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Wednesday December 16, 2009

Serving Clay County

Volume 23, Number 50

SECOND SUSPECT SKETCH RELEASED

Only 50 Cents

Straight on view of Kristi Cornwell Suspect has been released since Ranger incident See Page 2A

SMOKY MOUNTAIN

THE LITTLEST ANGEL

Singing, Dancing Angels, and a gala of appreciation

SENTINEL

Kerosene Pumps

on Lockdown

Three kerosene pumps have had to discontinue service due to possible contamination

Georgia Department of Agriculture fuel inspectors today locked down three more kerosene pumps in North Georgia due to gasoline contamination in addition to the one shut down yesterday in Carnesville, Commissioner Tommy Irvin announced. Commissioner Irvin is warning consumers who purchased kerosene on or after October 19, 2009, at any of the following stations in Blairsville or Hiawassee not to use the product and to return the kerosene to the stores for reimbursement. The contaminated kerosene has the potential to cause an explosion or fire if used in home heaters or lamps. The stores where the routine samples were found to be contaminated and the pumps closed today were: Mountain Express # 10; 7609 Murphy Hwy; Blairsville; Treetops Lakeside; 1300 Hwy 75; Hiawassee; and Marathon #1; 163 South Main Street, Hiawassee. Inspectors closed the kerosene pumps yesterday at Royal Food Mart #54 Chevron, located at 9508 Lavonia Road, Carnesville. All of the kerosene pumps at the four North Georgia stores will remain closed and no sales will be allowed until the problem has been corrected and new samples have been tested and approved, Irvin said. Precautions always should be taken with any space heaters. Check out the heater and the kerosene for malfunctions and contamination between uses, especially if it has been sitting for sometime. Kerosene heaters should be filled and tested in an outdoor setting, operated only in a properly ventilated room on level surfaces, and kept at least 36 inches away from combustible walls, furnishings and materials, such as furniture, drapes, fabric and paper and clothing. Turn it off before going to sleep, and never leave a kerosene heater unattended.

Desiree Reynolds / Sentinel Photos (Above) Hailey Saraney flashes a winning smile as The Littlest Angel. (Below) The cast of the Littlest Angel, singing the final song. (Bottom Right) Hailey Saraney and Dosch Somervell, as The Littlest Angel and The Understanding Angel.

By: Desiree Reynolds Sentinel Writer The Peacock Playhouse and the Licklog Players hosted a holiday gala saturday night in appreciation of all of the local businesses who have supported them throughout the years. The Gala, which had an abundant turnout, preceded an 8 p.m. performance of the playhouse’s holiday show, “The Littlest Angel.” The play, a musical written by Joseph Robinette and directed by Nancy Davis, is about a very small little angel, played by Hailey Saraney, who shows up on Heaven’s doorstep. Due to her size, she is called “The Littlest Angel” but her disposition is not the sweetest. In fact her personality is quite large in contrast with her small frame. As she adjusts to life in Heaven, she is helped by the Understanding Angel, played by Dosch Somervell. The culmination of the story comes on the night when

Christ is born, and The Littlest Angel has to decide what her gift for the Baby Jesus will be. She is not sure her choice is the right one, but is surprised at the outcome. The show, which ran through December 10th through the 18th, is full of colorful cast members that truly brought this production to life. With superb singing and choreography, one can see all of the hard work and dedication that truly made this show a suc-

Master Gardener Training Offered

Protect Your Identity over the holidays Don’t give a gift to a theif this Christmas -

Training begins February 1st, 2010 See Page 4A We e k l y We at h e r Fo re c a s t

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NEWS

BRIEFS

H1N1 Flu View Update During week 48 (November 29-December 5, 2009), influenza activity continued to decrease in the U.S 478 (8.9%) specimens tested by U.S. World Health Organization (WHO) and National Respiratory and Enteric Virus Surveillance System (NREVSS) collaborating laboratories and reported to CDC/ Influenza Division were positive for influenza. Over 99% of all subtyped influenza A viruses being reported to CDC were 2009 influenza A (H1N1) viruses. The proportion of deaths attributed to pneumonia and influenza (P&I) was above the epidemic threshold for the tenth consecutive week. Sixteen influenza-associated pediatric deaths were reported.Thirteen of these deaths were associated with 2009 influenza A (H1N1) virus infection, two were associated with an influenza A virus for which the subtype was undetermined, and one was associated with an influenza B virus infection. The proportion of outpatient visits for influenza-like illness (ILI) was 2.7% which is above the national baseline of 2.3%. Six of the 10 regions reported ILI at or above region-specific baseline levels. Regions 3, 6, 8 and 10 reported ILI below their region specific baselines. Fourteen states reported geographically widespread influenza activity, Puerto Rico and 25 states reported regional influenza activity, the District of Columbia and seven states reported local influenza activity, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam and four states reported sporadic influenza activity.

Flu May Be Epidemic, But Ignored, Throughout Africa Flu epidemics could be raging throughout the African continent, but health experts may be incorrectly dismissing the burden of the disease there as negligible, according to Dutch researchers. Maria Yazdanbakhsh and Peter Kresmsner of the Leiden University Medical Center said in a statement that sporadic reports from different regions in Africa indicate that influenza is circulating and may be regularly causing epidemics. The researchers said that influenza in temperate regions of the world is seasonal, but the illness is present all year in warm and tropical regions. The researchers said there is inadequate surveillance of the disease on the continent. Recent threats of pandemic influenza have prompted active monitoring in parts of Latin America and Southeast Asia, but the prevalence and incidence of the flu in most tropical countries, especially in Africa, is unknown, they said. They cited a World Health Organization report on H1N1 flu in May 2009 that contained reports of infected patients in many countries, but none from Africa. Meanwhile, two reports on October 2009 confirmed swine flu cases from South Africa and Kenya, indicating the virus was circulating on the continent. Their report is published in the Public Library of Science journal Medicine.

Over 22 Million Bush E-Mails Recovered - Lawsuit Settled Nearly two dozen million White House e-mail messages that were believed lost during the Bush administration have been recovered, the National Security Archive said on Monday, announcing the Obama administration's settlement of the lawsuit the group filed in 2007 along with another non-profit. The National Security Archive and the Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW) had sued the Executive Office of the President following information from whistleblowers that the White House email system had not systematically archived messages since 2002, and that 5 million e-mails generated during March 2003 and October 2005 were missing. The Bush administration had sought the dismissal of the case, saying the courts had no authority to order it to recover the missing e-mail messages. “We have done our best in this case to maximize the number of e-mails that have been found or reconstructed from disaster recovery backup tapes,” Kristen Lejnieks, counsel for the National Security Archive, said in a statement. “The government can now can find and search over 22 million more e-mails than they could in late 2005. They also will restore 94 calendar days from backup tapes.” The two groups say the Bush administration failed to recover messages lost after it stopped using an old records management system 2002. The missing messages cover a period that included the invasion of Iraq and the revelation of Valerie Plame’s identity as a CIA operative, allegedly by Bush officials in retaliation for criticism of the administration by Plame’s husband.

Wednesday December 16, 2009

New Sketch of Suspect Released Straight on view of Kristi Cornwell Suspect has been released since Ranger incident

As result of the ongoing investigation by the Union County Sheriff ’s Office and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation into the disappearance of Kristi Cornwell, investigators are asking for the publics’ help in identifying the man in a sketch who was involved in an incident in Ranger, North Carolina in early August. Ranger is 25 miles from the site where Kristi disappeared. The timing and the vehicle description involved in this incident indicate a possible connection to Kristi’s disap-

pearance. Kristi Cornwell was last heard from at approximately 9:00 pm on August 11 while walking on Jones Creek Road in Blairsville, Georgia. The incident in Ranger occurred around 9:00pm on August 2 while a woman was walking along a road toward the Ranger Community Center. A vehicle pulled up behind her and knocked her to the ground. A man got out of the vehicle and as he approached the woman, another car drove up and the man left. As the man drove by, the woman, who was not seriously injured, saw his profile since the driver’s side window was rolled down. She also noticed that the vehicle is a silver, late model SUV. The North Carolina State Patrol was notified and interviewed the woman, but no report was filed. After media reports of Kristi’s disappearance included that a white or light colored SUV was seen in that area of Union County the evening of August 11, the woman called the tip line to report what had happened to her. With the assistance from the Cherokee County North Carolina Sheriff ’s Offices and the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation, GBI agents have been pursuing this lead. GBI

Forensic Artist Marla Lawson completed a sketch of the Ranger suspect based on the woman’s description. She indicated that he is a white male in his mid-20’s with dark hair. The woman also told agents that the vehicle was a silver, late model Nissan Xterra with tinted windows and with a brush guard on the front. Using the sketch and vehicle description, authorities conducted numerous neighborhood canvasses in Cherokee County but were not successful in developing solid leads. It was also determined that between 400 and 500 vehicles matching the suspect vehicle are registered in that area of North Carolina. Investigators are now asking anyone with information on the possible identity of the man in the sketch or on the Nissan Xterra to please call the GBI Tip Line at 1-800-597-TIPS (8477). To date, GBI agents have conducted 1,168 individual, documented investigative acts as part of this continuing investigation. This does not include the 11 days of active searching for Kristi during August in Union County by numerous local, state and federal agencies. Six hundred and sixty-four (664) tips were called in to the tip line and

investigated. The neighborhood canvassing involved conducting interviews at 450 houses in the area.The GBI case file is now 32 volumes and continues to expand as additional information is developed and thoroughly investigated. The disappearance of Kristi Cornwell has been and will continue to be an investigative priority for the GBI and the Union County Sheriff ’s Office.

If you have any information that may be linked to the abduction of Kristi Cornwell or any leads pertaining to the suspect in the sketch - please contact the Georgia Bureau of Investigation at 1-800597-TIPS (8477)

What do we want for our Children’s Future The Region A Partnership for Children hosted a new public engagement initiative on Thursday, November 19, 2009 in Waynesville at the Haywood County Offices from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. to help establish what North Carolina communities want for their

youngest children and the future of the state. The forum, funded by the Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation with participation and leadership from North Carolina Partnership for Children Smart Start, brought together a diverse mix of more than ninety citizen delegates to begin a new dialogue about early education and children’s health in North Carolina. “Among our ninety plus delegates were parents, business leaders, health care providers, education professionals and policy makers from throughout western North Carolina,” said Janice

Edgerton, Executive Director of the Region A Partnership for Children. “The local forum in Waynesville included invitees of Smart Start Partnerships from Region A as well as Buncombe, Henderson, Madison, McDowell, Mitchell/Yancey, Rutherford/ Polk, and Transylvania. The day was an opportunity for delegates to learn, share and find common ground regarding what the children of North Carolina need to thrive. We all know and appreciate that communities thrive when children thrive.” Three, larger summits will take place

in early 2010 in Asheville, Durham, and Greenville.The larger summits will be an opportunity to build on the lessons learned from the smaller forums conducted throughout the state. “The goal of this effort is to assist in informing and developing public policy to better prepare our young children for success in school and life,” stated Edgerton. To learn more about this public engagement work, please visit www. smartinvestingnc.org

I-40 Rockslide Update

Area on top of rock mass being cleared for rock bolt installation; hauling continues

Workers from subcontractor Janod Construction Tuesday spent the day clearing an area on top of the rock mass for the eventual installation of rock bolts to stabilize the mass. Crews cut down trees growing on top of the rock mass to provide a clear area to work. Eventually another blast will take place to try to create a flat area to stabilize the mass. Additionally, rock bolts will be installed.

