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www.yanceycountynews.com vTo be a voice, and to allow the voices of our community to be heard.v Sept. 1, 2011 W Vol. 1, No. 34
Hunters must get OK to hunt private land
A law passed this year by the North Carolina General Assembly requires hunters and anglers to obtain written permission from a landowner or leaseholder before hunting or fishing on privately-owned posted property - including land, waters, ponds or legally established waterfowl blinds. The Landowner Protection Act also provides two ways for landowners to post their lands to allow only hunters, trappers and anglers with written permission to legally enter their property. Landowners can now post their land by using vertical purple paint marks on posts or trees, or, as in the past, by placing signs or posters. View the Landowner Protection Act document with more detailed instructions on posting property with signs or purple paint. The Landowner Protection Act specifically relates only to hunting, fishing, or trapping on posted lands. It clarifies the existing G.S. 14-159.6 See Page 11
Uptown bears Mom, cubs visit downtown Burnsville. Look inside for story.
Man: Money missing after arrest By Jonathan Austin Yancey County News
Photos by Jonathan Austin/Yancey County News
A man arrested by Burnsville Police officers in January claims that $1,108 that was in his vehicle disappeared while he was in the jail. T h e m a n , Christopher Peyton Boyd, was charged with driving while impaired on the evening of Jan. 1, 2011. He has filed a report with Burnsville Police, reporting what he says is the disappearance of his money. Police Chief Brian Buchanan said Thursday that Boyd filed a report claiming the money was missing, but said that Boyd has not provided the bank records he had voluntarily offered to share, which would have shown he did withdraw the money from the bank. “I can’t really go forward if they’re not” going to provide the receipts they initially offered, Buchanan said. “I feel like I’ve made a reasonable effort, but I can’t really go forward” until talking more with Boyd, he said.
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N.C. Symphny to perform in Wilkesboro Yancey residents will have a chance to hear the North Carolina Symphony without traveling to Raleigh. The North Carolina Symphony, under the baton of Resident Conductor William Henry Curry, brings a program of classical music’s greatest hits to Wilkesboro at The Walker Center, Thursday, Oct. 6, at 8 p.m. Schubert never heard the nickname given to his “Great” C-Major Symphony. In fact, he never heard a performance of the symphony, But you can. The powerhouse classical music lineup opens with a favorite from Disney’s Fantasia, Mussorgsky’s electrifying Night on Bald Mountain, followed by music
Edvard Grieg composed for a performance of Ibsen’s play Peer Gynt. Included in the selection is another all-time classic, and a breathtaking work to hear live, In the Hall of the Mountain King. A wonderful evening of music is capped by Franz Schubert’s Symphony No. 9 in C Major, “The Great,” his finest work for orchestra. Following his death at only 31 years old, Schubert’s music was known to only a small following of music lovers. Among them was composer Robert Schumann, who visited Schubert’s brother Ferdinand on New Year’s Day 1839 to look through music that had been gathering dust for over ten years. Here Schumann uncovered the crown
jewel of Schubert’s career, a work the composer never heard performed. Full of beautiful and moving themes, showcasing what Schumann described as “that glow of romanticism that everywhere accompanies [the music of] Franz Schubert,” it has become a popular selection for symphony orchestras across the world. The North Carolina Symphony has been performing in the Wilkes County since its first concert in North Wilkesboro in 1950, offering one public and one education concert for 1,000 fourth-grade students from Wilkes County schools. Tickets for this performance are $24, with $21 tickets for seniors and $6 tickets for children.
EVERY DAY, your neighbors are calling, writing or dropping in our office to plop down $25 to subscribe to the Yancey County News! Why? Because they say they’ve never had a newspaper like this in Yancey County, and they appreciate it! (And we appreciate them!) So if you want to subscribe, just fill out this form and mail it in! YES, begin my subscription to the Yancey County News! (Out-of-county subscription submit $35.) Mail this coupon and your check to: The Yancey County News, 132 W. Main St., Burnsville, NC 28714 NAME: _________________________________________________________ MAILING ADDRESS: ____________________________________________________________________________________________ TOWN: __________________________________ STATE: _________ PHONE NUMBER: ___________________________________
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Opinion
Memories, effects of the Hamlet chicken plant fire
By North Carolina Policy Watch Twenty years ago this Saturday, 25 workers died in a fire at the Imperial Foods chicken processing plant in Hamlet. They were trapped in the blaze, their footprints left on the locked door they couldn’t force open before they died. The owner had said he was worried about people stealing chickens. The plant had never been inspected by safety officials in the 11 years it had been open. The deaths prompted legislative leaders, most prominently then House Speaker Dan Blue, to create a special commission to make policy recommendations for safety laws. The General Assembly passed a version of the commission’s recommendations the following summer, giving workers in North Carolina more protections on the job. But passing even that compromise version of the new safety regulations wasn’t easy. S u p p o r t e r s o f t h e c o m m i s s i o n ’s recommendations held a news conference at the Legislative Building before the legislative session began. Speakers included workers who were in the plant when the fire consumed it, people whose friends lost their lives as they screamed that they couldn’t open the door. The tearful testimony stunned the crowd of reporters, legislators, and advocates. When the news conference was over, reporters asked a powerful senator who had been listening in the back of the room what he thought of the recommendations and the appeal by the workers who had spoken. He said that the absolutely most important thing was not to overreact and put any new burdens on North Carolina companies. No acknowledgement of the deaths, no expression of sympathy for families of the workers who had died or the trauma suffered by those who had survived. And no outrage at a company that would lock fire doors and put employees’ lives at risk. T h e s e n a t o r ’s r e a c t i o n s e e m e d incomprehensible at the time. But it reflected a view held by the lobbyists for many of the state’s corporate business interests and more
than a few legislators. One prominent member of the House called the bills introduced to implement the commission’s recommendations “the worst legislation in the history of the Western Hemisphere.” Apparently more inspectors, worker safety committees and other changes designed to protect employees and make another Hamlet fire less likely were just too onerous for businesses to handle. Ultimately, after months of debate and negotiations, the General Assembly approved the compromise versions of the commission’s proposals and the workers in the state are safer because of it. There is a memorial in Hamlet to the workers who were killed and the tougher laws are their legacy too. It is important to think of those workers and their families on the 20th anniversary of the fire. And it’s important to remember why they died, a company and a state ill-equipped to protect them. Now 20 years later, the philosophy that made it difficult then to pass the modest improvements in worker safety laws is the view of the majority of state lawmakers. Legislative leaders routinely rail against almost all regulation and this session the House and Senate voted to make it far more difficult for state officials to adopt any rules to protect workers or the environment. Regulations are strangling the state’s economic growth they tell us, though their claims almost always come
without specifics, just vague assertions about the jobs that could be created if regulations were lifted and new ones were forbidden. The free market will take care of any problems. That’s the idea. Those who support the current legislative leaders argue, for example, that airlines don’t need to be regulated because an airline that had safety problems and crashes would go out of business because people wouldn’t fly with it anymore. That provides an incentive for airlines to provide safe flights. That’s the theory, no regulations, just leave it up to the market and the corporations themselves and everything will be fine. Passengers on planes and workers in plants will be safe. A lot of people in Hamlet would disagree.
