Pounds of Marijuana, LSD, and other drugs seized
at Yancey Residence
08/26/2008
On August
21st, Deputies with the Yancey County Sheriff’s Department served a search
warrant at the residence of Derek Robert-Benjamin Porritt, age 23, on Windy Gap
Road located near the Madison County line just inside Yancey County The search
warrant was secured after receiving information that illegal drugs were being
manufactured at the residence. Over 350 marijuana plants were seized from the
exterior of the residence as well as 10 pounds of marijuana, 114 grams of
Psilocybin (mushrooms), LSD and DMT (Dimethltryptamine) from inside the
residence. Porritt was taken before a Yancey County Magistrate and released from
the Yancey County Jail after posting a $ 23,000.00 secured bond. Madison County
Sheriff C. John Ledford and Captain Buddy Harwood provided assistance with the
case. In an unrelated case, Yancey
Deputies have arrested
Timothy James
Kirkman, age
37, of Burnsville, charging him with selling and delivering
various controlled substances, According to deputies at about 7:30 pm on Sunday,
August 17th Kirkman sold Hydrocodone and valium to an undercover
officer. Lt. Farmer of the Sheriff’s Department said that Kirkman had been
suspected of selling illegal prescription drugs from several locations including
a local mobile home park. His arrest is just one of many to be made by the
Sheriff’s Department as they continue to stop illegal drug activity around the
county.
Help for Drought Stricken Marshall
08/22/2008
Gov. Mike Easley announced today that state officials are
expediting permits needed by the town of Marshall, in Madison County, which is
facing a water shortage emergency due to the drought. The 1,300 residents of
Marshall get their water from three wells, one of which has gone dry. Since one
of Marshall’s three wells ran dry last week, the N.C. Department of Environment
and Natural Resources has fast-tracked water quality and public water supply
permits the town needs to construct emergency wells and lay pipe to its existing
water supply. The state is also assisting the town in obtaining funds to acquire
a permanent water supply from new wells and construct a new elevated water
supply tank. And state officials are also helping Marshall complete its water
shortage response plan, and will provide assistance with a water audit and leak
detection survey. According to the latest U.S. Drought Monitor, Marshall is one
of many communities suffering from exceptional drought, the worst of four
drought categories.
Frye Pleads Guilty
08/22/2008
State Representative Phillip Frye has pleaded guilty to drunk
driving charges. He was arrested last Christmas Eve after hitting a parked car
near his home in Spruce Pine. According to the DWI citation he blew a .18, twice
the legal limit. Frye pled guilty Thursday and received a 30-day suspended
sentence, one year probation and he cannot drive until he finishes community
service. At the time of the incident, Frye apologized to the people of the 84th
District and asked for forgiveness. The Republican represents Avery, Caldwell,
Mitchell and Yancey County’s in Raleigh.
Yancey Drug Arrest
08/22/2008
Yancey County Sheriff Deputies have arrested Robert Channing Fox,
age 22 charging him with one count of felonious possession of marijuana, one
count of possessing marijuana with the intent to sell & deliver, one count of
maintaining a vehicle to keep & transport illegal drugs and one count of
possessing drug paraphernalia. According to Lt. Thomas L. Farmer of the
Sheriff's Department, the arrest was made at a location off of Pine Swamp Road
in the early morning hours of Saturday August 16, by Deputy L.R. Higgins and
Deputy B.J. Casteel after Fox was found to possess in excess of 3 ounces of
marijuana in his vehicle and Fox had several separate containers of marijuana
packaged to sell and numerous paraphernalia items. Fox was taken before a Yancey
County Magistrate and remains in the Yancey County Jail under a $ 6,500.00
secured bond. Fox is scheduled to appear in Yancey County District Court on
August 27, 2008.
Isolated Schools Get Help
08/22/2008
The NC legislature has agreed to supply funding for two
additional teaching positions for two Mitchell County Schools, identified as
geographically isolated schools. The two schools, Buladean Elementary and Tipton
Hill Elementary, will each get two new teaching positions. Dr. Brock Womble, the
Superintendent of Mitchell County Schools says these two positions in each
school will help maintain these schools in their communities and provide
additional resources in Mitchell County Schools that wasn't there previously.
Support for this legislation came from Mitchell County’s legislative
representatives in Raleigh, Representative Phillip Frye & Senator Joe Sam Queen.
(click audio button above)
Young & McQueen Land Big Contract
08/21/2008
The State Board of Transportation recently announced the awarding of a joint
four-year contract of $107.9 million to Young & McQueen of Burnsville and Taylor
& Murphy Construction of Asheville for the 13.5 mile road project on Highway 19.
Sam Young of Young & McQueen said the bid was a joint venture and that the work
will take place simultaneously along the road. Young said the contract came
along at the right time as he expected work would off by 25% or more because of
the economy and that would have meant layoffs, but now he says we will begin
hiring. Work is scheduled to begin September 2nd with a competition date of
2012.
Dealing with Fuel Costs
08/21/2008
In an effort to look at ways of reducing fuel cost to deal with
limited funding for transportation from the state, Greenlee, Deyton & Harris
schools have taking a pro-active approach. Harris Principal Jack Brooks says by
merging bus routes this will produce a savings of $35 thousand to $45 thousand
dollars.
(click audio button above)
Shop at Home
08/20/2008
A project by Spruce Pine Main Street is underway to get people to
shop at home. The organization has put together a brochure promoting downtown
and they have mailed the brochure to most homes in the county. Kay Goins, the
director of Spruce Pine’s Main Street explains how the project is designed to
get people to come downtown. (click audio button above)
YMCA Gets Grant
08/20/2008
The JCPenney Afterschool Fund has awarded a grant of $10,200 to
the YMCA of Western North Carolina to help more children participate in safe,
life-enriching after school programs. The YMCA of Western North Carolina is the
largest child care provider in the region serving 18 after school sites in
Buncombe County; 2 after school sites in McDowell County; and 3 Community
Outreach sites serving at-risk youth in Buncombe County. The after school
program includes elements that promote health and well-being, social skill
development, emotional development, artistry, character development, sports and
service. Currently, there are 750 children enrolled for the start of the
2008-2009 school year.
Wind Energy Farms
08/19/2008
An Appalachian State University study names Mitchell County one
of the best locations for a “wind energy farm” on the U.S. Eastern Seaboard.
