sky Country and stumbles onto the toughest case of his career. Ian Rankin's Set In Darkness is Scottish crime fiction at its best. Kathy Reichs 206 Bones is the 12th novel featuring forensic anthropologist Temperance Brennan. I. J. Parker's The Convicts Sword, Black Arrow, The Dragon's Scroll,The Hell Screen, and Island of Exiles are mysteries of ancient Japan featuring Sugawara Akitada.

DEED REPORT Hinton Rural Life Center, Inc. sold 1.00 acre, Lot 22 (Wesley Meadows) in Brasstown Township to John A Griffiths for $ 29,000 on February 17, 2010. Hinton Rural Life Center, Inc. sold 1.011 acres, Lot 16 (Wesley Meadows) in Brasstown Township to Patricia B. Bryson for $ 29,000 on February 17, 2010. Terry & Geylanda Utt sold 1.01 acre, Lot 15 (Meadow Creek) in Tusquittee Township to Richard J Lucchesi & Teresa C Utt for $79,000 on February 18, 2010. National Investments LLC sold Lots

Marriages

David Eugene Kline, 75, of Hayesville, NC and Martha Ann Brown, 71, of Warrenton, GA were united in marriage on February 14, 2010.

Kenric Lamont Heard, 33, of Warne, NC and Heather Lynn Burgess, 35, of Warne, NC were united in marriage on February 16, 2010.

News when it happens. Not a week later.

Dick Francis and Felix Francis' Even Money--It's the first day of Royal Ascot and there's a stabbing in the parking lot. This is the 3rd novel in which Francis' son Felix has helped his father. James Patterson and Ned Rust's Daniel X--Watch The Skies--The enemy is out there....I'll know him when I see him. Alex Dryden's Red To Black--A beautiful and deadly KGB Colonel, a brilliant and rebellious MIG operative, and a diabolical plot that will change the world order...all are unforgettable elements in this spy novel that is grimly authoritative on the power of Putin. Steve Hockensmith The Crack in the Lens--Sherlock Holmes in a Stetson turns out to be a dandy idea. Robert Wilson's A Small Death in Lisbon--Nazi wartime deals and the murder of a young girl in modern day Portugal are linked with stunning originality and suspense.

33A-45A (Mtn Harbor Golf & Yacht Club); Units 27-30 (Mtn Harbour/ Townhouse SE) in Hiawassee Township to JWJ of Clay County LLC and K & E Townhouse Properties for $ 525,000 on February 18, 2010. Brock & Scott PLLC-TR and James R Hadas sold 1.121 acres in Hayesville Township to Wells Fargo Bank for $ 118,500 on February 18, 2010. MWWE Holdings LLC sold 1.161 acres, Lot 12 (Wildlife Acres of Shooting Creek) in Shooting Creek Township to Larry R & Ruth Ann Morton for $60,000 on February 18, 2010. JWJ of Clay County LLC & K & E Townhouse Properties sold Lots 33A45A (Mtn Harbour Golf & Yacht Club); Tracts 1-3 (Mtn Harbour Golf & Yacht Club) in Hiawassee Township to Carolina Mortgage LLC for $100,000 on February 18, 2010. Juliana Ferguson-TR & Dorn Properties, Inc. sold 0.957 acres, Lot 3 & 0.330 acres, Lot 3A (McIntosh Cove) in Hiawassee Township to Capital Bank for $ 277,000 on February 19, 2010. Douglas L & Leslie A Gray sold 0.84 acre, Lot 3 (Shewbird Woods Property) to John W & Annmarie H Carter for $ 110,000 on February 19, 2010.

ARREST REPORT William Allen Blizzard, 36, of Warne, NC arrested for cruelty to animals on February 16, 2010 and released on February 16, 2010. Lori Francis Economis, 52, of Hayesville, NC arrested for parola absconder on February 17, 2020. Michael Paul Houston, 33, of Hayesville, NC arrested for assault on female on February 17, 2020 and released on February 19, 2010. Richard James Narum III, 18, of Hayesville, NC arrested for driving while impaired on February 18, 2010 and released on February 18, 2010. Jeffery Lee VanDeGejuchte,Jr., 23, of Hayesville, NC arrested for driving while impaired on February 18, 2010 and released on February 28, 2010. Brittany Nicole Bryans, 18 of Hiawassee, GA arrested for driving without on February 21, 2010 and released on February 21, 2010. Shawn William Duvall, 19, of Hayesville, NC arrested for no operators license on February 21, 2010 and released on February 21, 2010.

Just one megawatt of electricity produced by solar power would be equivalent to keeping 289 cars off of the road for a year, he said. The site labor and maintenance would involve local labor, Cotter said. School board candidate Lamar Chastain said solar energy would be a good use of the school's land, especially with no out-of-pocket cost. Chastain said he didn't believe the panels would be an eyesore, noting that he hoped other county officials were considering solar options as well. Cotter told the board that the amount of sunlight the region gets wouldn't be a prohibitive factor. "Germany has less sunshine than Seattle and it has the most sucessful program in the world, so [solar power] does work all over," he said.

School: t $POUJOVFE GSPN QBHF " 530 kids. "What I like about any design we've come up with is that we've got to be able to add on," Penland said. The design allows for future additions adding around 15 more classrooms to hold up to 750 children. "You could about double it," school board member Darryl McClure said. Donald mentioned that benefits to using the baseball field site included direct access to the outdoor classroom, very little grading to develop the site, and access to the main campus without a motorized vehicle. The board said the only aspect of the baseball field that can't be moved is the field house. Penland said the advantage of moving forward now is price. Building costs are 25-30 percent lower because of the economy, he said, adding that costs are expected to rise. "If we could save even 20 percent we're talking about $2 million in savings," Penland said. Vice Chairman Jason Rhinehardt said he felt it would cost more money to build a new baseball field in addition to a new school. Board member Israel Rogers said he thought the idea was much better than any previous location attempt. The board discussed parking busses in the current high school parking lot as a central location between schools. We don't have the money like some counties to do duel runs," Penland stated, noting that the alternative is to "load [primary students] up seven minutes before the bell rings and drive around" to the current bus boarding location. But Penland also reminded the board that they're simply reviewing all the options.

WNCSENTINEL.NET

OPINION Sentinel Staff FRANK BRADLEY, Publisher HARRISON KEELY, Editor DEBBIE WALKER Editorial Assistant Circulation PAT MCCOLLUM Bookkeeping

The Smoky Mountain Sentinel is in the 24th year of publication. CORRECTIONS If you find a mistake of fact in the Smoky Mountain Sentinel that is serious enough to warrant a correction or clarification, call 828-389-8338, fax 828-389-3955 or email smoky@wncsentinel.net ADVERTISEMENTS In case of errors, the Smoky Mountain Sentinel is responsible only for the cost of the actual advertisement. Customers are encouraged to check their advertisements the first week of run. In case of errors, the Smoky Mountain Sentinel will not credit advertisements for more than one week.

Smoky Mountain Sentinel Wednesday , February 24, 2010

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SHULER NOTES

Shuler to Announce Federal Appropriation for CarePartners U.S. Representative Heath Shuler (D-Waynesville) will formally announce on Monday, February 22nd that he has secured $300,000 in federal appropriations for CarePartners Health Services of Asheville to integrate all home-based services with a mobile electronic health record. The funding was requested by Shuler during the Fiscal Year 2010 appropriations process. It was included in the Omnibus Appropriations bill that was passed and signed into law in December, 2009. The 300,000 appropriation will allow CarePartners to purchase a new software program that gives staff the ability to access patient information remotely while in patient's homes, enabling them to provide care more effectively and efficiently. The software will be used by staff in three different

areas of CarePartners- Hospice, Home Health and Private Duty. The software will link CarePartners to all hospitals in Western North Carolina through Datalink, making the organization the first non-hospital healthcare service to participate in Datalink. This linkage will enable CarePartners to access patient data from regional hospitals and vice-versa. This seamless transition between health care providers will reduce the need for unnecessary and duplicative tests, eases the burden on emergency rooms and Medicare, and ultimately saves taxpayer dollars while ensuring better and more effective health care for Western North Carolina residents. CarePartners is a private, nonprofit healthcare organization that offers what healthcare professionals call a “full