State changes fuel pricing guidelines
The N.C. Board of Agriculture has approved a proposal that simplifies regulations for the posting of fuel prices at gas stations. The rule change is aimed at making sure consumers know when a gas station charges different prices for cash and credit card purchases of fuel. In rural areas of the state, there still are mechanical or analog fuel dispensers that can calculate only one price. Generally, these pumps display the cash price. The station may take credit card purchases inside the store, but the customer needs to know before buying fuel that there are two prices, said Jerry Butler, manager of the Measurement Section at the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ Standards Division. The rule change will require clearer labeling to draw customers’ attention
to the difference in price for credit card payments, Butler said. The change still must be approved by the state Rules Review Commission before it can take effect. The board also welcomed a new member today. Mark Peters, president of Piedmont Carolina Nursery in Colfax, will represent the green industry on the board. Two other members have been reappointed to the board. They are Maurice Berry of Elizabeth City and Jeff Turner of Pink Hill. All three appointments are for six years. The Board of Agriculture is a policymaking body that adopts regulations for many of the programs administered by the department. Its 10 members are appointed by the governor. Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler serves as chairman of the board.
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Obituaries and her caregivers: Barbara, Janice and Loeita. Funeral service was Saturday in Higgins Free Will Baptist Church, of which she was a member. The Revs. Keith Miller, Bill Mitchell, Billy Styles and Denny Wilson officiated. Burial was in the Higgins Church Cemetery with nephews serving as pallbearers. Memorials may be made to Hospice of Yancey County, 856 Georges Fork Road, Burnsville, NC 28714.
Bill Turner
Jim Griffith
Jim Griffith, 95, of Burnsville, went home to be with the Lord Wednesday, August 24, 2011, at Brookside Rehabilitation & Care. A native of Yancey County, he was a son of the late John and Celestia Wilson Griffith, and the husband of Christine Young Griffith who died in 1990. Jim was a retired employee of Burnsville Hospital and a lifelong member of Griffith Chapel AME Zion Church. Surviving are a son, Marvin Griffith and wife, Darlene, of Burnsville; three granddaughters: Keely Griffith of Burnsville, and Kathy and Christie Griffith of Marion; five great-grandchildren: Zack, Isaac, Hannah, Caine and Malcom; and several nieces and nephews. Funeral service was Sunday with the Revs. James Staley and Cathy Henson officiating. Burial followed in the Marietta Atkins Cemetery.
Mozell Wheeler Webb
Mozell Wheeler Webb, 89, of the Higgins Community, went home to be with the Lord Thursday, August 25, 2011, at her home. A native of Yancey County, she was a daughter of the late John Moss and Rose Berry Wheeler and the wife of Lewis Webb who died in 1999. She was also preceded in death by sons J. H. Webb and John Webb; brothers Lloyd Wheeler and Boyd Wheeler; sister-in-law Bertha Wheeler and brother-in-law Luther Byrd. Surviving are her son, Bobby Webb of the home, and daughter Elizabeth Butler of Burnsville; four grandchildren: David Webb and wife, Andrea, of Marion, Regina Ellis and husband, Duane, of Fitzgerald, Ga., Mary Hooper and Cissy Reel and husband, Richard, of Marion; great-grandsons Steven and John Green, Blake Webb and Tristin Reel; great-granddaughters Bailey Grace Webb and Leigha Ellis; brothers: Edgar Wheeler and Floyd Wheeler and wife, Letha of Burnsville; sisters Alene Silvers and husband, Reece, of Burnsville and Veo Byrd of Lincolnton; sisters-in-law Clara Bell Wheeler and Millie Silvers and husband, J.B.; several nieces and nephews; special friends Opha Morrow, Ethel Lou Bradford, Annis Bailey and John Morrow (deceased) and Mattie Morrow (deceased);
Coleman Lee “Bill” Turner, 89, of Asheville, went home to his Heavenly home, Sunday, August 28, 2011, at Brookside Rehabilitation and Care. A native of Yancey County, he was a son of the late Coleman and Stella Banks Turner. He was the husband of the late Gladys Sparks Turner and Louella Jackson Turner. He was also preceded in death by brothers James, Eugene, Arthur and Albert Turner; and sisters Nell Ball, Marie Burleson and Edith Gardner. Bill was a World War II Army veteran and retired from Sears in Asheville. He was a member of the First Church of God in Asheville. Surviving are a sister, Verlyn Sullivan, of Waterview, Va., and several nieces and nephews. Funeral service was Thursday with Pastor Dedrick Clark officiating. Burial was in the Ashelawn Gardens of Memory with military grave rites conducted by the Buncombe County Veterans Council. Memorials may be made to Hospice of Yancey County, 856 Georges Fork Road, Burnsville, NC, 28714, or Gideons International, P.O. Box 264, Burnsville, NC 28714.
Lena Howell Banner
Lena Howell Banner, 91, of the Newdale community, went home to be with the Lord on Friday, August 26, 2011, at her home surrounded by her family. She was the daughter of the late John Nathan and Nola Ada Boone, and the wife of the late Jack Howell and Ernest Banner. She was also preceded in death by her stepmothers, Viola Conley Boone and Nola Sparks Boone; her sisters, Bernice and Lucille and her brothers; Arbey, Frank, John and Nate Jr. Lena was a member of Martins Chapel United Methodist Church. She was a homemaker and loved to work in her rose garden. Surviving is her daughter, Carolyn Sims and husband, Joe, of Flowery Branch, Ga.; sons Larry Howell and wife, Mary Lou, of Newdale, the Rev. David Howell and wife, Pam, of Richmond, Va.; sister Margaret Howell of Kingman, Arizona; brothers Worley Boone and wife, Lois, of Conover, Charles Boone and wife, Nora, of Ft. Walton Beach, Fla., Howard Ray Boone and wife, Miriam, of Snellville, Ga., Donald Boone and wife, Laura, of Alpharetta, Ga., and Ronnie Boone of
Spruce Pine; grandchildren Jeff Howell and wife, Tracy, Brent Howell, Matthew Sims and wife, Katie, Wendy Lash and husband, Nathan, Meredith Anthony and husband, Jake, and Morgan Howell and wife, Mary; eight great-grandchildren and loving caregivers Faye Burnett and Karen Hudgins. Funeral service was Saturday. The Rev. Don Sneller officiated. Burial followed in the Rebels Creek Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to Hospice of Yancey County, 856 Georges Fork Road, Burnsville, NC 28714.
John Dennis Alcock
John Dennis Alcock, 78, of the Jacks Creek community, passed away on Sunday, August 28, 2011, in the Johnson City Medical Center. Born in Hoylake, England, he was the son of the late George and Queenie Alcock. He was also preceded in death by one stepsister, Gladys. John was a past District Governor of the Lions Club in Florida and was a member and past secretary for the Burnsville Lions Club. He attended St. Andrews Catholic Church in Mars Hill, and for many years was a general contractor in Miami, Fla. Surviving is his wife, Daphne Alcock of Burnsville; daughter, Denise Simm of Jonesboro, Tenn.; son Derek Alcock of Garner; brother William Alcock and wife, Jenny, of England; sister Valerie Pitt of England; grandchildren Sean Alcock of Daytona Beach, Fla., Chris and Brooke Simm, both of Jonesboro, Tenn.; and several nieces and nephews. No services are planned at this time. Yancey Funeral Service is serving the Alcock family. Memorial donations may be made to the Lions Club of Burnsville at PO Box 306, Burnsville, NC 28714.