County Manager Chuck Vines explains. (click audio button above)
Domestic Violence Arrest
08/19/2008
Yancey County Sheriff Deputies have arrested David Alexander
Mendez 28, of Burnsville, and charged him with one count of Felonious Assault by
Strangulation, one count of Assault on a Female, one count of Communicating
Threats and two counts of Destroying Property. The arrest was made after
Deputies responded to the residence to investigate a Domestic Dispute between
Mendez and his long time girlfriend. Upon arrival Deputies found the female
victim suffering from strangulation injuries and open wounds inflicted on her
breast and chest areas a result of Mendez biting her. Mendez was taken before a
Yancey County Magistrate and remains in the Yancey County Jail under a $
50,000.00 secured bond. Mendez is scheduled to appear in Yancey County District
Court on August 27, 2008.
We Need Significant Rain Soon
08/18/2008
With some area towns having problems with their water supply,
Burnsville Mayor Danny McIntosh says Burnsville is not having any problems, but
the do urge citizens to conserve water when possible. Spruce Pine remains under
volunteer conservation and they are keeping up with production, but as Town
Manager Richard Canipe says we need some significant rain soon The area could
possibly get a significant as tropical storm Fay is forecast to impact our area
Thursday & Friday. (click audio button above)
Another Mountain Plant is Shutting Down
08/15/2008
Another mountain plant is shutting down. 280 workers in Marion
have been told their jobs will be gone in 60-days. Officials with Swift Galey in
Marion confirm the closing, citing pressure from foreign markets, 150 layoffs
occurred earlier this year at Swift Galey. This is a hard hit on McDowell County
which already has an unemployment rate of 7.2%, that’s higher than the state
average of 6%. At one point Swift Galey employed more than 500 workers at its
Marion plant.
Facing Animal Cruelty Charges
08/15/2008
A 17-year Mitchell County boy is facing animal cruelty charges
after Mitchell Deputies say he shot a cat with a bow & arrow. Last week the
owners of the cat named “jack,” found him with a camouflage arrow through his
head. The teen turned himself in over the weekend. He said he was responsible,
but says the incident was not intentional. The two foot arrow was removed by a
veterinarian. Jack is recovering but it will take a long time for the wound to
heal.
Facing a Water Crisis
08/15/2008
The Town of Marshall, in Madison County, is racing against time
to hook up wells to its reservoir before it runs dry. The town currently has
less than a 5 week supply of water. On Wednesday, a pump at one of three wells
supplying the reservoir failed - forcing officials to declare mandatory water
restrictions. Aldermen, on Thursday agreed to add wells on private property.
Marshall’s Mayor Lawrence Ponder says the town has to locate some water in a
hurry, and even if that happens, he’s says they will still need the National
Guard to haul water in to Marshall. Next week, state officials could provide a
$500,000 grant to help Marshall drill more wells. Aldermen plan to meet today
with state officials to look for ways to speed up the well certification
process.
More Important Needs
08/14/2008
Mitchell County’s plans to build a new jail are being challenged;
WLOS-TV’s Frank Fraboni has the latest. (click audio button above)
Mandatory Water Restrictions in Marshall
08/14/2008
Drought conditions have force one mountain town to order
mandatory water restrictions. The order was punt into place in Marshall after
officials discovered that one of the towns three wells has run dry. And the
remaining 2-wells are dropping about 2 inches every day. Officials say the town
could be out of water in 5-weeks. They've already put the word out to residents
and businesses to conserve. Madison High School will serve meals on paper plates
and restaurant owners say they'll cut back on dishwashing. Everyone is being
urged to conserve water. Town leaders have planned an emergency meeting today to
discuss their options.
Additional Assisted Living Beds Proposed for Mitchell County
08/13/2008
A Hickory Health Care company has filed an application with the
state to develop an 80-bed adult care home in Mitchell County. Mitchell House
proposes to construct the $5 million, 80-bed home with a 24-bed special care
unit for Alzheimer’s patients on U.S. 19E and Highland Avenue in Spruce Pine.
The 2008 State Medical Facilities Plan has determined that a need exists in
Mitchell County for 80 additional adult care home beds. A public hearing for
this project will be held at 10 AM on September 19th, at Gwaltney Hall, Room
205, on the Main Campus of Mayland Community College in Spruce Pine. Anyone may
file written comments concerning this project. Comments must be received no
later than September 2nd at this address: Certificate of Need Section, Division
of Health Service Regulation, 2704 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-2704.
Guilty Pleas in “Village of Penland” Fraud Case
08/13/2008
Three men accused of cheating investors in the “Village of
Penland” scheme have agreed to plead guilty to criminal charges including
conspiracy to defraud the government, money laundering and tax evasion. The men
and others allegedly sold overpriced lots in what they were saying would be an
upscale development in Mitchell County. NC Attorney General Roy Cooper shut the
project down last year citing fraudulent business practices. The Justice
Department said Tuesday that Anthony Porter, from NC could get up to 18-years in
prison, Frank Amelung, from Florida could get 10-years in prison and John
Foster, from Georgia is facing 5-years and a $250 thousand fine. The men were
named in a bill of information filed last week in U.S. District Court.
Prosecutors said the scheme bilked more than 200 investors in several states.
Porter and Amelung are among several Penland developers and banks that provided
financing for the project that are being sued by investors in multiple lawsuits.
Mitchell Chamber Opposes New Jail
08/12/2008
The Governmental Affairs Committee (GAC) of the Mitchell County
Chamber of Commerce has issued a resolution opposing the building of a new
county jail. The resolution states the GAC believes the decision by the County
Commissioners to go forward with constructing a new jail (the vote was 3-2) was
made in good faith by the board and in the best interest of the County, but
after an extensive amount of research, including meeting with the Chairperson of
the Mitchell County Board of Commissioners and with the County Manager, the GAC
reached the conclusion that while it would be good to have a Mitchell County
Jail there are many other needs in the County that should take precedence over
this extremely large expenditure. It was also determined that there is a much
more economical and logical alternative in our ongoing contractual agreement
with Rutherford County. Among the points outlined in the resolution is the
Chamber's chief concern and interest -- the potential strong negative economic
impact on small businesses and taxpayers in Mitchell County. The Chamber
believes the building, operational and maintenance costs associated with a new
jail cannot be supported without a substantial tax increase. The position of the
GAC and Chamber Board is that the potential tax increase represents too much of
a burden to small business owners and the residents of Mitchell County given the
current struggling economy. It also would vastly lessen the County's ability to
adequately support many other areas of its responsibilities considered, by the
GAC and the Chamber Board, much more important to the overall well being of
Mitchell County. The resolution further states although the Board of
Commissioners has already approved this project we are not past the "point of no
return" since a construction contract has not yet been awarded.