continuum of post-acute care.” The organization offers a wide range of services to help patients and clients serve live full and productive lives, despite illness, injury, disability or issues related to aging. CarePartners encompasses a number of health care services, including an 80-bed Rehabilitation Hospital, outpatient rehabilitation services at five locations throughout Buncombe County, home health nursing and therapy, and private duty services in Buncombe, Henderson, Haywood and surrounding counties, and hospice and POLITICAL CONVICTION palliative care services in the home, in long-term care facilities and in the John F. Keever, Jr. Solace Center, a 27-bed, home-like facility for those nearing the were more interested in freedom of, and from, religion. For By: Jim Fitzgerald end of life. For more information, call example, John Adams is quoted as saying: "This would be Columnist (828) 277-4800 or visit www.carepartthe best of all possible worlds if there were no religion in it." ners.org. As I sit in Guam, half the world away from the Ameri- Then we have Benjamin Franklin who is quoted as saying: can South, I realize the power of the internet and satellite "Lighthouses are more useful than churches." Thomas Jeftelevision. The political debates in the US are evident even ferson, a Deist, is quoted as saying, "Christianity is the most Today, Representative Heath Shuler (D-Waynesville) Shuler plays a significant role in drafting, co-sponsoring and here. After watching Fox News and reading several letters perverted system that ever shone on man." These men were expressed his support for the President’s establishment of enacting fiscally responsible legislation such as the Pay-As- to the editor that were posted online, I am reminded that not opposed to Christianity but they understood the evils of a bipartisan commission created to evaluate federal spend- You-Go (PAYGO) budgetary rules and the Securing Amer- conservatives continue to present themselves as little more merging church and state. Modern conservatives, especially ing and recommend measures to reduce the national debt. ica's Future Economy (SAFE) Commission. PAYGO rules than hysterical children throwing a temper tantrum. Temper Southern conservatives, seem to believe just the opposite. President Barack Obama signed an executive order yesterday became law on February 4, 2010. In late January, Shuler and tantrums require little more than pique over not getting ones They seem to forget that the Constitution grants minorities to create the debt commission which has been dubbed the the Blue Dog Coalition outlined a 15 point plan, the “Blue way. They bear little relationship to reason or fact, just anger, the same rights as the majority. Conservatives have all the earmarks of wanting to force their views on everyone, an arNational Commission on Fiscal Responsibility and Reform. Dog Blueprint for Fiscal Reform,” aimed at cutting spend- pure unadulterated anger. For more than two years, I have been arguing that people rogant stance that defies the basic principles of our DemocCongressman Shuler previously called upon the President to ing and balancing the budget. In just a few short weeks, establish a bipartisan independent commission, like the one two key elements of the Blueprint, PAYGO rules and an who complain about the decline of America should pro- racy. So, who is trying to hijack the Constitution and pervert vide specific examples and cease speaking in broad, general it with their prescription for life? created today, to scrutinize government spending and pro- independent debt commission, have been put into place. As for destroying our country, the conservative temper pose cuts to reduce wasteful and unnecessary expenditures. The National Commission on Fiscal Responsibility and terms. As one example of the latter, a recent letter writer “This Commission will put this Congress and this gov- Reform aims to reduce the deficit which is currently above 4 sounded the alarm about DC– but offered not one ounce of tantrums and obstructionism appear to be doing more to ernment back on track with regard to fiscal responsibility. percent to 3 percent of the gross domestic product by 2015. proof. It was an emotional argument totally lacking reason cripple this country than anything progressives have done, Now that PAYGO rules have been signed into law and a Under the plan, an 18-member commission will seek out or common sense. The writer wrote, “Washington has been either now or in the past. Their hypocrisy is appalling; too bipartisan debt commission has been established, we are on wasteful spending in the federal budget and suggest budget hijacked by a group of ungodly, self-seeking, anti-American’s bold to be believed. For example, Sarah Palin rails against our way to reeling in the national deficit,” said Congress- cuts to the Congress. The House and Senate will be required bent on destroying our country and the Constitution upon government health care, equating it to death panels and man Shuler. “I am disappointed that the Senate did not pass to agree to the cuts by a supermajority, or two-thirds. Con- which it was formed under God.” The letter went downhill big government’s intrusion into our lives. All the while, her legislation establishing this commission, but pleased that gressional Democrats and Republicans will each appoint six from there. Obviously, Democrats were the target of this grandson, Tripp, is on government health insurance. If she felt so strongly against government-sponsored health insurthe President realizes the importance of fiscal responsibility. members of the commission and President Obama will ap- vacuous diatribe. It is so easy to rant and rave. However, it is another thing ance, she could surely afford to enroll him in private insurThis commission will guarantee that the actions our govern- point six, with no more than four members aligned with the ment makes today will not become burdens on the backs of same political party. The recommendations proposed by the entirely to support such meaningless drivel with concrete ex- ance. Alternatively, consider the conservative congressional future generations.” bipartisan commission require the support of 14 of the 18 amples that a reasonable person would agree buttresses the representatives who vote against the recovery act and then complaint. But then, it is very difficult to study an issue and took credit for funding local projects in their districts. Finally, As a leader in the Blue Dog Coalition, Congressman members in order to be taken up by Congress. understand its complexity. as I have pointed out before, watch the tea party rail against One has to wonder who hijacked Washington. Obama career politicians while re-electing them. was elected by a wide, uncontested margin. His or her conI would suggest that conservatives rejoin our Democracy Land-of-Sky Regional Council of “Only 31 of these grants were awarded, providing strong technical assistance stituents duly elected every Representative and Senator. A by realizing that at least half of the country has ideas that are Asheville received a grant of $50,700 and to only 18 states. I am proud that focused around organization develop- majority of the Senate duly confirmed every Supreme Court different then conservative views. They should realize that from USDA Rural Development’s one of these valuable and sought-after ment, project management and capac- Justice. In other words, Washington reflects the electorate. what has prevented a second civil war has been the wisdom Washington reflects the form of government our ancestors of Washington in giving different views a place at the table Rural Community Development Ini- grant awards is coming to Western ity building for workforce housing.” tiative Program, Congressman Heath North Carolina.” Land-of-Sky is one of 17 regional thought would be best for the country. Is the letter writer and melding disparate ideas so that everyone gets something. Shuler (D-Waynesville) announced “These funds support USDA’s part- councils in North Carolina. It serves suggesting our ancestors made a terrible mistake? I suppose To demand it all is to destroy the compromises that have today. The grant money is dedicated nership with rural America to bring in- Buncombe, Henderson, Madison and the writer wants to “take back America,”a phrase often heard made this country the greatest nation on earth. Moreover, to providing Land-of-Sky resources creased economic opportunity to rural Transylvania counties with a mission from conservatives, but from whom? they will fail to gain credibility until they are able to better The writer asserts that the Constitution was founded on articulate and support their concerns. Until they do, there to help train and bolster the work of citizens and communities,” Secretary to: “work with local governments, the local organizations that offer housing of Agriculture Tom Vilsack said. “They Region’s leadership, state and federal Christian principles. As I have said before, if you look at what cannot be an intelligent national discussion that leads to support to those in need. The grant will will serve as investments that will help agencies, service providers, and volun- some of our founding fathers said, it becomes clear that they constructive solutions. allow Land-of-Sky to provide train- organizations build the capacity and teers to foster desirable social, economing and technical aid such as financial expertise of local nonprofit groups.” ic, cultural and ecological conditions in THE GREEN COLUMN planning, strategic planning, and sus“From first review of the USDA – Buncombe, Henderson, Madison and tainability. RCDI grant program, we recognized Transylvania Counties." “Regional Councils such as Land- that it was a perfect fit for the Asheville USDA Rural Development overof-Sky are critical to the economic Regional Housing Consortium and sees and directs more than 40 housing, growth and success of our local com- Land-of-Sky area,” said Asheville business, infrastructure and facilities Meanwhile do your own self educa- mal imaging photography can identify By: Richard C. MacCrea munities. Our mountain communi- Regional Housing Consortium Vice programs intended to advance the tion. The Internet has a mountain of where the hidden leaks are. Computer Columnist ties are better because of the work they Chair, Mark Burrows. “This project economic stability of rural communiinformation. If you are not on line, do software can be used to create an enerdo. I applaud Land-of-Sky for tack- will assist our smaller, more rural af- ties. Rural Development has a current In order for the green movement your research for free at the library. Start gy model of the structure to help them ling tough issues in our region, such as fordable housing non-profits bet- commitment of more than $127 bil- to create jobs, a long bridge must be on these web sites: buildingscience.com, calculate the best ways to save energy housing,” said Congressman Shuler. ter meet their community’s needs by lion in loan guarantees and loans. crossed, that of education. Local green southface.org, healthybuilthomes.org. for that specific building. builders deal with a lack of training epa.gov/greenbuilding/, and usgbc.org. CRIMESTOPPERS There is also a need for radon remeamong their workers. Organizations Research phrases like green construc- diation. Home inspections often unlike the Southern Appalachian Sus- tion, energy efficient buildings, etc. cover unhealthy levels of radon in our tainable Building Council and local There are many promising fields in local homes, and this can stand in the builders associations have approached green construction: way of a sale. Revenue Code. the Clay County Sheriff ’ s Office. local high schools and community By: Sheriff Joe Shook HVAC (heating, ventilation, and Study areas outside your field. Un“With government funding becomThe Honorary Membership Pro- colleges about creating green building cooling) systems consume more en- derstanding how all the systems of a Columnist ing increasingly difficult t secure, the gram was created to provide citizens programs. ergy in our buildings than anything building work together is very imporResponding to the increasing num- North Carolina Sheriffs’ Association’s with an opportunity to lend their The schools are interested in helping else. Learning how to design and in- tant for everyone working on green ber of people wanting to assist law en- Honorary Membership Program has support to more effective law enforcepeople fit into the local job market. But stall more efficient systems could help projects. It can also put you ahead of forcement officials and build a stronger taken on greater importance than ment and to better help local Sheriffs the colleges have a valid concern. Set- people reduce their cost of living while the line for re-employment, and you partnership in the fight against crime, ever before,” said Sheriff Shook. “The protect the lives and property of cititing up a program like this, organizing keeping them more comfortable. will be more proud of your work. Sheriff Shook today announced that funding is vital in helping us carry out zens. a curriculum, and hiring teachers is all Insulation installers are key to makThere are many other possibilities. Clay County citizens are being invited our mission of making our county a “As the need for building stronger very expensive. What if they build it ing buildings efficient. There is a huge Maybe you are ingenious enough to to become Honorary Members of the safer place to live, work, and play.” public-private law enforcement part- and no one comes? They need to see an need to bring older buildings up to discover a new way to help people reNorth Carolina Sheriffs’ Association. Individuals not receiving a mem- nerships in this country continues to interest in taking these courses. standard. This is our largest poten- duce energy costs. Membership applications go out bership application or desiring more escalate, programs such as this conAre you a laid off construction tial for reducing energy consumption. The next column will be about Rain the mail this month. Individuals information may go to the North tinue to grow in importance, “ said worker? Are you tired of watching TV Many times the energy savings can pay don, a radioactive gas in our buildings. choosing to join the voluntary pro- Carolina Sheriffs’ Association website Sheriff Shook. “I encourage everyone reruns? Can you invest some of this for the improvements. Richard C. MacCrea is the director gram can do so for $25.00, while busi- at www.ncsheriffs.org/citizen.htm or receiving a membership application to time learning about green building? Is Energy raters are trained experts of The Greening of Andrews Valley, a nesses can show their support with a www.ncsheriffs.org/business.htm or consider joining forces with us by bethere financial aid for your job training? at finding ways to reduce energy loss. program of Andrews Valley Initiative. $50.00 contribution. This funding contact the North Carolina Sheriffs’ coming an Honorary Member. It is a Research on line, ask the employment They might pressure test the building He works in the field of energy effiprovides critically important techni- Association at: valuable investment in our future.” office, the local colleges. and its HVAC system for leaks. Ther- cient, green building. cal resources, legislative support on Post Office Box 20049 Founded in 1922, the North Carokey criminal justice issues, support for Raleigh, North Carolina 27619- lina Sheriffs’ Association is a not-forthe NCSA Undergraduate Criminal 0049 profit professional and educational Justice Scholarship Program at state Telephone: (919) SHERRIF (743- organization dedicated to the preseruniversities, and additional training 7433) vation of peace and the protection of This is your opportunity to sound off on what matters to you in the community. The Smoky Mountain Sentinel welcomes all letters to the editor. for Sheriffs and their deputies. Meanwhile, residents wishing to the lives and property of the citizens Letters should be e-mailed to letters@wncsentinel.net and no longer than 400 to 500 words in length. Letters must be signed and include a Contributions are tax-deductible become Honorary Members can also of North Carolina. The Association telephone number for verification. Letters that cannot be confirmed with the writer cannot be printed. Letters must be exclusive to the Sentinel. Mail to: Smoky Mountain Sentinel, PO Box 870, Hayesville, NC 28904 under Section 501(c) 3 of the Internal sign up for the program by contacting office is located in Raleigh.

