Daylight Savings Time Begins!
Daylight Savings Time begins this Sunday March 14th. To get ready for it, set your clock ahead one hour before going to bed Saturday Night.
Mitchell Jurors Released
Jurors for March 15th Civil Superior Court in Mitchell County have been released. They do not have to come in at all.
U.S. Census Jobs Available!
The U.S. Census is still hiring for census takers in Yancey and Mitchell county. It is temporary, full or part-time up to 40 hours per week, lasting 4 weeks or more. The pay is $11.50 an hour, plus 50 cents a mile for travel. There is a simple basic skills test and application session every Thursday at 5:30 PM and Tuesdays (March 16 and 23) at 12:30 PM and Saturdays at 10:30 am at Burnsville's Yancey County Public Library. Walk-ins are welcome or you can sign up by calling the toll-free number 1-866-861-2010. A job fair for the Census will be held at Mayland Community College's Main Campus in Spruce Pine Wednesday March 17th and Thursday March 18th from 11:00am-4:00pm. The jobs they'll be hiring for are Crew Leaders and Crew Leaders Assistants.
Donations Needed for Prom Fest
Mountain Heritage High School is asking for donations of prom dresses, shoes, jewelry, tuxes, etc. or items to be sold on consignment at the Prom Fest on Saturday March 27th, 2010 at the Burnsville Town Center from 10:00am-12:00 noon. Please help them raise money for the 2010 prom by donating any useable items as soon as possible. For questions or to donate, speak to Chris Biggerstaff, Tonya Ray or Shanna Winter at 682-6103.
Yancey Extension Service Spring Plant Sale
The Yancey County Cooperative Extension Service is taking orders for several different plants as well as heirloom apple trees for the 2010 planting season. The plants available are three varieties of June bearing strawberries: Jewell, Allstar, and Earliglow — $4.50/25, $16.00/100, $130.00/1000 and two day neutral/everbearing varieties: Seascape and Tribute — $5.00/25, $18.00/hundred, $150.00/1000; blueberry plants — $5.00 each; red raspberries — $2.00 each; black raspberries — $3.00 each; blackberries (thornless) — $3.00 each; asparagus (Jersey Knight) — $.75 each; horseradish — $3.00 each; 15 heirloom apple tree varieties — $16.00 per tree: American Golden Russet (Sweet Rusty Coat); Carolina Red June; Esopus Spitzenberg; Magnum Bonum; Newtown Pipin; Original Winesap; Red Sheepnose/ Crow Egg; Sops of Wine; Summer Banana; Summer Rambo; Virginia Beauty; Yellow Bellflower; and Yellow Transparent /Early Transparent. Modern Varieties: Gala and Goldrush. Plant order deadline has been extended through Tuesday, March 30, 2010. For additional information, please call 682-6186 or come by the Cooperative Extension Center at 10 Orchard Drive, Burnsville, NC.
Intermountain Head Start Currently Recruiting
Intermountain Head Start is currently recruiting preschool children for the present school year and for school year 2010-2011, that will begin in August. Many people are unaware of what Head Start has to offer preschool children who are eligible for the program. Head Start provides individualized care and guidance for children, helping them to fulfill their developmental potential. The Head Start approach is well-suited for the special needs child too! For further information contact Laura Fortner or Reamona Thomason at 682-6668.
Yancey Baseball - Softball Practice
Those who need practice times for a travel baseball or a softball team in Yancey County, please contact Jeff Howell at 682-3814 or 675-5104. Practice times for travel teams will be assigned once all youth league times have been scheduled
Household Items Needed
The Family Violence Coalition of Yancey County has four families moving out of their shelter and they all need furniture and other items. If you can help contact the FVC of Yancey County at 678-3436 or 208-2981.
Volunteers Needed at Rush Wray Museum
Rush Wray Museum of Yancey History part of the Yancey History Association is in need of Volunteers for the upcoming season beginning April 1st. They have something of interest for almost everyone. The museum has a flower garden that always needs weeding. The museum needs tour guides, the genealogy library needs family history orientated individuals to help others do research and the office needs folks to simply greet visitors and answer the phone. The hours are flexible from as little as 2 hrs per week to two days per week. They are open Wednesday-Saturday from 10-4 pm. Their office is located in the Lloyd Bailey Annex, 3 Academy Street just off Main Street in downtown Burnsville. Call the office at 678-9587 and leave a message and someone will be in touch with you within the week.
Staff Position Available at Yancey History Association
*NOW! Taking Applications for a Grant sponsored Staff Position
with the Yancey History Association
*Applicant must be 55 years of age or older, live alone, with an annual income of less than $13,000 per year. The position is for 20 hours per week [Wednesday-Saturday] the hours will be from 10-4 with an hour lunch break. Applicants must have a valid drivers license and must present proof of their auto insurance. The position will be paid twice per month, some travel to training meetings will be required for the program and for running errands for the association. Duties will to to answer the telephone working generally as the receptionist and office staff person for the Yancey History Assoc and Rush Wray Museum here in Burnsville. Must have moderate computer skills, with some knowledge of book keeping, some light housekeeping duties are required. To apply contact: Yancey History Association, Lloyd Bailey Annex, 3 Academy Street, Burnsville, NC 28714 [Located in the former Dr. Carolyn Cort medical building] or phone 828-678-9587. Someone will be in touch with you to arrange an interview within one week.
Crafters Needed for Spring Craft Show
Crafters wanted for Burnsville Spring Craft Show to be held May 29th, 2010. The craft show will take place inside the Burnsville Town Center, so there's no need to worry about a tent or the weather.
Space is limited, so reserve your space soon! Details at http://burnsvillespringartsfestival.blogspot.com/. Handmade arts & crafts only.