Charles Hardin
Charles Frank Hardin, 85, of Burnsville, went home to be with the Lord, Friday, August 26, 2011, at the Charles George VA Medical Center in Asheville. He was a son of the late Hobart and Pansy Pate Hardin. Charles was preceded in death by two brothers, Vannis Hardin and Ralph Hardin; and three sisters, Alta Higgins, Annis McIntosh and Floye Randolph. He was a World War II Navy and Korean War Army veteran. He worked for General Motors for nine years in Flint, Mich,, and was with the Merchant Marines for 14 years. Charles was a member of West Burnsville Baptist Church. Surviving are two children: Pamela Strickland and Deborah Meade of Burnsville; six grandchildren; six greatgrandchildren; two sisters, Faye Vickers of Micaville and Glenna Clark of Lenoir; two brothers, Dean Hardin of Glen Alpine and Evertt Hardin of Marion; and several nieces and nephews. Funeral wasWednesday with the Rev. Charlie Carroway officiating. Burial was in the Bee Log Hill Cemetery. See next page
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Obituaries Dorado Burleson
El Dorado Reveena Aldridge Burleson went home to be with her Lord on Aug. 30, 2011. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Frank Richard Burleson. She was the daughter of the late Burt and Ida McKinney Aldridge. She was sister to Ray Aldridge, “Tip” Aldridge, “Doc” Aldridge, Odell Aldridge, Edna Webb, Iris Brant, Annis Braxton, Josepha Crowe, and Eunice McKinney, all of whom were waiting for her to enter the gates of Heaven. Also waiting were her special nephews, Elmer and Culley Aldridge and J.A. Webb. Survivors include her daughter, Iris Christine Nyberg and husband, Gene, (better known as “Ollie”); a son, Brantly Burleson and wife, Hope; her special nephew, Cliff Aldridge and wife Janet , her very special niece , Kitty Webb Yarber, her most special friend and caregiver, Donna Vance and her ever-loving companion, Shadow. Her grandchildren, Allecia Campbell, Mark Patterson, Christopher Nyberg, Russell Nyberg, Brittney Burleson and Lauren Burleson will miss her so very much. She had 5 great grandchildren, a host of nieces and nephews, and many friends and family members who will never forget her. Dorado was an licensed practical nurs at Broughton Hospital until she retired. She loved life, bluegrass and old-timey gospel music. She loved listening to her granddaughters playing basketball, and she could really dance. She was blind, but now she sees.
A memorial service will be announced at a later date when her ashes are interred along with her husband, Frank Richard Burleson, who died Oct. 31, 2000. They will be joined together, forever, at Dorado’s request.
Dee Manis
William Daniel “Dee” Manis, 73, of Ollis Road in Spruce Pine, died Sunday, August 28, 2011 at his home. Born on April 27, 1938, in Hawkins County, Tenn., he was the son of the late Walter and Ollie Wiles Manis. He was preceded in death by his wife, Carole Susa Manis. He spent much of his life in the trucking industry. Graveside service and interment were in the Harrison Cemetery in Rogersville, Tenn., on Wednesday. Mr. Dee Manis is survived by his sons, Daniel Eugene Manis and wife, Tammy, of Burnsville and David Walter Manis and wife, Stacey, of Spruce Pine; and his daughter, Brenda Leigh Hughes and husband, Tom, of Loretto, Tenn.; his grandchildren, Dalton Hughes, Ashleigh Hughes, Taylor Manis, Isaiah Manis, Cheyenne Manis, and Jada Manis. Memorial donations may be made to assist with funeral expenses.
Bobby Biggerstaff
Bobby Biggerstaff, 55, of Biggerstaff Road in Spruce Pine, died Thursday, August 25, 2011, at his home.
Born on March 8, 1956 in Mitchell County, he was the son of Laxton and Kathy Perrymam Biggerstaff. He was preceded in death by a sister, Katherine Ann Biggerstaff. He was a graduate of Lees-McRae College and a graduate of Gardner-Webb University. He had been employed by Brad Ragan, Inc.; Goodyear Tire; O.M.C. of Spruce Pine; O’Mara Inc.; and Feldspar. He had served as a youth league coach. He enjoyed family get togethers and loved to cook and entertain guests; and walk his dog, Bandit. Funeral service was Sunday with the Revs. Ken Anderson, Lawrence Glenn, and Brandon Pitman officiating. Interment followed in the Pine Grove Methodist Church Cemetery. Survivors include his wife; Myra Thomas Biggerstaff of Spruce Pine; his son, Bobby Jacob Biggerstaff and wife, Mary Cotye, of Goose Creek, S.C.; a granddaughter; Yuri Joyce Biggerstaff of Goose Creek, S.C.; his parents; Laxton and Kathy P. Biggerstaff of Spruce Pine; two brothers, Michael K. Biggerstaff and wife, Vickie, of Spruce Pine and John P. Biggerstaff and wife, Kathy, of Burnsville; his sister-in-law, Lesia Thomas Vassallo of Orfield, Penn.; two nieces, Aubrey Stewart of Burnsville and Laura Lynn Biggerstaff Valentine and son, Chrisitan, of Spartanburg, S.C.; and a nephew; John Biggerstaff of Spruce Pine. The family requests that memorial donations be made to either Hospice of Mitchell County or the Shriners.
Local events Liberty Hill Baptist festival
The public is invited to join us for an afternoon of food, fun and fellowship – and it’s all free! This year ’s Fall Festival at Liberty Hill Baptist Church in Spruce Pine will be held in the church parking lot from 2-6 p.m. on Sept. 17. Activities include crafts, games, dunking booth, pie throwing contest, hay rides, gospel music and more. There will also be a dessert contest for the adults. Enter your homemade desserts by 2 p.m. to be judged by secret ballot. Hotdogs, baked beans and mac and cheese will be served and for dessert – you guessed it – the dessert contest entries. Make plans today to join
Liberty Hill Baptist Church, located on Hoot Owl Road off U.S. 19 in Mitchell County. Everyone is asked to bring a nonperishable food item for donation to the Shepherd’s Staff.
United Fund invites letters
Ya n c e y C o u n t y United Fund is once again requesting letters of interest from all Yancey County serving non-profits to be considered for funding. Selected organizations will also submit a packet in February requesting funding amount and reason. M a n d a t o r y meetin g s w ill be Nov. 16 and Feb. 15 for those agencies receiving funding. Organizations will be notified around
Oct. 20 if they will be receiving funds. Send letters of interest - including information about your organization and that you wish to be considered this year for funding.