Are you hijacking the Constitution?

Shuler Praises Commission’s Fiscal Responsibility and Reform

Shuler Announces USDA Rural Development Grant award

Green education a must

Sheriff asks citizens to fight crime

SEND US YOUR LETTERS!

Tribute Market: t $POUJOVFE GSPN QBHF "

the economy plummeted, competition increased and utility bills skyrocketed. “As time went on it became more and more difficult to keep up with those payments,� Pullman said. “I don’t think a lot of folks know exactly the burden we were carrying.� Pullman said he knows how to run a successful business, having worked on theatrical concerts involving musicians like Bob Dylan and The Rolling Stones. “I had accounts that did more business in four months than the store does in a year,� he said. “I production managed the governor’s ball for the Oscars. It’s not like running a convenience store was an alien or insurmountable obstacle.� Having grown up around his uncle’s gas station, Pullman was familiar with the work that went into the job, but he was unprepared for the economic downturn. “For the last 18 months my [entire family has] collectively put up everything we own as collateral to keep the store open because we believe in it,� Pullman said. Pullman said the recession forced him to make tough decisions, sacrificing inventory to keep the doors open, even though some regular customers had to walk away empty-handed. “It’s been really painful on a daily basis apologizing to people and it chips away at your soul,� Pullman said. Shortly after the downturn Pullman pulled the lottery from his store and introduced alcohol with hopes for a recovery in profit. Average daily sales went up 20 percent thereafter, but all it did was buy time. “Within six months of buying the business [sales] were down about 40 percent,�

Wednesday , February 24, 2010

he said. “Within a year it was down 81 percent.â€? When Pullman bought The Market, he inherited the store’s long-standing tradition: a thick account book used by customers who would sign now and pay later. For seven months, customers kept up with their debts, but as the recession worsened only five customers could fulfill their bills, Pullman said. “We accrued over $11,000 in bounced checks and bad accounts,â€? Pullman said. “I don’t hold people at fault. It’s a sign of the times; it’s the economy‌ I’m not real aggressive about collecting on it because I know that there are people who are really hurting.â€? Pullmans said drawing an income from the store several months ago and is now battling foreclosure on his house because he can’t afford his mortgage payments. “I was choosing to pay employees before we paid ourselves; that’s how seriously my wife and I take it,â€? Pullman said. “I’m getting emotional about it because we care so much about it.â€? As Pullman was forced to cut the hours his staff worked, his friends began to volunteer their time to keep the store running. In October Pullman decided if anything was going to save the store, it would be creativity and coffee. With the help of his friends, Pullman converted The Market’s unused storage space into a coffee shop called “The Magic Bean.â€? “That was part of us trying to survive, to create alternative revenue streams‌with as little investment as possible,â€? he said. “Without having invested a dime it just started happening.â€? The Magic Bean soon opened with live musical performances on Friday and Saturday nights but despite the weekend success, the new venture couldn’t keep The Market afloat.

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Robert Pullman said he has a vision for The Market that involves, of all things, river rafting.

“Clay County and Western North Carolina [are] six to eight months behind the rest of the country,� Pullman said. “When they’re back in business we’re still going to be feeling the pain.� Pullman said he thinks it may take a year for the local economy to rebound. “A good percentage of the industry in this area is based on second homes,� he said. “The first thing to go when times get tough is the vacation home and the boat. That leaves us kind of abandoned out here.� When Pullman purchased the store, the Aztec gas station had been closed for renovation and Ingles had yet to install gas pumps and redesign its store. “A majority of that business was coming to The Market,� Pullman said, adding that when the Ingles pumps opened, the giant store was selling gas to consumers cheaper than Pullman could purchase it from the oil companies.

Free soup and sandwich lunch Fridays at Noon in February at Hickory Stand United Methodist Church Green Cove Road, Brasstown, NC. All are invited

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for International Development. He is survived by his mother Sally Baldwin of Ft. Worth, TX, his father and stepmother Barry and Anne Beck of Hayesville, his sister Jennifer of Jacksonville, FL his brother Matthew Beck of Arden, NC, his grandmother Jean

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Beck of Jupiter, FL as well as several aunts, uncles, cousins and many loving friends. A memorial service was held on February 20 in Stuart, FL at the House of Refuge on the shore of the Atlantic Ocean. In the spring, his ashes will be scattered in the waters off Boca Grande in Florida where he loved to fish. An endowment fund has been set up in his memory at the University of Florida. Information can be found at http://www.uff.ufl.edu/Appeals/BrendanBeck and donations can be made at this same site or checks may be mailed to Linda Raney, Gift Processing Manager, University of Florida Foundation, Inc., P.O. Box 14425, Gainesville, FL 32604-2425, and must specifically be noted for the Brendan S. Beck Fund for Sustainable Infrastructure. He was dearly loved and greatly respected and will be missed by his family and many friends.

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“property is ideally situated between [Chatuge] Dam and Mission Dam.â€? The Market would serve as a cafe and rent inner tubes or kayaks to customers, Pullman said. “[We'd] get a bus to shuttle people from Mission Dam back to the store and sell ‘em lunch,â€? he said. The Watershed Coalition might even set up a kiosk to educate people about water conservation and the environment, he said. Pullman, a former river guide, said his vision was for The Market to become an even more central institution in Clay County. “I’ve got a vision for it. If it’s God’s will then I’ll bring that to fruition. If it’s not, somebody will, and they’ll do very, very well at that location,â€? he said. “It’s got all the potential in the world‌we just literally bought the business and the real estate at the worst possible time since the depression.â€? Engineers have been inspecting the river for the past seven months, Pullman said. “They’ve done drawings, they’re pulling permits, they’re working with the TVA; they want to start building in the spring if they can,â€? he said. Pullman said he has yet to hear anything about the loans and grants he and his wife applied for, but that he’s optimistic. “The story’s not over,â€? he said. “The business was successful. And [falling sales are] timed exactly with the decline of the economy. The majority of our customers are builders and contractors and none of those guys are working.â€? Pullman said his family has received a great deal of community support, including phone calls and e-mails from customers hoping for the best. Even the bank has been supportive, he said. “We’ll just keep chugging; I’m not a quitter,â€? he said. “My grandpa says if you’re going to fall down, fall forward.â€?

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“Let’s say Ingles had it for sale at $2.68. It cost me $2.73 to buy the gas per gallon,� he said. “How can I compete with that?� Because independent stations don’t have the buying power of a large chain, Pullman said the difference has to be in relationship and service to customers. “You can buy a loaf of bread anywhere,� Pullman said. “There’s something you can get at a Tommy’s Market that you can’t get at Ingles or Wal-Mart.� For now, Pullman’s looking for a business partner, searching for grants, seeking recovery loans and applying for government assistance. But he’s also envisioning the future. Pullman said that the Hiwassee River Watershed Coalition has expressed interest in developing the riverfront at The Market to make it accessible for canoes, kayaks, fishing and even whitewater rafting. “That would be phenomenal for Clay County,� Pullman said, adding that the

Brendan Scott Beck, 35, of Washington, DC died January 12, 2010 in the Haiti Earthquake. A native of South Bend, IN, he grew up in Longwood,FL before moving to Gainesville, FL to attend the University of Florida, where he obtained his BS/CE degree. As a civil engineer, he lived and worked in Sarasota, FL, the British Territory of Anguilla and in Washington, DC. He was a Peace Corps volunteer in the West African country of Mali, serving for 2 1/2 years as a Water/Sanitation Extension Agent and as a PC Volunteer Leader. With a love of travel and an endless curiosity, he had traveled in Africa and Europe, climbed Mt. Kilamanjaro, sailed over 4,000 miles in the Mediterranean Sea and Indian Ocean and journeyed from Moscow to Beijing via the Trans Siberian Railway. He was in Haiti at the time of the earthquake on a contract assignment to work on a project for the United States Agency

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NC State College of Engineering -Open House Saturday, March 27, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. -Go on line at www.engr.ncsu. edu Click on “Engineering Open House ” for information, maps and on-line registration NC State College of Engineering Summer Programs -Numerous summer classes available at various times for high school students -Discover what engineering is all about and stay on the university campus -Go to www.engr.ncsu.edu/ summerprograms/ for more information or call (919) 515-3263 Ms. Mac Memorial Scholarship -Seniors planning to be teachers, preference given to science or math -$500 -Please return application to guidance office by April 22, 2010 The Lovelight Scholarship offered by Chatuge Regional Hospital and Nursing Home -One 4-year college scholarship and one technical/vocational school scholarship -Career in medical field -Minimum 2.7 GPA -Career essay/personal profile and two letters of recommendation required -Application must be received at Chatuge Regional Hospital in Hiawassee, GA no later than April 1, 2010

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Smoky Mountain Sentinel Wednesday , February 24, 2010

Patriots head to D.C. The Patriots are going back to Washington, D.C. in April to participate in two massive rallies and marches. The Tax Day March and the 2nd Amendment March. Nighta Davis, Founder of the groups, organized 3 buses for the September 2009 event and is organizing 8 buses that will pick up patriots from many cities in Georgia, North Carolina and Tennessee. Georgia counties for passenger pick up: Towns, Union, Gilmer,Pickens,Cherokee, Bartow,White, Gordon, Gwinnett, Habersham, Hall and Franklin. North Carolina cities for passenger pick up: Murphy and Asheville. Approximately 2.2 million Patriots traveled to Washington to express their concern on 9/11. The Patriots are a group of concerned Americans who feel our freedom and liberties are in jeopardy. They are a civic organization that alerts the public to legislation that would infringe upon their liberty, freedoms and constitutional rights. The Patriots are non partisan and welcome everyone. They offer educational meetings and seminars regarding the constitution, upcoming legislation, etc. If you are interested in participating in a Patriots group, becoming a volunteer or going to Washington for the rallies, call Founder Nighta Davis at 706-896-9021.