Yancey Transportation Trips for March *
Yancey Transportation has the following trips planned for March:
• Saturday, March 13th The Mars Hill Singing Cancelled
• Thursday, March 25th Ceramics Class in Erwin, TN
For more information or to get your name on the list, stop by Yancey Transportation Authority Office, Mitchell Branch Road, or phone 682-6144.
Play the Card Game: Bridge
Every Thursday at noon you can play the card game, Bridge, at the Mitchell County Senior Center at 152 Ledger School Road. For more information call 688-3019.
GriefShare: Grief Support Group/ Video Series
Are you or someone you know experiencing a season of grief? GriefShare is a Christ-centered ministry designed to help those in grief to face the challenges of grief and move toward rebuilding their lives. It consists of a 10 week video series featuring top experts on grief and recovery subjects. These videos are produced in an engaging television magazine format featuring expert interviews, real-life case studies, dramatic reenactments and on-location video. After viewing the video, you will spend time as a support group, discussing what was presented in that week’s video seminar and what is going on in your life. A workbook is also used for further personal study of the grieving process to help sort out emotions though journaling. The group will spend time discussing questions and comments form the workbook study. You are welcome to begin attending the GriefShare group at any session. Each is “self-contained,” so you do not have to attend in sequence. GriefShare will meet on Thursdays, beginning March 4th at Western Carolina Church, Cross Street Building in Spruce Pine at 6:00PM. For more information call Carolyn Dotts 467-1433, Jeff and Angela Atkins, or Frank Herbert 688-9650. Sessions will be weekly and will continue through May 6th.
Yancey Community Blood Drive
The Red Cross encourages people who are in good health to donate so that hospital patients have the blood or platelets they need to make a full recovery. Blood is needed to help treat a variety of patients including accident victims and individuals undergoing surgery and cancer treatment. The Yancey Community will be hosting a blood drive Friday, March 12th from 6:30am-11am at Glen Raven in Burnsville, NC. Please call Sharon Trcka at 678-3066 for further information or to schedule your appointment. We need your help, please donate blood! All blood types needed!
(**All presenting donors will be entered in a drawing for a chance to win a $1000 gift card!)
Reconciliation House 1/2 Price Sale
The Reconciliation House has new operation hours. For client services their hours are now 9:00am-11:30am and 1:00pm-3:30pm Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Their Thrift Shop is now open continuously 9:00am-4pm Monday, Wednesday and Friday with no break for lunch. They are currently having a half price sale that will continue through March 12th with everything in their thrift shop half off the already thrift shop price with proceeds going to meet their client's needs.
Senior Exercise Class
Exercise classes are held at the Mitchell Senior Center at 152 Ledger School Road every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 10:30am-11:15am. For more information call 688-3019.
D
eadline to Register to Vote on Alcohol ReferendumThe deadline for Burnsville town residents to register and be able to vote in the April 6th Burnsville Alcohol Referendum is Friday March 12th at 5:00pm. Residents can register to vote at the Board of Elections office between 8:30am and 5:00pm up until Friday. Direct your questions on registration, polling sites, and election issues to 682-3950.
St. Patrick's Day Dinner Benefit
The Yancey County Humane Society will present their Annual "Classic" Irish Dinner Friday March 12th at the First Baptist Church on the Square in Burnsville. Take Outs will be available from 5:00pm-6:00pm and seating will be from 5:30pm-7:30pm. The menu will consist of Corned Beef and Cabbage, potatoes and carrots, baked apples, rolls, desert and beverages. Prepared by Chef Michael's Cookin' of Clear Creek Ranch. Cost is $10 adults, $5 for children 10 and under. Join the fun and support the Animal Shelter. The Yancey County Animal Shelter will be closing early Friday at 3:00pm in preparation for this event.
Toe River Arts Council Student Art Show
The Spruce Pine TRAC Gallery on Oak Avenue is currently having a Mitchell County Student Art Show running through March 13th.
For more information call 765-0520.
A. R. W. to Host Candidates Forum
The Appalachian Republican Women are pleased to announce that they will be hosting a candidate's forum on Saturday, March 13th at 2:00 pm in the auditorium at Mitchell High School. All the Republican candidates for the state senate seat for the 47th district will be in attendance. The event will include a moderated forum, a brief overview from each candidate on key issues and a question and answer period. There will also be a chance for the public to meet the candidates in person as well. Light refreshments will be served. The Mitchell High School Young Conservatives are co-sponsors of this event. The public is encouraged to attend. For more information please feel free to visit our website at: www.appalachianrepublicanwomen.com.
Reagan/ Lincoln Day Covered Dish Dinner *
The Republican Party invites you to the Reagan/Lincoln Day Covered Dish Dinner this Saturday night at 7:00pm at East Yancey Middle School. Meet your candidates and hear keynote speaker, U.S. Congressman Charles Taylor. Also hear what advice former Presidents Reagan and Lincoln have for President Obama.
Mitchell Senior Center Needs Volunteers
The Mitchell Senior Center needs volunteers. Please volunteer to help improve the lives of older adults in Mitchell County. For more information call 688-3019.
Spruce Pine Blood Drive
It’s a brand new year, and while many are trying to stick to their new year’s resolution, others haven’t decided on one yet. Why not take this time to focus on what’s important – donating blood? The American Red Cross wants donors to “Make A New Resolution: Give Blood.” The need for blood remains constant - it’s important to take the time to give blood and platelets during these coming months. A blood drive will be held Monday, March 15th from 10:00am-2:30pm at
Wal-Mart in Spruce Pine (2514 Hall Town Road; Spruce Pine, NC)
All blood types needed! Call 828-766-9991 for more information or to schedule your appointment.
(**All presenting donors will be entered in a drawing for a chance to win a $1000 gift card!)
Food Ministry
God's Hands Ministry of Crabtree Chapel Baptist Church operates on Mondays from 10:00am-2:00pm to give food to the needy. You'll find the church on Crabtree Road near the Mitchell-Yancey County line.