Wine tasting Friday Sept. 9
Burnsville Wine and… will be tasting wine Friday Sept., 9, from 4-7 p.m. Mutual Distributing sales rep Wendy Dunn will be doing the pouring. We will be featuring Charles Krug wines. Included will be a Sauvignon Blanc and nice Pinot Noir. In 1861, Charles Krug established the first winery in the Napa Valley! Since purchasing the winery in 1943, the Peter Mondavi Sr. Family has preserved its traditions and historic
buildings for four generations while innovating with state of the art winemaking techniques. Drop by and check out “Writer’s Block” wines and “Well Red” magnets in stock to celebrate the Literary Festival. Each time you come by the shop, sign up for 25 percent off your purchase drawing. Tips for wine tastings go to support a local non-profit. We are collecting corks, so if you have any extras, drop them by the shop. We have the largest selection of North Carolina Wines in the area. We are located at 525 West Main, across from TD Bank. There is ample parking in the rear of the shop, or in the bank parking lot. Check us out on the web at
morning worship service. Sunday school begins at 10 a.m. and Worship is at 11 a.m. Come and worship with us. The church is located three miles Church plans south of N.C. 197N homecoming The Pleasant Grove on Double Island B a p t i s t C h u r c h Road. will celebrate Lecture on Homecoming on ancient Israel Sept. 11. Ancient Israel is the The church was established in 1856. topic of a lecture Sept. All members and 12 at UNC Asheville’s former members are Humanities Lecture urged to attend. There Hall. The lecture is at will be a Pot-Luck 11:25 a.m. For information, meal in the Fellowship Hall following the call 251-6808. Burnsvillewine.com. Our Facebook page is Burnsville Wine and, or you can email joyce@ burnsvillewine.com, or call 682-3456.
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UARA Racing
Poole, Bassett battling for supremacy as UARA visits Lonesome Pine
By Kassie Hughes For the second time this season, the UARA-STARS will visit the Lonesome Pine Raceway in Coeburn, Va., as a part of Alpha Natural Resources and Cobra Mining “Back to School Night” this Saturday. The night’s festivities will feature a 150lap UARA race, the southeast’s premier late model stock car touring series, in addition to five local divisions of action and a fireworks display. Brennan Poole won his second consecutive race at the Virginia .375-mile oval in July when he dominated the traditional Independence Day event, beating Kyle Grissom, George Miedecke and current UARA sensation Ronnie Bassett, Jr. Bassett has won both of the last two events he has entered (Tri-County and Here is a list of UNC Asheville events August 31 through September 11. Some events may be listed under more than one category. ART Selected Student Art Exhibition – Current student art work selected by Art faculty, UNC Asheville’s Highsmith Un i ve r s i t y Un i o n Gallery. Free and open to the public, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Saturday, noon-6 p.m. Sundays, through Sept. 6. Closing reception 5-7 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 6. Info: 828/251-6559 or http:// art.unca.edu/
Anderson) and has a track record of success at Lonesome Pine after claiming his first career Sunoco Pole at the facility last year. “Chris Lawson and this entire Fat Head team have done a great job of giving me cars to work with these last few races,” said Bassett. “I’ve always liked Lonesome Pine for some reason. I think it reminds me of my home track of Ace Speedway and that’s one reason we always do so good there. I’d love to get three wins in a row. Since it’s so hard to get one win in this series, three would be a pretty big accomplishment.” Like Bassett, Brennan Poole will be looking for victory lane on Saturday night, trying to complete a season sweep of both events at “The Pine.” “I love that racetrack. You can run the bottom all night long
Annual Art Faculty Exhibition – Studio art faculty exhibit current work in the S. Tucker Cooke Gallery in UNC Asheville’s Owen Hall. Reception 6-8 p.m. Free and open to the public. Exhibit on display 9 a.m.-6 p.m. weekdays through Sept. 16. Info: 828/251-6559 or http:// art.unca.edu/ “Art of the Book: Process, Product and Community at Asheville BookWorks,” – Exhibit of printmaking, binding, paper-making and related processes, showcasing the work of BookWorks instructors
and students. Free and open to the public through September 28, 8 a.m.-6 p.m. weekdays, with some additional evening and weekend viewing hours, Malcolm E. Blowers Gallery at UNC Asheville’s Ramsey Library. Info: 828/2516436, or visit http:// bullpup.lib.unca.edu/ library/exhibits/blowers/ exhibits.html. September 7 – Free concert by jazz keyboard artist Brian Felix, UNC Asheville assistant professor of music, 12:45 p.m., Lipinsky Auditorium. Free and open to the public. Info:
and then you can work up to the top and start running the high groove,” Poole said. “I always have a lot of fun there, it’s a blast, and we always put on a great show for the fans. I just hope we get another win, I’d love to claim that all-time win mark by the end of the year in Rockingham.” While Poole and Bassett will be two contenders to watch, other area drivers have already filed entries for this Saturday’s event. Among them, former weekly winner at Lonesome Pine, Blake Jones, and son of former UARA regular Keith Stiltner, Ryan Stiltner, will be making starts with the tour this week at their home track. Other local entries are also expected. Fans will also be able to see drivers Candace Muzny and Kaleb Pressley, who made an appearance at Food City Race Night on 828/251-6423 or music. unca.edu. September 9 – Paul Bowman, classical guitar – Asheville Classical Guitar Society presents Paul Bowman, performing works by Brahms, Haydn, Bach and Janacek. 7 p.m. in the Manheimer Room. September 6 – Brown Bag Talk with Mike Neelon – “Building a Brain in 1 hour and 500 million years,” with Mike Neelon, assistant professor, Ps ycholog y, 12:301:30 p.m., Whitman Room, UNC Asheville’s Ramsey Library. Free
Thursday in Bristol. Muzny drove to her career best finish during the tour’s last visit at Lonesome Pine in July. Also at the Food City Race Night event was Miss UARA Brittany Poe. Needless to say the ladies of the UARA were a big success with the fans. Pressley was holding his own with the fans as well with many relating him to his famous late grandfather Bob Pressley. The schedule of events at Lonesome Pine Raceway will included the UARA-STARS, Pure fours, Legends, Street Stocks, Mod fours, Renegades and Chargers. To top off the night there will be another Pine spectacular fireworks display. For more information call Lonesome Pine Raceway (276) 395-5155 or visit their website www.thepineraceway.com.
and open to the public. Info: 828/251-6645 or http://toto.lib.unca.edu/ programs/brownbag. html September 7 – Humanities Lecture –
“What Middle Ages? The Golden Age of Muslim Civilization,” Ann Dunn, Humanities lecturer, 11:25 a.m., U N C A s h e v i l l e ’s Lipinsky Auditorium.
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Perdue plans forums to promote competitiveness in small towns
Sen. Kay Hagan, right, listens to needs and opinions along N.C. 12 where Hurricane Irene washed the road, which is a pipeline to Hatteras Island, was repeatedly washed away.