Green Mountain Man Arrested
08/12/2008
Yancey County Sheriff Deputies have arrested Randall Dale
Chandler, age 46, of Green Mountain, charging him with one count of Felonious
Possession of Methamphetamine, one count of Possession with the Intent to sell
and Deliver Methamphetamine, one count of Possessing Marijuana and one count of
Possessing Drug Paraphernalia. Lt. Tom Farmer said the Sheriff's Department has
received numerous complaints about alleged drug activity in the area for some
time. The arrest was a result of a lengthy investigation into illegal drug
activity at the residence. Lt. Farmer stated that Sgt. John Robinson and Deputy
Mark Letterman found Chandler to be in possession of five separate containers of
Methamphetamine at the time of his arrest on Friday August 8th. A search warrant
for the residence and property was executed, in addition to the five containers
of meth, seized was 33 grams of marijuana and numerous drug paraphernalia items,
money, contraband and a Yamaha 4 Wheeler used by Chandler to travel up and down
Hill Road to deliver illegal drugs. Chandler was taken before a Yancey County
Magistrate and remains in the Yancey County Jail under a $ 10,000.00 secured
bond. Chandler is scheduled to appear in Yancey County District Court on August
15, 2008.
Operation Road Watch
8/12/2008
The Highway Patrol has begun Operation Road Watch in Madison
County. Road Watch, a 48 hour multi-agency enforcement event that focuses on
commercial motor vehicle inspections with an emphasis on commercial motor
vehicle driver violations, aggressive driving around commercial motor vehicles,
unsecured load violations, hazardous materials being transported across state
boundaries and motor carrier fuel violations. The goal of Road Watch is to
reduce collisions involving big trucks and other vehicles. Troopers will conduct
safety inspections on commercial motor vehicles on I-26 in Madison County and
other highways in the area during the operation.
Cat Shot with Bow & Arrow
08/11/2008
Sometime between Monday & Tuesday of last week someone shot a cat
with a bow and arrow in Mitchell County. The cats name is "Jack" and he’s
recovering after his owners found him with a two foot camouflage arrow-going
through his head; a veterinarian was able to remove it, but it will take a long
time for the wound to heal. The cat is on antibiotics and pain medication, but
the vet believes in time, he will recover. Melissa Cook with Stewart’s Mountain
View Hospital Comments. Reportedly a 17-year old male turned himself in over the
weekend; he said it was an accident. So far no charged have been filed. Mitchell
County Animal Rescue has offered a 500 dollar reward for information leading to
an arrest and conviction in this case. (click audio button above)
Phillips Appointed to Banking Commission
08/11/2008
Gov. Mike Easley has appointed Van Phillips of Spruce Pine to the
North Carolina Banking Commission. Phillips is the vice president of Great
Meadows, Inc. He is on the board of directors for Advantage West, Mountain 1st
Bank & Trust and the Samuel L. Phillips Family Foundation. Phillips attended the
North Carolina Bank Directors College and is a past member of the N. C. House of
Representatives and Mitchell County Board of Commissioners. He received a
Bachelors degree in political science from UNC at Charlotte. The commission
supervises, directs and reviews all actions of the Commissioner of Banks on
issues such as the establishment of new banks, the opening and closing of bank
branches and mergers. There are 22 members on the commission, each serving a
four-year term. The governor appoints 19 members. The Senate President Pro
Tempore and Speaker of the House each appoint one member. The State Treasurer
also serves on the board.
Fire at Parkers Lumber Mill
08/08/2008
Yancey County firefighters battled a large fire last night at
Parkers Lumber Mill just outside of Burnsville in West Yancey. The blaze broke
out just before 5:30 pm destroying a section of the mill. Only one worker was at
the mill and there were no injuries. Crews worked feverously to keep the fire
from spreading. Assistant Fire Chief Preston Allen with the West Yancey
Volunteer Fire Department comments. Fire crews from the county as-well-as
departments from several other county’s joined forces to battle the blaze.
(click audio button above)
Read the Hand Book
08/08/2008
Schools are open and it’s important that parents, students and
teachers are on the same page. Dr. Tom Little, Superintendent of Yancey Schools
urges parents carefully read the “hand book” that students will bring home. Dr.
Tom Little, Superintendent of the Yancey County School System explains. (click
audio button above)
Booze It & Lose It Blitz
08/07/2008
Gov. Mike Easley has announced that law enforcement officers
across the state will conduct a one-day “Booze It & Lose It” enforcement blitz
tomorrow, Friday, August 8th, as a reminder for motorists not to drink and
drive. “Our ‘Booze It & Lose It’ campaigns accomplish two goals: removing drunk
drivers from the roads and educating the public about the danger of impaired
driving,” State and local law enforcement officers will be conducting stepped-up
checkpoints and patrols across the state Friday night. Several of the
checkpoints will include the use of North Carolina’s six mobile breath testing
units, otherwise known as BATmobiles. In 2007, 488 North Carolinians died as a
result of alcohol-related crashes and more than 9,000 were seriously injured,
North Carolina’s blood alcohol concentration limit is .08.
Second Man Charged
08/07/2008
Last month a McDowell County jury found 43-year-old Bobby Taylor
guilty of first degree murder in the 1993 beating death of 24-year-old Zilpha
Lowery. Authorities said Taylor struck Lowery in the head with a blunt object
killing her. Lowery disappeared in July of that year; hunters found her skeletal
remains near Lake James in February of 1994. Taylor was sentenced to life in
prison, without parole. Now a second man, Taylor’s roommate Donald White has
been indicted by a grand jury for being an accessory. White had testified
against Taylor in his trail, but he admitted he had help dispose of Lowery’s
body.
Parkway Fire & Rescue’s Request Approved
08/06/2008
Parkway Fire & Rescue received approval from Mitchell
Commissioners for an increase in the tax rate in their existing service district
and that’s good news for residents in these areas. Mitchell County Manager Chuck
Vines explains. (click audio button above)
Cobia Lays off 68 Workers
08/06/2008
Cobia Boats in Marion announced Monday it will suspend production
at the local facility until the economy improves. The temporary shutdown is
effective Friday, Aug. 29. Sixty eight workers will be laid off. Three years ago
Cobia Boats announced plans to open a plant in McDowell County. Chuck Abernathy,
McDowell Manager is quoted as saying they’re not bailing out, but it is a
disappointment and is an economic setback for the County.
NCBOT to Consider Highway Contracts
08/06/2008
The N.C. Board of Transportation will consider awarding contracts
totaling $267.4 million for highway improvement projects in 30 counties at its
meeting on Thursday, Aug. 7, in Raleigh. The contracts include projects Madison,
McDowell, and Yancey counties. Included are contracts for: Resurface 21.8 miles
of U.S. 19 from I-26 in Madison County to Jack's Creek Road east of the Yancey
County line; and replace existing bridges over North Muddy Creek, Camp Creek and
on Dale's Creek in McDowell County.