Play Bingo
Every Monday at 10:00am you can play Bingo at the Mitchell County Senior Center at 152 Ledger School Road. For more information call 688-3019.
Crocheting Class at Yancey Senior Center
The Yancey Senior Center will begin a Crocheting class on Monday, March 15th at 1:00 pm. The class will meet every Monday thereafter at the same time. The instructor for the class is Jean Owensby. If you have any crocheting supplies, you should bring them to the class. For more information, please contact Cindi Renfro, Activities Coordinator, at 678-3581 or 682-6011.
Food - Friends - Fun - Free
Everyone is invited to the Higgins Memorial United Methodist Church family life center from 5 to 6pm each Monday for a time of Free Food with Friends. For more information call 682-2835.
Informational Meeting on Alcohol Sales
An informational meeting is scheduled on Monday March 15 to bring to Burnsville a representative from the ABC Board in Raleigh. The meeting will be held at the Burnsville Town Center on Main Street in Burnsville starting at 6:00 pm. This will be an opportunity for all interested parties to learn from a qualified source about how alcohol is legally sold in a community and how the Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission operates stores in North Carolina. There should be time for questions at this open meeting, but be advised that this is not a forum for debate. The meeting is sponsored by BASIC: Burnsville Alcohol Sales Income Campaign as an opportunity for all members of the community to learn about about the logistics of alcohol sales in our town. There will be no charge to attend.
Program on CapTel at Yancey Senior Center
Have you experienced difficulty hearing on the phone? Have you experienced misunderstandings due to background noise? Are you tired of saying “What? Can you repeat that, please?” If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, then you should attend an important program offered by CapTel of North Carolina. The program will be held at the Yancey Senior Center on Tuesday, March 16th at 10:30 am. If you have hearing loss, please make plans now to attend this program. For more information, you may contact Cindi Renfro at 678-3581 or 682-6011.
Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Support Group
"Grandparents Raising Grandchildren", an educational and
support group will meet the third Tuesday of each month at 1:00p.m. at the Yancey County Senior Center, 10 Swiss Avenue. Call 682-6011 for more information. The group will be led by Beverly Nelson, Family & Consumer Science Agent, Yancey County Cooperative Extension. (Next Meeting will be Tuesday March 16th)
Community Reading Night & Hot Dog Supper
Make plans now to attend a Community Reading Night hosted by Cane River Middle School on Tuesday March 16th beginning at 5:30 p.m. with a Hot Dog Supper. Each meal will consist of one or two hotdogs (with all the trimmings), a bag of chips, a canned drink and a cookie. Prices are $4.00 for the one hotdog meal and $5.00 for the two hotdog meal. Half of the proceeds will be donated to Relay for Life in honor of our very own Susan Reecer. The other half will be donated to the “Dolly Parton Imagination Library” to help sponsor books for small children in our area. Supper will be served only until 6:30 p.m. (or sooner if supplies do not last). Beginning at 6:30 p.m you can enjoy reading-related activities for the entire family! You'll have the opportunity to sign-up young children (ages 0-5) for the “Dolly Parton Imagination Library”. Through this program, a small child can receive an age-appropriate book each month in the mail until he/she reaches the age of five. Other activities include: Dr. Seuss plays performed by the 8th grade drama students, a poetry-based choral selection performed by the school chorus, “Local Celebrities” as guest readers (including John Cannon, MHHS standout basketball player and hopefully many, many others), “Casey at the Bat” performed by CRMS and MHHS students, “Who’s on First?” performed by Brian Krause and Dakota Crain, ghost stories, and much, much more! There will be something for all age groups, even the smallest of children. Space for each activity is limited so make sure to join the festivities no later than 6:15 p.m. to sign-up for your favorites and help instill a love for reading in members of your entire family by attending “Rebels Read to Succeed – Community Reading Night”.
Line Dancing
The Mitchell County Senior Center at 152 Ledger School Road has Line Dancing ever Tuesday night at 6:30pm. For more information call 688-3019.
Crochet Rag Rugs
You can Crochet Rag Rugs every Wednesday from 10:30am-11:15am at the Mitchell County Senior Center at 152 Ledger School Road. For more information call 688-3019.
Lunch & Learn: Tax Assessor
The Mitchell County Senior Center at 152 Ledger School Road will offer a "Tax Assessor" Lunch & Learn session Wednesday March 17th at 11:30am. For more information call 688-3019.
Toe River Campground Waiting List
Yancey County Parks and Recreation is preparing for the upcoming season at Toe River Campground and needs your assistance. Over the past several years a waiting list has been kept for those individuals who wish to have a seasonal camp site to which they may return year after year. Since the process began many years ago, the official waiting list has been compiled and maintained in the County Manager’s Office. Last season when Parks and Recreation became responsible for the day-to-day operations of the campground, all the lists in the County Manager’s office were merged into one master waiting list. There are numerous names on the waiting list that have no phone number, therefore we will rely upon you to contact us and confirm that you do wish for your name to be on the list. If you are awaiting a seasonal site at Toe River Campground, please contact the Parks and Recreation Department at 682-3814 or toeriver@yanceycountync.gov. You should provide your name, phone number(s), and if possible, an e-mail address. If you know of someone who lives out of the county and may be on the waiting list, but does not regularly get information from the Yancey County media, please contact them and have them get in touch with us as soon as possible. The deadline for notification will be Wednesday, March 17th at 5 pm.
