March 27 edition of the Yancey County News by Yancey County News

Locals celebrate with 4-H

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Yancey County News Brush Creek - Burnsville - Cane River

Crabtree - Egypt - Green Mountain - Jacks Creek

Pensacola - Price’s Creek - Ramseytown - South Toe

www.yanceycountynews.com vTo be a voice, and to allow the voices of our community to be heard.v March 27, 2014 • Vol. 4, No. 13 v Recipient of the E.W. Scripps Award for Distinguished Service to the First Amendment v

District attorney candidates face off in forum By Jonathan Austin Yancey County News The three candidates for district attorney attended a forum last Friday evening at the Spruce Pine Fire – Rescue Station and answered questions about what they would do if elected. The three candidates, Nathan Miller, Britt Springer and Seth Banks, addressed what they think is the biggest challenge for the prosecutor’s office in the 24th District, why they think they are qualified, and what changes they would want to make.

The forum, sponsored by Appalachian Republican Women, featured Assistant District Attorney Britt Springer, Watauga County Commission Chairman Nathan Miller, a private attorney, and private attorney Seth Banks, a former assistant district attorney. The three highlighted their goals in the question “If elected, what changes would you bring to the office of District Attorney?” Springer said: ‘If elected district attorney, my main focus is going to be bringing back a swift resolution See Page 4

They call this ... Spring

Snow fell on Yancey County Monday morning and more was expected Monday night. The bad weather forced delays in school starts around the region.

Parlier comes back to the mountains

Heather Parlier and Rocky, the UNC Asheville mascot.

By Jonathan Austin Yancey County News A 1996 Mountain Heritage graduate found success as an attorney with the City University of New York but has returned to the mountains for a position in the general counsel’s office at the University of North Carolina Asheville. “I’ve just been really lucky,” says Heather Parlier when asked about the path that took her from Burnsville to the Big Apple and back to Buncombe. “This is the right place for me to be right now. I know a lot of lawyers who do not like their jobs. I love my job; It’s rewarding.” The daughter of Jim and Joan Parlier

of Burnsville, Heather majored in English at Chapel Hill after graduation from Mountain Heritage. “I didn’t know what I wanted to do,” after high school. “I knew I wanted to go to somewhere big” for college, she said, “because Burnsville was so small.” She volunteered at a rape crisis center in Chapel Hill, and seriously considered seeking her master’s degree in social work. After graduating she got a job at UNC-Chapel Hill in the development office, and then “ended up at City of New York University for See Page 6

2 MARCH 27, 2014 • YANCEY COUNTY NEWS

Birthday greetings, cards are sought for a coach who enjoys getting mail My Dad, Hershey Hipps, will be 86 on April 4, 2014. He loves to get mail. If you have worked with him, been coached by him, or taught by him, etc. we would like for you to send him a birthday card. He loves to get autographed pictures so if you have one you could send, please label the back and autograph the front. He has dementia and if he has a picture and can hold it and look at it and put a name with a face it helps him. I am trying to get to as many of his former students, co-workers, ball players, acquaintances as I can. He was in Chadbourn, Burgaw, Pender Academy, Lexington (Central Davidson High), Monroe (Sun Valley High), he also worked after he retired at West Iredell in Statesville, and Mountain Heritage in Burnsville. You could also put your the school you went to and the year maybe. His address is 5525 State Hwy 197 N, Green Mountain, NC 28740 Please share this with any of your classmates and friends. Thanks!! Kitty Hipps Carter

Coach Hipps

Calling Small Businesses About 6 years ago I bought a wonderful home and property along the South Toe River. I bought it to become a part of the community, by developing the river into a small community, and living in the home as I grow older. I have engaged with different functions of our community leadership, and am continually frustrated by the results, mainly lack thereof, of our efforts to promote our area. This month’s Our State magazine, a prominent publication, features on its cover Penland Institute…Smack-dab in the middle of the 6 page article is a full page ad for Greensboro. Our community businesses should have had space in that magazine so that readers could learn about Penland’s neighboring features. Come for Penland, see the rest of what we have to offer. The rivers, the Dark Sky through Mayland’s telescope, and so on … this our way to develop our local economy. Community, for us to thrive, we must promote our area to others, through effective marketing leveraging our combined resources. This is not being done. Small business, let us combine our resources and promote our area the way it should be! Scott Smith 703-624-1206

Service awards given to volunteers at Mayland Members of Mayland Community College’s Circle K Club attended the 53rd Annual Carolinas District Convention in WinstonSalem in February. Several Mayland Circle K members were awarded for their volunteer service during the past year. Club President Jared Wilson and Club Secretary Cynthia Hampton were the inaugural recipients of the first Stealthy Spirit Award for demonstrating enthusiasm in the club. In addition, Hampton received the Silver President’s Volunteer Service Award for having between 175 and 249 hours of service to the surrounding community. Wilson and Nikki Blevins received the Bronze President’s Volunteer Service Award for having between 100 and 174 hours of service to the surrounding community. MCC Circle K member Christian Robinson, will also be recognized for logging over 100 volunteer service hours in his first

WHO WE ARE

The Yancey County News is the only independent newspaper in Yancey County. It is owned, operated and published by

Susan Austin ........ Advertising/Publisher Jonathan Austin ........... Editor/Publisher who are the sole participants and members of

Yancey County News LLC 105 W. Main St., Suite F Burnsville, NC 28714 828-691-0806 or 691-0807 jonathan@yanceycountynews.com susan@yanceycountynews.com The Yancey County News (USPS publication No. 3528) is published weekly for $25 per year in Yancey County, $35 per year out of county. Published by Yancey County News LLC, Periodicals postage paid at Burnsville, NC. Postmaster: Send address changes to: Yancey County News, 105 W. Main St., Suite F, Burnsville, NC 28714 Printed in Boone by the Watauga Democrat on recycled paper.

To be a voice, and to allow the voices of our community to be heard. vRecipient of the 2012 Ancil Payne Award for Ethics in Journalism and the Tom and Pat Gish Award for courage, integrity and tenacity in rural journalism v

year as a Circle K member. The President’s Volunteer Service Aw a r d was established in 2003 to recognize the valuable contributions volunteers are making in our communities and to encourage more people to serve. Recipients of this award receive the official President’s Volunteer Service Aw a r d p i n , a personalized certificate of achievement, and a congratulatory letter from the president of the United States. The Mayland Community College Circle K Club is a service leadership program Pictured left to right are Mayland Circle K Club member Christian of the Spruce Pine Robinson, MCC Circle K Club President Jared Wilson, and Secretary K i w a n i s . C i r c l e Cynthia Hampton. Not pictured but recognized was Nikki Blevins. K is a new club at meet other college students and form lasting Mayland, beginning its second year as a chartered organization. friendships. With a shared desire to make a With more than 12,600 members in 17 nations, positive impact on the world, Circle K’s motto Circle K International is the premier collegiate is “live to serve, love to serve.” For more information on the Circle K Club at and university community service, leadership development, and friendship organization in Mayland Community College, contact Martha the world. CKI blends community service and Huskins at 828-766-1241 or Syvana Crosby at leadership training with the opportunity to 828-766-1242.