Spruce Pine Fire Anniversary
08/05/2008
It was a year ago fires swept through downtown Spruce Pine, The
blazes on the first weekend of August last year damaged about 20 businesses,
some forced to shut down. Merchants say there has been a slow down in business
over the past year, but things appear to be picking up as businesses rebuild and
expand. Spruce Pine’s Mayor, Ralph Hise Jr. says "This was a setback for us
there's no doubt about it, but our future looks bright and clear," 44-year-old
David McCall is charged with setting the fires in Spruce Pine. The trial is on
hold until the district attorney can prove whether McCall is competent to stand
trial.
Domestic Violence Arrests
08/05/2008
Yancey County Deputies have made three unrelated domestic
Violence arrests. Allen L. Honeycutt 28, of Burnsville, has been charged with
one count of Assault on A Female after an altercation between him and a female
that led to allegations of forceful physical contact. Honeycutt remains in the
Yancey County Jail under No Bond. Deputies have arrested Dioncio Chavez-Robles
Romero 27, of Burnsville, charging him with Assault with a Deadly Weapon. The
arrest was made after it was revealed that Romero struck his wife on the back of
her head with a glass bottle causing a laceration type injury during a physical
altercation at there residence. The female victim was transported to Blue Ridge
Regional Hospital where she was treated and released and Romero was placed in
the Yancey County Jail where he remains without bond. And Yancey Deputies have
arrested Daniel S. Tipton 33, of Burnsville; he’s charged him with one count of
Felonious Strangulation, one count of Assault on a Female and one count of
Interfering with 911 call. The arrest was made after allegations of abuse were
reported to Sheriff's Deputies and Judicial officials by a female who alleged
she was choked and bitten during an altercation with Tipton. After a period of
48 hours without bond in the Yancey County Jail, Tipton was released from
custody after posting a $ 4,000.00 secured bond. All three subjects are
scheduled to appear in court this Friday August 8th. If you’re in a domestic
violence situation, help is available; in Mitchell call “Safe Place” at 765-4044
and in Yancey County call the “Family Violence Coalition” at 682-0056.
A possible Break in McDowell Cold Case
08/04/2008
Last Friday two young boys in McDowell County found a skull in
the woods and reported it to the Sheriff’s office. McDowell County Deputies are
hoping this may lead to a break in a cold case that is six years old. On
Saturday morning, deputies and other law enforcement officials began their
search of the woods -- hoping to find more clues. Deputies say in addition to
the skull, they've found another unidentified part, and one shoe. Authorities
have not identified the remains, but are looking more closely into the counties
only missing person's case. That happened on January 7th, 2002; 45-year-old Joan
Noblitt wandered away from her home in Old Fort. Her family says she left on a
cold night without a coat or identification. Noblitt's family also says she was
bipolar and schizophrenic -- and was on several daily medications. For nearly a
week, Sheriff's Deputies conducted searches from the ground and sky, hoping to
find any traces of Noblitt. The only evidence investigators had -- an image
captured on a surveillance camera six days after she disappeared -- but Deputies
could not confirm that the image was Noblitt. The boys found the remains just
over a half-mile from Noblitt's home. Deputies have sent the remains to Texas
for identification.
Guilty Pleas
08/01/2008
Back in April three men robbed the Ridgeview Presbyterian Church
in the Red Hill Community of Mitchell County, and what made this robbery more
upsetting, they robbed the church during their 11 AM Sunday service. They stole
money, car keys and cell phones from congregation members. One of church members
was restrained with duct tape. Two of the accused, Alexander Ryan Deyton, age 19
and his brother, Joshia Jacob Deyton, age 18 have pleaded guilty to 11 counts of
robbery with a dangerous weapon; their sentencing is set for August 25th. The
third man charged is Jonathan Neil Koniak, age 20, of Tennessee, he is scheduled
to go on trial also on August 25th.
New Charges
08/01/2008
A man charged with breaking into “Lock and Key” storage buildings
in the Nebo area of McDowell County now faces 5 more charges after evidence has
linked him to a robbery of another business in the same area. 39 year old Loren
Mace is charged with breaking and entering and larceny charges at Lock and Key,
and now McDowell Recycling. Mace remains in jail under $100,000 bond.
Investigators also consider him a person of interest in thefts at Springs Creek
RVs. McDowell Detectives say they are looking for more suspects.
Vaccination Rules Change
07/31/2008
Parents are urged to take notice of a new rule that requires
students entering the 6th grade and college for the first time to get a booster
shot of the Tdap vaccine for tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis. The new rule,
passed by state lawmakers in January at the recommendation of the Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention also requires all students to receive a second
dose of mumps vaccine before enrolling in school or college for the first time.
These vaccinations are intended to reduce the rate of occurrence of mumps and
pertussis and whooping cough.
Mini-Storage B & E Arrest in McDowell
07/31/2008
McDowell County deputies have made an arrest in the robbery of
“Lock and Key” mini-storage, a 30-unit storage business. Deputies say they got a
big break in the case when one of the victims got a phone call from a family
member, offering to sell him some parts he thought he recognized as his. Those
stolen car parts lead officers to 39 year old Loren Mace, known as "Skipper."
Deputies say they recovered the stolen goods, and because these are storage
units some customers may not even know they were robbed yet. Mace is charged
with felony breaking and entering and larceny. Deputies say more charges are
pending. Mace is in jail under $40,000 bond.
Teens Charged In McDowell Break-Ins
07/30/2008
McDowell authorities have charged four teenage boys with five
break-ins in the Nebo Community. Charged with felony larceny, breaking and
entering and possession of stolen goods are 16-year-old James Bowman,
17-year-old Cody Hughes, 17-year-old Derek Simmons and 18-year-old Tyler Cox.
The boys are alleged to have taken more than $52 hundred worth of goods. Most of
the thefts took place on Wildlife Road and deputies say two of the teens lived
near where the break-ins occurred. A lot of the stolen items were found in the
woods near the boys' homes.
N.C. ESC Sounds Alert To Prevent Fraud Schemes
07/30/2008
North Carolina’s Employment Security Commission has been alerted
to fraud schemes active here and in other states which offer to assist those
possibly qualifying for the new emergency unemployment insurance extended
benefits after the payment of a fee. There is no fee required to apply for
benefits in any state and, no fee is required to receive funds by those who
qualify. Those in North Carolina who feel they qualify for the emergency
unemployment benefits can get more information by contacting NCESC at one of
it's offices statewide or return to our homepage and click on community links
and scroll down to government.