Another Relay for Life Community Meeting
Relay For Life of Yancey County announces the next Yancey County Community Meeting to help rebuild, reorganize and get rolling. The meeting will be held at United Community Bank in Burnsville Thursday, March 18th at 5:30 pm for the Team Captain's Meeting and 6:30 pm for the Committee Meeting. ALL COMMUNITY MEMBERS ARE WELCOME TO BOTH!!! All Relay Stakeholders (Current & Former) Invited: Committee Members, Team Captains, Survivors, Caregivers, Team Members, Sponsors, Mission Delivery Partners. If you have never been involved before, please come to the meeting to see what Relay for Life is all about. If you are a Cancer Survivor, let them honor you by being a part of this wonderful event. Please contact us for more information or questions. Contact: Kathlene Stith at 828-675-0305, email Kathlene.Stith@cancer.org, or visit www.relayforlife.org/yancey for more information.
Book Club Discussion of "Bad Monkeys"
Mayland Community College’s Book Club, BOOKWORMZ, will meet at 2 p.m. on Friday, March 19, at Mayland’s Main Campus in Spruce Pine to discuss the novel Bad Monkeys by Matt Ruff. Anyone who has read the book or who is interested in the Book Club is welcome. For more information call 765-7351 or 1-800-4-MAYLAND, ext. 216 for more information.
2010 Mitchell County Relay for Life Kick-Off
The 2010 Mitchell County Relay for Life Kick-Off will take place Saturday March 20th from 9-11am in the Mitchell County Senior Center in Bakersville. The meeting includes:
• Complimentary food, beverages, and fellowship!
• Learn more Relay for Life and 2010 news!
• Start/Sign-Up a Team and pick up information and goodies!
• Sign-Up to sponsor the Relay!
• Register as a Survivor or Caregiver!
• Learn how you can help with the fight against cancer!
• Door Prizes!
For more information contact Suzanne Dayton at 765-2256, Dean Duncan at 688-5800 or Chad Trivette at 467-2082.
Global Education Presentation: Israel
Mayland Community College hosts Global Education presentations the fourth Tuesday of each month. Israel is the focus for the month of March and the presentation will be held at the college’s Main Campus on March 23. The discussion begins at 12 p.m. in the college’s Sam Center Auditorium. For more information on the upcoming Global Education presentation schedule call 1-800-4-MAYLAND or 765-7351, ext. 215.
Blue Ridge Regional Hospital Blood Drive
Every two seconds, someone in the United States needs blood. The American Red Cross Carolinas Blood Services Region provides lifesaving blood to patients in 103 hospitals. Approximately 1,600 people need to give blood or platelets each week day to meet hospital demand. Help the American Red Cross meet this overwhelming demand by donating at the Blue Ridge Regional Hospital Blood Drive Tuesday, March 23rd from 2:00 pm – 6:30 pm. All blood types needed! Call 766-1591 for more information or to schedule your appointment.
(**All presenting donors will be entered in a drawing for a chance to win a $1000 gift card!)
Yancey Community Blood Drive
The Red Cross encourages people who are in good health to donate so that hospital patients have the blood or platelets they need to make a full recovery. Blood is needed to help treat a variety of patients including accident victims and individuals undergoing surgery and cancer treatment. The Yancey Community will be hosting a blood drive Wednesday, March 24th from 10am-2:30pm at Brookside Rehabilitation and Care Blood Drive at 310 Pensacola Road in Burnsville, NC. Please call 284-6774 for further information or to schedule your appointment. We need your help, please donate blood! All blood types needed!
(**All presenting donors will be entered in a drawing for a chance to win a $1000 gift card!)
Lunch & Learn:
Long Term Care InsuranceThe Mitchell County Senior Center at 152 Ledger School Road will offer a Lunch & Learn session on "Long Term Care Insurance" Wednesday March 24th at 11:30am. For more information call 688-3019.
Mitchell County/Golden Leaf Foundation Forum
The public is invited to attend a community forum hosted by the Golden LEAF Foundation and Mitchell County on Wednesday, March 24, 2010 at 4:00 p.m. at the Mitchell County Historical Courthouse at 11 Mitchell Avenue, Bakersville, NC. The purpose of the forum is to discuss the Golden LEAF Foundation’s Community Assistance Initiative. The Community Assistance Initiative is a grants making process targeting economically distressed counties across North Carolina and is currently being launched in Mitchell County. The agenda will include a description of the Initiative with time for questions and answers. This is an informational session only to review the Community Assistance Initiative and process. If you have any questions or need further information please contact Courtney Mills or Pat Cabe by e-mail at cmills@goldenleaf.org or pcabe@goldenleaf.org or by calling Courtney or Pat at 888-684-8404.
Spring Plant Sale at Mitchell Extension Center *
The Mitchell County Extension Center is taking orders for strawberry, blueberry, blackberry, raspberry and asparagus plants; and apple trees for spring 2010. They have three varieties of strawberry plants - Allstar, Jewell and Earliglow - sold in multiples of 100 at $16. Tribute and Seascape, everbearing strawberries, $18/100. Blueberry plants can be purchased singularly at $5. Blackberry plants are $3. Red raspberry plants are $2 and black raspberry plants are $3. Asparagus plants are 75 cents. They have six varieties of apple trees at $15. Orders will be taken through March 25 and orders can be placed by calling the Extension Center at 688-4811.
Consignment Sale for Imagination Library
The Mitchell County Imagination Library Committee is sponsoring their semi-annual consignment sale for spring/summer children’s clothing, maternity clothing, toys, games, puzzles, children’s furniture and bedding. All items sold must be new or very gently used; consignors receive 70% of their listed prices. To shop - show up at the Cross Street Commerce Center at 9AM March 25th. The sale runs through Saturday, March 27th. Volunteer to help with the sale and you can shop before the public sale opens. To participate or volunteer - call Faye at 765.0805.
Mayland Community College Blood Drive
Blood can be safely donated every 56 days. Most healthy people age 17 and older, or 16 with parental consent, who weigh at least 110 pounds, are eligible to donate blood and platelets. Donors who are 18 and younger must also meet specific height and weight requirements. Mayland Community College (200 Mayland Drive, Spruce Pine) will sponsor a blood drive with the American Red Cross Friday, March 26th from 11:30 am – 4:00 pm. All blood types are needed! Call 765-7351 ext 213 for more information or to schedule your appointment.