Send us you news and photos! Share your ideas or opinion!

Yancey County News

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MARCH 27, 2014 • YANCEY COUNTY NEWS 3

Elementary schools ready for kindergarten registration Registration for all children who will be entering kindergarten during the 2014-2015 school year will be held in each Yancey County elementary school on Thursday, April 10, from 1 – 6 p.m. The parent or guardian must bring the following documents to registration: • Child’s birth certificate (certified copy preferred; mother’s copy acceptable) • Child’s Social Security number and Medicaid ID number (if applicable) • Student residence verification (two items of verification – see below) • NC Kindergarten Health Assessment Report along with the immunization record signed by doctor/certified nurse practitioner (available online (https://sites.google.com/a/ yanceync.net/kindergarten/?pli=1), from health care providers, and at local elementary schools.) Any child entering kindergarten during the 2014-15 school year must be five (5) years of age on or before August 31. The current statute specifies a single entry age for enrollment in a public school and designates kindergarten as the initial point of entry into the system. For information on how to obtain a copy of your child’s birth certificate, call Yancey County Register of Deeds at 682-2174 or visit Room 4, Yancey County Courthouse. Copies are $10.00 if obtained in the county in which the child was born or $24.00 if obtained from another county. If either parent was born outside the United States, special conditions apply. The Yancey County Register of Deeds Office will be happy to help with your questions. All kindergarten children must comply with the state immunization guidelines and Health Assessment Law. North Carolina General Statute 130A – 441 requires children entering school to have both the kindergarten health assessment form and their immunization records completed and up-to-date by the first day of school. Parents must make sure the information recorded on the child’s immunization/health record is signed by a doctor or certified nurse practitioner or registered nurse who meets the North Carolina Division of Health Standards. This form can be downloaded on the Yancey County Schools website (https://sites.google. com/a/yanceync.net/kindergarten/?pli=1). The form is also available at most health care providers and will be available on Kindergarten

Kindergarten celebration at the Town Center T h e Ya n c e y C o u n t y S c h o o l s Kindergarten Registration Kick-off will be held April 10 from 12- 3:30 p.m. at the Burnsville Town Center. Either before or after registering your child for Kindergarten on April 10 (at your school) stop by for a fun-filled afternoon at the Burnsville Town Center, 12:00 – 3:30. Activities scheduled include the Burnsville Police Department completing fingerprint kits; school bus safety activities with Buster the Bus and a school bus tour; face painting along with balloons; introduction to alphabet characters; literacy and math “tech” centers; games with Yancey County Schools’ PE staff; art and music activities with YCS Arts/Music teachers; a dental hygienist providing dental check-ups; and much, much more.

address location of the residence • Copies of mortgage documents or copies of the deed of property which indicate the street or road address of property • Copy of residential lease showing residence address • Copy of current driver’s license showing street or road address • Current utility bill showing residence address • Copy of voter registration form showing street or road residence address • Copy of automobile registration showing street or road address Failure to provide the student residence verification information requested may be result in the reassignment of the student to another school or the suspension of attendance privilege until the necessary information is provided. Parents requesting student transfer must first register the child in the school district in which the child resides. Transfer requests are available online at the following link: https://sites.google. com/a/yanceync.net/kindergarten/?pli=1. The transfer request form must be completed by the parent, signed for approval by the principal of the school requested and the principal of the school from which the student is transferring, then submitted to the YCS Board of Education for approval. A Request for Transfer can be denied by the principal of either school or by the YCS Board of Education. For questions regarding general registration information contact your child’s school. Forms and general information are also available on the Yancey County Schools website.

registration day, April 10. For information or questions regarding the immunizations and health assessments, please contact the school. Parents or guardians who are unable to bring the required immunization records and health assessments records to the kindergarten teacher before school is out this year should wait until school opens in the fall to bring these records. During the summer when buildings are being cleaned, materials may be misplaced. Student residence verification must be submitted to the school when registering for kindergarten or when enrolling your child in Yancey County Schools for the first time. The verification of address must be accompanied by NOTICE OF MEETINGS any two (2) of the following items: OF THE YANCEY COUNTY • Property tax BOARD OF EQUALIZATION AND REVIEW records which indicate the street or road

Pursuant to N.C.G.S. 105-322, the Yancey County Board of Equalization and Review will meet as required by law. PURPOSE OF MEETINGS To hear, upon request, any and all taxpayers who own or control taxable property assessed for taxation in Yancey County, with respect to the valuation of such property, or the property of others, and to fulfill other duties and responsibilities as required by law. TIME OF MEETINGS The Board will convene for its first meeting on April 14th, 2014 at 5:00pm. The Board will adjourn for the purpose of accepting requests for hearing at its meeting on May 5th, 2014. Requests for hearing must be received no later than final adjournment, which is scheduled for May 5th, 2014 at 9:00 AM. Meetings will begin promptly at 5:00pm in Commissioners Board Room on the second floor of the Yancey County Courthouse. In the event of an earlier or a later adjournment, notice to that effect will be published in this newspaper. The schedule for the hearing of appeals which were timely filed will be posted at the office of the Assessor, serving as Clerk to the Board, and will also be provided to individuals and organizations that have requested notice pursuant to N.C.G.S. 143-318.12. All requests for hearing should be made to: Jeff A Boone, Clerk to the Yancey County Board of Equalization and Review 110 Town Square, Courthouse Room 2 Burnsville, NC 28714 Telephone: (828) 682-2198 Fax: (828) 682-4817 Email: jeff.boone@yanceycountync.gov

4 MARCH 27, 2014 • YANCEY COUNTY NEWS

Candidates explain why they want to be district attorney From the front for some of our DWIs. Right now we’ve got a DWI problem in Watauga County. None of the other counties see it as badly as Watauga County, but as we speak we probably have 200 pending DWIs. We have ASU there … every week we get 50 more DWIs. Incredible. What I did was pair up with the judges in the district court two months ago. What we did is we have a super session (of court) where we had two courts going, four ADAs going, and we actually got rid of approx. 25 percent of our DWIs in one week. I can do that because I’ve been at the DA’s office for 11 years now. I know the ins and outs I know how to work with our judges, and if elected I will continue to do so.” Miller said: “Inefficiency is the root problem in the district attorney’s office. There is a huge backlog in Watauga County, and it has been going on for years. That is first and foremost what I will tackle. We need to use court time efficiently. The other day I was in court, after calendar call we took a 45 minute recess. Did one plea and took another recess, though it was unofficially because the judge was sitting on the bench. That is ineffective use of court time. I had a case during (super court) I had a DWI I was representing somebody. I won that case because the officer didn’t show up. It was disposed of; it is no longer dealt with. It’s great to have two courts going; two judges, four DAs; and everything else. But you’ve got to have your witnesses there and that takes a little pre planning. So what I would do as soon as I was sworn in is reevaluate when everybody comes in. what time we’re actually going to get to court and start working court. Fix the efficiency problem, because that is the main problem facing the District Attorney’s office at this time.” Banks said: “If elected I’m dedicated to bringing a new level of professionalism, efficiency and expertise to the district attorney’s office. First of all, professionalism; I believe that the district attorney’s office should be a professionally run office. I think I see inefficiencies in the way that things are done right now, especially as it relates to talking to victims of crimes and their families. I think … the barriers that are currently in place should be broken down. There should be a new level of public service brought to the district attorney’s