Hagan, Purdue tour areas ravaged by Hurricane Irene
U.S. Sen. Kay R. Hagan petitioned the White House to support each request for federal assistance related to Hurricane Irene that came from Gov. Bev Perdue, and Wednesday applauded the president’s disaster declaration for seven counties in North Carolina. “We all have a lot of work ahead of us to quickly address the dire needs of communities across Eastern North Carolina. The disaster declaration is an important step,” Hagan said. “I observed with my own eyes the damage Irene inflicted on Eastern North Carolina. Our North Carolina farmers, fisherman and small business owners were particularly hard hit. I continue to work with the White House, Governor Perdue, the federal Cabinet agencies, and our emergency managers on the ground to ensure all of our affected communities get back on their feet as soon as possible.” The disaster declaration covers Beaufort, Carteret, Craven, Dare, Hyde, Pamlico and Tyrrell counties. This step will help residents in those counties pay for uninsured damages caused by Hurricane Irene. Hagan’s office said the disaster declaration provides for recovery efforts, while the federal emergency declaration signed over the weekend for 34 counties in Eastern North Carolina provides federal assistance to cover the costs of emergency protective measures for local governments. On Wednesday, Hagan joined the U.S. Secretaries of Agriculture and Homeland Security and Perdue for an aerial tour of damage along the Outer Banks. She said she will continue to work with the governor and local emergency managers to obtain assistance. Following the aerial tour, Hagan reviewed hurricane relief efforts in Dare County. During her visit, Hagan spoke with business
owners in downtown Manteo, assessed damage inWanchese, and surveyed roadway breaches on N.C. 12. “Hurricane Irene battered Dare County brutally,” Hagan said. “Local business owners are faced with significant flood damage, and Highway 12 – a lifeline for Hatteras Island – has been rendered useless. This disaster declaration will help provide critical resources needed to recover and rebuild.” This week Hagan also toured recovery efforts in New Bern, Washington, and at East Carolina University. Meanwhile, Perdue moved quickly to try to help the undamaged areas of the North Carolina coast by announcing that “much of North Carolina’s 300 miles of coastline is open for business and ready for visitors during the week leading up to the holiday weekend.” A statement issued by the governor’s office noted that “the safety of residents and visitors is the number-one priority, and the governor urges everyone to exercise caution when traveling to the coast. Visitors should contact their lodging provider ahead of time to make sure the property is ready to receive them. The governor’s office said all of the southern beaches in New Hanover (Wrightsville, Carolina, Kure beaches and Wilmington), Brunswick (Sunset, Ocean Isle, Holden, Oak Island, Caswell and Bald Head Island), Pender (Topsail, Surf City) and Onslow (North Topsail) counties are open to residents and visitors. Most of Carteret County’s Crystal Coast (Emerald Isle, Indian Beach, Pine Knoll Shores and Atlantic Beach) is also open. Parts of Dare County’s Outer Banks opened for visitors on Monday, Aug. 29, while some areas remain closed but hope to re-open soon.
Gov. Bev Perdue has announced a series of three regional forums designed to promote the competitiveness and economic development capacity of small towns in North Carolina. The Governor’s Forums on Small Town Competitiveness will bring together state and local officials, business and economic development leaders and various federal, state, local and nonprofit organizations dedicated to community economic development. “North Carolina’s small towns are the heart of our state and the sorts of places where our efforts to strengthen education are paying off with a skilled, educated workforce that can attract new businesses,” Gov. Perdue said. “The economic health of these small towns is critical to the economic future of the entire state. These forums are designed to celebrate what’s great about small town North Carolina and how we can preserve these wonderful communities by helping them stay competitive in the 21st century economy.” The three Governor’s Forums will be held across the state. Each forum will include a panel
discussion on best practices from local government leaders within their respective regions, a discussion of the challenges faced by small towns and a Small Town Competitiveness Resource Fair – to link up small town leaders with funding and service providers that may be helpful to local economic development. Local elected officials are invited to attend these half-day sessions in their respective region. The schedule is as follows: East – Sep. 16 at Martin Community College, in Williamston Piedmont – Sep. 28 at Davidson Community College, in Thomasville West – Oct. 6 at Haywood Community College, in Clyde Joining Perdue in the forums are partners including the N.C. Department of Commerce, the NC League of Municipalities, NC Association of County Commissioners, the NC Rural C e n t e r, t h e G o l d e n L E A F Foundation, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Appalachian Regional Commission. For more information on these events, please visit www. nccommerce.com/gfstc.
The Rev. Harvey Sharpe and the Rev. Charles Burleson
On June 5, 2011, West Burnsville Baptist Church ordained Charles I. Burleson into the gospel ministry. Charles is a 2005 graduate of Fruitland Baptist Bible Institute, and a 2007 graduate of Mars Hill College with a BA in Religion. He is the son of Jerry and Nina Burleson of Burnsville, and the grandson of John and Margie Burleson and Brownie Hensley. Heis a 1993 graduate of Mountain Heritage High School. Charles is also a 2011 graduate of Wake Forest University School of Divinity with a Master of Divinity Degree with a certificate in Spirituality, Religion, and Health Professions. Charles is planning on doing a chaplaincy residency at the New Hanover Regional Medical Center in Wilmington in late August.
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JV gains big win over visiting Smoky Mountain
Photos by Brett Hopson - Get copies from him at actionpackedphotography11@yahoo.com
The Mountain Heritage High School junior varsity football team steamrolled the visiting Smoky Mountain team last week 57-6. The Cougars, who are undefeated, used about every possible combination to score with ease; by passing, by rushing, and though it was called back for a penalty, on an Alex Cash interception. The JV get a break and a chance to rest with a bye Thursday, Sept. 1.
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Cougars come back from Rosman with victory
(The downtown bear scare ate up the time for writing thia story on deadline, so we’ll have the full report and more next week! Sorry!)
Photos by Jonathan Austin/Yancey County News
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Ray Mine closure permits rockhounds
This press release was issued last Friday by the U.S. Forest Service: “The USDA Forest Service National Forests in North Carolina announced the permanent closure of 11 abandoned mine shafts at the Ray Mines area in Yancey County, N.C., to promote public safety and protect bats and other forest resources. “Public safety is our number one priority at the Forest Service,” said Tina Tilley, ranger
‘It is important to note that my decision to close the shafts will not prohibit recreational rockhounding in the area.’ - Ranger Tina Tilley
Photos by Jonathan Austin/Yancey County News
West Main Street was closed off last Friday after workers installing fencing at In the Garden restaurant hit a natural gas line, rupturing it. Firefighters set up positions around the leak as they and town workers searched for a cut-off valve. The valve was located in the grass near the entrance to the restaurant and the leak was shut off. Staff from Piedmont Natural Gas dug up the ruptured pipe to begin repairs.
Friday deadline for SAT, GRE prep classes at UNC Asheville Registration is now open for the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) and Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) prep classes offered by the Asheville Graduate Center. Classes will meet at UNC Asheville. The SAT prep class will meet from 6-8:30 p.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays for three weeks, Sept. 12-28. The SAT, required for admission to most undergraduate colleges and universities, employs multiple-choice questions designed to gauge verbal and mathematical abilities.The prep course will concentrate on test-taking techniques, timesaving methods and logical reasoning to prepare for the test, which will next be offered at area high schools on Oct. 1. Cost for the prep class is $295 and includes study
materials. Registration deadline is Sept. 2; late registration will result in an additional $15. The GRE Prep will meet from 6-8:30 p.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays for four weeks, Sept 12-Oct. 5. The course is designed to increase familiarity with the various types of verbal, quantitative and analytical questions presented on the newly revised GRE computer-generated general test, required by most graduate programs for admission. Cost for the course is $375, which includes study materials and a practice CD. Registration deadline is Sept. 2; late registration costs $15 more. For information call 828-250-2353.