(**All presenting donors will be entered in a drawing for a chance to win a $1000 gift card!)
2nd Annual Benefit Singing, Auction & Lunch *
Yancey Street Baptist Church will be hosting their 2nd Annual Benefit Gospel Singing, Auction and Hotdog & Hamburger Sale on Saturday March 27. The viewing for the auction will begin at 10:30 with the auction beginning at 11:30. Hotdogs, hamburgers, chips, drinks and baked goods will be available at 11 am. The singing will begin at 1:00 pm. Groups singing will be Born Again, Handed Down, Greg Conley, and The Far City Boys. All proceeds will go to McDowell Co. Relay for Life.
Scholastic Book Fair
A Scholastic Book Fair will be held in the Bald Creek Elementary School Media Center Monday, March 29th - Thursday April 1st
7:45am - 3:00pm and Friday, April 2nd 7:45am - 10:00am. Please come out and support their students and the Bald Creek Elementary School media program. A wide range of books will be available from preschool picture books to youth novels. Cookbooks and some adult fiction will also be at the fair. Books make wonderful gifts, too. All proceed will be used to purchase new books and materials for the Bald Creek Elementary Media Center.
Lunch & Learn: Health Department
The Mitchell County Senior Center at 152 Ledger School Road will offer a Lunch & Learn session on Wednesday March 31st at from 10:00am-11:30am. The health department will offer blood pressure checks and a discussion on Colorectal Cancer Awareness. For more information call 688-3019.
Hensley Family Reunion
The families of Baschus Samuel Hensley and Silas Brinkley Hensley of the Bald Mountain and Bee Log Communities are having a Family Reunion Saturday April 10th beginning at 10:00am at The Burnsville Town Center. For additional information contact Charlie M. Hensley, P.O. Box 63, Burnsville, NC 28714 or email cmh40432@peoplepc.com.
Addiction Counseling
For families in need of drug and alcohol addiction counseling, Narconon Arrowhead can help. Narconon offers free counseling, assessments, and referrals to centers nationwide. Please call toll-free 1-800-468-6933 or log onto their website at www.stopaddiction.com.
Mayland Basic Skills Free Adult Services
Mayland Community Colleges' Basic Skills free adult services can help you:
• Improve math skills
• Master reading skills
• Learn ESL
• Improve writing ability
• Feel better about yourself
• Prepare to find a better job
• Learn how to help kids with homework
• Receive compensatory education service
• Acquire General Education Development.
They have locations in Avery, Bakersville, Mitchell and Yancey. Morning and night classes are available. Call Joyce Boone at 1-800-462-9526 ext. 291.
Basketball Boosters Club Flags
The Heritage Basketball Boosters Club is selling flags that are white with a green paw. These are similar to ones that were sold many years ago. These are great for Businesses to display whenever MHHS has a ball game. The cost is $100 for flag and bracket. Free installation is also available. They are for businesses and residences. For more information contact Paul Badgley at 678-9628.
Weatherization Assistance *
If you are a low-income family, disabled, or elderly you may qualify for free weatherization services to improve the energy-efficiency of your home, mobile home or apartment and possibly repair or replace your heating system. To apply call WAMY Community Action at 682-6618 or visit their website at www.wamycommunityaction.org.
Animal Shelter Has Numerous Cats for Adoption
The Animal Shelter has 24 very adoptable cats and kittens available. Ages range from 3 months to 2 years. There are domestic longhair, medium, and shorthair cats. Whether you are searching for a calico cat, a Maine Coon cat, a Russian Blue cat, or assorted tabby cats, we have the perfect pet for you. Our adoption fee is $65.00 in the counties of Yancey, Mitchell, and Madison. You may choose to adopt 2 cats for just one adoption fee of $65.00. Grab those car keys and hurry on over to choose the cat of your dreams.
Book Sales to Support New Yancey Senior Center *
Mary Allen Estes has written and published a very interesting new book on the lives of several Yancey County people, called "Their Lives Made a Difference". This book is available now at Crabtree Creek Art and Floral Gallery on Highway 19E at Micaville and at the current Yancey County Senior Center on Swiss Avenue in Burnsville. The cost is $25 and all proceeds will be going toward the Yancey Senior Center Building Fund.
Mountain Regional Medical Corps Needs Volunteers
The Mountain Regional Medical Reserve Corps is seeking active and retired physicians, nurses, pharmacists and support staff who are interested in health issues to volunteer for local and state emergencies, disasters, and public health events. Medical personnel from home health agencies, long-term care facilities and mental health would also be an asset. Community members without medical training such as office workers, administrators/interpreters, legal advisers, law enforcement, chaplains, and others who can fill key administrative and essential support positions as volunteers are also needed. If the Toe River Health District (Avery, Mitchell, & Yancey Counties) is tasked with providing a mass flu vaccination clinic in the fall additional volunteers may be needed to assist. Being a member of the Medical Reserve Corps and being trained in advance of the need could make you feel more comfortable in your role as a volunteer. To find out more information on how to volunteer, contact Jamie Davidson at 828-393-0190 or 828-693-6213.
Habitat for Humanity Needs Volunteers
Habitat for Humanity needs volunteers for its Habitat Store in Spruce Pine, 4 to 8 hours a day, 1 to 5 days a week. The days needed are Tuesday through Saturday. Anyone retired, out of work, school or college students can volunteer. Must be able to lift to pick up deliveries and move inventory around the store. For more information call Linda Ledford at 675-5355 or the Habitat Store at 766-9000.