Learn to cook whole foods

Let me introduce myself…… My name is Kara Mejia…..and what do I love?... What am I passionate about?….. Food… Whole Food… Food that feeds the greatest gift I have been given…my body. The vehicle that must carry me throughout all my days and depending on how I care for it will greatly determine how productive I am, how long I have, and how much JOY I am able to experience. After personally changing the quality of foods I chose to eat to overcome my own debilitating illness15 years ago it has become my passion to share my experience with others so they may re-

alize the same. A Natural Health Advocate (A person who believes that we are Naturally supposed to be healthy and to live a life free of chronic pain, illness and dis-ease) I inspire others to take control of their health and their own condition with delicious whole foods recipes and basic body care. After much success in Clay County I am very excited about being able to now share my passion with the folks of Towns and Union County’s. New to the scene, I hope that over the coming weeks and months I am able to impart on you the reader some great information that will inspire you to return to

whole foods as a key ingredient to a life free of dis-ease. If you living a life hampered with pain and medication or are just interested in the deliciousness that is whole foods look for me “Cooking with Kara” Beginning March 1st I will be located behind the Exit Realty on Rt. 76 in Hiawassee in the old “Let’s get Cooking location”Take a moment and please stop by to introduce yourselves. I will be offering free mini-cooking demonstrations during the week and full cooking classes on Saturdays throughout the coming months. Until then, I’ll look forward to meeting you…Enjoy!

Homeless: t $POUJOVFE GSPN QBHF " “In Franklin people are sleeping under bridges and in cars,” she said. “We have the same situation here. There are people who are living in the woods… We just don’t see it.” Cormack said she’s already been contacted by three churches wanting to know if the shelter is open yet because they have people ready to fill the beds. “People are sleeping on other people’s sofas because there’s no place for them to go,” she said. “The health department sees women all the time who can’t even give an address.” SHELTER Cormack isn’t a newcomer to the homeless scene; in Florida she worked for a similar shelter that has served the community for more than ten years. Like the shelter in Florida, the New Life Women’s Center will offer beds to women for about three months, Cormack said. “They have time to actually try and change their life with those 90 days,” she said, noting that the shelter will offer programs and a case manager to help solve issues and get to the root of problems. The shelter will be open 24/7, she said. “Women can actually feel at home when they come in; it’s not like they have to roll their stuff up and get out of here at a certain time,” she said. The local center will accept homeless women from Clay, Cherokee, Graham and Macon counties in North Carolina and Union and Towns counties in Georgia. Cormack constructed a board of directors for the local center. The board is comprised of Jennifer Ray (president), Kelly Graves (vice president), Ruth Gibson (treasurer) and Janice Clement (secretary), among others. It took more than a year for the board to find a strong location for the center, finally settling on a vacant house built in 1941 on Church Street in Hayesville. The structure is being leased to the women’s center for $450 per month, Cormack said. The center plans to save enough to eventually buy the building for $110,000. When the board decided on the house more than a year ago, it was in desperate need of repair. Since that time floors have been replaced, walls painted, and rooms prepared. Despite all the effort, the home still has a large unfinished basement that could be remodeled in the future for more room. The location was not only central for the surrounding counties, but also convenient for Cormack, who lives close by.

breaking the law if he stuck with “This worked out well for me because there’ll While some shelters rely heavily on volunPlan A. be times when I’ll have to come over here in the teers, Cormack said her aim to have an experi"There's a big group down in Ramiddle of the night,” she said. “I could even walk enced staff available at any time of day. leigh just waiting to sue somebody. here if a situation arrises.” “We found out from experience down in And I don't want to be sued," PenCormack said that accepting a woman at the Florida that to open with a volunteer staff is setland said. "The law says you can't shelter requires screening, a thorough back- ting yourself up for failure,” she said. “Volunteers start before August 25. It's not a ground check to see if there are any outstanding get burnt out.” recommendation." warrants and drug testing (which isn’t inexpenCormack and her daughter have so far The only exception is for schools sive). cleaned and decorated 15 empty juice cartons to that miss eight days four times in “I don’t want to have to drive 35-40 miles use as spare change boxes at local businesses to a ten year span. Clay doesn't make down the road [if a woman comes to my door] help raise extra funds. the cut. in the middle of the night,” she said. Local businesses have also been donating So for now Penland is counting furniture, Cormack said, noting that in the last on August 25, having decided to FUNDRAISING month Tri-County Office Supply contributed begin distributing Plan B to fac“What’s stopping us is the finances,” Cor- 35 chairs, room dividers and a conference table. ulty. mack said. “You have to be up and running for at A series of bunk beds were also donated. CorClay County Schools have alleast a year for the government to give you some mack has also asked businesses if unused items ready missed seven days this year, assistance. We’re praying that we don’t have to can be sold at yard sales to raise money as well. Penland said, addhave assistance from the government, that the The shelter can’t begin yard sales until the ing that two days ONLINE local communities will be able to show their winter has passed, but is planning a fundraiser have since been See the video support and to help us.” at Brother’s Restaurant in Young Harris on Feb. the school board made up for. Cormack said that she’s relying on Christians 25. With five days watched at in the area to step up and contribute funding From 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. 15 percent of all dinleft to recover, wncSentinel.net that the government may not. ner sales will be donated to the shelter. Penland assured “When you say you’re faith-based you’re “It takes the word of mouth around here for the board that Memorial Day, crossing the line,” she said. “Lots of times when things to start moving,” Cormack said, noting Good Friday, spring break and even you’re going for grants they don’t like to see that she has already booked speaking engageSaturdays are game. “faith-based.” ments with local churches to share her mission. Saturday school days must be One-third of the center’s $150,000 budget Bake sales, raffles, even chances to win Nascar added in the same weeks when needs to be in place before the doors begin to tickets and a contest for a trip to Las Vegas are days are missed to avoid having open, Cormack said. She aims to have the house in the works, all in the name of supporting the to pay teachers overtime, he said. open and running by April. shelter. Cherokee County Schools recently made-up school on a Saturday. "None of them are good options. I really like Saturday less than any of them," Penland said. "I just think you're wasting time, but that may be the answer." He said the school year can be pushed past the June 10 deadline because the calendar was originally set to meet that date. Penland showed the board an online video of Asheville City Schools Superintendent Allen Johnson discussing his weather procedures in the face of the county's brutal snowfall this winter. "Let's leave it alone for now," Penland said. "Right now I'm suggesting we sit back and hope we don't miss anymore." The school board also briefly discussed: t 3FMFBTJOH TUVEFOU 5ZMFS #SFFElove to Macon County. t ɩF TUBUFhT FYQFDUFE QFSDFOU budget cuts for next year. )BSSJTPO ,FFMZ 4FOUJOFM 1IPUP t ɩF QSPQPTFE DIBOHFT UP UIF The homeless shelter will occupy the upper floor of this house that dates back to the 1940s. The house is currently rented from Truett Church. N.C. social studies curriculum.

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Brenda Cormack, Executive Director of the New Life Women’s Center, holds one of the cartons she made with her daughter to collect spare change.

HOMELESS “I believe there is a call for what we’re trying to do here,” Cormack said, noting that it’s not been easy. It’s tough to unite all of the drug coalitions and homeless efforts in the area, she said, adding that while the women’s center won’t be connected to REACH shelters, they would work together if need be. “We would network with them but we do not cross the line,” she said. “We do not bring in a population of domestic violence with homeless. If for some reason…they need a bed and we have one available we would definitely let that person stay here until they a bed available.” Cormack said the shelter will accept a mother’s children until they are 18 as long as they’re enrolled in school. “A lot of families that are experiencing homelessness don’t want to be in mixed population shelters so they tend to stay in a car or together,” Cormack said. “A lot of people don’t like to expose that they’re homeless because then they’re afraid of losing their kids. Our shelter looks at the family unit, trying to bring the mom in with the child.” The foster child population in the mountains is huge, Cormack said, because women involved in substance abuse have repeatedly had their kids taken away. She said the shelter’s job is to help monitor women with mentors, provide like skills studies and invite preachers to hold Bible studies. While residents won’t be forced to attend services, they are asked to at least meditate daily. “It’s not a free ride,” Cormack said. “We give [women] two weeks once they move in to actually stabilize, understand that they’re safe, and then they’re expected to go out and look for jobs because we ask them to pay a small portion weekly so that they can contribute to the household.” The board is considering a fee of $25-40 per week to help pay for food and other items. Cormack said that she recognizes the difficulty of finding a job in the current economy, but that it has to be done. “I don’t want a lot of women just sitting down all day long,” she said. “They have to show me that there’s an initiative… A purpose to get up every morning.” Cormack said she expects the shelter’s eight beds to fill quickly, considering the center serves six counties. “[New Life] is about a new beginning for women,” she said. “Some women find homelessness to be a lifelong battle and lots of times it’s not their problem. Disease is. They can be suffering alcohol problems, substance abuse… We believe that with God all things are possible.”

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CALENDAR

Wednesday , February 24, 2010

Recurring Events SUPPORT Assault Support Rape and sexual assault have physical and emotional effects, both short-term and lasting. REACH of Clay County is holding a sexual assault support group for women in Hayesville. Call (828) 389-0797.

Stroke Support A stroke support group meets every third Thursday of each month. The meetings are in the large conference room at Murphy Medical Center. Medical advisor is Dr. Ken Cassell. Contact Carol Dorman or Dawn Colbert in the discharge planning department at (828) 835-7589.