office; the attitude of public service should permeate everything that we do in the district attorney’s office. Additionally I will bring efficiency to the office of district attorney. Justice delayed is too often justice denied for the victims of crimes and their families. We’ve got to get cases done, we’ve got to get them done quickly. Finally, I will bring a level of expertise to the prosecution of crime in this district. I am the only candidate who is a boardcertified specialist in North Carolina criminal law. That certification is given by the North Carolina state bar. I will bring that expertise to, and work for the people of the 24th judicial district.” Asked what the greatest challenges are in the district attorney’s office, the three noted budget cuts, inefficiencies and waste of resources. At one point Banks argued that too few felony cases go to trial, but all three promised to prosecute felons to the greatest extent of the law. The three Republican candidates will face off in a May 6 primary. No Democrat filed to run for district attorney, so barring a substantial challenge from an unaffiliated candidate or a write in, the next district attorney is one of the three at the forum. Prior to the forum the candidates provided these profiles: Britt Springer: I am married to John Springer, a supervisor with the USPS and have two children, Lilly (4) and Reed (3). We live in the Rutherwood community of Watauga County and are members of Boone United Methodist Church. I am the current chief prosecutor for the 24th Judicial District and have been as Assistant District Attorney since 2003. My responsibilities in being the chief prosecutor is that I oversee all of the ADA’s in the district and am responsible for trying all homicides in the district. I council all of the other ADA’s on child sex offense cases and have spoken throughout the state on how to prepare the best possible case for victims of child molestation. I have personally placed child molestation in prison for a combines 1000 plus years. I am endorsed by District Attorney Jerry Wilson and Chief District Court Judge Alexander Lyerly to become the next District Attorney.

Yancey County Schools Seeks Input from Private Schools For Title I Application Yancey County Schools is beginning to plan the Title I program for the 2014-2015 school year. Qualifying private schools within the area may be eligible to apply for Title I funds. Private School eligibility information is available at the US Department of Education website, http://www2. ed.gov/programs/titleiparta/psguidance.doc, or by contacting Shane Cassida, Yancey County Schools Title I Director, P. O. Box 190, Burnsville, NC 28714; by phone at 828.682.6101 Ext. 302; or by email at wscassida@yanceync.net.

Nathan Miller: Nathan grew up in the Deep Gap community of Watauga County. He is married to Crystal Miller and they have one child, Lillian Sue Miller. Nathan graduated from Parkway Elementary School and Watauga High School. After high school, he graduated from the University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill with a degree in Political Science and History and from St. Mary’s University School of Law in San Antonio in Texas. Since graduating law school, Nathan has been a lawyer with law firm of Miller and Johnson, PLLC in Boone, North Carolina. Since 2009,

he has been a partner with Miller and Johnson, PLLC and overseen day to day operations. Nathan has years of litigation experience in both criminal and civil courts and has made oral arguments to the North Carolina Court of Appeals. He is admitted to practice law in all courts in North Carolina and in the Federal Court System for the Western District of North Carolina. In 2010, Nathan was elected Chairman of the Watauga County Commissioners and will until his term expires in December, 2014. Nathan is a lifelong Republican who comes from a strong Republican family and whose family members have held other local and state elected positions. Nathan is also an Eagle Scout. Seth Banks: Seth grew up in Yancey County on a farm that has been in his family for five generations. There he developed a love of the mountains and the people who call them home. Seth graduated from Mountain Heritage High School and attended N.C. State university. During college he worked for Congressman Charles H. Taylor in his Washington, D.C. Office. Seth graduated from the Wake Forest University School of Law and began working as an Assistant District Attorney. Seth has extensive experience in all aspects of prosecution, from serious assaults and murder to breaking and entering, trafficking of drugs and crimes against children. His commitment to excellence in his work and has earned him the reputation of being a tough but fair prosecutor who is highly regarded by those who has worked with him. In recognition of his skill, expertise, and experience in the area of North Carolina Criminal Law, Seth has been certified by the North Carolina State Bar as a Specialist in State Criminal Law. Seth is married to his high school sweetheart, Gretchen. They have a 22 month old, David, and reside in Burnsville where Seth is a partner with the law firm of Bailey and Banks.

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MARCH 27, 2014 • YANCEY COUNTY NEWS 5

Off season is fine time to go after nuisance targets Hunting season has once again departed; at least until turkey season comes into full swing. The fishing is trying to heat up a bit, but the weather continues to keep it from its prime. With that in mind, there are some ‘community services’ that one can partake and have a blast doing. Predation from invasive species is not only a nuisance, but is growing in the effects it leaves on our wildlife and the habitat. In particular, coyotes and feral hogs do not appear to be going away; in fact their numbers are growing rapidly. Now hunters and outdoorsmen are beginning to understand the significance and the increased opportunities in the process. The fawns being born over the next weeks and months will become prime targets for a hungry coyote population following a cold winter and early spring. In areas where the coyotes exhibit high numbers, the deer populations will obviously be affected the heaviest. With the mating season for turkey fast approaching, the same concerns for our turkey populations exist. Again, the poults are especially vulnerable. Not only do nesting birds have to worry about scavenging hunters such as opossum, raccoons, and foxes with their eggs, but they have to protect their young birds

Bill Howard’s

Outdoors from aggressive packs of coyotes. Then there are the feral hogs. They have multiple litters each year and can overpopulate an area in a very short amount of time. They can obliterate crops, driving away turkey, deer, quail, and other game animals that are drawn to the lands for both food and cover. A couple of years ago I was invited on a cull hunt for feral hogs on a deer hunting lease. The hogs were consuming all of the baiting areas making it more difficult to hunt the whitetail. Our job was simple - take out as many hogs as possible. The first evening, just a half hour after arriving and throwing on some camo and climbing the stand, I saw my first hogs come into the open area. Two different groups came in from different sides about 15 minutes apart. I was bowhunting and had four about 27 yards away standing beside each other in twos. I texted to my hunting partner that the way they were lined up I did not have a clear shot at just one. But after assessing the situation, I

concluded I did have a clear shot at two. Shoot high in the lungs at the first and on a pass-thru I should be able to connect with the one beside it in the lower lungs or heart. I drew back the 70 pound bow and waited. After approximately 30 seconds, the shot presented itself. A soft touch of my trigger finger to the release and the 100 grain broadhead found the mark. I saw the fletching of the arrow stay in the closest hog so I texted my partner again that I had one, but I don’t think I was able to hit the second. The arrow must have struck the massive shoulder blade. After coming down from the stand and starting the blood trail, the trail split about 15 yards away from impact. There was one part of my arrow as well. The arrow had passed through the first hog, and when it struck the second, their reaction broke the arrow in flight. Another 15 yards in a briar patch lay one of the hogs. Ten yards away from the first lay the second. Sausage and cubed ham filled the freezer. I had a wonderful hunt, had some great food for the family,

and helped with the population control of the feral hogs. Overall, I saw a dozen hogs for every one deer during the weekend. And this was on land where good money was spent on leasing and managing the deer herd. That is a community service with some awesome benefits for both myself and the one’s I helped. Bill Howard is a member of North Carolina Bowhunters Association and Pope & Young. He can be reached at billhowardoutdoors@gmail.com.