New Dog Park Available Free to Pet Owners
The Yancey County Humane Society is thrilled to announce the opening of a beautiful community dog park at the Animal Shelter off Cane River School Road. This dog park provides county residents with an area where they can spend quality time exercising their pets and sharing memorable moments with fellow pet owners and volunteers can provide fresh air and exercise to Shelter pets awaiting adoption. The dog park is open to the public from 10 A.M. to sunset, 7 days a week. There is no fee to use the dog park. Needless to say there are Rules and Regulations to follow. Copies of these Rules and Regulations are attached to the dog park fence. Please observe all posted informational signs because the success of the dog park relies upon each of you. If you have any questions, please call 682-9510.
Mayland Offers Free Basic Skill Classes
Mayland Community College’s Basic Skills program offers adults help in improving their reading, writing, and math skills as well as preparing students to complete the requirements to earn their GED. Between yesterday’s regrets and tomorrow’s dreams lie today’s opportunities. Mayland will help you reach your educational goals. These classes are free. The college will be adding a new date and time for this service at the Bakersville Library. Classes will be held on Tuesday and Thursday from 12:30-5:30 p.m. and on Wednesdays from 12-5 p.m. Anyone interested in these classes should call 1-800-4-MAYLAND, ext. 291.
Scholarships Available to Start New Career
Are you out of work? Scholarships are available to pay all costs for classes where there are high growth job opportunities! Jobs such as: Construction Trades including Green Construction, HVAC (Heating and Cooling), Truck Driving (CDL), computer classes, medical classes welding and many others! Have it paid for you if you are 18 or older and fall in one of these categories:
• You have been laid off from employment
• You were self-employed (including employment as a farmer, a rancher, or a fisherman) but are unemployed now because of general economic conditions.
• You are a homemaker (female or male) who was, but is no longer supported by another family member.
• Unemployed and have been unable to find a job
Contact a Workforce Investment Act (WIA) staff person at your local JobLink Career Center to get more information:
Avery County: 733-3901 or 737-0510
Mitchell County: 765-7758
Yancey County: 682-6618 or 682-5054
Watauga County: 265-5385
Weekday Schedule at Mitchell Senior Center
Lunch is served every weekday at 11:30am. There is no charge for persons 60 and over: contributions are accepted.
Exercise class is held ever Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 10:30am-11:15am: led by a trained instructor from the Physical Therapy Department of Blue Ridge Regional Hospital.
Bingo is played every Monday at 10:00am.
Bible Study is held every Tuesday at 10:30am: Line Dancing Classes every Tuesday at 7:00pm.
Bridge for Fun is played ever Thursday at 12:00pm.
For More information call 688-3019.
Local History Resource Available
Genealogists, historians, students, teachers and anyone interested in local history in Avery, Mitchell and Yancey Counties will now be able to access bibliographic information about the holdings in the Lloyd Bailey Annex in Burnsville through the AMY Regional Library online public access catalog. This will include both those searching online and at the libraries. The Bailey collection contains many resources not owned by the libraries. When searching the online catalog, when your see the term "History Museum" given as the location, that means the item is at the Bailey Museum Annex at 3 Academy Street in Burnsville. The Annex is part of the Rush Wray Museum of Yancey County History and is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10:00am-4:00pm. For more information call the Annex at 678-9587 or the Regional Library Office at 682-4476.
New Income Guidelines for Children's Medicaid
Does Your Child Have Health Insurance? If not, your child or children may qualify for Health Check (Medicaid) or NC Health Choice. Health Check (Medicaid) or NC Health Choice is a free or low cost health insurance for children under the age of 19.
New Income Eligibility Guidelines
April 1, 2009- March 31, 2010
Family Size Monthly Income (Gross Income)
1 person $1,805
2 people $2,429
3 people $3,052
4 people $3,675
5 people $4,299
In Yancey County contact: Laura Hylemon –Health Check Coordinator ,Yancey County Health Department at 682-6118 ext. 18
In Mitchell County contact: Amanda Garland –Health Check Coordinator, Mitchell County Health Department at (828) 688-2371 ext. 21
Scholarship for Children of Veterans
The Freedom Alliance Scholarship Fund is now accepting applications for the 2009-2010 academic year. Over the years the fund has provided hundreds of college scholarships for the sons and daughters of military personnel who have been killed or permanently disabled in an operational mission or training accident. For more information visit www.fascholarhip.com or call 1-800-475-6620 before July 31st.
Hospice of Yancey Needs Volunteers
If you are looking for a way to help those in need in your own community, Hospice of Yancey County has a place for you. Volunteers are needed to help in the office, with fundraising events and to provide companionship to patients in their own home and in the nursing home. For information on how you can help and become part of the hospice team call Angie Higgins at 682-9675.
Grandparents Raising Grandchildren
If you are 55 or older and you are a grandparent raising a grandchild or a blood relative, you may be eligible to receive a free book bag and school supplies. For more information, please contact Nina Hughes, Director of the Yancey Senior Center, at 682-6011.
Activities at the Yancey Senior Center
The weekly schedule of activities at the Yancey Senior Center are :
Bingo – Everyday
Billiards – Everyday
Sewing - Everyday
Ceramics & Crafts – Tuesday & Thursday , 9:00 am – 1:00 pm
Physical Fitness Classes – Tuesday & Thursday, 10:15 – 11:15am
Singing Hour – Monday & Thursday at 12:00
Bible Study – Wednesday at 12:00
Trip to Wal-Mart – Thursday (if have at least 4 people signed up)
For more information, please contact Cindi Renfro, Activities Coordinator, at 678-3581.
How You Can Help Save a Life
Narconon Arrowhead is saving lives, reuniting families, and making stronger communities through effective drug and alcohol rehabilitation. Learn how and why a person becomes addicted to drugs or alcohol and what you can do to help, log on to www.stopaddiction.com or call 800-468-6933 to receive free counseling, referrals and assessments. Stop the cycle of addiction today!