State & Local Sales Tax Holiday Starts Friday Aug 1st
07/29/2008
North Carolina’s 7th annual
state and local sales tax holiday that starts this Friday, Aug. 1 and runs
through Sunday, Aug. 3rd.During the tax holiday consumers will not pay sales tax
on the following items: clothes and footwear costing less than $100 per item;
school supplies such as pens, pencils, paper, notebooks, textbooks, book bags,
lunch bags and calculators costing less than $100 per item; sports and
recreation equipment costing $50 or less per item; computers costing less than
$3,500 and computer supplies costing less that $250 per item. Governor Easley
said “As many families find themselves squeezed by the national economy with
increasing prices for food, gasoline and other necessities, our tax holiday
offers consumers a chance for some real savings and an opportunity to generate
significant business for our retailers.” For an all-inclusive list of items that
qualify as “school supplies” return to our home page and follow the link.
Huge Pot Find in Madison County
07/29/2008
As-many-as 5 thousand marijuana
plants have been found growing in a remote area north of Marshall off Walnut
Creek Road. The plants were discovered by Highway Patrol helicopter as it was
making a pass over the area. According to Madison Sheriff John Ledford, the
growing operation took up over an acre and featured an irrigation system that
pumped water from underground wells. Ledford believes whoever put up the
operation lived at the site because they also found an encampment. No arrests
have been made. The marijuana plants were valued at over a million dollars.
Local Tattoo parlor Operator Arrested for Numerous Criminal Offenses
07/28/2008
On Friday July 25, at about 10:00 p.m. Yancey County Sheriff Deputies and Burnsville Police Officers executed a search warrant at Rocks Tattoo Parlor on West Main Street, Burnsville. Joshua Grant” Rock" Ramsey 32, of a Mars Hill address, was taken into custody. He was served with 11 arrest warrants charging him with two counts of Sexual Battery, eight counts of Tattooing/Piercing Minors underage, and one count of False Imprisonment. Lt. Tom Farmer of the Yancey Sheriff's Department stated that complaints of underage drinking and drug use in addition to the improper conduct taking place at the tattoo parlor had to be stopped and efforts to keep it stopped will continue. Several individuals inside the premises who were present when law enforcement arrived were temporarily detained as well. One individual was held after it was revealed that he was wanted in California on Felony Dangerous Drug charges, another was found to be in possession of marijuana and others in possession of open containers of beer.
Burnsville Man Arrested & Property Seized
07/28/2008
A Burnsville man has been arrested and his property seized. Roger Keith Phillips age 54 was taken into custody on Wednesday July 23, 2008 at his residence located in the Pensacola Township of Yancey County. Phillips was served with Warrants for his arrest as well as a search warrant and seizure of property warrant issued by Federal Judicial officials in Western North Carolina and Eastern Tennessee. Sheriff Kermit Banks and Deputies with the Yancey County Sheriff's Department were assisted by the United States Marshal Service and Agents from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in the operation. The arrest is a result of an ongoing joint investigation between the Yancey County Sheriff's Department and Federal authorities in the illegal distribution of controlled substances in Yancey County. The investigation into these offenses is ongoing and additional arrests may be made. Phillips is currently being held without bond at an undisclosed Federal facility.
New Lottery Distribution Formula helps Mountain Schools
07/25/2008
The short session of the general assembly has resulted in a guarantee that school districts perceived as shortchanged by the state’s lottery distribution formula will get at least $14-million next year. Ray Rapp a Democrat representing district 118 which is made up of Haywood, Madison Counties & a portion of Yancey County explains. (click audio button above)
Two Mitchell Men Arrested in Yancey
07/25/2008
Yancey County Sheriff Deputies and Burnsville Police Officers have arrested Joshua Ray Murphy 18, of Bakersville, and charged him with two counts of Financial Transaction Card Fraud and one count of Obtaining Property by False Pretenses. Murphy was taken before a Yancey County Magistrate and released from custody after posting a $ 3,000.00 secured bond. And Yancey Deputies have arrested Christopher Derrick Laws 21, of Spruce Pine and charged him with one count of Felonious Obtaining Property by False Pretenses and one count of Financial Transaction Card Theft. Laws was taken before a Yancey County Magistrate and released from custody after posting a $ 3,000.00 secured bond.
Burnsville Man Murdered in Tennessee
07/24/2008
A Yancey County native, who lived in Jonesborough Tennessee, has been murdered. Carter County Sheriff’s Deputies say Casey Reed, age 21 has been charged with second degree murder in the death of Michael Adam Young, age 39. According to deputies Young died in a shooting incident at Sara Annie Drive, outside Elizabethton at around 3AM Sunday morning. Young was pronounced dead at the scene. He had been shot several times in the chest. Police have not released any motive for the shooting. Authorities say the investigation is continuing. The suspect, Casey Reed was arraigned Monday afternoon; his bail was reduced from $500 thousand to $50 thousand. Michael Adam Young is remembered as an outstanding athlete while he was at Heritage High School. He graduated in 1987. Michael is the son of Harold Young of Burnsville.
Waiting for QZAB
07/24/2008
The Mitchell County School System has been approved for a QZAB or Qualified Zone Academy Bond, which can only be used for “improvements.” According to Dr. Brock Womble, School System Superintendent, it’s now a waiting game until the bond money arrives, he said County Commissioners have sent the application in for the “Local Government Commission” to review. If all goes well, Womble said he expects to get a response within the next two months. He details how the bond money will be used. (click audio button above)
Dangerous Drugs Stolen
07/23/2008
Dozens of syringes loaded with painkillers have been stolen from McDowell Hospital. It happened last week and investigators think it may have been an inside job. Someone got through a locked door to a hospital recovery room and broke into a lock box. Marion Police say right now, everyone working inside the hospital is a person of interest. 56 syringes containing powerful medications like morphine, demerol, and fentanyl were taken. Those drugs are used to put people under before operations. Authorities say on the street they could be deadly. Substance abuse specialists say even if a patient has a tolerance to these kinds of drugs, this amount can still kill them. McDowell Hospital officials say they’re as baffled as everyone else." Marion Police say drug enforcement agents have been called in. Anyone with information is asked to call the Marion Police Department at (828) 652-3231.Drug enforcement agents have been called in to assist in the investigation.
Another Arrest in SP Break-In (correction)
07/23/2008
As we reported on Monday, two women have been charged with breaking into a local doctor’s office and stealing drugs and money. Dr. Susan Snyder’s office on Altapass Road was broken into sometime during the early hours of Wednesday, July 16th and later that day they attempted, unsuccessfully, to break into Hospital Drive Pharmacy. Charged are Melody Dawn Hall, age 30 of Avery County and Holly Harrell, age 23, of Mitchell County were charged. Now a third person has been arrested in the case, he’s been identified as 25 year old Brent Gurley. Spruce Pine Police say their investigation is continuing.