Contractor Phillips & Jordan spent Tuesday breaking up boulders into smaller pieces to be hauled away. Seventeen trucks hauled away about 300 loads of debris. As of Monday, crews hauled 4,162 loads of debris from the site, which is the equivalent of dump trucks lined up end to end for 23 miles. There is about 15,000 cubic yards of material at the bottom of the slide to be hauled away.

Severe Winter Weather Bashes Most of U.S. Two major storm systems hit - unrelated to each other - pounded parts of the U.S. Monday. One system took its toll on California while another made a mess of the Midwest. California's weather is expected to affect parts of the country through Wednesday. The wintry weather, caused by a small disturbance over the Midwest, has claimed the lives of at least three people so far in weather-related accidents. The first two accidents occurred in northern California on Sunday, and a third just northwest of Indianapolis, according to reports. Numerous accidents were reported in the states and areas affected by the weather conditions as the disturbance moved its way onto Ohio and Wisconsin. Weather experts warned travelers to exercise extreme caution when approaching areas affected by the weather system. The storm, they said, could cause major power outages through Wednesday and make traveling impossible in some areas. It may also spread frigid air southward by the middle of the week. Parts of Iowa and Illinois could and have already seen from one to 10 inches of snow, according to collected weather reports. Blizzard warnings are in effect for parts of the central Rockies and the Mogollon Rim in Arizona, where whiteouts are possible. Subzero temperatures are expected throughout the Midwest and northern Plains.

Smoky Mountain Sentinel

The overall project will take several months to complete. Travelers still can reach Western North Carolina via I-40 from the east and I-26 to the north and south. Exits 20 and 27 on I-40 provide access to popular destinations west of Asheville. In Tennessee, exits 432 through 451 provide access to popular destinations in southeastern Tennessee. The detour route is 53 miles longer and takes an additional 45 minutes to an hour driving time. Motorists traveling on I-40 West should take Exit 53B (I-240 West) in Asheville and follow I-240 West to Exit 4A (I-26 West). Follow I-26 West (a North Carolina Scenic Highway) to I-81 South in Tennessee. Take I-81 South and follow it back to I-40 at mile marker 421. Eastbound motorists should use the reverse directions. Additionally, travelers cannot take U.S. 64 from North Carolina into Tennessee due to a separate rockslide that blocked the highway near the Ocoee 2 Dam in Polk County, Tenn., about eight miles west of North Carolina. U.S. 64 will be closed for several

months. Motorists are advised to take U.S. 74 to Tennessee 68 North at Ducktown through McMinn County, then onto I-75 at Sweetwater in Monroe County. NCDOT reminds motorists to stay alert, follow instructions on highway message boards, obey the posted speed limit, leave early and travel at non-peak times when possible. Plan ahead before driving by visiting the NCDOT Traveler Information Management System Web site at www.ncdot.gov/ traffictravel/ or calling 511, the state’s free travel information line, for current travel conditions. NCDOT also provides alerts about traffic congestion, construction work and changes to the ferry schedule on Twitter. To access them, visit www.ncdot.gov/travel/twitter/. For daily rockslide updates, please visit the N.C. Department of Transportation Web site www.ncdot.gov and click on the I-40 rockslide daily news and information section. Interviews and on-site requests should go through the NCDOT Communications Office at (919) 733-2522.

Asheville Volvo plant closing Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) to consolidate North American industrial operations

As a result, the company’s Asheville, NC, USA manufacturing facility will stop its activities by 31st March 2010. The closing will affect 228 employees. Volvo CE will incur an estimated restructuring cost of 100 MSEK (16 MUSD), which will be recorded mainly in the fourth quarter of 2009. The production from Asheville will be moved to other existing Volvo CE locations while at the same time ensuring uninterrupted supply to our North American dealers and customers. The

manufacturing of wheel loaders will move to Arvika, Sweden; excavators will be produced in Changwon, South Korea and Cabs for motor graders will be moved to Shippensburg, PA, USA. “Although the decision was necessary from a business standpoint, we fully understand that the affected employees – who in the current downturn are already going through challenging times – will face additional difficulties,” said Patrick Olney, Executive VP, Global Operations. “We will do what

we can to help our employees through the transition.” “Volvo CE’s commitment to the US market remains strong,” said Olof Persson, President and CEO of Volvo Construction Equipment, “This decision has no impact on the ongoing significant investments in Shippensburg, PA, USA, where the Volvo CE plant is being expanded to receive the motor grader production and the manufacturing of grader cabs.” A small number of employees from

the Asheville plant will be offered positions in the company’s Shippensburg, PA manufacturing operation. Employment opportunities in other North American Volvo Group companies will also be investigated. A comprehensive Human Resources plan has been developed which will include, but will not be limited to, counseling support and assistance in the search for new employment.

OPINION

Smoky Mountain Sentinel Wednesday December 16, 2009

Social Security Wisdom EDITOR’S INBOX This holiday season - don’t give a gift to a thief By: Cindy G. McCubbins Columnist It’s been said that the true spirit of the holiday season is in giving, not receiving. With this in mind, it’s likely that you will be spending a bit of time shopping for presents, your credit card flying out of your wallet or purse like wind-blown snow. But as you shop in stores and online, be sure you’re not giving a surprise gift to an identity thief. Because the surprise will be on you — and it won’t be a good one. Sometimes when you do business, you may be asked for your Social Security number. In many cases, those asking don’t really need it. If anyone asks for your Social Security number or other identifying information, ask them why they want it and whether they absolutely need it. They can refuse

you service if you don’t provide it, but consider whether the service is worth the risk. Identity theft is one of the fastest growing crimes in America. Someone who steals your Social Security number can use it to get other personal information about you. Identity thieves can use your number to apply for more credit in your name. Then, they use the credit cards but leave the bills for you. Falling victim to identity theft can ruin your credit rating and make things difficult for months or years to come. Identity thieves can obtain your Social Security number, credit card numbers, and personal information in a number of ways, including: Stealing wallets, purses, and mail; Intercepting personal information you provide on an unsecured website, from business or personnel records at work, and personal information in your home; Rummaging through your trash, and public trash dumps, for personal information; Posing as someone who needs your information, such as a government

agency, employer, bank, or landlord; and Buying personal information from store clerks, employees, or other individuals who have the information. There are things you can do to protect your identity. Don’t give out your Social Security number to just anyone. Don’t carry your card in your wallet or purse; keep your Social Security card locked away in a safe place with your other important papers. Check your credit reports once a year, which you can do for free at www.annualcreditreport.com. Want to learn more? Read our online fact sheet, Identity Theft And Your Social Security Number, at www.ssa. gov/pubs/10064.html. If you think someone is using your number or identity, contact the Federal Trade Commission at www.ftc. gov/bcp/edu/microsites/idtheft, or call 1-877-IDTHEFT (1-877-438-4338) (TTY 1-866-653-4261.) Protect your information this holiday season, and you’ll enjoy a little more “peace on earth” in the year to come.

What do the republican’s have in mind? By: Jim Fitzgerald Columnist The news media has just informed us that Georgia’s tax revenue will be short another one billion dollars this fiscal year.This serious shortfall comes on the heels of last year’s loss of several billion dollars to the state coffers. Georgia’s lawmakers, who are considered to be fiscal conservatives, are being presented with a dilemma, an experiment, a golden opportunity. One the one hand, the Republican Party has stated the belief in limited government and tax cuts, both of which mean decreased tax revenue. On the other hand, they have never needed to truly face the reality of decreased tax revenue until now. Now is the time that the proverbial tire hits the road because they have to make the hard decisions of how limited government should be and how much revenue a limited and small government will require. How are they going to respond to this situation, particularly since they have been asking for just such a situation for decades? How are Georgia’s citizens going to respond when they get a taste of small government? Recently, in DC, the Republicans proposed significant tax cuts as the solution to the severe economic downturn and job losses we have been suf-

fering. According to Republican fiscal doctrine, a tax cut now would put more money into everyone’s pocket, the people will go out and spend it, corporations will have an incentive for investments, and the increased growth would produce more jobs and tax revenue than before the tax cut. This, then, is the perfect time for a tax cut in the State of Georgia. This is the perfect climate to test Republican economic policies. Georgia’s state legislators significantly cut the budget last year, eliminated services and programs, furloughed state employees, and, with a significant infusion of federal stimulus funds, were able to balance the budget. They told us the budget was “cut to the bone” last year. Unfortunately, taxpayers were just reminded that one of their budget cuts increased local homeowner’s property taxes by several hundred dollars. Even more unfortunate, Georgia Republicans cut significant monies from education, but that was not new. Since Governor Perdue took office, the Republicans have cut billions of dollars from education. For some reason, Republicans do not appear to value education. Maybe that is why Georgia ranks among the lowest states in term of literacy, high school dropout

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rates, and test scores. In fact, we have the lowest high school graduation rates in the country. Alabama and Louisiana rank higher than Georgia! It is estimated that almost 25%, 1 in 4, of Georgia’s citizens are illiterate. Fannin, Towns, and Union Counties have a 21 to 30% illiteracy rate. These figures are from 2000 to 2003, suggesting an already dismal base rate at the very time Republicans started slashing the educational budget. What do they have against education? What do they have against an educated citizenry? The cuts in education are not the result of low taxes. Have you heard of Tax Freedom Day? Tax Freedom Day is the day when a taxpayer has earned enough money to pay their total tax bill for the year. Georgia ranks 17th in the nation because its citizens have to work until April 12th before they reach Tax Freedom Day. By contrast, North Carolina ranks 25th, Florida ranks 27th, Tennessee ranks 36th, South Carolina ranks 38th, and Alabama ranks 44th. In terms of total taxes paid to the state and counties, Georgia ranks 16th in the nation. In both cases, Tax Freedom Day and total taxes, the higher the number, the better for the citizens. Georgia has the 16th highest taxes in the nation and among the worst school systems. If you look at the Business Tax Climate, of the states surrounding Georgia, only North Carolina has a worst tax climate. Georgia ranks 29th in the nation; not good for a Republican state with pro-business rhetoric. North Carolina is worst; ranking 39th in the nation. Maybe now we know why so many new automobile manufacturing plants went to neighboring states. How will Georgia’s citizens adjust to the decrease in services, the shortened hours of public offices, and the compromise in public safety? How will they feel when they see the results of small government and limited government services? Consider the fact that Georgia State Troopers are likely to lose 10% of their yearly pay because of imposed furloughs over the next 12 months. Their furloughs come on top of last year’s budget cut for Public Safety. Georgia has as few as eight Troopers covering 12 to 15 counties while 20 of the 48 patrol posts are closed anywhere from 11 p.m. and 2 a.m. and do not reopen until 7 a.m. Now is the time for Georgia’s Republican legislators to step up to the plate and demonstrate, in detail, exactly what small and limited government looks like. Now is the time for Georgia citizens to learn whether tax cuts in an economic downturn will actually generate more state and county revenue.This financial crisis has been tailor-made for the Republicans to demonstrate their political beliefs in action. I hope they step up to the plate because I, for one, would like to see what the Republicans have had in mind all these years.