Forest Service warns of season risk when burning debris The spring fire season has arrived, and federal officials are asking visitors to the national forests and neighbors to help prevent the next wildfire. The USDA Forest Service (USFS) National Forests in North Carolina urges residents throughout the state to keep safety in mind and exercise caution during the spring fire season that typically lasts until late April to mid-May.

In the spring, people do a lot of yard work that often includes burning leaves and yard debris. In North Carolina, more than 40 percent of all wildfires are caused by careless debris burning - the number one cause of wildfires in the state. Private landowners who cause wildfires may be liable for fire suppression costs on state and national forest land if a fire originates on their property. The N.C. Forest

Our New Office! Drop by and visit us in our cosy office beneath the old David’s Ltd. Just come down the steps from West Main, or park behind the block and come in!

Service offers the following tips to protect property and prevent wildfires: • Always consider alternatives to burning. • Obtain a burning permit. • Check the weather - don’t burn on dry, windy days. • Know your local burning laws. • Be prepared with water, a shovel and phone, and stay with the fire until it is out.

MARCH 27, 2014 • YANCEY COUNTY NEWS chools6 2014-15 180-day Calendar

School calendar for 14-15

SEPTEMBER September 2014

AUGUST August 2014

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thur

Fri

Sat

Tue

Wed

Thur

Fri

Sat

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thur

Fri

Sat

24 31

Sun

Cumulative Hours

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NOVEMBER November 2014

OCTOBER October 2014 Sun

Sun

Mon

Tue

Cumulative Hours

131.25

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Thur

Fri

DECEMBER December 2014 Wed

Thur

Fri

Sat

Sun

Mon

Tue

Wed

Sat

26 

Cumulative Hours

140.63

Sun

Mon

30 Cumulative Hours

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JANUARY January 2015

16 23

###

96.88

FEBRUARY February 2015 Tue

Wed

Thur

Fri

Sat

Sun

Mon

Cumulative Hours

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93.75

March 2015 MARCH

Tue

Wed

Thur

Fri

Sat

Sun

Mon

Tue

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Thur

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Sat

11 12 13 14 15 16 17 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 15 16 17 18 19 20 NC GS 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 22 23 24 25 26 27 115 C-25 26 27 28 29 30 31 29 30 31 84.2 Cumulative Hours ### Cumulative Hours ### Cumulative Hours ### 118.75 125 134.38 state JUNE APRIL MAY April May 2015 June 2015 s2015 scho Sun Mon Tue Wed Thur Fri Sat Sun Mon Tue Wed Thur Fri Sat Sun Mon Tue Wed Thur Fri ol 1 2 3 4 1 2 1 2 3 4 5 cale ndar 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 7 8 9 10 11 12 s must 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 14 15 16 17 18 19 inclu 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 21 22 23 24 25 26 de the 26 27 28 29 30 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 28 29 30 folllo 31 Cumulative Hours Cumulative Hours ### ### Hours Bank 103.13 103.13 Mandato wing Standard Kinderg ry Staff Early Teacher Workday arten Report elem cards due five (5) days after the nine weeks ends. Dismissal Teacher and Registr Workday Times: Studen Annual ation, Leave Days Holidays ents:

Elementar Half School Day/Parent Day Transiti y 11:30 HS 11:45 - on AND MS 12:00 High noon School

Pupil Days OR

1,025 Instructional Hours

ual Leave Days 11 Holidays 14 Workdays

End of 9 week s: Approved

Oct 20 Jan 9

Mar 16

May 25

by the Board: 03-20-14

This

Sat

6 13 20 27

81.25

ts return Indicat for es End second of Nine semest Weeks er

Parent Confere nce Day 1:00 -5 Assigned Work Days for Teacher Assistants Indicates 6:00 p.m. calendar may HALFchange due to inclement weather and/or action DAY FOR STUDE NTS

After stint in Big Apple, Parlier comes home From the front law school,” she said. “I went in still thinking I wanted to do domestic violence work. You don’t specialize in law school,” she said, but the city university law school had a reputation for public service and social justice. She earned a post-graduate fellowship in the CUNY general counsel’s office. “It was a one-year position but they asked me to stay on.” All in all she spent six and a half years in that office. “I lived in Queens, Manhattan and Brooklyn,” she said. What did she think of life in New York City? “A lot of people would say it was a big change. The most interesting part is, it easier to live there than to visit,” because “it can be a pretty unforgiving city. You have to get to know the city before you figure out the really positive parts.” Parlier is married to Scott Wells, also an attorney, and she said the couple found great joy living in such a big city. “We really took advantage of the museums, the parks, the concert series - almost all free. You can really take advantage of those,” she said. “You get a flavor” of international life, she said, living among “different people and different cultures. It’s a beautiful place, but it’s also hot, cold, and crowded.” But still, she said she and Scott were ready to consider leaving the city when she saw an announcement for the associate general counsel position at Asheville. “I interviewed in June 2013. I had the right experience.” And the move back to the mountains surprised Heather’s parents. “I don’t think Mom and Dad thought I could move this close; that I would ever really get to Asheville. They were really excited.” And what advice does she have for current Mountain Heritage students uncertain of

what they want to do when graduation rolls around? “Taking your time and think about what you really want to do. The most unhappy (I recall) were the people who were trying to rush through. I didn’t think I would ever end up doing what I’m doing, but I am so happy.”

Graham Children’s Health Services Is seeking a part time

Executive Director Qualifications and skills required include: • Experience working with community-based organizations • Grant writing and budget management experience •Strong organizational and public speaking skills • Proficiency working with Word, Excel and Publisher. Position Description: This individual will act as the Executive Director of GCHS to fulfill its mission. • Ensure implementation of GCHS Strategic Plan and create new projects and programs. • Coordinate and oversee Healthy Yancey. • Secure funding through grants and fundraising events. • Support the Mitchell Yancey Substance Abuse Task Force. • Supervise staff and volunteers. Email resume to gchs@trhd.dst.nc.us.