Someone Helped Madison Inmates Escape
07/23/2008
Back on July 6th, two inmates escaped from the Madison County Jail. Now, Madison County Sheriff’s officials say they received money from someone in WNC in aid in their getaway. Investigators say the inmates, identified as Daniel Arnold Jr. and James Cutshaw drove a stolen vehicle to Louisiana. One of the suspects, Arnold was captured in Mississippi and he has been returned to Madison County. The other escapee, James Cutshaw is still at large. Investigators believe they found receipts from Western Union in a search of the vehicle suggesting they got help in their escape.
Graffiti on 19E
07/23/2008
A person or persons spray painted a portion of Highway 19E with graffiti sometime over this past weekend from East Yancey Middle School to the Windom area. Reports from citizens said there were very offensive pictures and wording as well. NCDOT crews covered the graffiti on Monday. Defacing state property is a crime and the Yancey County Sheriff’s Department is investigating the incident.
A Community Saddened
07/22/2008
The Spruce Pine community is saddened to learn of the death of 8 year old Claire Atkins who died Friday after falling from a tree. Claire was an avid clogger and was a member of the Cole Mountain Cloggers, a group founded and coach by her parents Jeff and Angela Atkins. This year’s annual Mountain Dance & Folk Festival in Asheville will be dedicated to Claire whose life and energy will be missed. Claire fell from a tree severely injuring her arm; she was taken to Brenner’s Children’s Hospital in Winston Salem for surgery. Unrelated to the fall, doctors found a congenital vascular defect which caused bleeding to her brain. After her father learned she could not be saved the family wanted to help other children, Claire’s organs were given to five children who were having surgery. A celebration of Claire’s life will be held Sunday at 2 pm in the Greenlee Primary School Auditorium, in Spruce Pine.
Scams on the Increase
07/22/2008
If there is a way to get your money, you can bet someone is out there ready to take your money. According to Lieutenant Tom Farmer of the Yancey County Sheriff’s Department several County citizens have fallen for the "You Have Won the Lottery" scams and have lost thousands of dollars. Farmer cited two other scam cases where Yancey County Citizens received a letter of notification in the mail from HSCB Financial Services and Northwest Securities. Both letters included a fraudulent check and instructions for the recipients to cash the enclosed checks and then forward the currency obtained to a given address to pay for the taxes on the winnings. On these occasions citizens cashed the fake checks, obtained money and sent the money by Western Union to an address in Canada. Lt. Farmer warned that persons cashing the checks are responsible for repaying the banks or institution who initially cashed them when it is revealed that they are fraudulent. Farmer stressed once again “If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is, and if you have to send money to win money, forget it. He said the only way to keep yourself from a being a victim of these types of scams is to ignore them Farmer said.
Not Too Late
07/22/2008
The Internal Revenue Service today reminded qualifying retirees and veterans that it is not too late to file for an economic stimulus payment and announced it will send a second set of information packets to 5.2 million people who may be eligible but who have not yet filed for their stimulus payment. The packages will contain everything needed by a person who normally does not have a filing requirement but who must file this year in order to receive an economic stimulus payment. There will be instructions, an example Form 1040A return showing the few lines that need to be completed, and a blank Form 1040A. The packages will be mailed over a three-week period which started Monday July 21.
Two Women Charged with B & E
07/21/2008
Two women have been charged with breaking into Dr. Susan Snyder’s office on Alatapass Road and with attempting to gain entrance into Spruce Pine Pharmacy. According to Detective Billy Summerlin of the Spruce Pine Police Department, the break-in occurred sometime during the early morning hours of Wednesday July 16th, Drugs and money was taken. The attempted break-in at the pharmacy was captured on Store’s Video Security System, the suspects were found and they made a full confession to the Break-in and attempted break-ins at the pharmacy and Spruce Pine Family Medical Center. Charged with Breaking & Entering, Safe Cracking and attempted Breaking & Entering were Melody Dawn Hall, of Avery County and Holly Harrell of Mitchell County. Detective Summerlin said every member of the Police Department was involved in the case and the investigation was still underway.
Ban Still in Place
07/21/2008
Back in early June, the Toe River Health district issued a health advisory that because of problems at the Burnsville Waste Water Treatment Plant, swimming or wading in the Cane River downstream from the Treatment Plant was prohibited as some type of toxic waste was continuing to come into the plant system and there was potential for pollution of the river. Since then, conditions at the plant have improved but as Roy Davis with NC Division of Water Quality says he thinks it would be premature to lift the swimming ban at this time. We spoke with Jesse Greene, the Director of the Toe River Health District, he said they continue to receive testing results from NC Division of Water Quality and there has been significant improvement in the quality of the water in this section of river. He said the posting of swimming or wading will remain until the quality numbers indicate the water is completely safe. (click audio button above)
Fuel Costs Going Up
07/18/2008
Yancey Commissioners say they’re ready in the event fuel costs continue to rise. John Renfro, Yancey Commission Chairman explains. (click audio button above)
Historic Courthouse Committee Receives Grant
07/18/2008
It was recently announced that the Mitchell County historic Courthouse Committee has received a grant to begin the restoration process. Mitchell County Manager Chuck Vines explains. (click audio button above)
New Drinking Water Well Fees
07/17/2008
If you’re planning on installing a new drinking water well, you must call the health department and apply for a permit. As of July 1st the state has mandated a new drinking well program. Toe River Health District has put into place a fee schedule to implement the program that is designed to protect the state’s groundwater resources and public health. County health Departments have been told to make sure that private drinking water wells meet the minimum construction standards and to test the well water. Contact your County Health Department about new fee requirements.
Arrested After Dialing a Wrong Number
07/17/2008
A Marion woman dialed the wrong number and landed in jail. She thought she had called a customer to sell them drugs, but by mistake she had called Mitchell County Chief Deputy Donald Street and attempted to sell him $100 worth of hydrocodone, 20 pills at $5 a pop. After haggling over a location to meet, it was agreed they would meet in the parking lot of the Spruce Pine Wal-Mart. Just as she said, she was there and ready to make a sale, but the problem was the car she was looking for showed up with Chief Deputy Street, Detective Josh Sparks and Mitchell Sheriff Ken Fox. Betty Barrier Geouge, age 35 of Marion was arrested on July 11th and charged with possession with intent to sell & deliver a controlled substance and maintaining a vehicle for controlled substances.
Public Hearing on Water and Sewer Rates and Fees
07/16/2008
Burnsville Council will hold a public hearing to consider the proposed restructure of water and sewer rates and fees. Burnsville Mayor Danny McIntosh explains. (click audio button above)
NCDOT to Replace Mitchell Bridges
07/16/08
NCDOT will replace two existing bridges over Crabtree Creek on Crabtree Creek Road (S.R. 1002) in Mitchell County. The $1.7 million contract was awarded to Summers-Taylor Inc. of Elizabethton, Tenn. Work is scheduled to begin as early as Aug. 4th, with final completion set for Dec. 31, 2009.