Al-Anon Meetings 7 p.m. Sunday Night, Chatuge Regional Hospital, Hiawassee GA. 8 p.m. Monday Night, “The Mustard Seed�, 12 Step and Twelve Tradition Meeting at Mountain Presbyterian Church, Blairsville GA New Ala-Teen Meeting 8 p.m. Wednesday Night at Mountain Presbyterian Church, Blairsville, Ga. 8 p.m. Wednesday Night at Mountain Presbyterian Church, Blairsville Ga. 12:00 noon Tuesday, Mountain Regional Library, Young Harris, GA Al-Anon is open anyone who has been affected by another person’ drinking. The only requirement for membership is that there be a problem of alcoholism in a relative or a friend. Call 706-835-5827, 706-897-0628 or 828-389-8981. for more information.

Free WRAP classes Free weekly WRAP classes are being offered every Tuesday from 4 p.m.-6 p.m. in Clay County at the Hayesville office of Murphy Counseling (the old Smoky Mountain Center). Wellness Recovery Action Planning, i.e. WRAP, is a 10-week course that teaches you an approach for managing mental health and/or substance abuse symptoms that are interfering with your life. Classes are free and you can begin at any time. There is HOPE for a better life! For more information, call the Marble Center, 837-7466, ext. 2311, and talk to one of our facilitators about this wonderful program.

Co-dependents Co-Dependents Anonymous meetJOHT BSF BT GPMMPXT t'PS XPNFO POMZ "U 12 noon on Mondays at Young Harris Library in Young Harris, Ga. Call Linda at (706) 781 t"U Q N 5IVSTEBZT BU .PVOUBJO Presbyterian Church in Blairsville, Ga. Call Rocky, (706) 897-2885.

"Recovery" Ministry The First Freewill Baptist Church of Hayesville and Pastor Chris Rumfelt welcomes you to "Celebrate Recovery!," a Christ-centered recovery ministry for alcoholism, divorce, sexual abuse, co-dependency, domestic violence, drug addiction and any other hurt, habit or hang-up from 7-9 p.m., Thursdays. For more information, call Rumfelt at (828) 361-4090.

Alzheimer's Support

The Towns/Union Alzheimer's support meets at Brasstown Manor in Hiawassee, Ga. The group now meets the first and third Friday of each month from 3–4:30 p.m. Call (706) 896-4285

Body Sculpting Class

Body Sculpting/Cardiovascular Exercise classes are being offered at Towns County Recreational Center in Hiawassee, Ga. Class is from 6:30-7:30 a.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. The cost is $4 per class or $48 per month. Contact the recreation center at (706) 8962600 or Susan Rogers at (706) 896-6842.

Divorce Seminar

"Divorce Care," a divorce recovery seminar and support group, meets at 7 p.m. on Mondays at Hiawassee United Methodist Church. For more information, call Mary at (706) 896-9004.

Food Addicts

Meetings are 6:30 p.m. Thursday at Sharp Memorial Church in Young Harris, Ga. Call Jim at (828) 361-7565 (cell) or (828) 389-1975 or Sandy at (828) 361-5278.

Alzheimer's Group

An Alzheimer's Support Group meets at 6 p.m. on the second Tuesday of the month at the Clay County Senior Center in Hayesville.

Cancer support group

Cancer support group meets the 2nd and 4th Monday of each month, 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the community

room, United Community Bank, Hayesville, corner of Hwy 64 and Hwy 69. Any questions can be directed to Janet Curns, evenings at 828-389-0295.

Drug Treatment Narconon warns families that abuse of addictive pharmaceutical drugs is on the rise with deadly consequences. Learn the signs of drug abuse. Someone you love may be at risk. Call Narconon for a free brochure on the signs of addiction for all drugs. 877-379-0208. www.drugsno.com

Soaking Prayer A healing prayer team holds prayer sessions each Tuesday evening at 7:00 at The Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd. Sponsored by the River of Healing chapter of the Int'l Order of St. Luke. More information (828)389-3397.

ACTIVITIES Square Dance Classes Enchanted Valley Squares is having Basic Mainstream Classess on Tuesday Nights at the Towns Co Middle School Cafeteria from 7:00-9:00 pm. For more information: GA-Al Supplee (706) 379-2191 or NC-Bob or Loretta Hughes (828) 837-2561.

Moose Lodge We are now forming a Moose Lodge and invite you to join us. Our meetings are held at Homers Corner Cafe located at Hwy 19/129 in Murphy, NC inside Fosters Flea Market. Come early and join us for a Dutch Treat lunch. Our meetings are held on the 2nd Friday of each month at 1 p.m. For further information please call Art or Donna Harris at (828) 389-6342.

Brasstown Suppers Brasstown Community Club meets at 6:30 p.m., the third Thursday of each month with a pot luck supper. Grocery game night, 7 p.m. the first Saturday of every month. Please bring snack foods.

Senior Game Day Dominoes, Hearts, Scrabble, Checkers, etc. Every Tuesday, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Clay County Senior Center Call 838389-9271 for more info.

Upcoming Events Make a toothbrush rag

Art Matters Calendar: February 25- Rag wreath and Sketching to Paint Classes are from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. and the fee is $20.00 plus supplies. Call 828-389-0406

Democratic dinner

The Clay County Democratic Party will have a covered dish dinner and precinct meetings (for all nine Clay County precincts) on Saturday, February 27 at 6:00 P.M. This event will be held at the Hayesville School Cafeteria. All Democrats and Unaffiliated voters are urged to attend. Each precinct must have five registered Democrats attending the meeting to have a quorum. Please bring a favorite dish, enjoy the fellowship and support your precinct. Candidates for public office will be given an opportunity to address the group. Remember, primary elections are just around the corner and we have offices to fill and to retain. For more information, please contact Betty Anderson at 389-4430.

Coin club flips meeting time

The organizational meeting of the Mountain Coin Club, open to residents of the tristate area, has been rescheduled to Thursday, Feb. 25th, at 6:30 p.m. at the Cadence Bank in Blairsville, GA. For more information, call YOCS, 706-379-1488.

Arts classes upcoming

Tri-County Community College is offering a variety of classes from the Career & Community Education division beginning in February. These courses are a good opportunity to pass the cold winter months by learning something new. Grace Hawkins will hold her Oil Painting class at the Hayesville Senior Center on Wednesdays from 9:00-Noon. The class is scheduled for February 24 through March 31 and will cost $58.

Most of these classes require a minimum number of students in order to be held and pre-registration is required. For more information about any of Tri-County Community College’s Community Enrichment classes, please call Lisa Long at 828-835-9564, ext. 207.

Corn Beef & Cabbage dinner

Allision - Bristol VFW Post 6812 for $8.00 Donation on March 13, 2010 from 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Eat in or Take Out Senior Center, Ritter Road. Hayesville, NC

Granny’s Attic Thrift Store

Auxiliary for Good Shepherd Home Health care and Hospice. Open 9 am - 4 pm Wed. - Sat. Come in and find that treasure you just can’t do without. For information call 389-6311

Facing the Giants at UMC

March 19th at 6 p.m. Free Family Movie/ Popcorn Night at Sharp UMC. Movie: Facing the Giants March 23rd at 7 p.m. Movie and a Lecture at Sharp UMC. Movie: Expelled Lecture by Dr. Jamie Watson, Philosophy Prof. at YHC.

Singing at Bethabara

Bethabara Baptist Church will be having a singing on February 27, 2010 starting @ 7:00 p.m. With different groups. Pastor Mark Shook invites everyone to come and enjoy good singing and let’s worship in the lord. The chruch is located off of bethabar road

Pet rescue dinner

There will be a community night to benefit Castaway Critters pet rescue at Brothers Restaurant on Willow Ranch on Highway 76, Young Harris. Tuesday, March 2, from 4:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. What a great way to have a great meal and also benefit a worthy cause. Please mention to the hostess when you walk into the restaurant that you are supporting Castaway Critters.

A volunteer from Castaway Critters will be there to answer any of your questions regarding their non-profit organization.

Bicycle repair class

Blairsville Bikes & Boards, Thursday evening, April 1 at 7 p.m. The class is free and will be approx. 1 ½ hours long. Topics covered will be basic bicycle repairs for trail or road, like fixing a flat, broken chain, minor brake & shifter adjustments, and a proactive pre-ride check over. The necessary tools you will need & how to use them. So you will hopefully never have to push your bike out. For more info call the shop @ 706 745 8141 Or stop by @ 49 Blue Ridge St. Blairsville GA. Located in historic downtown. Bring your bike if you like (optional) & and what ever beverage you want to drink. Coffee & Soft Drinks are available at the shop. SABA member & supporter offering 10% discounts to SABA members.

Men’s coffee club

Beginning Monday, March 1st, the Clay County Senior Center will host the Men’s Coffee Club from 8 am to 9 am every Monday morning. FREE coffee to all men age 50 and over.

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Intermediate Bridge Intermediate Bridge is being played at the health department, downstairs in Hiawassee on Mondays and Fridays, starting at 12:45 p.m. All players welcome. For more information please call (828) 389-8065.

Oil Painting Classes

Classes for beginners and intermediate students, Wednesdays, 9AM - 1PM at Clay County Senior Center. Cost is $65; must furnish own brushes and canvas. Call the senior center for more information at (828) 389-9271

Helping Hands meet The ladies group at Sweetwater United Methodist Church meets from 10 a.m. to noon every first and third Tuesday. They make quilts for Clay and Cherokee counties' sick and needy. Helpers are welcome.

Fellowship Weekly Full Gospel Business Men's Fellowship International meets at 6 p.m. every Monday at Daniels in Hiawassee, Ga. Call (828) 389-0140.

Valley Kennel Club Meetings are held at 7:00 p.m. the first Monday of each month at Brother’s Restaurant on Hwy 64 in Murphy, NC. We invite all those interested in pure bred dogs and canine activities to attend. Call President Kit Miracle @ 706 492 5253 or Peggy Moorman @ 828 835 1082 for details.