of the Appalachian District in the Pisgah National Forest. “Closing the abandoned mine shafts to the public will restrict access and make the area safer for recreational users, while providing environmental benefits such as preventing the spread of deadly white nose syndrome to local bats and protecting water quality. It is important to note that my decision to close the shafts will not prohibit recreational rockhounding in the area.” The Forest Service is closing eight shafts by replacing existing, ineffective fences. The agency is closing two shafts using metal grates and one shaft using a plug and native vegetation. No mine tailings will be used to close any of the shafts. The Ray Mines, located about 2.5 miles southeast of Burnsville, were intermittently mined between 1867 and 1944 by at least seven different owners. The mines have remained inactive since the 1940s. Mineral material, including mica, was mined at the site. The Forest Service temporarily closed the shafts at Ray Mines about two years ago as part of a Southern Region Closure Order to protect endangered, threatened and sensitive bat species, and to prevent the spread of whitenose syndrome. The Forest Service received comments from a variety of stakeholders and completed biological studies prior to deciding to permanently close the shafts at Ray Mines. White nose syndrome is a disease that has killed millions of bats in the East. Bats have been seen near two of the shafts and other shafts that provide suitable habitat for them. Given the presence of white nose syndrome in the county, it is important to limit further stress to the species. The decision to close the 11 shafts restricts public access into and adjacent to them. It also establishes buffers along two perennial streams to restrict digging from recreational rockhounding, which is permitted under the closure. The closure is consistent with the current Pisgah Forest Plan, which allows, “…recreational collection of minerals where minerals are loose and free on the surface, in federal ownerships, and not restricted by permit.” The plan restricts mineral collection to non-mechanical equipment with no significant ground and stream disturbance. While recreational rockhounding is allowed in the area, buffered areas will help protect waterways from streambank erosion and sedimentation. The agency will monitor the area to assess the effectiveness of the decision at protecting resources.”
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Outdoors
Dove hunting lets you bring out the shotgun
There are few things that I anticipate more than opening day of dove season. The opening day is perfectly positioned as a precursor to all other seasons. You know that after opening day, deer season is nearby, along with the appearance of the fall leaves, the chill of the autumn nights, the departure of the pesky gnats and mosquitoes, and the migrations of the various waterfowl. I grew up dove hunting. It was by far my favorite activity with a firearm. Dove hunting provides the first classroom for many of our young hunters and new adult hunters. First, it usually gives ample opportunity for shooting the shotgun. You may have spells of no activity, but when they fly, it is constant and quick. Usually within a few shots, you self correct and begin to understand how far to lead, what the maximum distances of a successful shot are, and when to take the shot. It also teaches us patience. During the waits between flights, we enhance our peripheral vision. We spot the birds from great distances, able to recognize their flight pattern and silhouette. Before ever hunting dove, that same bird would have gone unnoticed, not to mention unidentified. These are skills needed as the novice hunter advances to other game. Dove hunting teaches us how to be safe. We quickly learn how to identify where other hunters are and instinctively know not to shoot in that direction. We
Bill Howard’s
Outdoors
let low flying birds pass, shouting it out in order to make other hunters aware that a bird is too low to fire. We learn the art of camouflage. We use natural colors in our clothing. We nestle in non-descript areas to help shield us from a flying bird’s view. We recognize possible flight patterns and targets. A lone tree makes a great point of reference for a fast moving bird, as well as a hiding place to dodge the flying lead. This means it is a great location to set up as the birds will tend to target the location. We learn the feeling of success. One bird or a limit, you will remember the shots made. You replay them, sometimes many years later. Doves are easy to clean and fairly
tasty. Because of this, it is the ideal game for the new hunter to get their hands dirty. Processing your own game, taking it from field to grill, makes the meal that much better. You worked for the nourishment. It was not bought at the store in shrink wrap in the cooler section. It is exactly as God intended. It was taken by man from the land. And lastly, dove hunting provides the memories for which you never wish to relinquish. The bridge of generations, hunting together, learning from one another. Few other activities can teach so much. Few classrooms can provide so much enjoyment. Bill Howard is a Hunter Education and a Bowhunter Education Instructor, a wildlife representative and the BCRS program chairman for the North Carolina Bowhunters Association, and an avid outdoorsman. He can be reached at billhowardoutdoors@gmail. com.
Drought conditions may impact hunt opportunity Because of ongoing drought conditions, some of the N.C. Wildlife Commission’s game lands dove fields may have less-than-optimal hunting conditions for the beginning of dove season. Due to the drought, some crops failed and wildlife management personnel had to plant the fields later than usual. Because of that, some fields may not be mowed at the beginning of dove season. Dove season opens Sept. 3.
Law now requires hunters, fishers to get permission to be on private land From the front requirement for written consent to hunt, fish, or trap on posted lands by specifying that written permission, dated within the past 12 months and signed by the landowner, leaseholder, or agent of that land, be carried and displayed upon request of any law enforcement officer. If a hunting club has leased the land, a person shall have a copy of their hunting club membership and a copy of the landowner permission granted to that hunting club. The Landowner Protection Act does not change general trespass laws nor have any effect on lands that are not posted. It does not repeal any local acts currently in effect that require written permission to hunt, fish, or trap. Under existing landowner liability law, landowners providing permission for hunting or fishing on their property, without charge, assume no more liability than currently is afforded a trespasser, in accordance with G.S. 38A-4. The Landowner Protection Act goes into effect Oct. 1. Violation of this act is a Class 2 misdemeanor.
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Something To Do!
Hobby can lead to life-long learning, and lots of fun!
By Jonathan Austin Yancey County News It’s a line many parents have heard, and may themselves have uttered: “There’s nothing to do around here!” But maybe the problem is more that the fun things there are to do are haven’t been uncovered, much like the grain of gold hidden beneath the sand in the creek bed. So this is the first in an occasional series looking at goings ons in Yancey County that are frequent, fun, and maybe even educational. Out in the Cane River area is a frequently busy airport
where anyone as young as a preteen can learn the science of flying without leaving the ground. The field is out on Whittington Road where the county has plans to build a variety of ballfields, but for now it’s the home airport of an Academy of Model Aeronautics instructor who is willing to teach anyone how to safely fly a model aircraft. And before you say, “Oh, models,” then consider this: The physics of flight are the same whether the airplane has a three-foot wingspan or seats 197 passengers. And many of
the people who hold private or commercial aircraft licenses first developed their love of flight out on a grassy field, holding a radio controller as they guided a small airplane through its paces. “This is a real airplane,” said Doyle Blevins as he stood on the flight line Tuesday morning preparing to put his model aircraft into the air. “I’ve been flying here off this road since it was dirt.” Blevins is a member of the Asheville-Buncombe Air Modelers, but what he would like to see is for enough Continued on page 16
Photo by Jonathan Austin/Yancey County News Doyle Blevins concentrates while flying one of his radio-controlle aircraft earlier this week.