A message to Jim Fitzgerald

Jim Fitzgerald, whose column “To the Left” appear in this newspaper, is articulate, polite and thankfully, free from bombast. He, however, cannot brig himself to criticize Barak Obama, when such criticism is legitimate and and long overdue; in the same way that loyal Republicans blindly supported George W. Bush in spite of his disastrous decisions and political gaffes. Those of us who have have been long witness to the procession of sorry individuals offered to us as presidential candidates can hardly be blamed for coming to the con-

clusion that this country is no longer producing men ( or women) worthy or capable of the task. At fault, I believe , is the present-day educational system which places sports before learning, fails to emphasize logic and reason, glorifies the military, and shamefully permits religion to bring pressure to bear on curriculum. Is there no one who cares, as I do, that we have this alarming shortage of Lochinvars to come to our rescue as a nation?

Along with our Christmas mail I found a Holiday Greeting post card from Clay County in the form of the long awaited property revaluation notice. I’m certain this has added to the seasonal cheer of just about every resident of our county! I certainly realize that our tax dollars are needed to provide the funding for schools, health, police, emergency, fire, and various other social services. All of these are indeed deserving and very important to our quality of life. However, coast to coast, north, south, east and west we are in a deep recession. All home and property (including commercial property) values have collapsed. I don’t believe there is anyone who can honestly say they have not been affected by the financial and property collapse. To quote our Federal Govt. statistics as published in Wikipedia a few months ago: “At the National level, housing prices peaked in 2005, started to decline in 2006, and may not have yet hit the bottom.” In addition, on May 26, 2009 the Standard and Poor / Case-Shiller National Price Index Report states this finding of fact: “As of March 2009, average home prices across the United States are at similar levels to what they were in the fourth quarter of 2002” Hmmm, now consider this: My home is nothing special, a moderate size mountain home, nearly 30 years old, 3 bedrooms, 1 fireplace, cedar plank covered up with vinyl plastic siding, and sitting on under 4 acres of hilly property. It’s definitely not a McMansion and I’m not near the lake or in a large ritzy prime subdivision. Heck, the only time I have a view of the water is when it rains. None the less, my revaluation came in at $89,400 more than 5 years ago! To put this into perspective they are trying to tell me and want me to believe and accept that my property increased in

value by $1,500 PER MONTH each and every month or $50 a day for 5 years! Try this on your own increase, divide it out and see what numbers you come up with and if it makes any sense to you? To me it is all stupidly absurd. Something is vastly wrong here. It’s as if the appraisers are trying to ignore the recession and real estate, property bubble burst and somehow convince everyone in Clay County that this is the only place in the entire USA where prices have defied gravity and increased, a lot! By what our federal govt. reports and nation wide research data indicates to me is that many of our counties properties are about the same or may have actually declined in value from our last assessment. With all this in mind, I don’t believe any property in this county has increased in value beyond a single digit percentage. Consider all the new developments around here that have failed or how prices have been slashed, excuse me, chain sawed and they still can’t sell the homes to break even, or even sell at a loss to get out from under the payments. Then consider those all around us out of work, barely scraping by, scrimping to pay their mortgage and feed their kids. How about our senior citizens on a fixed social security income pittance? Three to Five Hundred dollars of an increase in taxes may not be much to some folks, but to quite a few, perhaps more than you even realize, it pays to heat their homes for a few months over the winter or put food on the table! Oh, by the way, you only have till January 7 to phone for and request a meeting to appeal the increase. Your choice is to stand up and be counted or roll over. I personally suspect they really don’t want to hear it. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year everyone! Robert Haas- Hayesville, NC

Sincerley: Ruth Elizabeth Ramsey

Clay County Property Revaluations

From the desk of Heath Shuler Congressman Shuler Votes to Extend Tax Relief to Families and Businesses

Congressman Heath Shuler (DWaynesville) voted yesterday for H.R. 4213, legislation that extends current tax relief to middle class families and businesses as a way to spur job growth. The legislation package extends research and development tax credits used by nearly 11,000 corporations, property tax relief for up to 30 million homeowners, and college tuition tax deductions for about 4.5 million families. “These tax credits have provided a financial boost to small businesses and American families, and not extending them through 2010 would cause undue harm during an already difficult economic time,” said Congressman

Sentinel Staff FRANK BRADLEY, Publisher BRYAN HUGHES, Editor DEBBIE WALKER Editorial Assistant Circulation PAT MCCOLLUM Bookkeeping

Shuler. “This legislation, among other things, helps maintain tax deductions for much-needed charitable giving. As we approach the Christmas season, it is important to me that contributions to charities are encouraged.” For middle class families, the bill extends tax deductions for qualified college tuition and real property taxes. It maintains tax breaks for classroom materials purchased by teachers, up to $250. The bill continues tax credits for businesses that participate in environmental remediation, as well as relief for alternative fuel and hybrid vehicles.Tax credits are also extended for businesses that continue to pay their National Guard and Reserve employees when The Smoky Mountain Sentinel is in the eighteenth 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 news@smokymountainsentinel.com. 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.

they are called up to serve. By a 241 to 181 vote, the House approved the Tax Extenders Act of 2009 that continues many current tax breaks through 2010. The bill’s cost of roughly $31 billion will be offset by provisions that will end preferential tax treatment previously given to investment fund managers and by cracking down on offshore tax havens. “Making sure that these tax cuts were paid for was essential. These tax breaks can help grow our economy while not adding to our already enormous federal deficit,” Congressman Shuler said.

The Smoky Mountain Sentinel (USPS 015-778) is published weekly each Wednesday. Subscriptions are $25 a year in Clay County; $45 out of area. Single Copy price $.50. Periodical postage paid at Hayesville, NC. Call 828-389-8338 to subscribe. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Smoky Mountain Sentinel, 116 Sanderson St., PO Box 870, Hayesville, NC 28904

COMMUNITY

Smoky Mountain Sentinel Wednesday December 16, 2009

Remember our Veterans this Holiday Too Good for Drugs and Violence

Gov. Bev Perdue urges North Carolinians to remember our veterans and their families this holiday season, especially residents of the N.C. State Veterans Nursing Homes. One way to do this is to send cards, wish-list gifts or monetary donations to benefit residents. “I want to ask every North Carolinian to think about our veterans this holiday season and recognize their selfless service and their sacrifices,” said Governor Perdue. “We are in the process of creating two new State Veterans Homes – one in the east and one in the west – to provide much needed residential healthcare for our veterans, but we can all help more immediately by showing our generosity during the holidays.” Citizens, organizations and businesses can send cards and make holi-

day donations to provide cheer to residents at the State Veterans Homes in Fayetteville and Salisbury. A monetary contribution will be used to give a resident a gift personally selected for them by staff. The two homes have a wish list, for those who would like to contribute specific items. Needs at either site include T-shirts, sweatpants and sweatshirts in sizes large or extra large; non-skid socks; electric razors; body spray and body wash; lotion or aftershave; and DVDs or games. Contributions received through the nonprofit Friends of the N.C. State Veterans Homes are tax deductible. Monetary contributions can be made to Friends of the N.C. State Veterans Homes and should be addressed to Holiday Cheer, c/o James Woodard, N.C. Division of Veterans Affairs,

1315 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, N.C. 27699-1315. Donations may be accompanied by a signed card or given anonymously. The Governor recently announced that the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has conditionally approved the state’s application for federal assistance to build 100-bed State Veterans Homes in Kinston and Buncombe County. Each of the new facilities will provide residential care for up to 100 veterans and will employ 150-170 staff. The Division of Veterans Affairs in the N.C. Department of Administration administers the 150-bed Fayetteville facility, which opened its doors in 1999, and the 99-bed Salisbury facility, which admitted its first residents in 2004. Wartime veterans receive priority in admission.

Master Gardener training offered The Clay and Cherokee County Cooperative Extension Offices will be offering a Master Gardener training beginning February 1, 2010 and continuing on Mondays and Thursdays through March 29th. The training will be held at the Brasstown Community Center with each session starting at 9:00am and lasting until 1:00pm. A

CATHOLIC MASS TIME IMMACULATE HEART OF MARY - HAYESVILLE Mass - Wednesday at 5 P.M. Mass - Saturday at 4 P.M. ~ Mass ~ Sunday at 9 A.M.

SAINT WILLIAM - MURPHY Mass - Saturday at 6 P.M. Mass ~ Sunday at 11 A.M.

Pastor: Rev. George M. Kloster Jackson Home Services & Remodeling Attention to Detail (828) 361-7336 cell P.O. Box 841, Hayesville, NC 28904 Mountain Home Show Booth #15

New Innkeeper Best Rates in Hayesville

Chatuge Mtn. Inn 4238 Hwy 64 East Hayesville, NC

828-389-9340

The Corner

Butcher Shop Fresh from the Farm

493 Main St., Hayesville, NC 28904

tuition fee of $75.00 will be collected on February 1st, to cover expenses of the training and cost of manuals. Some of the special trainings and topics will include organic gardening, a Shittake mushroom workshop, a hands-on Plant Propagation workshop and care & pruning of fruit trees among others. Becoming an Extension Master Gardener Volunteer has certain responsibilities and an obligation to contribute a certain amount of volunteer time each year to the community through Extension and Master Gardener programs in return for receiving more than 40 of horticultural training. Interest has been high and seating is limited. If you would like to participate in this rewarding and unique learning experience, please contact Silas Brown at the Clay County Extension Office by January 25th, at 389-6305.