Director of Social Services Yancey County Yancey County Board of Social Services is seeking qualified applicants for the position of Social Services Director. The Director serves as the Executive Officer of the County Department of Social Services, executing the authority of the Department as defined in G.S.108A-14. The Director appoints and supervises all Department of Social Services staff in the delivery of agency services to the residents of the County and will provide leadership and direction for program development, establishing program standards, and monitoring and evaluating quality of service delivery. The Director will supervise budget activities and will act as spokesperson for the agency relative to program issues. The Director will represent the agency with government officials, other Human Services providers and with community planning efforts. Qualified candidates must possess: Thorough knowledge of the legal and philosophical basis for public welfare programs, including client rights; Thorough knowledge of the principles and practice of social work; Thorough knowledge of management principles, techniques and practices; Knowledge of the agency’s organization, operation and objectives, and applicable federal and state laws, rules and regulations; Ability to exercise sound judgment in analyzing situations and making decisions; Ability to direct employees and programs in the various areas of responsibility; Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with the general public and with federal, state and local officials and Commitment to quality services for clients. Minimum Training and Experience Requirements: A Master’s degree in social work and two years of supervisory experience in the delivery of client services; or a bachelor’s degree in social work and three years of supervisory experience in the delivery of client services, one of which must have been in Social Services; or graduation from a four year college or university and three years of supervisory experience in the delivery of client services, two of which must have been in Social Services; or an equivalent combination of training and experience. Salary is commensurate with experience and State personnel guidelines. P R E - E M P LOY M E N T D RU G S C R E E N I N G A N D B AC KG RO U N D CHECK ARE REQUIRED BI-LINGUAL (SPANISH) APPLICANTS PREFERRED. Interested candidates submit: Letter of Interest Resume NC PD 107 Transcripts Three (3) references to Liz Tinney, Department of Commerce/ Employment Service liz.tinney@nccommerce.com OR Yancey County DSS Attn: Denise Peterson PO Box 67 Burnsville, NC 28714 Applications accepted until April 7, 2014. Applicants will be given credit only for information provided in response to this announcement. No additional information will be solicited by the Yancey County DSS; therefore, persons who submit incomplete applications may not receive full credit for their education, training and experience. YANCEY COUNTY IS AN EQUAL O P P O RT U N I T Y E M P LOY E R A N D COMPLIES WITH REQUIREMENTS OF THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT. Previously received applications for the Director’s position will remain on file for six months.

MARCH 27, 2014 â&#x20AC;˘ YANCEY COUNTY NEWS 7

Yancey County 4--H celebrates a century

Several hundred people came to the Burnsville Town Center last Thursday to help Cooperative Extension celebrate its centennial with a party for 4-H and all the program has done and is doing for Yancey youth. Area elementary schools had displays showing the way 4-H is teaching and guiding in the public school system, and individual

4-H youth also presented their individual projects that have won local, district and state awards. Joyce Watts, the former 4-H Agent and County Extension Director was honored for her dedication to the Yancey 4-H Program. Watts established the Yancey 4-H Program as on of the premier 4-H programs in state of North Carolina.

TheWall Street Journal has received the E.W. Scripps Award for Distinguished Service to the First Amendment. So has the newspaper you are reading right now. The New York Times has been honored with the Ancil Payne Award for Ethics in Journalism. So has the newspaper you are reading right now.

MARCH 27, 2014 • YANCEY COUNTY NEWS

Learning that laughs are OK Q: Our 4-yearold daughter has a Living huge problem with being laughed at. S h e l o v e s t o b e with goofy and do funny things but as soon as someone, including children one of us, laughs at her she becomes upset. She will say “Don’t laugh!” or other words, deal with funny. Then, ask her “I don’t want you the problem or issue what she wants you to laugh at me!” We when it’s not taking (and other people) explain that we aren’t place and hasn’t for to do when she does something funny, as laughing at her but a while. Sit down with her in, “Do you want us at the funny things at a time when the to laugh or clap, or s h e d o e s . We ’ v e home has been calm do you just want us also told her that we for a while and this to sit there and not laugh because we are particular issue hasn’t even look at you, happy and having a happened for a day like this?” (Make a good time with her. or more. Tell her that ludicrously serious Is there a different you want to talk about face to help make the way to explain this her reaction to people point.) to her so that she will who laugh when she Try to get across to understand that we does funny things. To her that the alternative aren’t trying to be help her understand to laughing is not mean or tease her in that the laughter is natural. Point out, anyway? not personal, point for example, that it A: Maybe. First, out times when she would be strange h o w e v e r , s o m e has laughed when i f h e r f a v o r i t e background: A child’s someone else, even television character social personality is a character on one did something funny forming at this age. As o f h e r f a v o r i t e and no one laughed. such, it’s not unusual television shows, B y d i s c u s s i n g for a 3- or 4-year- has done something several alternatives old to be somewhat “conflicted” when it comes to personality with Rollback Truck! traits like introversion versus extroversion. Some 4-year-olds, for example, are very self-conscious Pay Fair Price and therefore easily Will Pick Up Vehicle embarrassed when 828-675-0809 828-208-7522 people pay attention to things they’re doing. Others are hams and love to perform and make people laugh. It Sen. Richard Burr (R) sounds to me like your 217 Russell Senate Office Building daughter is caught Washington, D.C. 20510 betwixt and between Phone: (202) 224-3154 - Fax: (202) 228-2981 these two opposing Asheville: Federal Building, 151 Patton Ave., Suite 204 traits, as if she can’t Asheville, N.C. 28801 make up her mind Phone: (828) 350-2437 - Fax: (828) 350-2439 whether she wants to Sen. Kay Hagan (D) be a comedian or not. 521 Dirksen Senate Office Building If you only continue Washington, D.C. 20510 to muddle through Phone: (202) 224-6342 - Fax: (202) 228-2563 these upsets as you’re Asheville address: 82 Patton Ave., Suite 635 doing - and you’re Asheville, N.C. 28801 actually doing fine Phone: (828) 257-6510 - Fax: (828) 257-6514 - this little bump in 11th District Rep. Mark Meadows (R) the road will smooth 1516 Longworth House Office Building itself out within a year Washington, D.C. 20515 Phone: (202) 225-6401 or two. There may be, N.C. Elected Officials however, some things N.C. Senate District 47 Sen. Ralph Hise (R) you can do to hurry Address: N.C. Senate the process along. 16 W. Jones St., Room 1026 Obviously, trying Raleigh, N.C. 27601-2808 to explain your Phone: (919) 733-3460 and (828) 766-8329 laughter after she’s Email: Ralph.Hise@ncleg.net become upset is not N.C. House District 118 Rep. Michele D. working; therefore, I Presnell (R) recommend that you Address: N.C. House of Representatives be more proactive. 16 W. Jones St., Room 1025 I call the approach Raleigh, N.C. 27601-1096 Phone: (919) 733-5732 and (828) 682-6342 I’m going to describe Email: Michele.Presnell@ncleg.net “Striking While the Iron is Cold” - in

to laughing, you will draw her into the problem-solving process. She may begin to see that laughter is what she actually is looking for. My experience is that a conversation of this sort will begin to bring about resolution, although you might have to have several more like it before it finally sets in.

Week of 3/31/14 - 4/6/14

Towing Service

I Buy Junk Vehicles!