Army & Navy Garrison #66 The Army and Navy Garrison #66 meets the first Wednesday of each month. Dinner is at 6 p.m. Veterans meeting and Women’s Auxiliary begin at 7 p.m. 2641 Hwy 66, Young Harris, Ga ( at the Ga/ NC State Line)

Mountain Hikers Mountain High Hikers schedule two hikes each Tuesday, occasionally specialty hikes, and regular trail maintaining tripsall in the beautiful mountains of North Carolina and Georgia. Check the web site: MountainHighHikers.org for schedule and meeting locations or call 828-389-8240 for information.

Amateur Radio

The North Georgia Tri-State A.R.C. (Amateur Radio Club) meetings are held on the first Tuesday of each month

at 7 p.m. at Branan Lodge in Blairsville. All of our meetings are open to the public. Our next meeting is to be held March 2nd and will begin with a special technical session to discuss and demonstrate interfacing/using N1MM logging/contesting software. For more information about joining the Club or becoming a HAM, call Don Deyton at 706-781-6665. Amateur license testing will be held on March 13th in Blairsville. Contact Bob Ochs at 706-838-4728 for more information and/or make an appointment.

Clay Lions to Meet Clay County Lions Club meets the first and third Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at the Scout Hut. Call Membership Chairman Rondle Ford at (828) 389-9530 or Secretary/Treasurer Dr. Russell Hughes at (828) 389-3890.

British Empire Daughters of the British Empire (DBE) is hoping to establish a local chapter in the North Georgia/Western North Carolina mountains area and would like to contact eligible women. The DBE is a charitable, nonprofit, nonpolitical American organization and membership is extended to women of British or British Commonwealth birth or ancestry and to women married to men of British or British Commonwealth birth. Membership is organized on a chapter basis and meetings are held monthly usually followed by an informal social time over a cup of tea or coffee and British goodies. For more information about joining the chapter please contact: Maureen at 404 583 3958 or email at maureendbe@hotmail.com

Veteran Consultant

The veterans' consultant, Mike Casey, will be at the Job Link Office on the second Tuesday and the fourth Wednesday of each month. Call (828) 837-7407 of the Social Service Office in Hayesville at 389-6301.

Granny's Attic

Granny's Attic, Auxiliary of Good Shepherd Home Health Care and Hospice, is open Wed. - Sat., 9 am - 4 pm. We are now stocked for Fall. To make donations or volunteer contact Linda at 828-389-4233.

Library Book Store

Record Albums (33 1/3) are back and we've got dozens of new arrivals. Also books on tape and VCR movies. Don't forget us when you need that special book! Monday to Sat. 10 a.m. -4 p.m

across from the moss library in Hayesville.

REACH Thrift Store

The REACH Thrift Store hours are from 10 a.m. - 4:30 a.m. Monday Saturday. We are located at 1252 Hwy 64 W. (Old KT Billiards bldg., Donations accepted during business hours. Volunteers welcome. Call 828.389.1415 or 828.557.7416 for more information.

CCCC Auxillary

The Clay County Care Center Auxiliary holds it’s monthly meeting the 2nd Thursday of each month. The meetings begin at 10 a.m. at the Care Center. The Auxiliary raises money to help with residents activities. Anyone interested contact Linda Davis at 828-389-4233 or lulu111@verizon.net.

Merchants Assoc.

Historic Hayesville Merchants Association meets at 8 a.m. the 2nd Wed, The HHM board meets at 8 a.m. the 1st Wed, in the community room of United Community Bank. Contact Joseph Sorensen for information. 828-361-7569.

Game Day

Dominoes, Hearts, Scrabble, Checkers, etc Every Tuesday, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Clay County Senior Center. Call 838-389-9271 for more info.

Blue Ridge MOAA The Blue Ridge Mountains Chapter of the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) meets the third Monday of each month at various area restaurants. All active duty, National Guard, reserve, retired, and former Military, Public Health Service, and NOAA officers and warrant officers and surviving spouses are invited to attend. For information please contact Jim Ferrell at 828-835-9203 or visit www. moaa.org/chapter/blueridgemountains.

Mtn. Community Seniors

We meet at 2:00 P.M. second Thursday each month at Hiawassee Senior Center We welcome all Mountain Seniors from Towns, Union and Clay Counties. We have Music, Informative speakers, picnics and field trips.

Enchanted Square Dance Enchanted Valley Square Dance is the 2nd & 4th Friday each month at the Tons County Elementary School Cafeteria. 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Our caller is Ray Mauney. Join us for lessons at 7 p.m. at the Hayesville Senior Center, Ritter Road. For more information call Loyd Lee at 706-896-5969.

FREE Senior Financial Workshop A  community  seminar  presented  by  OnTrack  Financial  Education  &  Counseling  and The  Better  Business  Bureau  of  WNC.

Answering  Your  Questions  About: Smart  Financial  Decisions  for  Seniors Reverse  Mortgages Consumer  Fraud  &  Scam  Prevention

Ladies’ tea time

The Clay County Senior Center will hold a Ladies’ Tea at 2 pm each Monday beginning Monday March 1st. A variety of FREE teas will be available. All women age 50 and over are welcome.

New library hours

Moss Memorial Library will have new hours due to budget cuts: Tuesday/ Fridays and Saturdays 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursdays 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Story-time for Preschoolers is Tuesdays at 10 a.m. GED Classes are Thursdays 5 p.m. to 8p.m.

DONATE BLOOD, ENTER TO WIN $1,000 Cherokee and Clay Counties It’s a brand new year, and while many are trying to stick to their new year’s resolution, others haven’t decided on one yet. Why not take this time to focus on what’s important – donating blood? The American Red Cross wants donors to “Make A New Resolution: Give Blood.� The need for blood remains constant - it’s important to take the time to give blood and platelets during these coming months. The campaign, which runs from January 1 to March 31, 2010, allows each person who presents to donate blood or platelets with the Red Cross to have an opportunity to win a $1,000 gift card. t 'SJEBZ 'FCSVBSZ Hiwassee Dam High School Blood

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Smoky Mountain Sentinel

ment. &WFSZ UXP TFDPOET TPNFPOF JO UIF 6OJUFE 4UBUFT OFFET CMPPE ÉŠF American Red Cross Carolinas Blood Services Region provides lifesaving blood to patients in 103 hospitals. "QQSPYJNBUFMZ QFPQMF OFFE UP give blood or platelets each week day to meet hospital demand. Blood can be safely donated every EBZT .PTU IFBMUIZ QFPQMF BHF BOE PMEFS PS XJUI QBSFOUBM DPOTFOU who weigh at least 110 pounds, are eligible to donate blood and platelets. %POPST XIP BSF BOE ZPVOHFS NVTU also meet specific height and weight requirements. For more information or to schedule an appointment to donate, call 1-800RED CROSS (733-2767) or visit RedCrossBlood.org.

Thursday,  March  4th Two  Sessions  Available: 10:00  am  -­  11:30  pm  or 1:00  pm  -­  2:30  pm

Workshop  Location: The  Truett  Baptist  Association  of  Churches

2235  NC  HWY  141 Marble,  NC  28905 Workshop  is  FREE  and  open  to  the  public. No  registration  is  required. For  More  Information  Call  OnTrack  at  828-­255-­5166  or  1-­800-­737-­5485.

CLASSIFIEDS

Reminder:

Deadline for classifieds is Monday at 3:00. All classifieds received after this time will be printed the following Thursday. 100-Autos 2005 FORD FOCUS SES, Runs GREAT! Automatic, white, power locks, power windows, leather seats, tinted windows. Great gas mileage. Well maintained car. Asking below Kelly Blue Book. 2008 Lexus GS350, 15,600 miles. One owner, non-smoker, garaged. GPS, rear camera, bluetooth, etc... Asking: $36,500 Call 706-896-6076 Bobcat T300 Track Loader, CabHeat-Air, 81 Hp, 1870 Hours, Good Condition! Rock bottom price $4500, contact: dmant5@msn.com / 678-609-1528

200-Employment Store Manager - Kerr Drug has an immediate opening for a Store Manager in our Hayesville, NC location. Full-time position with benefits. Management experience preferred, retail experience required.Please fax resume to (828) 2363328 Attn: Dennis Seeney CNA’s needed for Cherokee and Clay County. Please call Helen @ (828) 8358147 CNA available excellent references. Will work Sundays. 706-896-5794 Drivers/CDL Career Training w/ Central Refrigerated. We Train, Employ w/ $0 Down Financing. AVG $35 K-$40K 1st Year! 1-800-543-4023 Tri-County Community College Registrar—Continuing Education - Qualifications: Associate Degree Required; Bachelor’s Degree Preferred. Minimum three years experience in office environment with high level of responsibility. Must have ability to multitask with attention to detail and accuracy in data entry. Experience in FileMaker Pro, Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Word. For a more detailed description and requirements contact Ms. Helen Kilpatrick at Tri-County Community College, 21 Campus Circle, Murphy, NC 28906. Equal Opportunity Employer Real Estate Attorney full-time office position: Experience with real estate transactions and /or mortgage lending background required. Send resume to : P.O. Box 2807, Blairsville, Ga 30514

300-Services

Child Care in my home $20.00 per day. 828-389-9656 Bush hogging, Stump-grinding, gardens plowed, gravel-roads/driveways scraped, post-holes dug, sickle mowing. Free estimates, reasonable rates, dependable service. (828) 837-7809 Cell: (828) 361-8738 # D&L Painting & drywall INC. PaintJOH 4UBJOJOH *OUFSJPS t &YUFSJPS t 3FTJEFOUJBM t $PNNFSDJBM %3:8"-- )BOH t 'JOJTI t 5FYUVSF BMM UZQFT PG GJOJTIFT UFYUVSFT