Program emphasized in classrooms

Elementary students in Cherokee County are seeing a new component in their classrooms this school year as the Mendez Too Good for Drugs and Violence programs are implemented. Lindsay Carpenter, ATOD (Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drugs) Prevention Coordinator stated “The Mendez Too Good for Drugs prevention program is the most comprehensive program I have experienced. It teaches students not only the risks associated with drug use, but the importance of setting goals and making good choices. Unlike grade specific programs, this program allows for sequential skill building and long-term retention beginning at the

kindergarten level." For almost 30 years, the Mendez Foundation has helped schools create safe and positive learning environments by providing the nationally recognized evidence-based and researchbased prevention curricula, Too Good for Drugs and Violence. This curriculum promotes character values, socialemotional skills, and healthy beliefs for elementary and middle school students. Mendez Foundation programs are taught in more than 3500 school districts in all 50 states. With funding for the program currently through the Safe Schools/ Healthy Student Initiative, the Men-

dez program will be concentrated in grades K-5 initially. Future implementation will focus on grades 6-9. For more information contact Lindsay Carpenter, at 828-835-3295 or Shonna Moore, SS/HS Project Director, at 828-835-3295. Lindsay Carpenter will be a guest on Contact – a radio program on WKRK on Thursday December 17th at 10:30 am. She will be joined by Jenni Irwin, Tobacco Educator and Safe School’s Healthy Student Advocate, as well as Jeana Hardin, Director of Public Relations for Cherokee County Schools.

The North Georgia Health District has now opened provision of H1N1 vaccine to the general public. Health departments in Cherokee, Fannin, Gilmer, Murray, Pickens and Whitfield Counties will now provide the vaccine at no charge to the general population.However,an administrative fee may be charged through Medicare, Medicaid, and all third party insurance including State Health Benefit plans for United Health Care and CIGNA. Residents are asked to bring their insurance cards at the time of service. Service will be on a first-come, firstserved basis until the current vaccine supply is depleted. “We are still urging our residents within the high priority groups to get their H1N1 vaccination as quickly as possible while supplies last,” said North Georgia District Health Director Dr. Harold Pitts. “However, the demand for the vaccine from people in these groups has decreased and 19,000 doses of vaccine were shipped to our health departments last week. Therefore, we

feel it is time to open this up to everyone.” H1N1 vaccine doses were initially offered to five priority groups the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) determined were most at risk of developing complications from the virus: Pregnant women Health care and emergency medical personnel People who live with or care for infants younger than 6 months Anyone from 6 months to 24 years of age, and Anyone from 25 to 64 years of age who have medical conditions that put them at higher risk for influenza related complications Although the pandemic seems to be slowing with fewer cases currently reported in Georgia and nationally, residents should remain on guard. Dr. Pitts explained, “Pandemic outbreaks typically occur in a series of waves. Our concern is that holiday gatherings and travel will give the in-

fluenza virus a chance to infect more people and trigger another wave.” While most people who catch H1N1 recover at home without medical treatment, this pandemic has claimed around 4,000 lives in the United States, including nearly 600 child fatalities, according to the CDC. The public should also continue basic prevention methods that help keep flu and other contagious diseases from spreading: Practice good hand-washing hygiene. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers. Get your seasonal flu shot as soon as it becomes available. Cover coughs and sneezes. Stay home if you are sick. Keep sick children at home. More H1N1 information is available by calling local county health departments (phone numbers are below), by going online to www.nghd. org or by dialing Georgia’s toll-free Flu Hotline at 1-888-H1N1-INFO (1888-4161-4636).

North Georgia offers H1N1 Vaccine

Worship at the Church of your choice Dance Classes Register Now!

“Ballet”, “Tap”, “Jazz” and MORE! Ages 3 to Adult, Beginner to Expert

389-3415

Brasstown Dance Academy Now Accepting New Students 706-379-2651

On US 76 on the hill across from the EMC in Young Harris

Shrimps Seafood Market

Welcome New Patients Hayesville Family Practice

“Featuring WILD Seafood” Hours: Tues. Wed. Thurs. Fri. 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sat. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

450 Hwy. 64 Business, suite 4 (828) 389-2273 Carol Mixon, FNP-BC Sharon Reynolds, FNP-BC Keith Plott, FNP-BC

68 SandersonHayesville, St. On the SquareNC • Four Corners Phone (828) 361-4479 Owners - Jan & Bill Clements

Hardwood • Carpet • Vinyl Ceramic Tile • Laminate

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off The Square 80 Main Street hayesville, nC 28904 Tues. - Fri. 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sat. 10 a.m. -2 p.m.

Parties All Outdoor Events “Customer Service Will be Our First Priority” P.O. Box 95 Hayesville, NC 28904 www.takeabreakportables.com 828-389-0505 • 706-435-0515

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• Special Occasion Banners • Vehicle Lettering • Business Signs • Real Estate Signs • Magnetics

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Take A Break Rachel’s Florist 1123 Hwy 64 Business, Portables Hayesville Construction Site, Special Events/

A Good FLOORING Yarn For The hand KniTTer

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Townson Rose Funeral Home, LLC

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Jacky Jones

All Occasions Florist Gift Baskets Made to Order Eternal Light Crosses, Angels, and Flags NEW BOOKS • GIFTS • CARDS ESPRESSO EXPRESSO • TEAS GOURMET DESSERTS MOUNTAIN-MADE GIFTS • CANDIES SPECIAL ORDERS WELCOME!

Courthouse Square, Hayesville, NC 28904 828-389-1492

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Phillips & Lloyd Book Shop

Keep Your Smile Beautiful

Serving the tri-State area for 23 yearS

General Dentistry

Jason H. Shook, DDS, PA 1847 Hwy 64 Business, Hayesville, NC

(828) 389-2168

222 NC Hwy 69 Hayesville, NC 28904 Phone: 828-389-1958 • Fax: 828-389-0789 www.jackyjonesfivestardealers.com

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ZOOM! Whitening • COsMetiC PrOCedures • CrOWns & Bridges Veneers, BOnded (tOOth COlOred Fillings) • guM disease treatMent iMPlant CrOWns & dentures • One Visit CrOWns, inlays & Onlays (CereC)

P & r Paving, inc.

Kenny & Freda Phillps,

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We are reaDy to roLL!

LOCAL

Wednesday December 16, 2009

Tributes

Thomas Cecil Williams

Thomas Cecil Williams, age 89, of Brasstown, NC passed away Tuesday, December 8, 2009 at the Murphy Medical Center. He was a native of Randolph County, NC and lived in Clearwater, Florida before moving to Brasstown over 25 years ago. Thomas was the son of the late Lewis Thomas and Emma Ollie VonCannon Williams. He was a US Air Force Veteran and a retired sales manager for Larry Dimmitt Chevrolet and Cadillac in Clearwater,

Florida. Thomas attended Hickory Stands United Methodist Church in Brasstown, NC. He was a wonderful husband and everyone thought of him as Honest Tom. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Evelyn Haas Williams and he was the love of her life; five nieces and seven nephews. Funeral Services was held at 1:00 PM, Friday, December 11, 2009 at the Hickory Stands United Methodist Church in Brasstown, NC. Rev. Jacob

cember 11, 2009 at the Hickory Stands United Methodist Church in Brasstown, NC. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made in memory of Thomas Cecil Williams to the Hickory Stands United Methodist Church Cemetery Fund, PO Box 136, Brasstown, NC 28902. You may send tributes to the Williams family at www.mem.com or view other obits at www.townson-rose.com Townson-Rose Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

NY, but had lived most of his life in St. Petersburg, FL before moving to Clay County in 1979. Jack founded Dorman Heating and Cooling. He started the business with only two employees and a lot of ambition and personal care of his customers. He grew the business to approximately 20 employees. In 2003, when the business became self sufficient, he decided to take an early retirement and enjoy life to the fullest. Jack took on many endeavors such as aviation in his late teen years, metal sculpting, travels, and recently developed Appalachian Jeep Adventures

throughout Western North Carolina. He was a member of the Clay Masonic Lodge #301. He was active in the Chamber of Commercial Affairs and community relations. He enjoyed being a member of the Alpha-Male Society and enjoyed many memories with his camping friends. He was the son of the late John Arthur and Anna Belle Shepard Dorman. Surviving are his wife, Carol McAteer Dorman; a son, Zak Dorman and fiancé, Christy of Asheville; a sister, Jill Dorman-Potthoff of Atlanta, GA; a granddaughter, Layna Reagan Dorman; and many other extended family.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM Thursday, Dec. 17 at the Tusquittee Airstrip Hanger. Turner Guidry will speak. The family will receive friends following the service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made in loving memory of Jack Dorman to the Tusquittee Flying Association, Hayesville, NC 28904. Ivie Funeral Home, Hayesville in charge of arrangements. An online guest register is available at “Obituaries” at www.iviefuneralhome.com

Virgie Duvall Henson

Virgie Duvall Henson, age 91, of 23 Henson Farm, passed away on Thursday, December 10, 2009 at Silver Bluff Nursing Home. A native of Hayesville, NC, she was

Union Director, church secretary-treasurer, and WMU president. She was a a daughter of the late William Bass devoted wife and loving mother who and Texia Morgan Duvall. In addiloved nothing better than to cook for tion to her parents, she was preceded and to entertain family and friends in in death by her husband, William her home. Haynes Henson, who died in 1985; She is survived by a son, Charles four sisters, Glestia Pressley, Vella Henson and his wife, Janice, of CanWilliams, Lola Herrin, and Frances ton; a grandson, David Charles HenBroski; and three brothers, Kenneth, son; a sister-in-law, Blanche Henson; Ernest, and Clyde Duvall. She was a 20 nieces and nephews, and a special graduate of Bethel High School and friend, Barbara Shepard. was active in the Center Pigeon Home Funeral services will be held at 2:30 Demonstration Club for many years. p.m. Sunday, December 13, 2009 in Virgie was a member of Spring Hill the Canton Chapel of Wells Funeral Baptist Church where she had taught Home with Reverend Brad Joyner ofSunday School, was a past Training ficiating. Burial will follow at Spring

Alene Phillips

Alene Phillips, age 88, of Hayesville, NC passed away Thursday, December 10, 2009 at the Murphy Medical Center in Murphy, NC. She was a native of Pell City, Alabama and the daughter of the late De-

12/16 Deed Transactions:

Kyker officiated. Burial was in the church cemetery with military graveside rites conducted by the V.F.W. Post #10222, Joe Miller Elkin American Legion Post #96 and D.A.V. Chapter #73, Hayesville American Legion Post 532 and Hayesville VFW Post 6812 (Allison-Briston). Pallbearers were Clay Logan, Mike Logan, Bill Tipton, J.D. Robinson, Richard Queen and Andy Estes. Honorary pallbearers were Tim Timpson, Earl Walker, James Shelton and Willard Brinkman. The family received friends from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, Friday, De-