Funds For Free Sterilization Available
If you are considering either a tubal ligation or vasectomy, the Yancey County Health Department currently has limited funds available for FREE sterilizations for person over 21. The tubal ligation and vasectomy are safe procedures and do not require an overnight stay. Contact the Health Department as soon as possible. Call Fran or Donna at: 682-6118
Lost a Pet? Call Humane Society First
The Yancey County Humane Society is reporting that they have received a higher than normal number of strays that have been turned in to their shelter. If you have lost an animal, please contact the shelter so they can put your information in their lost/found book and notify you should it arrive at their shelter. They also want to make everyone aware that they keep animals for 3 business days and then put the animal up for adoption, so it's very important that you notify them when your animal is missing...otherwise it could have a new home if you wait too long. Since pets tend to roam this time of year, it's a good idea to buy a collar with identification tags for your animal so that you can be reunited quicker should it begin to stray from home. For more information call 682-9510.
Girl Scout Volunteers Needed
You can read about great lives, or you can make someone's life great. Right now, girls are eager to be placed in a girl scout troop so they may begin exploring the fun and excitement of Girl Scouts. What's missing is you! Become a Girl Scout volunteer and use your skills to make an impact on a girl's life-- It's forever!. Call Aileen Sheehan-Wilson for more information at (800) 522-6280 ext. 312 or visit them online at www.girlscoutswnc.org.
WAMY Community Action Looking for Testimonials
WAMY Community Action is searching for former customers and staff of their non-profit agency. Have you ever participated in any of WAMY’s many different programs? Did WAMY help you get back on your feet when you really needed help? Have you even been employed by WAMY? If your life has ever been impacted by WAMY Community Action, give them a call or stop by sometime! Call 682-6618 for WAMY’s Yancey County office and share your story today!
Protect Yourself Against Rabies
Public health officials say that rabies cases have increased compared to this time last year. As a result, they are urging North Carolinians to be wary of wild or strange animals. Precautions include:
* Vaccinate pets.
* Don't try to rescue, pet or touch wild animals.
* Avoid physical contact with unfamiliar dogs and cats.
* Do not sleep in a cabin, tent or shelter if bats are present.
Any mammal can get rabies, but raccoons are the most common carrier in North Carolina. The disease can occur at any time of year, although humans are most likely to be exposed in the warm months when they are outside more often. More information on rabies in North Carolina, including county-by-county data, is available on the web at http://www.rabies.ncdhhs.gov
Volunteers Needed*
The Blue Ridge Fitness and Rehabilitation Center is looking for a few good men and women to volunteer. Volunteers are needed at the center on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8am-3pm. If you have some extra time on your hands, and would enjoy helping the staff at Blue Ridge Fitness and Rehabilitation Center in providing quality care for its patients and the best fitness services possible for its members call 766-1770.
Mitchell Senior Center
The Mitchell Senior Center needs substitute volunteers for all routes, but for the Bakersville area especially. Substitutes are people who are willing for them to call at the last minute when they need someone to deliver meals. They know a sub can not always drop what they are doing and come out to deliver the Meals on Wheels, and that's okay, they do it when they can. All the Meal Routes are approximately 1 hour from pick-up at the Senior Center until the last meal is dropped off. So all in all it takes about an hour and half to do a Meal Route. They have 7 Meal Routes and serve approximately 85-95 Meals on Wheels 5 days a week. Wed-Bakersville Area Thu-Ledger Area Fri-Glen Ayre Area. Please call 688-3019 or come by the Senior Center. They are open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.
Shriner's Hospitals
Children with serious medical problems face many challenges in life. That's why Shriner's Hospitals for Children offers help and hope by providing world-class medical care to kids with orthopedic, spinal cord or burn injury problems, totally free of charge! Shriner's Hospitals combine leading edge research with outstanding teaching programs and there is a Shriner's Hospital helping kids from this area. If you know a child they could help call 1-800-237-5055 or visit www.shriners-hospitals.org
Help for Starting or Expanding a Small Business
Are you interested in starting or expanding a small business? If so, then W. A. M. Y. Community Action, Inc. may be able to help with funding or other assistance. W.A.M.Y.'s Micro Enterprise Program makes small business loans and also can arrange for various types of training to help small business owners. Call (828) 733-0156 and ask for the Micro Loan Coordinator to learn more.
Fair Housing is the Law in North Carolina
Fair Housing is the law in North Carolina. If you feel that you have been discriminated against in housing because of your race, color, sex, religion, national origin, handicap, or family status you have options. If you wish to report a fair housing complaint and you live in Yancey County, call the Yancey County Manager's Office at 682-3971, the Burnsville Town Hall at 682-2420, or you may contact the North Carolina Human Relations Commission at 1-866-324-7474. The hearing impaired may dial 711 to access Relay North Carolina.
Community Service Workers Available to Non-Profits
The North Carolina Department of Corrections Community Service Program is seeking non-profit agencies who would like to be considered for placement of court-ordered persons to work off community service hours at their location. For more information call William Whiteside at 682-6300 or email WWH04@DOC.STATE.NC.US.
Spruce Pine Kiwanis Club Meeting
For 50 years, the Kiwanis Club of Spruce Pine has been actively involved in projects that make our community a great place to work and live. They focus on providing services to help children and youth, funded by conducting events such as fish fries and golf tournaments. During the past 2 years, Kiwanis of Spruce Pine has conducted reading and grade improvement programs in local schools, supported clubs and activities in Mitchell High School, distributed and read more than 500 books to Elementary classes, sponsored a dental hygiene education program for students, and established and endowed a scholarship at Mayland Community College. They invite all interested persons to attend their meeting any Tuesday at 7pm at Western Sizzlin' on Highway 226 in Spruce Pine for food, fun, fellowship and a chance to be a part of these programs which support our youth. For more information call Douglas at 766-7777.