100% Quality Driven. Free Estimates cell: 828-508-5270 office(1): 828-321-2111 office(2): 828-479-4052 # Tile installer your tile or mine, 26 years experience have references and liability insurance. Ask for Don at 828389-9394 # Walker Storage Corner of Old Highway 64 West and West Cherry Road. Concrete block Construction 828-3894926 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. # Massage Therapy- in the comfort PG ZPVS IPNF -JDFOTFE BOE JOTVSFE years experience, call Gerri; 1 hour $40; Half hour $25; 706-896-6108. A&R Landscape Residential, and commercial lawn care. Plant, turf and grassing, lot clean up, mulching and retaining walls. 706-994-2457. Horse back riding lessons for kids. Horses are calm and well behaved. Given by an experienced rider. Interested? Call for more information or rates. 706299-1614. Professional Remodeling. All types of remodel, and /or repair. Wood work, sheetrock, plumbing, electrical, flooring, etc. Call Richard at 706-851-6268 Will baby sit your child or children: Any age. Reasonable rates.References available. Call 706-299-1614

500 - For Sale

Dining Table + 4 chairs, Early American maple. Clean , excellent condition. Oval table with Drop leafs measures 42� x 63� $225.00 Call 706-896-3383 Dry hay in 4’ x 5’ Bales $25.00 828-3614633 Hay for Sale June 2009 cutting $3.00 a bale 828-389-0956 Reach of Clay County Thrift Store MidWinter Store Wide Sale. Saturday , February 6th 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 25%-50% off all merchandise over $1.00. Great chance to add to your Winter Wardrobe at half off and pick up other great buys! 828-3890017 RELOCATED & OPEN The PINK RIBBON Thrift Shoppe’ 1615 Hwy 17 (at the *OUFSTFDUJPO PG KVTU CFMPX Crossroads next to D-Nails). Due to extensive water damage from a pipe break DFJMJOH DPMMBQTJOH XF IBWF SFMPDBUFE again and are in need of your donations, FTQFDJBMMZ GPSNBM HPXOT KFXFMSZ PGG your purchase w/donations. Mon- Fri. 105p.m. Sat 10-4 Black Angus. Appalachian Grown- All natural farm raised USDA Inspected, processed and packaged by the quarter. Heifers and cows bred with quality genetics for sale. Walnut Hollow Ranch, Hayesville, 828389-8931 crkissling@verizon.net Pro-Activ Solution for sale! I didn’t read the fine print – am now swamped with the stuff. How about $20 for the $45 product package? Call me – it’s a great product but

Hughes Pool & Stone Carries a fVMM MJOF PG -BOETDBQJOH QSPEVDUT JODMVEJOH t 0BL $ZQSFTT 3FE BOE #SPXO .VMDI t #SPXO 8IJUF BOE (SBZ %FDPSBUJWF 1FB (SBWFM t 4UBOEBSE (SBZ (SBWFM BOE 3JQ 3BQ t 8IJUF 4BOE BOE 3JWFS 3PDL -PDBUFE CFIJOE %PXOUPXO 1J[[B JO .VSQIZ PO $IVSDI 4U

Call (828) 837-6222

I can’t use all of it. 706-781-3044. Sofa bed (queen) beige/ burgundy plaid $100 and small beige recliner $60 All good condition. 706-896-6071. 33’Travel Trailer for Sale. Very clean, no QFUT OP TNPLJOH -PDBUFE JO )JBXBTTFF JO $BNQHSPVOE PO -BLF )BT BUUBDIFE deck with aluminum/ vinyl awning, pool, Recreation area, boat dock and storage, 8*'* DBCMF BWBJMBCMF 0#0 -&"7& .&44"(&

550 - Antiques Hiawassee Antique Mall 460 N. Main Street Hiawassee. Open year round. Mon.-Sat. 10-5, Sun 12-5. Antiques-Collectibles. 706-896-0587

600-Wanted Have any old Mac/Apple products KVTU TJUUJOH BSPVOE HBUIFSJOH EVTU %Pnate old iPods and computers, even if they don’t work anymore, to Harrison by contacting hkeely@gmail.com. Wanted: Old Pinball machines, electro-mechanical, . Call 828-389-6459 Looking for bumper-pull horse trailer in good shape. Nothing too pricey. If you have one for sale or you want to get rid of call 706-299-1614. MODELS NEEDED: -PPLJOH GPS GFmale models for pseudo bridal shoot. No compensation but photographer will provide images for your portfolio. Please email best images of yourself and we will contact chosen models. info@ lorenrouthierphotography.com #

-PTU BOE 'PVOE LOST 2 Stihl Chain Saws from North End of Dickey Road to Culberson NC. $200 reward offered for their return. Call 706.745.2590 or 828.361.4520

800-Animals Free Beagle to good home 678-5202863 Professional dog training, Boarding & grooming. 1-4 week courses available, training service guaranteed, references abundant, in Mineral Bluff, GA. visit mountaindogboarding.com 706-374-9021

900 - Real Estate 139 Acres of land with with trout stream. Good place for campground. )BT 9 NFUBM CVJMEJOH -BOE BMTP

You can submit classifieds online at www.wncsentinel.net

Complete Piano Tuning $100

Moving away in a few weeks, Call before it’s too late! (832) 239 2644

Place your ad in our classifieds and reach thousands of Western Carolina readers. Cost is only $5 for the first 10 words for one week in Cherokee, Clay and Graham Counties. Call (828) 389-8338

has spring - lacks two filter tests for being state approved. Has nice views and would be good for developing. Price: $7,000 per acre. That’s less than half of what it has been priced for. Call 828.835.7880. Investment Property near YH College? 3 BR Brick House, remodeled on BDSFT JO DJUZ MJNJUT $JUZ XBUFS TFXFS -PDBUFE CFMPX &MFNFOUBSZ TDIPPM $195,000.00 Steve 201-315-9818 At Award Mobile Homes, -BSHF /&8 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath Double-wide. FREE Fireplace, FREE Dishwasher, FREE Microwave Oven, FREE Entertainment Center, FREE TV, FREE Glamour Bath with separate shower, FREE Furniture, and much, much, more! Save $28,000 and now )PNF JT 0/-: JODMVEJOH %Flivery and set up and payments could be as low as $395.00 a month. One of many Specials. Award Mobile Homes – 1 mile North of Highway 53 on Highway 515, Jasper, Ga. 1-800-964-6638. Award Mobile Homes has the lowest prices anywhere! Save thousands! Spacious NEW Double-wide 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath with appliances, storm windows, plush carpet, House type front door, 8 GPPU TJEFXBMMT MPBEFE -JTU XBT #VU /08 GPS 0/-: XJUI '3&& Furniture and FREE Delivery and set-up. Payments on this new home could be less than $299.00 a month. Of course this home comes with all the warranties. One of many Specials. Award Mobile Homes, 1 mile North of Highway 53 on Highway 515, Jasper, Ga. 1-800-964-6638. Open Mon.- Sat. 10-6 p.m. and Sun. 1 – 5 p.m. We also take trade-ins. Award Mobile Homes has the lowest prices anywhere on New and Used Homes. Used 16 x 80 Single-wide Year GPS 0/-: PS 0#0 6TFE Double-wide 28 x 56 , 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath :FBS GPS 0/-: PS 0#0 Award Mobile Homes, North Georgi’s 7PMVNF %&"-&3 NJMF /PSUI PG Highway 53 on Highway 515, Jasper, Ga. 1-800-964-6638. Financing available. stop THE CAR HONEY! $319,000 short sale Make offer- in town- lake view, MBLF BDDFTT NPVOUBJO WJFXT CS CB oversize 2 car garage, complete apartment downstairs. Many, many extras. Almost new. Excellent condition. Must sell. Beautifully furnished by designer. Owner must sell furniture and furnishings at GSBDUJPO PG DPTU $IBSMPUUF -FEGPSE 3FBMtor; 706-781-7028 Lots within a gated community. Reduced. Highest elevation in Towns County. Call 706-896-2353. Must sell! )JBXBTTFF (B BEKPJOJOH

lots, long range, year round mountain views. Well established neighborhood; $36,500 each; 706-781-5274. 1999 RV Winnebago Rialta 22F Coach has only 71050 miles, full size bed, great condition, winter sale $4700 contact: te77lad@msn.com/ 336-464-2457. Unrestricted Creekfront 1.4 acres own both sides of creek off Firescreek Rd MPDBUFE PO 5SFWPS T -BOF CFESPPN USBJMer on site, elect. available, 3 bdrm septic permit on file. Beautiful Mtn. views with convenient location near town and Firescreek Park. Must Sell $45K Come build your dream home or vacation property. Email at scootshell2@aol.com or call for more info, survey available. 352-2296764. 3 Cabins, must see- reduced! In gated communities.Starting at $199,000, Call 706-896-2353.

1000 - Rentals 2BDRM/2BA mobile, CHA, completely furnished on pond, 55+ community. Year round Mtn. views, decks, carport, many extras. $49,500. 706-896-8363 or 706-897-0311. Nothing else like it in Towns County. 2 unrestricted lots for sale or MFBTF 6UJMJUJFT CFBVUJGVM MBOETDBQJOH drive-ways already done by owner. All you have to do is place your RV, park model, or home on lot. 706-207-4159. 1 BR, 1 1/2 BA -BSHF EVQMFY "QU CPOVT SPPN JO #MBJSTWJMMF 'MQ KBDV[[J custom kitchen. $550./ mo. + security deposit. 706-745-2297 or 770-7122107 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath partially furOJTIFE IPNF -BLFWJFX )XZ $850.00 per month. 2 Bedroom, 2 Bath $450.00 per month. 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath furnished $350.00 per month. References and Security deposit required. 828-507-1617. We have cabins and Homes for Rent! Weekly to long-term, and we;re looking for more ! Call 828-837-5551. FOR RENT - 2 BR/2.5 BA, Mountain )PNF X MPOH SBOHF WJFXT -3 FBU JO ,JU "QQMJBODFT 8 % 8PPE CVSOJOH GJSFQMBDF DBSQPSU EFDL TIFE $700.00 month. 706-897-1734 NEW NAME, NEW DEALS! NOW Renting 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath, 2 Bedroom, 1 1/2 Bath from $475 to $595, includes all appliances, free water and trash disposal. NO steps and Pet friendly. Ridgeline Apartments, 3346 Highway 64 East, Hayesville, NC. 828389-1545 # 2 Bedroom, 2 Bath Cabin for rent