Jack Dorman

Jack Dorman, 55, passed away and began his new journey Saturday, Dec. 12, 2009. He was a native of Buffalo,

Smoky Mountain Sentinel

witt and Ethel Sparks Mayfield. Alene was a homemaker and loved her family. She was a member of the First Free Will Baptist Church in Hayesville, NC. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband, Walter Phillips; a brother, Dewitt Mayfield, Jr and sisters, Louise Smart and Barbara Ivey. She is survived by three sons, Ricky Phillips and his wife, Connie of Hayesville, NC, Larry Rumfelt and his wife, Judy of Hayesville, NC and Joe Rumfelt and his wife, Wanda of Lenoir City, TN; her daughter, Debra Phil-

Johnny R. Ledford

Johnny R. Ledford, 66, of Martin, GA, formerly of Hayesville, died Monday, Dec. 14, 2009. He was a native of Clay County, but had lived in Stephens County, GA for the past 20 years. He was a small engine repairman and had worked in the poultry industry. Johnny was of the Baptist faith. He was the son of the late William Paul and Rose Mary Pendergrass Ledford. Surviving are six daughters, Rose Jones of Martin, Angie Cofer of Bethlehem, GA, Cinda Ledford of Monroe, GA, and Tammy Grier, Connie

lips of Hayesville, NC; two brothers, Leonard Mayfield and Paul Mayfield both of Hayesville, NC; a sister, Lafonda King of Cleveland, TN; two special great nieces, Angel Callahan and April Callahan; special caregiver, Teresa Callahan; six grandchildren, Chris Rumfelt, Sean Rumfelt, Nic Rumfelt, Lucas Phillips, Kalen Phillips and Chase Phillips and three great grandchildren, Braden Rumfelt, Kellen Rumfelt and Calista Rumfelt. Funeral Services were held at 11:00 AM, Saturday, December 12, 2009 at the Frank Rose Sr. Memorial Chapel in Hayesville, NC. Rev. Chris Rumfelt officiated. Music was be provided Gee, and Margaret Ledford all of Gainesville, GA; a son, Jimmy Ledford of Gainesville; two sisters, Willa Mae Mashburn of Hayesville and Betty Jean Cox of Adairsville, GA; a brother, Clyde Ledford of Hayesville; and 16 grandchildren and nine great grandchildren. Funeral services were held at 2:00 PM Wednesday, Dec. 16 in the Chapel of Ivie Funeral Home, Hayesville with the Rev. Dennis Dodge officiating. Interment will be in the Union Hill Cemetery. Pallbearers were Terry Jones, Greg Cofer, Danek Jones, Gregory Cofer, James Ramey, Geoff John-

Juliana Fergueson-TR and JD Harrison Investments LLC sold 1.379 acres, Lot 17; 0.458 acres, Lot 17A (McIntosh Cove) in Hiawassee Township to Capitol Bank for $ 270,000 on December 8, 2009. Jimmy Stewart sold 0.80 acres,Lot 33 (Eagles View) in Hiawassee Township to Patriot Properties of America LLC for $ 7,500 on December 10, 2009. Jimmy Stwart sold 1.97 acres, Lot 75 (Shiloh Development) in Shooting Creek Township to Patroit Properties of America LLC on December 10, 2009.

Paul Devon McDowell, 51, of Hayesville, NC was arrested for assault on a female on December 7, 2009 and released on December 10, 2009. Michael Thomas Davis, 24, of Murphy, NC was arrested larceny; breaking and or entering on December 8, 2009 and released on December 8, 2009. Nicholas James Polizzi, 30, of Hayesville, NC was arrested for possession of drug paraphemalia; possession of methamphetamine on December 8, 2009. Matthew Timothy Ryan Suarez, 20, of Turtletown,TN was arrested for failure to appear on December 8, 2009 and released on December 8, 2009. William Donaldson, 35, of Hayesville, NC was arrested for assault on a female on December 9, 2009 and released on December 11, 2009. Steve Bernard Johns, 60, of Largo,

FL, arrested for assault on female on December 9, 2009 and released on December 11, 2009. William Howard Gibson, 40, of Hayesville, NC was arrested for driving while impaired on December 10, 2009 and released on December 11, 2009. Shaun Vincent Lloyd, 39, of Hayesville, NC was arrested for possession of firearms, etc, by felon prohbited on December 12, 2009 and released on December 12, 2009. Bobby Dean Parker, 43, of Hayesville, NC was arrested for driving while impaired on December 12, 2009 and released on December 12, 2009. Robert Cecil Conley, Jr., 34, of Murphy, NC was arrested for failure to appear on December 13,2009 and released on December 13, 2009.

12/16 Arrest Report:

Hill Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. prior to the service. Pallbearers will be George Dale Henson, Joe Dotson, Gerald Hill, Bill Snipes, Carroll Stockton, and Jerry Gregg. Memorials may be made to Spring Hill Baptist Church, 1918 Murray Road, Canton, NC 28716 or to Haywood Regional Medical Center Hospice, 560 Leroy George Drive, Clyde, NC 28721. Everyone knows how music soothes For those who desire, an online me- the soul and lifts the spirit. It’s hard to morial register is available at “Obituar- imagine Christmas or Easter holidays ies” at www.wellsfuneralhome.com without music in church. One Hayesville church–in fact one of Hayesville’s oldest churches, going way back to the by Chris Rumfelt and Lucas Phillips. mid-nineteenth century–faces that disBurial was in the Union Hill Cem- mal prospect. Hayesville Presbyterian church is etery in Hayesville, NC. Pallbearers were Sean Rumfelt, Nic Rumfelt, looking for a piano player (keyboard Chase Phillips, Kalen Phillips, Lucas also, as soon as that’s purchased) for Sunday morning services. If you know Phillips and Jeff Ivey. The family received friends from anyone, perhaps a novice player who 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, Friday, Decem- needs experience playing in front of a ber 11, 2009 at the Frank Rose Sr. Me- small audience–an audience very willing to overlook slight imperfections– morial Chapel in Hayesville, NC. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Alzheimers Association, Western Carolina Chapter, 3800 Shamrock Dr., Charlotte, NC 282153220 or to the First Free Will Baptist Church, PO Box 1232, Hayesville, NC 28904. By: Marcille Smith

Local Church Seeks Musician

please let a church officer know. The church’s former piano and organ player, Peggy Tiger, had to discontinue because of back problems. The congregation continues to enjoy the dulcimers of Cindy Mulkey and guitars of Bob Able and Hein Vingerling, plus occasional singing by the Gray sisters, but miss piano and organ music for traditional hymns, so would appreciate any possible recommendations that might lead to the right replacement. Call Bill Stephenson at 389-3438; Lois Gamble at 389-9456; or Cindy Mulkey at 8371308.

Chamber News

ston, and Kole Jones. The family received friends from 12-1:45 Wednesday afternoon at the Ivie Funeral Home, Hayesville prior to the services. The family requests memorials be made in memory of Johnny R. Ledford to the Union Hill Cemetery Fund, c/o JoAnn H. Woody, 685 Thumping Creek Road, Hayesville, NC 28904. Ivie Funeral Home, Hayesville in charge of all arrangements. An online guest register is available at “Obituaries” at www.iviefuneralhome.com

To see past obituaries go to wncsentinel.net Timothy wants you to know...

Boyd A. & Jennifer I. Stroud sold 3 Tracts (AJ DeHart Subd) in Hayesville Township to Clay County Board of Election for $ 100,000 on December 7, 2009. Hinton Rural Life Center, Inc. sold 1.245 acres, Lot 20 (Wesley Meadows) in Brasstown Township to Laura T. Peques for $ 29,000 on December 7, 2009. Hinton Rural Life Center, Inc. sold 1.534 acres, Lot 23 (Wesley Meadows) in Brasstown Township to Loretta Lynne Sanchez for $ 29,000 on December 7, 2009.

Local yearly newspaper subscriptions are only

BUCKS

(828) 389 - 8338

w w w . w n c s e n t i n e l . n e t SENTINEL NEWS

Chamber Director It sure has slowed done here in the Mountains the past couple of weeks, I hope that means that everyone is doing their Christmas Shopping here in town and just not coming by the office. Hard to believe that this year is almost over. It has been a great one – lots of new businesses that have joined our Chamber family and fun events that we, with your help have hosted and have great fun with. I would like to thank the Chamber Board of Directors for all of their hard work and countless hours of volunteering to make the Chamber what it is. “Working Together Works”, proving that the Clay County Chamber of Commerce - got it going on! Josh Ashe – Oak Forest Realty, Marla Mashburn – United Community Bank, Mary Wiegold – Hwy 69 Storage, Greg Stiles – Hayesville Printing,Mark Leek – Clay County Schools, Sherry Rodriquez – Take-A-Break Portables, Mike Faggard – Southern Impressions, Linda Godwin – First Citizens

Bank, Bryan Lunsford – Nantahala Bank, Jennifer Ray – Murphy Movers, Butch Freeman – Cardinal Systems Group, Joseph Sorensen – Empty Mug Design, Dwayne Long – Blue Ridge Mountain EMC. Also would like to make sure that everyone knows that without Kim McClure, Executive Director Assistant, I don’t know where we would be. She helps keep me organized, as well as the office and schedules. She is very knowledgeable in what she does which makes working with her a real joy. Thanks, Kim! – We will also be celebrating her one year anniversary with the Chamber January 5, 2010. I have enjoyed 2009 and look forward to 2010, the events that we have had this year; please remember that these were all first for Kim and I, as we have said that th 2010 will be even better, cause now we know what we are doing! Merry Christmas to you all and may we ALL have a Prosperous, Safe & Happy New Year! THINK LOCAL! SHOP LOCAL! Marcile Smith, Executive Director

Moss Library Closings Closed Thursday Dec. 24th, 25th & 26th No Evening Hours Thursday, Dec 31st. (Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.) Closed Friday & Saturday January, 1st & 2nd The Staff Wishes You a Safe & Happy Holiday!!!!