Your Representatives

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Edited by Margie E. Burke

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Difficulty : Easy

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CLASSIFIEDS

MARCH 27, 2014 • YANCEY COUNTY NEWS 9

CALL 691-0806 TO RUN YOUR CLASSIFIED! $5 FOR 50 WORDS • CALL 691-0806 TO RUN YOUR CLASSIFIED! $5 FOR 50 WORDS

LAND FOR SALE

44.330 ACRES - NATIONAL FOREST joins at back and side boundary! 3600’ Elevations astounding VIEWS - wooded mountain land, ideal for Hunt Club or Survivalist retreat- with plenty of firewood, deer and other game and springs. Short walk too Appalachian Trail! No Restrictions. www.lunsfordrealty. biz $110.825! Lunsford Realty 828-678-3400. FOR RENT or SALE - Brick rancher of three bedrooms, one bath. Living, dining - kitchen, u t i l i t y. c a r p o r t . G a r a g e . Outbuildings. 4.62 ACRES - ideal for gardens, horses. Plenty of firewood. Trout Stream nearby! Rent -$600 month - NO pets! Sale $159,500 - some owner financing with substantial down. www. lunsfordrealty.biz Lunsford Realty 828-678-3400. M T. M I T C H E L L G O L F COURSE - .77 ACRE - gentle slope ideal building site with VIEWS of South Toe River and mountains, landscaped by “Nature” with abundant laurel, ivy, Galax and native flora! Septic approval, community water. Golf, hiking, fishing in South Toe River - protective neighborhood OWNERS WILL FINANCE!!! $55,000 - Lunsford Realty 828678-3400. South Toe land for sale 5.5 acres off Colberts Creek Road. Creek frontage, borders National Forest, privacy, mixture of lush rhododendron, pines and hardwoods, level to moderate grade, south/southeast exposure, garden spot, view of Black Mountains, beautiful rock formation, active springs with spring boxes and pipe, and close proximity to South Toe River and

Carolina Hemlock Recreation Area. At least 3-4 potential house sites. Transferable septic permit already obtained. Electric close by. We are selling in order to buy a larger parcel (10-15 acres) and will consider land swap option. Asking price: $84,900. We would love to answer any questions you have or meet with you to show you this beautiful property. Contact Lisa at 828-208-1221.

FOR RENT

House For Rent: 16 minutes south of Burnsville off Hwy. 197. Catttail Creek Rd. $675/month plus utilities, deposit, pet deposit. Approx. 900 square ft. 3 bdrm., 1 bath, laundry room, small yard, kitchen/dining/living room is one room. Small stove. Beautiful area. email: ronm2u@hotmail.com 828 551 9775 House For Rent in town, 3 BDRM, 2 Bath, 2 story house, large BM, Fireplace, Central Cooling/Heating Pump, Garage, Decks, Balconies/ Patio, Fully Fenced, Appliances with Washer/Dryer. $900/Month. No pets preferred. Call (828) 682-7499 .

Homes For Rent Thurston Associates 828-682-4552

● 1Br/1Ba New studio cottage.

MAYtime

Compost & Garden Soil Topsoil Worm Castings 828-231-9352 www.maytimecomposting.com

DoneRite Lawncare All lawn care needs, Snow removal, firewood supplies and much more.

Call 284-0032 and have it DoneRite!

Get the ONLY locally owned Yancey County newspaper! That’s right, this is the only newspaper that is 100 percent owned by Yancey residents! It is the only one NOT majority owned by an out-of -state newspaper chain!

Celo area $800/month, includes yard maintenance. ● 1Br/1Ba high end efficiency in a private home. $800/month, including utilities. ● 2Br/1Ba unfurnished log home. West Yancey, $1,000/month ● 3Br/2Ba furnished log home. West Yancey, $1,200/month ● 2Br/2Ba furnished log home. Celo. $800/month.

FOR SALE

Golden Delicious apples, Virginia Beauty apples at Arbuckle Road. Please call 828-675-9532

Boxwoods for Sale. $10 each. 828.208.0406. AKC registered chocolate lab puppies for sale. Please contact 208-3524 for more information.

giving you the opportunity to take care of yourself and things you need to do without worry. Qualified/caring staff. Grants available. For information please call 828682-1556 Free Manure – Will load. Natural house-cleaning Clear Creek Ranch. 675service. Non-toxic 4510- 4/6/14 Weekcleaning of 3/31/14 for every room and surface Roof Leak? Call Brad at in your house. Weekly Tip Top Roofing, 25 years+ maintenance cleaning, experience. References. monthly deep cleaning, 682-3451 and/or task specific help Sewing alterations. Call as needed. Sliding scale 208-3999. rate. Call 675-2088 or email Garnet.the.Morgan@gmail. Will clean your home or business. Call 208-3688 com. Adult day care - Heritage Brad’s Tree Service Adult Day Retreat located We are careful, mindful, and just west of Burnsville offers safe. We clean up very well. We low cost affordable quality are local, we speak your language! day care for your loved one We will also beat any price! Please

HOST HOME PROVIDER A re yo u a b l e t o provide a loving home? Community Alternatives of North Carolina is currently searching for dynamic folks in the area to support IDD individuals within a home environment. Training is provided. Call 828-284-2776 or email jcall@ rescare.com for more information.

SERVICES

The Weekly Crossword ACROSS 1 Core members 6 Salon sound 10 Ashtray remnant 14 Beyond the 'burbs 15 Kudrow of "Friends" 16 On any occasion 17 In the first place 19 Frank Herbert sci-fi series 20 Pop's top, perhaps 21 Thug's pistol 22 Fraternity letter 24 Minnie of "The Riches" 27 Black ice, e.g. 28 Disco light 30 Wed in Vegas, maybe 32 Built-out window 33 Warning sign 34 MSNBC offering 38 Part of a "Jack & the Beanstalk" exclamation 39 Soon to get hitched 42 Solemn pledge 43 Commotion 45 Hodge-podge 46 "Don Giovanni", for one 48 Baltimore player 50 Smugly ingratiating 51 Fit to be tilled 54 Kind of circle 56 Ice cream flavor 58 Recurrent twitch 59 Cookware item 62 Computer menu option 63 Light up 66 Frosty film 67 Iditarod vehicle 68 Weighed down 69 Stadium area

call 828-284-8530.

by Margie E. Burke 5

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70 Youngster 71 Hostile force

33 Make eyes at 51 Prevent, as 35 Swampy disaster 52 Two make a grassland DOWN 36 Apple spoiler diameter 1 Gator's kin 37 Move to and fro 53 Japanese 2 Surrounding 40 Salinger or cartoon art glow Steinbeck, e.g. 55 Musical study 3 Hung on the line 41 Residence 57 Wartime 4 Joplin's "Maple 44 NASA launch comrade 47 Wok, for one 60 News tidbit Leaf ___" 5 Qualified 49 Every last bit 61 Say it isn't so 6 Shade of blue 50 Do laps, 64 Albanian coin 7 Score of zero 65 A Bobbsey twin perhaps 8 Vacation spot Answer to Last Week's Crossword: 9 Cell alternative C A C A O M U T T C A P 10 Dress gaudily V I S O R A V E 11 Throat dangler O V O I D R A T 12 Carreras is one M I R R O R I M A G E P A D R A R E S A F A R I 13 Pollster's W A T T D A V I T A T O P concern L I S P M A C E R O B O T 18 Pew area C A R B I N E E R A S E R 23 Gullible one 25 Caviar, literally T A U T R O L L 26 Archaeological A S C R I B E F O I B L E find N A V E C A R O L P U P A 28 Pillowy R I V E L E W D O D O R S 29 The Kingston D E B T A G E L I N D E N ____ I T S P O W E R B R O K E R 31 Building block A G O N Y I D E A L T O O brand L O O T M E R R Y E R R