Referendum on Quarter cent Sales Tax in Mitchell
07/15/2008
Mitchell Commissioners have voted to put a quarter cent sales tax issue on the November ballot and let the county citizen’s vote on it!! Chuck Vines, Mitchell County Manager explains. Vines said if the tax is passed, the monies will be earmarked for education. (click audio button above)
Guilty of 1993 Murder
07/15/2008
A McDowell County jury has found 43-year-old Bobby Taylor guilty of first degree murder in the 1993 beating death of 24-year-old Zilpha Lowery. Authorities said Taylor struck Lowery in the head with a blunt object killing her. Taylor is originally from Virginia, but had lived for a time in a mobile home in Old Fort where Lowery was killed. The 24-year old waitress disappeared in July of that year; hunters found her skeletal remains near Lake James in February of 1994. Taylor was sentenced to life in prison, without parole. His attorney says he will appeal.
Arrest Following House Fire
07/14/2008
A Burnsville man, Adam Skivington Randolph 44, remains in the Yancey County Jail under a No Bond Order and is facing several criminal charges. According to a news release from the Yancey County Sheriff’s Department, Randolph has been charged with one count of Felonious Burning of Other Buildings, one count of Felonious Burning of Personal Property, one count of Violating A Court Order, one count of Assaulting A Law Enforcement Officer, one count of Communicating Threats, and four separate drug offenses. The arrest of Randolph is a result of an investigation conducted by the Sheriff's Department and the SBI after the agencies were called to the former residence of Randolph, in the South Toe Community, to investigate a suspicious fire on Monday, July 7th. The fire destroyed the home where Randolph's estranged wife and three children lived. Randolph has prior Domestic Violence allegations pending against him in Yancey County Court and has been alleged to have committed acts of Domestic Violence and Domestic Criminal Trespassing on prior occasions that resulted in criminal charges and other court orders being issued.
Booze It or Lose It
07/14/2008
Law enforcement officers from across the state cited just under 2 thousand motorists for driving while impaired during the July 4th holiday "Booze It & Lose It: Operation Firecracker" campaign. A total of some 67 thousand traffic and criminal citations were issued statewide. In Mitchell County: Driving While Impaired 21 & older—1 citation, Total Occupant Restraint Charges-16, Speeding-12 citations. In Yancey County: Driving While Impaired-Under 21-2 citations, Driving While Impaired 21 & Older-3, Total Occupant Restraint Violations-9 citations, Speeding-20 citations and 2 Drug Violations. Counties with the greatest number of driving while impaired citations were: Wake (132), Mecklenburg (114), New Hanover (61). Officers also issued: 65 hundred safety belt and 1 thousand child passenger safety violations; 20 thousand speeding violations; and 12 hundred drug charges. In addition, they apprehended 534 fugitives from justice and recovered 85 stolen vehicles.
Two Killed in McDowell Fire
07/11/2008
A sad story from Dysartsville in McDowell County; two people were killed in a mobile home fire on late Wednesday. Fire officials say when they arrived at the residence on NC 226 the structure was fully involved in flames. Two bodies were found, one in the living room and one in the bedroom. The mobile home was occupied by Talmadge Frank McIntosh, age 85 and his wife Beverly, age 68. The bodies have not positively been identified, but family members say they know, an autopsy is scheduled today. Authorities say the fire apparently started in the home’s living room near a couch. Talmadge McIntosh was a heavy smoker and they think a cigarette may have sparked the fire. An official cause of the fire has not been confirmed, but foul play is not suspected. McIntosh had a brother who lived in Burnsville.
Autopsy Released in State Trooper Shooting
07/11/2008
A McDowell County man a State Trooper shot a killed was shot inside the Patrolman’s car. Trooper Andy Waycastrer shot 22 year old Daniel Cole after Cole attacked him with a box cutter. According to an autopsy released Thursday, Waycaster fired 3-shots, hitting Cole once. Cole then got out of the car and tried to run away, but fell down an overpass embankment on I-40, and that’s where he died. A toxicology report shows Cole was legally drunk when Trooper Waycaster pulled him over back in March.
Another Step Forward
07/11/2008
It was a couple of months ago that Yancey Commissioners designated a piece of land at the Yancey County Health, Medical & Human Services Campus for a new Senior Center building. The medical facility is behind the Mayland Community College – Yancey Campus. In the 2008-2009 County Budget Commissioners provided an additional $100 thousand which can be used as a match for grants to secure funding to build a new senior facility. John Renfro, Chairman of the Yancey County Commission comments. (click audio button above)
Extended Benefits Unemployment Claims
07/10/2008
The North Carolina Employment Security Commission has announced that extended unemployment insurance benefits will be available to the state’s jobless workers within the next week. Sandy Buchanan with the NC Employment Security Commission in Spruce Pine explains. In Mitchell County call 765-7376, and in Yancey County call 682-6618. (click audio button above)
Bakersville Fire & Rescue Receives FEMA Grant
07/09/2008
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has awarded $781,435 from the Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG) program to local fire departments and organizations in the state of North Carolina including a grant of $199,500 to Bakersville Volunteer Fire & Rescue for vehicle acquisition. The Homeland Security's AFG program is an important component of the administration's larger, coordinated effort to strengthen the nation's overall level of preparedness. The Assistance to Firefighters Grants are designed to enhance response capabilities and to protect the health and safety of the public more effectively with respect to fire and other hazards. The grants enable local fire departments and emergency medical services organizations to fund or receive training, conduct first responder health and safety programs, and buy equipment and response vehicles.
Mitchell County Towns Celebrate NC Trout Designation
07/09/2008
A little mountain trout brings two towns together. Bakersville and Spruce Pine have been named two of five pilot programs for Mountain Heritage Trout Waters Cities in North Carolina. A day of festivities is planned for this Saturday, July 12th. The kick off will begin in Bakersville at 10:00 A.M. and Spruce Pine at 11:00 A.M. with a “cutting of the line” on the water’s edge at the Creekwalk and Riverside Park respectively. Senator Joe Sam Queen and Representative Phillip Frye along with local town councils will “cut the line” in waders from the middle of the river. Following the ribbon cutting, a fishing clinic by “world renowned” fly fishing expert Phil McKinney will be held. The clinic will begin in Bakersville at 11:00 a.m. at the Creekwalk and in Spruce Pine at 1:00 p.m. at the Riverside Park amphitheatre. Participants should come early to register. The clinic is sponsored by Mayland Community College. This is just a sampling of the fun activities scheduled for this Saturday. For a complete list of what’s happening, go to our web sites, wkyk.com or wtoe.com and follow the link. The Mountain Heritage Trout Waters Program was established by the General Assembly in 2007 as a means to encourage trout fishing as a heritage tourism activity. Along with Spruce Pine and Bakersville, Maggie Valley, Waynesville and Newland have been designated as part of the pilot program.