CALENDAR

Wednesday December 16, 2009

Upcoming Events NCWN Schedule

The NCWN West (Netwest) Poetry Critique will meet at Tri-County Community College in Murphy, North Carolina, Thursday, November 5th. at 7:00 P.M. For more information contact Janice Moore: 828-389-6394. We invite visitors to come and observe. The NCWN West (Netwest) Prose Workshop and Critique Session will meet at Tri-County Community College in Murphy, North Carolina, Thursday, November 12th.at 7:00 P.M. Visitors are invited to come and observe. For more information contact Richard Argo: 828837-5500 The NCWN West (Netwest) presents Coffee with the Poets, hosted by Phillips and Lloyd Book Store in Hayesville, North Carolina, Wednesday, November 11th. at 10:30 A.M. A Netwest poet is featured, followed by open mic. Desserts, coffee and tea are served by Crumpets Dessertery for a small charge. Join us for a morning of local writers reading their words in a warm and friendly environment where everyone is welcome to read, to come and listen and visit with friends. The week of November 9th and 16th. The NCWN West (Netwest) Writing for Children Workshop and Critique Session will meet at Moss Memorial Library in Haysville, North Carolina, Wednesday November 18th., at 10:00 A.M. The Writing for Children Workshop focuses on poetry and stories for children and young adults. Support and advice is offered to writers.. We invite visitors to come and observe. For more information contact Nancy Gadsby: 706-896-6392 The NCWN West (Netwest) presents two writers reading poems and stories at John C. Campbell Folk School in Brasstown, North Carolina, November 19th. at 7:00 in the Keith House. Look for articles about the readers in your local news paper. The week of November 23rd and 30th. The NCWN West (Netwest) Poetry Critique will meet at Tri-County Community College in Murphy, North Carolina, Thursday, December 3rd. at 7:00 P.M. For more information contact Janice Moore: 828-389-6394. We invite visitors to come and observe. The Board of Directors of the Hiwassee River Watershed Coalition will meet at the Blue Mountain Coffee & Grill in Peachtree on Thursday, November 12, at 6:30 pm. Agendas and meeting summaries are now available on our web site: http://www.hrwc.net/ hrwcboardmeetings.htm The HRWC office is located at 1853 NC Hwy 141 in the Peachtree Community of Murphy, NC and is open Monday-Thursday, 8:30-4:30. Call HRWC at (828) 837-5414, toll-free (877) 863-7388 or email info@hrwc.net for more information.

Self Defense

A Self-Awareness, Self-Defense workshop will be held at the office of One Dozen Who

Care, Inc. (ODWC) on Thursday, November 12, from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. The office is located at 65 Wilson Street, Suite 6, Andrews, between Dollar General and PJs Pizza. Judith Alvarado of Hayesville is the instructor. This Self-Defense workshop empowers participants by providing knowledge, and teaching techniques, to deter assault. This is not Martial Arts; basic concepts and skills are provided to help develop self-protection strategies, skills that you continue to build upon. Come prepared to learn that you have the ability, and the equipment to defend yourself. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes. Space is limited; please call 828-321-2273, or 828-361-1941 to reserve your space for this important workshop. If you leave a message with your phone number you will receive a call-back. Registration fee is $5.

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) Bill Curns, Commander

Camp opportunities for both Baseball and Tennis. Instruction is top quality from our professional, college level coaches. No big travel plans needed to learn from some of the best in the coaching field ~ right in your own backyard! Baseball offers Senior Elite, Junior Elite and FUNdamental camps. Tennis offers both Junior Elite and FUNdamental camps. We also offer year round baseball, tennis & soccer lessons. These are available for individuals, small groups or a team. The individualized instruction you receive through lessons is tailored

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 meetings are as follows: •For women only: At 12 noon on

Grocery Bingo

GROCERY BINGO Friday, 10/30/09 at 7 pm at the Bellview Community Center. Door prizes, pot luck dinner, raffles, all to benefit Bellview Volunteer Fire Dept. All welcome. Info at (828) 837-0214 or 835-3844.BINGO HRWC Meeting The Board of Directors of the Hiwassee River Watershed Coalition will meet at the Blue Mountain Coffee & Grill in Peachtree on Thursday, December 10, at 6:30 pm. Agendas and meeting summaries are now available on our web site: http://www.hrwc.net/ hrwcboardmeetings.htm The HRWC office is located at 1853 NC Hwy 141 in the Peachtree Community of Murphy, NC and is open Mon-

EVENT SPOTLIGHT

2009 Toys for Tots

A THANKSGIVING THANKS

From the “Friends of the Library Bookstore”. To all our loyal customers and Library supporters.....a week long half-price sale. Nov.23rd-25th and Nov. 27th and 28th. Hours 10-4, Mon-Sat. Located across from Moss Library in Hayesville. All proceeds benefit the Library.

REACH

Reach of Clay County Thrift Store is having a HUGE Pre-Thanksgiving Sale Saturday 11/21/09 from 10:00 am. - 4:30 pm. Storewide half price sale on most merchandise. Call 828.389.0017 with any questions.

The Rock

the ROCK regional sports academy is offering some awesome December

Mondays at Young Harris Library in Young Harris, Ga. Call Linda at (706) 781-3158. •At 8 p.m., Thursdays at Mountain 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.

U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys For Tots Program MISSION: The mission of the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program is to collect new, unwrapped toys during October, November and December each year, and distribute those toys as Christmas gifts to needy children in the community in which the campaign is conducted. GOAL: The primary goal of Toys for Tots is to deliver, through a shiny new toy at Christmas, a message of hope to needy youngsters that will motivate them to grow into responsible, productive, patriotic citizens and community leaders. OBJECTIVES: The objectives of Toys for Tots are to help needy children throughout the United States experience the joy of Christmas; to play an active role in the development of one of our nation's most valuable natural resources - our children; to unite all members of local communities in a common cause for three months each year during the annual toy collection and distribution campaign; and to contribute to better communities in the future. ACTIVITIES: The principal Toys for Tots activities which take place each year are the collection and distribution of toys in the communities in which a Marine Corps Reserve Unit is located and in communities without a Reserve Unit that has a Marine Corps League Detachment or group of men and women, generally veteran Marines, authorized by Marine Toys for Tots Foundation to conduct a local Toys for Tots campaign. Local Toys for Tots Campaign Coordinators conduct an array of activities throughout the year, which include golf tournaments, foot races, bicycle races and other purely voluntary events designed to increase interest in Toys for Tots, and concurrently generate toy and monetary donations. To donate for Toys for Tots see their website at : hayesville-nc.toysfortots.org or please call the Hayesville Coordinator Ms. Atlanta Matheson.

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. 877379-0208. 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

Out-Patient Drug Treatment Program and Education Narconon warns families that abuse of addictive pharmaceutical drugs is on

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.

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

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.

Alzheimer's 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.

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

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) 3792191 or NC-Bob or Loretta Hughes (828) 837-2561.

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.

Cancer support group

Oil Painting Classes

Fellowship Weekly

Brasstown Suppers

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.

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.

Square Dance Classes

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.

day-Thursday, 8:30-4:30. Call HRWC at (828) 837-5414, toll-free (877) 863-7388 or email info@hrwc.net for more information.

Book Signing

Thursday, December 10th - Book Signing - Dr. Dale Garland, “Letters from Sweetwater” 122pm, Curiosity Shop, Murphy. Saturday, December 12th - Book Signing Western NC Women writers will be on hand to sign their books, “Clothes Lines” and “Christmas Presence” - Curiosity Shop, Murphy 11-1 and Andrews 2-4.

Coin Club Organizing

Interested in coin collecting? Whether a newbie or old-time coin collector, you are invited to the first official meeting of a coin club forming in the mountain area. Learn about the hobby. Share your knowledge. Meet new friends with similar numismatic interests. The first meeting will be held in Blairsville, Thursday, January 7th, at 6:30 at the Shirley Miller Educational Bldg. This is adjacent to the Union County library in downtown Blairsville. For more information, contact Charlie Sowers (Blairsville), Bill Thrift (Hayesville) or the Ye Old Coin Shop in Young Harris at 706 - 379-1488.

Cornerstone Church

Recurring Events SUPPORT

to your needs. The lesson experience will Amaze you! Call for more information @706897-2363 or check out all the details on our website @ www.theRock.baseballinstructionalshowcases.com

COIN CLUB ORGANIZING

Smoky Mountain Sentinel

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.

HAMs meetings 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. For more information about joining the Club or becoming a HAM, call Don Deyton at 706-781-6665.

Intermediate Bridge Intermediate Bridge is being played

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.

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. For more information about joining the Club or becoming a HAM, call Don Deyton at 706-781-6665

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.

Cornerstone Community Church 191 Robinson Road invites the public to these special Christmas activities. Sunday Dec. 13 at 11am, Children’s Christmas Choir presents “Signs of Christmas.” Sunday night Dec. 13 at 6:30pm our Christmas Banquet with special music by Angela Whisnant and a devotional message by Brian Jones. Thursday night Dec. 24 at 6:00pm Christmas Eve Candlelight Communion service (45 minutes in length). Call 321-3777 for more info. www.cornerstoneandrews.org

Free Community Produce Distribution

There will be a free community produce distribution on Friday, December 18, 2009 for needy families who are on low income. This is a coordinated project between Manna Food Bank and the First Free Will Baptist Church of Hayesville, NC. Please bring your own bags and boxes to collect food in. The distribution will be between the hours of 12:00 and 2:00 PM in front of the First Free Will Baptist Church at 259 Tusquittee Street (intersection of Ritter Road and Tusquittee Street) in Hayesville. For more information or directions, please contact Carol Hall at 706 896-3438 or 706 994-0635. Thank you,

Lunch on the Hill

This Wednesday, the 9th, we will serve everyone’s favorite, Chicken ‘n Dumplings! Then we will take a holiday break so our folks can spend more time with their families during Christmas and New Years. We will open back up on January 20th. There will be no changes in our Worship Service schedule. Sunday School begins at 9:30 a.m. and Worship at 11:00. December 13th

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

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, reserve, retired and former military, and Public Health Service, and NOAA officers, and warrant officers are invited to attend. For information please contact one of the following individuals, in North Carolina: John Bayne at 828-389-9427 and in Georgia: Jim Reynolds at 706-379-6601.

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.

Arts & Crafts Guild

Mountain Regional Arts and Crafts Guild, Inc (MRACG) meets the second Tuesday of each month at ArtWorks Artisan Centre. ArtWorks is located at 308 Big Sky Drive (behind the Holiday Inn), Hiawassee. Refreshments are served at 6:00 pm and the meeting begins at 6:30 pm. The next meeting will be held on August 12. If you would like to learn more about the Guild, we invite you to the next meeting as our guest Contact us at 706-896-0932 or mtnregartscraftsguild@hotmail.com or

we will celebrate the second Sunday in Advent as we prepare to honor the birth of our Savior and King, Jesus Christ. Join us as we sing the songs of Christmas and rededicate our lives to the service of our Lord. We are located at 5708 Young Harris Highway, Blairsville. Bring your Bible and a seeking heart. We are handicap accessible; children are always welcome.

Christmas Painting

Christmas Painting Fun!! Here is a photo of the Christmas Gourd Ornament Class for December 12, Saturday at ArtWorks. The class is from 10am to 12:30pm for children ages 8 - 12, taught by Jeanne Matheny. Class fee is $12.50 and the Supply Fee is $7.50. Each child can paint 2 or 3 gourds. Last day to register for the class is Thursday Dec 10. Please call 706896-0932 to register your child!