10 MARCH 27, 2014 • YANCEY COUNTY NEWS

Obituaries Mary Louise Blalock

Mary Louise Blalock, 84, of the South Toe community, died Friday, March 21, 2014, at her home. A native of Yancey County, she was a daughter of the late Sam and Grace Riddle Blalock. She was also preceded in death by brothers Kenneth, John, Frank and George Blalock, and sister Edith Weatherman. Surviving are her brother, Clyde Blalock and wife, Kate; and numerous nieces and nephews. Funeral was Monday in the Willie ‘Gene’ Evans Chapel of Holcombe Brothers Willie “Gene” Evans, 63, Funeral Home. The Rev. Pete of Jacks Creek, passed away Peterson officiated. Burial was unexpectedly Friday, March 21, in the Carroway Cemetery. 2014, at his home. A native of Yancey County, he was a son of Bill Evans of Burnsville and the late Hattie Silvers. Gene was an Army veteran. He was a retired employee of Bombardier and an avid outdoorsman. Surviving, in addition to his father, are his companion Carla Manis; two daughters, Andrea McKinney and husband, Chris, of Spruce Pine, and Misty Evans of Burnsville; five grandsons, a great-grandson, and two sisters: Linda Wykle of Greeneville, Tenn., and Pam Rathburn of Morganton. Gertrude Ray Stone Funeral was to be held at 3 Gertrude Ray Stone, 85, of p.m. Wednesday in the Chapel Lula, Ga., passed away on March of Holcombe Brothers Funeral 21, 2014, at Northeast Georgia Home. The Revs. G E Freeman Medical Center following an and Pete Peterson were to extended illness. officiate. Burial was to be in She was born Dec. 21, 1928, the Evans Family Cemetery in Bald Creek to the late Frank with military honors by Sgt. E.L. Ray and Ruth Ray. She was Randolph Chapter 57 DAV. retired from Milliken where she The family was to receive worked in the weave room. She friends one hour prior to the was also preceded in death by service at the funeral home. her husband, Allen Stone; sisters Memorials may be made to Mary Frank Self, Atlas Pressley, Sgt. E. L. Randolph Chapter 57 Edith Ray, and Lucille Powell DAV, P. O. Box 868, Burnsville, and her brother, Walter Ray. NC 28714. Survivors include her daughter and son-in-law, Janet and Farrell Alyssa Yelton Henson Ramsey of Mountain Home, Idaho; son and daughter-in-law, Alyssa Anne Yelton Henson, Johnny and Linda Stone of Lula, 24, of Look Homeward Drive, Ga.; granddaughters Denise died Thursday, March 20, 2014. Shockley, Elicia Massengill, A native of Yancey County, she Tiffany Crowe, Shannon Gelalia was a daughter of William and and Danielle Ramsey; and five Marilyn Yelton of Burnsville. great-grandchildren; sisters She was a 2007 graduate of Billie Joyce Parham, Joncilee Mountain Heritage High School, Davis and Elsie Gay Huff where she was a cheerleader and brothers Bobbie Ray and and played softball. She had Addison Ray. attended Mayland Community Graveside service was held College. Tuesday at the Lower Ray She had been employed at Cemetery on Possum Trot Brookside and Mountain Manor, Road. The Rev. Johnny Stone where she enjoyed giving care to officiated. the residents. Memorials may be made to Surviving, in addition to her Hall County Hospice in Georgia. parents, are her husband Will Memorial Park Funeral Home, Henson; daughter Kamilyn 2030 Memorial Park Road, Henson; two brothers: Jason Gainesville, GA 30504. Yelton of Utah and Ryan Yelton of Burnsville; maternal

grandfather Ronald Gross of Florida; and several aunts and uncles. Funeral was Tuesday in Bethel Missionary Baptist Church of which she was a member. The Rev. Darrin Waldroup officiated. Burial was in the Mt. Zion Church Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Bethel Missionary Baptist Church to assist the family.

Versie Barnett Bennett Versie Barnett Bennett, 93, of Pigeon Roost, died on Thursday, March 20, 2014, at Mountain Manor Assisted Living. A native of Mitchell County, she was a daughter of the late Dove and Mary Etter Barnett and wife of the late Bob Bennett who passed away in 2008. She was also preceded in death by son Junior Bennett; a sister and two brothers. Versie loved to garden, be outside and spend time with her dog, Trixie. She was a loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. Surviving is her granddaughter, Peggy Evans and husband, Billy, of Pigeon Roost; great-granddaughter Brandy Aldridge and husband, Kodie; great-grandson Bobby Evans and wife, Lauren, all of Pigeon Roost; brother Grady Barnett of Burnsville and daughter-in-law Wanda Renfro and husband, Charles, of Green Mountain. Funeral was Sunday with the Rev. Ricky Bennett officiating. Burial was in the Bennett Cemetery on Pigeon Roost. Memorials may be be made to Hospice of Mitchell County, 236 Hospital Drive, Spruce Pine, NC 28777 or Gideons International, PO Box 264, Burnsville, NC 28714.

Ronnie L. Tipton Ronnie L. Tipton, 65, of the Mine Fork community, died Tuesday, March 18, 2014, at Blue Ridge Regional Hospital. A native of Mitchell County, he was a son of the late Leonard

and Fern McCurry Tipton. Ronnie enjoyed restoring old cars, watch round track racing, reading, farming tobacco and driving a dump truck. Surviving is his loving wife of 46 years, Sandy Grindstaff Tipton; sons Ronnie Tipton Jr. and wife, Mary Beth, and Scott Tipton, all of Burnsville; sisters Diane Banks and husband, Bud, of Erwin, Tenn., Darlene Wise and husband, Mike, of Bakersville and Carolyn Elkins and husband, Gerald, of Burnsville; brothers Paul Tipton and wife, Nancy and Roger Tipton and wife, Maxine, all of Burnsville; and grandchildren Candace, Lucas, Jayden and Kaleb Tipton. Funeral was Saturday at Ridgeview Presbyterian Church. The Revs. Lawrence Glenn and Brian Tipton officiated. Burial was in the McCurry Cemetery on Mine Fork. Memorials may be made in Ronnie’s memory to Gideons International, PO Box 264, Burnsville, NC 28714.

Mayland to highlight Advanced Manufacturing Week

Mayland Community College will celebrate North Carolina’s Advanced Manufacturing Week by hosting an Advanced Manufacturing Career Day open house for local middle and high school students, parents, and the community on Tuesday, April 8, from 12-3:30 p.m. in the Sam Center Auditorium on the Mitchell campus. Local industry representatives will be on hand to discuss hiring needs and career opportunities. The High Country Workforce Development Board will provide handouts as well as be available to highlight career opportunities. College admissions counselors will be available to discuss career pathways, degree and certificate programs, as well as admissions policies and procedures. The community will also have the opportunity to get advance information on the Anspach Advanced Manufacturing School.