Yancey County News wants to hear your voice, your opinion, your concerns. Send your letters to 132 W. Main St., Burnsville NC 28714. You can also reach the editor at Jonathan@ yanceycounty news.com
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Family
Biting child needs to VA secretary says veterans be isolated from victim can help drive nation’s
By John Rosemond Q: In the last month, our 36-month-old daughter has started biting her 22-monthold brother, usually over toy struggles. It is always to get his hand to release the toy in question. I’m sorry to say that when she bites, I lose it. My husband says I should put her in her room until he gets home from work no matter what time of day the biting occurs. She is currently in her room until dad gets home. I worry that this is too much for a child her age, but then again, time-outs are a joke. Help! A: Yes, time-out is a joke, but no, spending an entire day in her very own very nice room is not too much for a 3-year-old. Nonetheless, I don’t recommend it in this instance. Out of curiosity, I went to the Internet to find out what other “experts” say about 3-year-olds who bite, and sure enough, my suspicions were confirmed: to wit, there’s a whole lot of psychobabble out there concerning this topic. Several pundits propose that biting is a form of communication; that a child bites because he does not possess the language skills to express frustration and anger. From that point of view, hitting another child over the head with a toy is a form of communication. Furthermore, none of them have the language skills to express frustration and anger. Why do only a very few of them bite? One expert proposes that “biting demonstrates autonomy,” whatever that means, and recommends that adults teach biters the language skills they need to accomplish what they want to accomplish. The problem is that it takes a long time to teach a toddler the appropriate language in question (e.g. “I say there good sport, would you mind not violating my personal space? Really now, if you will simply ask me for the toy, thus demonstrating appropriate respect for my person, I will consider giving it to you when I’m finished.”), during which time the biting continues. Furthermore, even a toddler knows that he can achieve his
Living
with
children objective far more quickly by biting than talking, and instant gratification is their objective. Another expert recommends that since teaching very young children to share “simply does not work,” parents should buy two of everything. Isn’t that brilliant? You don’t get that smart unless you have several college degrees. Enough of this foolishness! The simplest explanation is usually the best explanation, and the simplest explanation is that toddlers who bite have discovered, somewhat accidentally, that it is a quick way of getting what they want. Add in that they have no regard for others - they don’t care that biting hurts - and there you have it. My standard solution for any aggressive behavior on the part of a toddler toward a younger sibling is to keep the two children away from one another for at least two weeks. The rule becomes that if the younger child is playing in a certain room, the older child must find somewhere else to play. If she doesn’t want to find somewhere else, then somewhere else should be designated by someone else. If separating them requires a gate or gates, so be it. When your 3-year-old asks why she is not being allowed to play with her brother, tell her, “Because you bite.” Let’s face it, she wants to have a relationship with her brother. The enforced separation will only intensify this desire, and believe me, language skills aside, she will figure out that if she wants to play with him, she mustn’t bite. After two weeks, let them into the same room with one another. You may have to do this several times, but I’ve never, ever heard of it failing. Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions on his website at www. rosemond.com.
Own a business? Enjoy reading the John Rosemond column? Then consider being the sponsor for this educational child-rearing advice column! Give us a call if you are interested @ 678-3900.
economic recovery
Employment, business and education have percolated to the top of VA’s crowded priority list as more than 1 million veterans are currently unemployed nationwide and at least that many are expected to leave the military in the next five years, Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric K. Shinseki explained Wednesday in an address to the 93rd National Convention of The American Legion in Minneapolis. “These are tough economic times, and that’s especially true for veterans,” Shinseki told thousands of Legionnaires gathered in the Minneapolis Convention Center. “If we can spend nine weeks in boot camp getting youngsters ready to go operational, we can find the requisite time to properly ensure their successful transition back to their communities, either to go work or to school.” Shinseki’s address came less than 24 hours after President Obama told Legionnaires how veterans can be deployed to help reverse the nation’s economic slide. On Tuesday, Obama shared with Legionnaires a White House initiative to provide tax credits for companies that hire veterans, a development Shinseki said demonstrates the president’s “unwavering support of veterans, and of business.” He said the credits would apply to long-term and shortterm employment opportunities for veterans and a maximum credit of $9,600 per-veteran for firms that hire those with service-connected disabilities. Shinseki added that VA and the Department of Defense “will spearhead a government-wide
effort to reform the way members transition out of the military services. Every member will receive the training, education and credentials needed to successfully transition to the civilian workforce or to pursue higher education.” He said an important component of the concept is to stimulate growth and success for veteran-owned businesses, including increased federal contracting opportunities. “We know, historically, that veterans hire veterans. So increasing the number of successful small business owners who are veterans increases our opportunity to ensure that veterans will have job opportunities.” He also said VA itself has set a goal of increasing its own veteran workforce from 30 percent to 40 percent. Shinseki said more than 840,000 veterans and family members are now using VA education programs, including 518,000 who are partaking of Post 9/11 GI Bill benefits. “This fall, thanks to the Congress, we are going to expand that program to provide vocational training and other non-degree job skills for veterans who want to work but who are not necessarily interested in sitting in a college seat for four years.” The secretary rounded out his address by touching on three VA priorities that have been with him for the two and a half years he has held the office: improved access to veterans health-care facilities, elimination of veteran homelessness and VA’s backlog of undecided benefits claims.
THIS IS A TEST
You call a newspaper to suggest a story. The reaction is:
A) They say they have to get permission from the ‘powers that be.’ B) They say they only report ‘what they want to report.’ C) They show interest and ask for more details. For a long time you only got A or B. Isn’t it refreshing to finally get C?
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HOME LAND FOR SALE
by tree to enjoy your morning coffee as you enjoy Nature display her bounty - deer, wild turkey, changing of the leaves.. No restrictions, many LARGE TOWNHOME homesites. PRIVATE. 3BR/3BA; $199,900 312 VIEWS. Lunsford Robertson St.; 2173 sq.ft Realty 828-678-3400 heated space; in-town; vaulted ceiling, fireplace, MINI-FARM - 4.65 kitchen-dining combo, ACRES - Pasture, woods, master on main, sunroom, meadow, garden. Brick office/den, large closets; Rancher - three bedrooms, non-smokers. Mountain bath. Living, dining, v i e w s . B u i l t 1 9 9 7 . kitchen, utility. Carport, 2-car attached garage.; garage. Outbuildings. Out Homeowners Assoc. cuts in the country, near trout grass & shovels snow. stream. Broker Interest. Tax assess. value $225K $169,000 Lunsford MLS #490506 682-6074 Realty 828-678-3400 $99,000 - WEST - 19.99 10.31 ACRES - Custom A C R E S . C A B I N - Built-NEW condition three bedrooms, bath, Greatroom w/vaulted living w/heart / heater. ceiling, fireplace, wood Kitchen-dining- Needs floors. Three bedrooms, TLC. Huge deck shaded 2.5 Baths. Full basement,
CLASSIFIEDS
garage, workshop, game r o o m , 4 t h b e d r o o m . Front porch overlooks noisy trout stream and distant mountains! Deer abound, NO restrictions, other homesites. Great S c h o o l D i s t r i c t ! ! ! MOTIVATED $310,000 Lunsford Realty 828678-3400 40+- ACRES - TROUT STREAM - Pasture, M e a d o w, G a r d e n , Barn, Stone- Frame Custom home - Greatroom w/vaulted ceiling, stone fireplace, three bedrooms, 1.5 baths, gameroom w/bar, stone fireplace, wrap-around deck/porch. Garage/workshop. Tools, furnishings, 4-wheeler included. Broker interest. $850,000 Lunsford Realty 828-678-3400
REDUCED! 3 miles WEST - Secluded, protected .47 ACRE GREATROOM - Nice kitchen, center island range. Three bedrooms. two baths. DEN w/ fireplace- Needs TLC to be wonderful HOME! Garage. Garden area, fenced yard. Views. Many possibilities here.. Owner motivated! $125,500 Lunsford Realty 828-678-3400 $99,000 - EAST - End of road PRIVATE! .46 ACRE with room for pony! Three bedrooms, two bath - double wide. Open Greatroom for Living-dining-kitchen w/center island. New stainless appliances, floor covering. Porch. Storage building. Really Sweet!! $99,000 Lunsford Realty 828-678-3400 LAND: *1.2 ACRES$10,000. NO restrictions, near town! *1.3 ACRES -$15,000 3-Bedroom septic installed, site prepared.. NO restrictions. *1.39 ACRES -$23,500wooded serenity - Great home site, VIEWS, PRIVACY . * PRICES CREEK - 5.33 ACRES -$40,000. *JACKS CREEK - 10 ACRES -$60,000. NO restrictions. *2.82 ACRES -$68,500 VIEWS! Lunsford Realty 828-678-3400 FOR RENT - Brick Rancher - out in Country.