The ROCK Sports Academy

the ROCK regional sports academy is offering some awesome December Camp opportunities for both Baseball and Tennis. Instruction is top quality from our professional, college level coaches. No big travel plansneeded to learn from some of the best in coaching ~ right in your own backyard! Baseball offers Senior Elite, Junior Elite and FUNdamental camps. Tennis offers both Junior Elite and FUNdamental camps. The ROCK also offers year round baseball, tennis & soccer lessons. These are available for individuals, small groups or a team. The individualized instruction you receive through lessons is tailored to your personal needs. The lesson experience will Amaze you! Call for more information @706-897-2363 or check out all the details on our website @ www.theRock.BaseballInstructionalShowcases.com

Do you have an event that you would like included in our calendar? Submit your events at - www. wncsentinel.net visit

mtnregartscraftsguild.org

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.

Tusquittee Community Organization

Tusquittee Community Organization meets at 6:30 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday June 23rd at Tusquittee Community Center, 4374 Downings Creek Road. Meeting will follow at 7:15 p.m. We invite you to brig a casserole, desert or soda, etc. and visit with us as we have a wonderful program lined up with guests, Mary Catherine West and Judi Greenstone for more stories of our beautiful Tusquittee Valley and to hear of their families’ experiences.

Game Day

Dominoes, Hearts, Scrabble, Checkers, etc Every Tuesday, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Clay County Senior Cente 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 .

Reach Of Clay County Presents Survivors of Childhood Sexual Trauma Support Group: Beyond the Trauma A Healing Journey for Adult Women Held 1st and 3rd Saturday of every month starting August 1st; 2pm – 4 pm Loretta John Mehan Comm. Svc. Bldg. For more information call Susan Lambert @ Reach – 828.389.0797

CLASSIFIEDS

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. Asking $5000, OBO. 706-299-1614 or 706-299-1431 leave message.

200-Employment Drivers/CDL Career Training w/ Central Refrigerated. We Train, Employ w/ $0 Down Financing. AVG $35 K-$40K 1st Year! 1-800-543-4023 LPN’s/RN’s needed for home health care for several clients in WNC. Maxin Health Care offers great pay, great benefit, FT, PT and flex schedule. Please call 828-299-4388 for details. Applications being accepted , Hiawassee Huddle House CNA available excellent references. Will work Sundays. 706-896-5794 CNA’s needed for Cherokee and Clay County. Please call Helen @ (828) 835-8147

210-Bus. Opportunities Great Opportunity – Work from Home Transportation Business. Be self employed all equipment supplied including vehicle. Fantastic Income. Year Round Business. Easy Operation. Total amount required only $15,000. Perfect for Part Time or Semi Retired person. Call 706-835-2360.

300-Services CLASSIC TRANSPORTATION OF THE TRI-STATE 706-633-3668 classictowncar@bellsouth.net AIRPORTS/MEDICAL/SITE SEEING/WINERIES Lincoln Town Car $10 OFF Fall Special! Will baby sit your child or children: Any age. Reasonable rates.References available. Call 706-299-1614 Horse back riding lessons for kids. Horses are calm and well behaved. Given by an experienced rider. Interested? Call for more information or rates. 706-299-1614. A&R Landscape Residential, and commercial lawn care. Plant, turf and grassing, lot clean up, mulching and retaining walls. 706-994-2457. Walker Storage Corner of Old Highway 64 West and West Cherry Road. Concrete block Construction 828389-4926 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tile installer your tile or mine, 26 years experience have references and liability insurance. Ask for Don at 828389-9394 # D&L Painting & drywall INC. Painting/Staining Interior • Exterior • Residential • Commercial DRYWALL Hang • Finish • Texture all types of finishes & textures 100% Quality Driven. Free Estimates cell: 828-508-5270 office(1): 828-321-2111 office(2): 828-479-4052

Bush hogging, Stump-grinding, gardens plowed, gravel-roads/driveways scraped, post-holes dug, sickle mowing. Free estimates, reasonable rates, dependable service. (828) 8377809 Cell: (828) 361-8738 #

500- Miscellaneous 2007 Bobcat T300 Compact Track Loader Must Sell Now! Price $4700,trailer included, Cab with Heat/ AC, contact: ev32hmk@msn.com/ 336-464-2485.

600-Wanted 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. Wanted: Old Pinball machines, electro-mechanical, . Call 828-3896459

400 - For Sale

Electric Frigidaire Range Self cleaning, good condition, $200, Preacher’s Bench- Adjustable Bench Press, $30, Megallan Three Hundred Tread Mill, $300 706-970-9431 Hay for Sale- Square bales, $3.00 each Call 828-389-4592 Radiance Gas Heater Vermont Castings, Model 2600 Gas Heater… for Propane or Natural Gas. Enameled Cast Iron, dark green, in excellent condition, thermostat controlled. 26,000 BTU. Owner’s guide included. Standing pilot with Piego ignition, 400 lbs. $1,000 Call 828-389-4592 Come Shop 40% Off Sale at Bloomsbury Cottage at Tater Ridge Shops excluding purses and Marie Osmond items Dec.1st-? Travel Trailer for Sale. Very clean, no pets, no smoking. Located in Hiawassee in Campground on Lake. Has attached deck with aluminum/ vinyl awning, pool, Recreation area, boat dock and storage, WIFI & cable available. $6,700 OBO 229-378-4175, 229377-6104 LEAVE MESSAGE Sofa bed (queen) beige/ burgundy plaid $100 and small beige recliner $60 All good condition. 706-8966071. Hiawassee Antique Mall 460 N. Main Street Hiawassee. Open year round. Mon.-Sat. 10-5, Sun 12-5. Antiques-Collectibles. 706-896-0587 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 I can’t use all of it. 706-781-3044.

800-Animals Black Angus. Appalachian GrownAll natural farm raised USDA Inspected, processed and packaged by the quarter. Heifers and cows bred with quality genetics for sale. Walnut Hollow Ranch, Hayesville, 828-389-8931 crkissling@verizon.net

Professional dog Training, Boarding & Grooming, 1-4 week courses available, training service guaranteed, references abundant, GSD breeders. Located in Mineral Bluff, GA visit mountaindogboarding.com (706)374-9021 # Adorable Labradoodle puppie, black, blond. 4 weeks old at Christmas, $600. Call 828-361-9098

900 - Real Estate

139 Acres of land, with Trout stream. Good place for campground. Has 45 x 100 metal building. Has spring, lacks 2 filters. Tests being State approved. Has nice views, be good for developing. Price: $7,000 per acre. 828-8357880 3 Cabins, must see- reduced! In gated communities.Starting at $199,000, Call 706-896-2353. Must sell! Hiawassee, Ga. 2 adjoining lots, long range, year round mountain views. Well established neighborhood; $36,500 each; 706-781-5274. Lots within a gated community. Reduced. Highest elevation in Towns County. Call 706-896-2353. stop THE CAR HONEY! $319,000 short sale Make offer- in town- lake view, lake access & mountain views. 4br/4ba, 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 fraction of cost. Charlotte Ledford Realtor; 706-781-7028

1000 - Rentals 4Br/2BA ( 1 new walk in Shower), Large Living Room w/ Fireplace with Gas Logs, Dining Room new fully equipped kitchen, 2 car garage w/ automatic door. Patio front and back, Central Heat and Air. 2.5 miles West of Hiawassee, Hwy. 76, first house on the right, Off Frog Pond Rd. Call 706-8963624 2/1 Cedar Cabin, West of Murphy, NC in Indian Rock Springs. Wraparound porch overlooking creek. $575 a month, $575 Security deposit. Available January 1st, 2010. Non-smoking, small pets negotiable. Call Kathy at 561-329-8748 2 Bedroom 1 Bath Basement Apartment. Washing Machine, Dryer, Dishwasher, Furnished. First month rent only $450. Includes electricity and gas. Some light repairs need to be performed. Will exchange for rent. Apartment still live in ready. Call 828389-1607. 1 Bedroom 1 Bath Apartment for Rent in Peachtree Area in Cherokee County NC. New Construction, Rent $450 per month. Water included in rent. Security Deposit and lease agreement required. HUD Approved. No Pets. (828) 837-6758 after 5 pm. 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 706-8966208.

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

REMINDER:

Please Submit your classified ad by 3:00 PM on Monday or your ad will not run until the following Wednesday 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 Br- 2 Bath Lakeview on Highway 175 $500 a month . 828-524-0514 or 828-507-1617 3 BR 1 1/2 BA mobile home – not in a trailer park. $300 a month. (828) 837-6222. # 3br/2ba 2 car attached garage close to Young Harris College. Beautiful & private; $900 month/deposit, plus utilities; 706-897-3730. Nothing else like it in Towns County. 2 unrestricted lots for sale or lease. Utilities, beautiful landscaping & drive-ways already done by owner. All you have to do is place your RV, park model, or home on lot. 706-2074159. 2BDRM/2BA mobile, CHA, completely furnished on pond, 55+ community. Year round Mtn. views, decks, carport, many extras. $49,500. 706896-8363 or 706-897-0311. Young Harris rentals available Mountain Realty 706-379-3115

Did you

know? Classified advertising is the most effective way to get your unwanted stuff sold

SENTINEL NEWSGROUP

(828) 389 - 8338

Sentinel Subscriptions -$25 per year (828) 389-8338

Job: Public Works Assistant Deadline to Apply: January 8, 2010 The City of Young Harris is hiring a public works assistant. This position will have primary responsibilities in the water and wastewater department. Cross-training is required. Responsibilities: include repairing, installing and performing maintenance work on all the water and wastewater lines, tanks, and lift stations. Reading meters and taking samples of wells and streams are examples of work that will be required. This position will have weekly responsibilities at the wastewater plant helping run and maintain the city wastewater plant. Additional duties include maintaining city streets, building maintenance, mowing, and any other duties as required. This position requires weekly, 24 hour, on-call rotation. Because of the nature of the calls, it is imperative that employees are able to respond within 30 minutes of the call. Education/Experience Requirements: College or Technical School degree or diploma in related areas. Experience in water and wastewater systems operations. Repair and maintenance of water and wastewater system, in ground lines, and pumps. Experience in operating heavy equipment, commercial mowers, and landscape tools. Possession and retention of valid driver’s license from the State of Georgia and experience in general maintenance. Qualifications: This job requires being licensed in water and wastewater services. Preference will be given to those who have certification and appropriate license. In the event that a non-licensed person is hired, then the educational requirements will be as follows: obtain a class III Water license from the State of Georgia within 1 year of employment and a class II Wastewater license from the State of Georgia will be required within 3 years of hire. Application for employment can be picked up at Young Harris City Hall, 5187 Maple Street, Young Harris, and Ga. Please submit a City of Young Harris application by January 8,, 2010 along with 3 work related references, copy of any leave records and provide a resume, if available. The City of Young Harris requires a background check and drug screening before employment.