MARCH 27, 2014 • YANCEY COUNTY NEWS 11

Genetic marker for stroke, heart disease discovered Scientists studying the genomes of nearly 5,000 people have pinpointed a genetic variant tied to an increased risk for stroke, and have also uncovered new details about an important metabolic pathway that plays a major role in several common diseases. Together, their findings may provide new clues to underlying genetic and biochemical influences in the development of stroke and cardiovascular disease, and may also help lead to new treatment strategies. “Our findings have the potential to identify new targets in the prevention and treatment of stroke, cardiovascular disease and many other common diseases,” said Stephen R. Williams, Ph.D., a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Virginia Cardiovascular Research Center and the University of Virginia Center for Public Health Genomics, Charlottesville. Dr. Williams, Michele Sale, Ph.D., associate professor of medicine, Brad Worrall, M.D., professor of neurology and public health sciences, all at the University of Virginia, and their team reported their findings March 20, 2014 in PLoS Genetics. The investigators were supported by the National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI) Genomics and Randomized Trials Network (GARNET) program. Stroke is the fourth leading cause of death and a major cause of adult disability in this country, yet its underlying genetics have been difficult to understand. Numerous genetic and environmental factors can contribute to a person having a stroke. “Our goals were to break

down the risk factors for stroke,” Dr. Williams said. The researchers focused on one particular biochemical pathway called the folate onecarbon metabolism (FOCM) p a t h w a y. T h e y k n e w t h a t abnormally high blood levels of the amino acid homocysteine are associated with an increased risk of common diseases such as stroke, cardiovascular disease and dementia. Homocysteine is a breakdown product of methionine, which is part of the FOCM pathway. The same pathway can affect many important cellular processes, including the methylation of proteins, DNA and RNA. DNA methylation is a mechanism that cells use to control which genes are turned on and off, and when. But clinical trials of homocysteine-lowering therapies have not prevented disease, and the genetics underlying high homocysteine levels – and methionine metabolism gone awry – are not well defined. Dr. Williams and his colleagues conducted genome-wide association studies of participants from two large long-term projects: the Vitamin Intervention for Stroke Prevention (VISP), a trial looking at ways to prevent a second ischemic stroke, and the Framingham Heart Study (FHS), which has followed the cardiovascular health and disease in a general population for decades. They also measured methionine metabolism – the ability to convert methionine to homocysteine – in both groups. In all, they studied 2,100 VISP participants and 2,710 FHS subjects.

In a genome-wide association study, researchers scan the genome to identify specific genomic variants associated with a disease. In this case, the scientists were trying to identify variants associated with a trait – the ability to metabolize methionine into homocysteine. Investigators identified variants in five genes in the FOCM pathway that were associated with differences in a person’s ability to convert methionine to homocysteine. They found that among the five genes, one – the ALDH1L1 gene – was also strongly associated with stroke in the Framingham study. When the gene is not working properly, it has been associated with a breakdown in a normal cellular process called programmed cell death, and cancer cell survival. They also made important discoveries about the methioninehomocysteine process. “GNMT produces a protein that converts methionine to homocysteine. Of the five genes that we identified, it was the one most significantly associated with this process,” Dr. Williams said. “The analyses suggest that differences in GNMT are the major drivers behind the differences in methionine metabolism in humans.” “It’s striking that the genes are in the same pathway, so we know that the genomic variants affecting that pathway contribute to the variability in disease and risk that we’re seeing,” he said. “We may have found how genetic information controls the regulation of GNMT.” The group determined that the five genes accounted for 6 percent

of the difference in individuals’ ability to process methionine into homocysteine among those in the VISP trial. The genes also accounted for 13 percent of the difference in those participants in the FHS, a remarkable result given the complex nature of methionine metabolism and its impact on cerebrovascular risk. In many complex diseases, genomic variants often account for less than 5 percent of such differences. “This is a great example of the kinds of successful research efforts coming out of the GARNET program,” said program director Ebony Madden, Ph.D. “GARNET scientists aim to identify variants that affect treatment response by doing association studies in randomized trials. These results show that variants in genes are associated with the differences in homocysteine levels in individuals.” The association of the ALDH1L1 gene variant with stroke is just one example of how the findings may potentially lead to new prevention efforts, and help develop new targets for treating stroke and heart disease, Dr. Williams said. “As genome sequencing becomes more widespread, clinicians may be able to determine if a person’s risk for abnormally high levels of homocysteine is elevated,” he said. “Changes could be made to an individual’s diet because of a greater risk for stroke and cardiovascular disease.” The investigators plan to study the other four genes in the pathway to try to better understand their potential roles in stroke and cardiovascular disease risk.

Mural blankets wall at Bald Creek Elementary

When you think about quilt squares, either around the region or on your grandmother’s bed, stories come to mind. Stories about family, friends, events. As an Arts Council Teaching Artist, that’s exactly what Catherine Hart achieved at Bald Creek Elementary during the last few weeks. The mural was inspired by principal Sherry Robinson’s desire to have a barn quilt for the school. Before her residency began, Catherine met with the teachers; they decided that they would create a school quilt with each class designing their own quilt square. Since the school “is” the Bald Creek Eagles, they wanted to feature their mascot prominently. Ms. Robinson wanted something bold and colorful as well, so with those guidelines Catherine got started. After the teachers, her second meeting was with the kids, where she gave a presentation about Barn Quilts. They learned the history of them, were shown many of the local ones, and we got to guess who they and the school were through drawing. Each class brainstormed their class square, using the idea of “filling your buckets” as a launching point—things that fill your bucket make you feel great. This metaphor is used to teach accepted social behavior. For example, bullies are bucket dippers, and when you empty someone else’s bucket, you empty you own bucket as well. This Bald Creek Elementary mantra became the guide in

creating the quilt squares. Many themes were, the North Carolina Arts Council, a state agency, sharing, playing games together, recycling, as and the local school boards. well as things they cherish like horses, football, etc. - things that fill their small buckets. Catherine used their drawings and ideas to create a final design for each class. Before painting, each class drew a blank version of their design and helped to trace the projected image on the wall. They talked about how to break up space with simple shapes for design and about how, by manipulating those shapes, anything can be created. Once the designs were traced and ready to go, it was painting time! The kids helped mix the colors so they could learn about making colors. Catherine said, “I was very impressed with these kids. I did not work with a single kid that was not excited about painting on the wall. I think these pictures speak for themselves!” When it was completed, the kids lined up. • Organic practices - soon to be Class by class filed into the cafeteria and signed certified naturally grown their “quilt” - each signature another small drop • Recent transplants committed in an already overflowing bucket. to our growing community To view the entire process, visit the website, of “locavores” www.toeriverarts.org/arts-in-education/artist• Building our county’s residencies/bald-creek-mural. Original designs local food system can be seen at the Green Plum Gallery by • Join our Kickstarter campaign to appointment. SUPPORT a local farm! The Toe River Arts Council is a non-profit organization, founded in 1976 to promote the arts in the community. Art Residencies are www.hermitshollowfarm.com/ made possible through Grassroots grants from

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