Three bedrooms, bath. Living, dining, kitchen, utility. Carport. Garage. N e a r Tr o u t S t r e a m . $600.00. NEAR TOWN Furnished 2/2- overlooks Town. Living-dining w/ gas fireplace, kitchen, utility. $700. Lunsford Realty 828-678-3400
FOR RENT
THREE BEDROOM RANCH HOME out in the country, living, kitchen, dining, utility. Carport and garage. $600.00 Month. NEAR TOWN - Two bedroom, two bath furnished living-dining w/gas log fireplace, nice kitchen, u t i l i t y. P o r c h / d e c k . Private wooded setting. VIEWS! $700.00 month. Lunsford Realty 828678-3400 T W O T O T H R EE BEDROOM mobile h o m e s . S o u t h To e area. HUD approved. References and security deposit required. 828682-4705 RV sites for rent as well.
HELP WANTED
Hairstylist and massage therapist needed. Sharon’s Salon. Please call 682-1288 or stop by, 691 Burnsville Plaza, 19E ByPass, Burnsville
AUTO SERVICE
Take care of your car and it will take care of you! Allen Teague’s Auto Repair & Radiator Service. Radiators, Brakes, Transmission flush. Complete automotive maintenance and repair. “Service is our Business.” 5865 Hwy. 80 S – just past South Toe VFD. 675-0876 – 32 years experience. Reliable & Trustworthy
WANTED TO BUY
Junk vehicles; any age or condition. No title needed. Will pick up. 828-284-7522 or 828284-7537.
FOR SALE BIG POTTERY SALE. “The Soda Chicks & Chet”. Sept. 3 & 4, opens at 10AM. Good pots, good company, light refreshments. 1782 Fork Mountain. Road, Bakersville. Information at www.sodachicks.com. FOR SALE 6’ x 16’ Adam Cattle Trailer. Call 828-675-4658 for price.
People stop us to ask: ‘Do you deliver?’
WE DO! EVERY WEEK!
Our team covers hundreds of miles of Yancey County roads - from Busick to Indian Creek to Green Mountain. We’ll bring the paper to you, too! Just call 678-3900 to find out how to start your subscription!
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Passersby gawk as two cubs call for momma bear in downtown A mother bear and two cubs visited downtown Burnsville Thursday morning, forcing law enforcement and town personnel to close roads. The cubs retreated to a large oak tree on Ray Street, the alley that runs off W. Main Street beside Hammond Antiques. They could be heard calling for their mother, who was sighted at various places around town on both sides of the bypass.
Onlookers gathered and gawked at the cubs. The mother bear was reunited with the cubs after police closed the road and allowed her to feel comfortable coming out. The mother was sighted behind the courthouse, behind the NuWray Inn, near the CVS pharmacy, behind the Verizon phone store, and elsewhere as the two cubs hung out in the large oak.
The U.S. Forest Service has re-opened all of the trails in the Mt. Mitchell area. Also re-opened are the Black Mountain and Briarbottom Campgrounds. Mt. Mitchell State Park has re-opened the Park Campground. The Deep Gap and Commissary ridge campsites and backcountry camping are CLOSED until further notice.
$ Wanted to Buy $ JUNK VEHICLES Pay Fair Price Will Pick Up Vehicle
828-284-7522
828-284-7537
The Yancey County News
wants to hear your voice, your opinion, your concerns. Send your letters to 132 W. Main St., Burnsville NC 28714. You can also reach the editor at Jonathan@yanceycounty
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Blevins said anyone can learn the sport, and that it doesn’t cost a penny. “I’m licensed and insured. If someone has an interest, they can come take lessons for 60 days and it’s free to anyone who wants to fly.” After that, he hopes they will have caught the bug and “want to joing the flying group.” Blevins said he can be found at the field on Tuesdays from about 9 a.m. until lunchtime. Anyone with interest can drop by, or can join other flyers who come to the field on Saturdays. Anyone who wants more information can visit the AMA website - www.modelaircraft. org - or visit Belvins’ Facebook page. If you have a suggestion for a story Photo by Jonathan Austin/Yancey County News about things to do in Yancey, give us a call. Doyle Blevins glances up while preparing one of his radio-controlled airplanes for flight. Blevins hopes other Yancey County residents would be interested in learning how to fly the aircraft.
From page 12 Yancey people take up the hobby so as to “become an AMA chartered group that would help children and adults alike, teaching them to fly an airplane.” Blevins says the science is the same for all aircraft whether manned or radio controlled. Lift is what gets the aircraft off the ground, drag is the counterbalance that must be overcome, and thrust is the energy generated and released to propel the craft through the air. The model pilot uses a joystick to change roll and pitch, and other mechanisms on the radio controller to operate a variety of other flight controls. “This is a building block that introduces the characteristics of flight,” Blevins said. Those lessons can take someone a long way, and the AMA has about $40,000 available in endowments and scholarships for rising college students active in AMA activities. This year a Pennsylvania student received $14,500 in scholarships to attend Penn State. The student, an AMA member for 13 years, is
studying mechanical engineering. T h e A M A works with the F e d e r a l Av i a t i o n Administration, the Federal Communications Commission, and other agencies through its national headquarters in Muncie, Ind. The AMA also works with local governments, zoning boards, and parks departments to promote the interests of local clubs. The AMA is an associate member
of the National A e r o n a u t i c Association. and is recognized by the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI), the world governing body of all aviation activity. T h a t ’s a l o t o f credibility for something some may think is just playing around with toys. Dana Giles, a retiree who had a hankering to learn about model aircraft, was Blevins’ first student after Belvins earned his
instructor’s license. Giles said he was first interested in the hobby 30 years ago. “I happened upon a group of guys out flying radiocontrolled airplanes. I thought, someday when I have the time, I will pursue that. Now a county resident, he followed up on that dream, and said all aspects of the small planes interest him. “I like everything about it; building the aircraft, getting out and flying them.”