Public Works, Wastewater Operator Needed Application Deadline: January 15, 2010 This single position is responsible for managing the entire scope of services provided by the wastewater collection, conveyance, and treatment facilities. The incumbent ensures that all Federal, State, and local standards are met. This is a cross-trained position in all areas of public works. While the bulk of work will be within the wastewater treatment plant, this position may be required to perform other duties within the public works department, such as repairing, installing and performing maintenance work on water and wastewater lines, tanks, and lift stations. This position requires weekly on-call rotation. As such, employee will be expected to understand all areas of public works. When on call, employee must be able to respond within 30 minutes of the call. GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES: Plans, directs and organizes the maintenance, laboratory testing, sludge disposal and operations of the Wastewater Treatment Facilities; does related work as required. REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, and AND ABILITIES: Preference will be given to those with comprehensive knowledge of the principles, practices, and procedures of the various operations of a wastewater facility; Comprehensive knowledge of the Federal, State, and local laws and regulations pertaining to the operation and disposal of techniques of wastewater treatment; Experience in budget preparation; Ability to coordinate the work of a complex engineering program; Ability to supervise the work of others; Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationship with staff, coworkers, County officials and the public; Operational knowledge of personal computers and pertinent applications; Regular and timely attendance and reporting required; Performance of duties in a safe manner is mandatory. ACCEPTABLE EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION: degree from an accredited college or technical school. In lieu of a degree, extensive experience in the managing, operation, and maintenance of a wastewater, collection, treatment, and disposal facility; or any combination of experience, and training which provides the required knowledge and skills. ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: Possession and retention of, or ability to obtain within one year, a valid Class II Wastewater Treatment Facility Operators license issued by the State of Georgia; Possession and retention of a motor vehicle operator’s license issued by the State of Georgia; Must pass testing for substance abuse and criminal background investigation. Application for employment can be picked up at Young Harris City Hall, 5187 Maple Street, Young Harris, Ga. Please provide resume, if available. References will be required.

Martin’s Construction • Bulldozing • Backhoe work

Residential & Commercial “Gene” Martin

389-6024

37 years experience

Hughes Pool & Stone Carries a full line of Landscaping products including: • Oak, Cypress, Red and Brown Mulch • Brown, White, and Gray Decorative Pea Gravel • Standard Gray Gravel and Rip Rap • White Sand, and River Rock Located behind Downtown Pizza in Murphy on Church St.

Call (828) 837-6222

Make your piano sound brand new

The following positions are available

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COMMUNITY Local Businesses give big to Toys for Tots

Smoky Mountain Sentinel Wednesday December 16, 2009

Our Local Wal-Mart presented a $1000.00 check to Toys for Tots. The check was accepted by members of the Marine Corps League. This money benefits the children of Cherokee County, North Carolina. Everything donated in Cherokee County stays in Cherokee County. Pictured here (LR) are Roger Hathaway (MCL), Rickey Gable (Co-Manager), Bob Schmitt (MCL), Mike Russell (Commandant, MCL), John Evans (Toys for Tots Coordinator), Nadine Lance (Co-Manager), and Blair Stanley (Store Manager)

North Carolina Man arrested in conjunction with Entering Auto Case

Raymond Maney (50) of Hayesville, NC, was arrested on felony charges for an Entering Auto Case involving an incident near Bill's Barber Shop on Hwy. 76 west of Hiawassee. Towns County Sheriff's Detectives

Brian Wilson and Mike Davis gathered information from the incident which led them to Maney's Hayesville residence. At the residence of Maney all stolen property was recovered and positively identified. Controlled substances were also found on the premises. Due to jurisdictional boundaries, the drug ar-

rest will be credited to the Clay County Sheriff's Office. In a statement from Towns County Sheriff's Office, team work is laid out as an invaluable asset in solving crimes. "Law enforcement as a team is a powerful tool in the protection of our citizens, no matter the jurisdiction."

CHILDREN'S: Animal Action ABC by Karen Pandell One Wintry Night by Ruth Bell Graham-A unique version of the Christmas story. The Dangerous Alphabet by Neil Gaiman is a tale of adventure, piracy, danger and heroism told in 26 alphabetical lines. The Girl In The Castle Inside The Museum by Kate Bernheimer and Nicoletta Ceccoli--"Once there was a small castle on display in a museum..." Here is an original fairy tale that feels like a dream, both beautiful and unforgettable. The Magician's Elephant by Kate

Dicamillo--A story of love and magic. YOUNG ADULT: Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins is the second in The Hunger Games Trilogy, a fast paced plot-driven blend of suspense, science fiction and romance. Ink Exchange and Wicked Lovely by Melissa Marr are 21st century faery tales of intrigue, mortal love, and the clash of ancient rules and modern expectations. Chasing the Bear by Robert B. Parker (A Young Spencer Novel) See how the legend began with a glimpse into the formative years of Parker's most iconic character. Stairclimber by Kenneth Oppel-Book three in this rich world of flight

and fantasy and the sequel to Airborn and Skybreaker. The Secret of the Dread Forest by Gillian Summers--Book 3 in The Fairie Folk Trilogy The Empress's Tomb and Kiki Strike-Inside The Shadow City by Kirsten Miller-Life will never be the same for Ananka Fishbein after she ventures into an enormous sinkhole near her NYC apartment and discovers a secret world beneath the city. Syren by Angie Sage--Book 5 of The Septimus Heap Magykal Novels and Magykal Papers, a companion guide to the series.

By: Becky Landress Sentinel Writer

Toys for Tots received a very special Christmas gift on December 11th from the employees of Snap-On here in Murphy. Along with four boxes of toys was a cash gift in the amount of $2500.00. Thanks to all of the Snap-On employees a lot of children in Cherokee County will have a very Merry Christmas, Pictured here (l-r) are Mark May, Mike Russell (Marine Corps League), Hoppi Jones, Lisa Boehn, John Simms, Regina Anderson, John Evans (Toys for Tots Coordinator), Alan Williams, Scott Jentle, Brian Spikes, Jennifer Caldwell, and Angela Forrest.

New Arrival’s at Moss Memorial

Good Shepherd Celebrates Master Gardener’s Instated Members of the Good Shepherd Episcopal Church celebrated with the residents of DeSoto Square for the Holidays and shared a meal with them.

The Clay County Master Gardener Volunteer Association, sponsored by the North Carolina Extension Service, elected and installed new officers for 2010. Pictured from left, Silas Brown, Clay County Extension Service Agent and Association Sponsor, Eleanor Moyer - Vice President, Bonnie Ludlum - President, Jan Maddox - Sec-

retary. Not pictured, May Ferguson - Treasurer. These officers begin their service in January of 2010 and will serve through next December. The purpose of the Association is to work with the North Carolina Extension Service of Clay County to enhance the exchange of gardening information and expertise

Savvy Senior

Dear Savvy Senior My parents have lived in the same house for more than 40 years and plan on living there the rest of their lives. The problem is, their house is two-stories and isn’t very practical for seniors. What resources can you recommend that can help my elderly parents stay safe and stay put, on a limited budget. Safety-Conscious Sue Dear Sue, Your parents are like most seniors in this country. They want to stay living in their own home as long as they’re physically capable. But for many seniors in their 70’s and beyond, staying put can present some real safety challenges. Here’s what you should know. Every year in the U.S. about 7,000 elderly people die in home-related accidents, and millions are seriously injured. Falls are the leading cause of injuries, but the elderly are also at risk for being burned by the stove or scalded by hot water. To help make your parent’s home a safer, more age-friendly place to live, here are some tips and resources that can help. Get Informed Your first step is to learn where the potential hazards lie in your parent’s house and what you can do to reduce them. A good place to do this is at the Home Safety Council’s Web site (www. mysafehome.net) where you can take a house tour that points out the possible

dangers room-by-room. Many of the changes the site suggests are simple and inexpensive, like removing clutter and throw rugs to avoid tripping, installing brighter bulbs in existing light fixtures to improve vision and adding grab bars to the bathroom for support. Get an Assessment If your parents have medical issues like chronic arthritis or poor vision, ask their doctor to prescribe a home evaluation by an occupational therapist who specializes in home modifications. They can analyze the potential challenges and shortcomings of your parent’s home to come up with a plan that you, a handyman or a contractor can easily follow. Many health insurance providers, including Medicare, will pay for a home assessment. However, they will not cover the physical upgrades to the home. Another option is to contact your nearby independent living center (seewww.ilru.org). These are nonprofit centers that provide information on home modifications and assistive living equipment, and many even offer free or lowcost home assessments. Ways to Pay If your parents need or want to make substantial changes to their home, but don’t have the cash to pay for them, they should consider taking out a home equity loan. Another possibility is a reverse mortgage. Available to people over 62, a reverse mortgage will let your parent’s

among Master Gardeners to deliver educational assistance to gardeners throughout the county. If you are interested in becoming a Master Gardener, or in learning more about membership, please contact the North Carolina Extension Service of Clay County at 828389-6305.

How to Make Home a Safer Place for Seniors convert the equity in their home into cash that doesn’t have to be paid back as long as either one of them are living there. But the fees can be substantial, so be sure to speak with a financial planner before taking out this type of mortgage. For information on ways you can tap into your home equity, go to www.longtermcare.gov, a site run by the Department of Health and Human Services. If your parent’s happen to have longterm care insurance, they should call their insurance agent and ask whether home modifications are covered under their plan and what documentation they need to be reimbursed. A policy will not pay for upgrades if they are still healthy. If funds are scarce, contact the Area Agency on Aging (call 800-677-1116 or visit www.eldercare.gov to find your local office) near your parents, and inquire about home modification loans and services available to seniors. Many state and local communities have low or no-interest loans, tax credits or other programs to those with low or moderate incomes. In addition, get in touch with Rebuilding Together (www.rebuildingtogether.org, 800-473-4229), a national nonprofit organization that repairs and modifies homes of older, low-income homeowners to help them age in place.

Saturday, December 19th • 11:30 - 1:00 FREE HOTDOGS!!

Plus, test drive our great selection of vehicles and get a

FREE T-Shirt!

Kids! SANTA will be here, so come on out and meet him.

(Parents, bring your cameras!)

ONLY AT

Jacky Jones Dodge in Hayesville

222 N.C. Hwy 69 • Hayesville, NC 28904

1-888-384-3145 • (828) 389-1958 www.JackyJonesChryslerDodgeJeep.com