SafePlace Fresh Start Program
SafePlace is working with local agencies to improve lives of the underemployed and homemakers who have lost financial support through divorce or death of a parent or spouse through their Fresh Start Program. This program offers job counseling, job training, health and educational services to those wanting to re-enter the work force and is offered free of charge to individuals, both male and female, who qualify. Upcoming Life Skills classes are scheduled for Monday evenings at the Trinity Episcopal Church and Employability Skills Development classes are held at the JobLink Center Tuesday afternoons from 3-5pm. Computer Classes are held at Mayland's Main Campus on Tuesdays and Thursdays. For a complete list of classes, dates and times and more information and registration call Elizabeth Artalejo at 765-4015 or 765-4044.
FVC Needs Volunteers with Trucks & Strong Backs
If you have a little time to donate every now and then to help move furniture, appliances, and other heavy items, then the Family Violence Coalition needs you. The Family Violence Coalition never knows exactly when a family will be leaving the shelter or when they'll receive donations of furniture and other items too heavy for their female staff members to move, so they'd like to assemble a list of willing volunteers they can call on from time to time to help out. Also, right now The Family Violence Coalition does not have a truck and could really use one. If you have an old truck you would like to donate, it would be appreciated and would be tax deductible. They'll give you a tax receipt for the donation. If you or your church group is interested in volunteering or if you'd like to donate a truck, call Samantha Phipps at 678-3436 or 208-2981 and leave your name and phone number.
Domestic Violence Support Groups
Mitchell County Safeplace has a support group for victims of domestic violence, rape and sexual assault. If you'd like more information call 765-4044. The Family Violence Coalition of Yancey County offers a support group for victims of domestic violence and/or sexual assault. For information about this group call 682-0056.
Meals on Wheels Needs Volunteers
The Yancey County Meals on Wheels program needs volunteers to deliver meals to Yancey County shut-ins, any weekday from 10:30am-noon. If you'd like to volunteer, call the Yancey County Senior Center at 682-6011.
Health Department's 5 R's of Rabies Prevention
The Mitchell County Health Department encourages everyone to practice "Responsible Pet Ownership" by following the 5 R's of rabies prevention. (1) Rabies Vaccination...have your dogs and cats vaccinated against rabies and keep their vaccination up to date. (2) Remove food from your yard...food items left outside will attract wild or stray animals that may have rabies. (3) Restrict your pets to your property...this will lesson the likelihood that your pets have contact with sick animals. (4) Receive prompt care from your medical provider if you are bitten by an animal. (5) Report animal bites and unusual animal behavior...such as refusal to eat or drink water, staggering walk, sick wasted look or extremely aggressive or passive behavior. For more information call your local health department. In Yancey County call 682-6118. In Mitchell County call 688-2371.3
Fundraiser for Mitchell Animal Rescue
Mitchell County Animal Rescue is collecting and recycling printer cartridges and old cell phones as a fundraiser for shelter pets awaiting adoption. Drop off your used cartridges and old cell phones at the shelter, Blue Moon Bookstore in Spruce Pine, or The Gallery Upstairs in Bakersville. For more information call Patricia at 766-7348.
Yancey 4-H Friends
The Yancey 4-H Friends, governor one on one volunteer program needs your help. They need Volunteers, men and women, who can be a role model for referred youth. It only takes 2 hours a week to make a big difference in friends life. Call 682-6186 or 682-6393 and ask for Bob.
Heritage Adult Day Retreat
Need help caring for your loved one? Call Heritage Adult Day Retreat at 682-1556. They're open Monday through Friday 7:30am-5:30pm. They provide assistance with medications and personal care, social activities, a registered nurse on staff...and transportation and financial assistance is available. They're located on Highway 19E at Riverside.
To Tutor or Be Tutored
The Yancey County Literacy council is a non-profit organization that gives free one-on-one tutoring to both children and adults. If you need a tutor or would like to become a tutor with the Yancey Literacy Council call 678-9646 for more information.
MY Meds Medication Ministry
MY Meds Medication and Health Ministry is a local non-profit organization that provides help to Mitchell and Yancey County residents who have no prescription health plan and often have to decide between buying food and buying medicine. No one should have to make that choice. If you need help paying for needed prescription medications call MY Meds office at 766-6336.
Breast Feeding Support
The Yancey Health Department and WIC Program provide breastfeeding education and support to all women in Yancey County regardless of income. Breastfeeding counselors are available 24 hours a day to offer one-on-one assistance before and after pregnancy. This service is made possible through funding from Mitchell-Yancey Partnership for Children. For more information call the Yancey County Health Department at 682-6118.
Facts About Blood Donation
* Every 2 seconds in the U.S. someone needs a blood transfusion. * By donating blood regularly, we can be assured blood will be available for an emergency. * It takes about an hour to give blood (The actual amount of time the needle is in the donors arm is approximately 10 minutes). * Only 5% of the medically eligible population is willing to take about an hour to save someone's life. * You can give blood even if you're on most medications. * You may be able to give blood even if you have had most types of Cancer as long as the Cancer has been in remission for 5 years. * You may be able to give blood if it has been 5 years since your last chemotherapy or radiation treatment. * You have to be at least 17 years old to give blood, but there is no upper age limit. * You have to weigh at least 110 pounds. * Because blood can be separated into 3 components, a single blood donation can save up to 3 lives. * By donating blood you save lives and become a hero, and the American Red Cross would like to thank your for giving the gift of life.
Reach to Recovery
Have you just been diagnosed with breast cancer? Do you have questions about recovery, a prosthesis, or reconstructive surgery? Do you need someone to talk to? Reach to Recovery is a peer support program aimed at women who have been newly diagnosed or just treated for breast cancer that helps to answer these questions. If you or a loved one would like information on Reach to Recovery, contact your doctor or the American Cancer Society toll-free at 1-866-227-7798.
P.O. Box 744 