They Walked Out the Front Door
07/08/2008
Two inmates in the Madison County Jail escaped Sunday by walking out the front door. According To Sheriff John Ledford James Christopher Cutshaw, age 28, and Daniel J. Arnold, Jr., age 38, had been buffing a floor in the lobby area on Sunday morning when a jailer apparently left the two men and went into another part of the jail area, then they walked out the door. Sheriff Ledford said the two are suspected of stealing a gray 1992 Chevrolet Suburban that was park outside the jail. Cutshaw was jailed on charges related to the manufacture of methamphetamine; Arnold was awaiting trial on a statutory rape charge. Now they’re also wanted for escape from a dentition center and felony larceny of a motor vehicle. Sheriff Ledford believes the two men may have been planning their escape and now his department is investigating if anyone from inside the jail or outside helped the two with their escape. The Sheriff said inmates cannot be left unsupervised and an internal investigation to see if any policy has been violated. Meanwhile, a nationwide has been issued for the two men. (click audio button above)
Tracking the Cost
07/08/2008
Not wanting to put extra burden of County citizens Mitchell Commissioners have ask Toe River Health District to track the costs associated with “well permits.” Mitchell County Manager Chuck Vines explains. The changes Commissioners approved: total cost of new wells, $200(plus the cost of the sampling kit) currently $60, THRD has the ability to increase the fee based on the coast of the sampling kit. The fee for the existing well-repair was removed. Site visits beyond the standard 4, will be based on the mileage reimbursement at federal rate, currently 50.5 cents, instead of the flat rate of $50 per visit. (click audio button above)
Recreation Back on Track
07/07/2008
Yancey Commissioners say they’re ready to get the County's compressive recreation grounds project back on track. Commission Chairman John Renfro explains. (click audio button above)
Charging Online Shoppers Every Month without Their Knowledge
07/04/2008
The Better Business Bureau in Asheville is warning consumers to closely check their credit card statements for mysterious charges that are cropping up by the thousands across the country. Upset online shoppers have contacted the BBB about unwanted credit card charges that are ultimately being traced back to Connecticut-based Affinion Group, an affinity-marketing company that recently changed its name from Trilegiant. In the last 12 months alone, the BBB has received nearly 1,800 complaints regarding Affinion Group. Most complainants state that they were shocked when they discovered unwanted charges on their credit card for membership services such as "Shoppers Advantage," "Privacy Guard" or "Great Fun." Charges ranged from $12 to as much as $59.99 every month. Some complainants had been charged by Affinion Group every month for several years, resulting in hundreds of dollars being paid for services they never took advantage of or even realized they had signed up for. The Better Business Bureau Serving Asheville and Western North Carolina serves 17 counties Consumers may call the bureau at 800-452-2882 from other counties in Western North Carolina. Consumers may obtain reports on companies and charities, file a complaint or get consumer tips by going to the Web site, www.asheville.bbb.org.
197 Closed Until 8 Tonight
07/03/2008
NCDOT has announced that NC 197 will be closed today until 8 pm just north of the Mitchell-Yancey County line. The closing, where 197 crosses the CSX Railroad tracks, is caused by work on the crossing. The detour recommended is NC 226-A, NC 226 and US 19-E.
Mitchell & Yancey Adopt Budgets
07/03/2008
Yancey and Mitchell County Governments have adopted their budgets for 2008-2009. County Managers Lawhern and Vines explain. (Click audio button above)
Missing Woman's Body Found
07/02/2008
The body of a McDowell County woman, 63 year old Nancy Hawkins, who disappeared over the weekend from an assisted living home in McDowell County has been found. Her body was discovered at about 6:30 pm Tuesday by a farmer on his property about a mile from the assisted living facility. The cause of her death has not been determined, but Deputies say foul play is not suspected. The woman had suffered from dementia and had the mental capacity of a young child. Her body will be sent to Chapel Hill today for an autopsy.
Budgets Adopted
07/02/2008
The Towns of Burnsville and Spruce Pine have adopted their budgets for 2008-2009. Burnsville Mayor Danny McIntosh details Burnsville’s budgets. In Spruce Pine, due to increased utility costs for operations of the Town’s water and sewer system an increase in water rates were approve. Minimum rates inside city limits will increase 50 cents for water and sewer; outside rates will increase $1 for water and $1 for sewer. The total budgets are just over $1.7million for general fund and just over $2 million for water and sewer. To balance water and sewer budgets an increase in rates was necessary and to balance the general fund, just over $112 thousand was taken from fund balance. The tax rate will remain at 43 cents per one hundred dollars valuation. (click audio button above)
Death under Investigation
07/01/2008
On Sunday June 29, 2008 Yancey County Sheriff's Deputies responded to a private barn owned by the McMahan family located at 2041 Highway 80 South after receiving a 911 call for help at the location. When Deputies arrived they found Steven Mark McMahan inside the lower level of the barn unresponsive. McMahan was transported to Blue Ridge Regional Hospital by EMS and was pronounced dead on arrival. Lt. Thomas L. Farmer of the Yancey County Sheriff's Department would not comment on the cause of death and stated that the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation was called to the scene to assist. Lt. Farmer said that an autopsy on the body was performed on Monday June 30, 2008. No other details were released. This information was provided in a press release from the Yancey County Sheriff's Department.
Still Searching for Woman
07/01/2008
Search efforts are continuing to fid 63 year old Nancy Hawkins reported missing on Sunday from the McDowell House, an assisted living home in McDowell County. Hawkins is 5’3” tall, and was last seen wearing lime green pants, a stripped shirt and white Velcro-strap shoes. Hawkins has development disabilities and has the reasoning ability of a child. She has been at McDowell House since 2002. McDowell County sheriff Greene says he is not ruling out foul play in the disappearance. Investigators have been interviewing staff and residents the McDowell House since last night. The sheriff says Hawkins does not have a history of wandering off.
O’Dears Re-Opens
07/01/2008
O’Dears Country Diner on U.S.221 in Marion has re-opened after being closed by health officials a week ago following reports of at least 13 people who ate or worked there became ill with salmonella contamination. Health officials supervised the diner’s owners as they clean the building and threw out any food that could have carried the bacteria. Heath officials say the still haven’t found the source of the bacteria.