Martin’s Construction ‡ Bulldozing ¼ Backhoe work

in Hanging Dog area. Unfurnished, washer/dryer, fireplace. $550 per month. Call 1-828-360-4630 We have cabins and Homes for Rent! Weekly to long-term, and we;re looking for more ! Call 828-837-5551. Young Harris rentals available Mountain Realty 706-379-3115 3br/2ba 2 car attached garage close to Young Harris College. BeauUJGVM QSJWBUF NPOUI EFQPTJU plus utilities; 706-897-3730. 5br/3ba Upscale home 2 car garage 1.71 acres near Young Harris College. $1200 per month/deposit plus utilities or for sale $399,000. Call 706896-6208. 3 BR 1 1/2 BA mobile home – not in a trailer park. $300 a month. (828) 837-6222. # 2 Br- 2 Bath Lakeview on Highway 175 $500 a month . 828-524-0514 or 828-507-1617 3,000 square foot Commercial Building for rent in downtown Murphy. $800 per month. Call 828-8376222 # 2 Bedroom 1 Bath house for rent in the town of Andrews. Call 828-8376222 # Newer Lake Nottely Waterfront )PNF GPS 3FOU -BSHF #3 #" TFDMVEed lakefront home.Unfurnished, partially furnished, or furnished. $1,000 QFS NPOUI TFDVSJUZ GU PO -BLF Nottely, Unfurnished basement for storage,Call 706-258-7134 or 561-2897493 Two bedroom, one bath Mobile Home for Rent in Hiawassee, Ga. $125 per week or $400 per month plus $200 deposit. No pets. Call 706-835-6561

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COMMUNITY

8A

Smoky Mountain Sentinel Wednesday , February 24, 2010

Republican candidates open up

DON HUNT running for COUNTY COMMISSIONER If it’s any indication of his ability to keep promises, Hunt was the only speaker at the Republican dinner not to exceed the five minutes given to him to promote his platform. In fact, he only took three minutes. “When I went to the registrar’s office to sign up for this I felt a little bit like I was about ready to propose for marriage,� he said. “I’m 78 years old. Some might think that’s too old to be a county commissioner but I thank God I’m here and I thank God I wake up every morning still.� Due to the brevity of his speech, Hunt encouraged attendees to pick up a copy of his pamphlet to find out more about his background. Hunt said the three most important things in life are God, family and country, respectively. “If God is in it you will elect me and if He’s not in it, you will not elect me and I will praise God in either case,� he said. Quoting the golden rule, Hunt said the worold would be much better if everyone loved their neighbor. “If our public servants followed those wonderful, wonderful guidelines that Jesus gave us, wouldn’t we have a very, very blessed government?� he asked. Hunt said he decided to run when he talked to people whose property taxes were raised as much as 800 percent. He said his own went up 40 percent when the state based the evaluation on an evaluation from before the recession. “It’s extremely unfair,� he said, stating that fixing taxes was his main priority.

JEFF MILLER running for U.S. HOUSE As the owner of a dry cleaning business in Hendersonville, Miller’s felt the full brunt of the recession. “Business dropped down considerably,� he said, noting that after 30 years in the profession, it’s become a struggle to survive. Miller said he’s learned not to spend more money than there is coming in, a value he’ll take to Washington if elected. “I know the responsibility of signing the front of a paycheck as well as the

SHIRLEE BLANKENSHIP running for COUNTY COMMISSIONER

VIC DAVIS running for SHERIFF

A resident of Clay County for 17 A former Georgia sheriff with years, Blankenship said she found herself 37 years of experience, Davis said listening to locals wherever she was, be it he would be more accessible to citithe gas station or the supermarket. zens. The only female Republican to enter “I’m not here to run against anythe race so far, Blankenship pegged the body,� he said. “I’m here to offer my government’s downfall on a failure to lis- experience and my training to help ten to the people. develop a professional and effective She asked citizens three questions: 1) sheriff ’s department in Clay County. Are you a taxpayer? 2) Do you realize I will run a clean campaign.� you pay the salaries of the county comDavis said he was most proud of missioners? 3. Are you satisfied? forming an effective drug task force. “People are striving and struggling to “Drug trafficking is one of the hold onto their jobs here,�she said, noting worst enemies of our children and that it was even worse for families,� he said. the community’s children “Fighting drugs has and grandchildren. “When By: Harrison Keely always been my prithey go to college they can’t Editor@wncSentinel.net ority and will remain come back home. There’s my priority in Clay nothing for them to come back to.� County.� Blankenship said she repeatedly heard The county needs a sheriff that complaints but no one would do any- can coordinate and communicate thing about the community’s problems. with other regional agencies and The lack of answers have caused discon- sheriffs, Davis said. tentment, misunderstanding, and ruined “I’m not a great orator, I don’t even relationship, she said. consider myself a good politician,� he “We’re seeing a very distant relation- said. “All I know is law enforcemnt ship between our county government but I am experienced, well-trained and our people here in Hayesville,� she and good at what I do.� said. “They’re good men, they’ve served us well, they’re just lacking a few things.� ONLINE It’s up to the government to provide Audio: incentives for businesses to add jobs, she t -JTUFO UP FBDI JOEJWJEVBM said. TQFFDI POMZ BU XOD4FOUJOFM OFU “To see things happen in this community we have to go the extra mile,� she Photos: stated. “I promise no big promises in this t 4FF EP[FOT PG JNBHFT GSPN UIF campaign other than to go the extra mile 3FQVCMJDBO EJOOFS BU 'BDFCPPL and do the research to bring incentives to DPN /FXT4FOUJOFM encourage business in our community.� back,� he said. He said the current government in D.C. is limited by divisiveness, disrespecting the Constitution and out of control when it comes to debt. After starting a movement to fly World War II veterans to D.C. for free to see the war’s memorial, veterans began asking him to consider running, Miller said. “I came into this thing totally unprepared,� he said. “I’m green as they can be, but I love my country, I love my state, I love Western North Carolina.� Miller said his solution to the unemployment crisis in WNC is to cut taxes to put money back in the hands of business owners. Opposing cap and trade because it’s “crazy,� and vowing not to scrimp when it comes to national defense, Miller also said he was no fan of government-run health care. “It’s never gonna happen,� he said. “They’ll never do it as well as we can do it in free enterprise.� Miller said he’s prepared to go to Washington, despite his unusual background. “I’m not a scholar, I’m not a doctor, and I’m sure not a lawyer or a politician, and I can’t quote the Constitution, but I can sure always refer back to it and respect it.�

RICKY JAMES ROGERS running for

CLERK OF SUPERIOR COURT

Introduced by his son Trae, Rogers told the crowd that he was familiar with the territory as a Clay County native. “I have worked in the Hayesville. I have throwed bales of hay on the truck. I’ve taken the same bales and put them in a barn. I worked in the saw mill,� he said. “I have logged all over these mountains. So I really do know what hard work is.� Rogers said he’s served in five different churches over the past 31 years, noting that his most important profession was being a pastor. He also sold insurance and real estate since 1991. “Each one of these is schooled occupations,� he said. “I am very proud that I was able to pass those tests on the first time.� He said he would follow the guidelines of his heart as well as the state. “A lot of folks say ‘You ought to keep that pastoring to yourself,’ but that’s my job,� he said. “I will not do that no matter where I go in life. My ambition is to see lost people saved.� Rogers also said that his reputation was very important to him, noting that he’s worked “very, very hard� on it. “I am experienced and I am qualified,� he said. “What makes me so? Because I’ve learned through the experience of hard knocks what to do and what not to do.�

Banner repair

If you were driving into town or around the "Square" on Friday you may have seen the "Sign Fast" truck. Tony Wiegold and his assistant "Little Tony" (Tony Rangel) came to CCCRA's rescue by rehanging and repairing 9 of the "Welcome to Hayesville" banners that were recently blown down in a wind storm.

It’s twins at Murphy Medical

Murphy Medical Center staff would like to congratulate Brittanee Burrell and Felix Baulista of Murphy on the birth of their twin daughters. Elena Faith and Aliyah Marie was born February 10, 2010 at Murphy Medical Center. They weighed 5 pounds 3 oz each and were 18 inches in length at birth. You can view their picture and our other new arrivals on the Web, go to www.murphymedical.org

Cooper to speak at sheriff meeting

TIM BARRETT running for

CLERK OF SUPERIOR COURT

Currently a 42-year-old insurance agent, Barrett said he too lived in Clay County for most of his life, having graduated from HHS in 1986. His wife teaches in the Clay County school system. Barrett said he has a diverse background of experience. “There’s no tougher decision than when you’re standing in front of someone whose freedom is at risk and I’ve made those decisions throughout 15 years of working in probation and parole,� he said.

GARY NICHOLS running for

CLERK OF SUPERIOR COURT

An HHS graduate, Nichols said he was fortunate to be able to return to the county to work after being raised in the area. “I am 61 years old and I am glad to see there are some people older than me running for public office,� he said. Nichols said the reason he was able to come back to Clay County was the influx of people moving to the mountains, which provided him with a job in real estate.

He will talk to local sheriffs about Operation Medicine Drop, an effort to cut down on prescription drug abuse. Cooper’s State Bureau of Investigation is partnering with local law enforcement agencies, Safe Kids North Carolina, and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration to sponsor prescription drug take-back programs across the state during the week of March 14-20. Prescription drugs are the second most abused drug among young people ages 12-17, and two-thirds of teenagers who use prescription drugs without proper authorization get the drugs from their home or a friend’s home. The Attorney General will also discuss taking DNA samples from arrestees to help law enforcement solve cases quicker and prevent future crimes. Cooper worked previously with lawmakers to expand

North Carolina’s DNA database to include samples from all convicted felons, growing the state’s database from around 18,000 samples in 2000 to more than 180,000 today. In addition, Cooper will talk to the sheriffs about new trends in the fight against meth, including a new electronic system to track purchases of key meth ingredients that will help law enforcement identify and stop criminals who make meth. The western sheriffs’ meeting will take place at River Rock Grill, located at 4041 Highway 19 West in Bryson City. SBI director Robin Pendergraft will join the Attorney General at the meeting. Sheriffs from Avery, Buncombe, Cherokee, Clay, Graham, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Macon, McDowell, Swain, Transylvania and Yancey counties are expected to attend.

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