The Mountain Sentinel ™ Your Hometown News Source February 2, 2015 Edition On This Day, February 2 … 1887 - Groundhog Day, featuring a rodent meteorologist, is celebrated for the first time at Gobbler's Knob in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. According to tradition, if a groundhog comes out of its hole on this day and sees its shadow, there will be six more weeks of winter weather; no shadow means an early spring. Contents Inspirational Quotes On This Day, February 2 … ..................................... 1 Inspirational Quote ................................................. 1 Hill holds JC Town Hall Meeting ............................. 1 City Council Meets February 3 ................................ 3 Food & News Shorts ............................................... 5 Read All About It .................................................. 11 Residents Make ETSU Dean's List ......................... 12 Just Ask ................................................................. 12 Our Blue Planet ..................................................... 13 The Hill Report ..................................................... 15 Commission Sets New License Fee ....................... 16 Obituaries ............................................................. 18 Workshops at Sycamore Shoals............................. 20 TWRA Answers Fee Hike Questions ...................... 25 Sheriff’s Report ..................................................... 27 HHS To Quicken Medicare Payments .................... 28 Congressional Voting............................................ 30 General Sessions Court Docket ............................. 34 * The Mountain Sentinel™ * Katherine Hegemann, Editor and Publisher * Jill Penley, Correspondent and Marketing * * 495 Wisteria Lane * Benson, NC 27504 * (919) 600-9352 * [email protected] * * Copyright 2011-2015 * We reserve the right to refuse subscription or advertising service to anyone. * Page 1 of 35 Rep Timothy Hill holds Town Hall Meeting in Johnson County By Jill Penley Around two dozen people filed into Lois’ Country Café on Thursday evening where Timothy Hill (R–3rd District) met constituents to address concerns, discuss solutions and showcase upcoming and pending bills in the Tennessee legislature. "As we are meeting right now,” announced Rep. Hill, “Governor Haslam is wrapping up a statewide tour to promote Insure Tennessee, an expansive Medicaid expansion program.” While Rep. Hill publically recognized the need for an open dialogue concerning healthcare in Tennessee, he acknowledged some apprehension with the Haslam proposal. “I’m very concerned about any Medicaid expansion,” he said, "and the question on everyone's mind is: Is it sustainable?” Next, he spoke regarding proposals to increase the state gas tax. The most mentioned increase being thrown around is a six-cent increase, which could generate $184 million in revenue for the Tennessee Department of Transportation to repair and maintain state roads and bridges. “Anyone that knows my voting history knows I care deeply about infrastructure,” said Rep. Hill, “especially in rural Tennessee, but I find it difficult to support an increase in taxes.” Another topic receiving a lot of discussion is state participation in Common Core State Standards. “My problem with Common Core is that it not Tennessee generated,” said Rep. Hill. “I want Tennessee to implement an educational program Tennessee initiated.” Tennessee's gas tax, which is 21.4 cents per gallon, is 13th lowest in the nation, according to the Tennessee Department of Transportation. Tennesseans currently pay 39.8 cents on each gallon of gas they purchase. This includes the state tax and federal gas tax. Hill’s first questions of the night involved possible state budget cuts related to intensive in-home programs offering therapy and case management for families whose children are at-risk of hospitalization, out-of-home placement, or are being transitioned back into the home from placement. Several questions were focused on education, particularly state standards focused on "pushing" students through school without the necessary skills to lead a productive life. Other questions addressed the proposed budget cuts to mental health and home healthcare for the elderly. Rep. Hill took notes to follow-up with his fellow lawmakers to address the concerns mentioned. * The Mountain Sentinel™ * Katherine Hegemann, Editor and Publisher * Jill Penley, Correspondent and Marketing * * 495 Wisteria Lane * Benson, NC 27504 * (919) 600-9352 * [email protected] * * Copyright 2011-2015 * We reserve the right to refuse subscription or advertising service to anyone. * Page 2 of 35 After the convening of the 109th General Assembly in Tennessee and being officially sworn into the Tennessee House of Representatives for a second term two weeks ago, Rep. Hill was appointed as Vice-Chairman of the House Calendar & Rules Committee by Speaker Beth Harwell. He will also serve as a member of the House Transportation Committee and Subcommittee, along with the House Insurance & Banking Committee. “It's an honor to be placed on these prestigious committees and I'm grateful to serve on behalf of the people who sent me to Nashville,” said Representative Hill. “I will keep working as hard as I can to represent the 3rd District well.” City Council Meets February 3 * The Mountain Sentinel™ * Katherine Hegemann, Editor and Publisher * Jill Penley, Correspondent and Marketing * * 495 Wisteria Lane * Benson, NC 27504 * (919) 600-9352 * [email protected] * * Copyright 2011-2015 * We reserve the right to refuse subscription or advertising service to anyone. * Page 3 of 35 AGENDA, TOWN OF MOUNTAIN CITY, CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 3, 2015 CALL TO ORDER 6:30 PM City Council Room ROLL CALL Mayor Lawrence C. Keeble Vice Mayor Bud Crosswhite Alderman Kenny Icenhour Alderman Jerry Jordan Alderman Bob Morrison INVOCATION PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE AMERICAN FLAG PRESENTATIONS None PUBLIC HEARINGS None STATEMENT OF ORAL COMMUNICATIONS: Individuals interested in addressing the City Council on any agenda item or topic must fill out a form provided at the door, and turn it in to the City Recorder prior to 6:30 p.m. A form does not need to be submitted for public hearing items. Forms turned in after 6:30 p.m. will be held until the next regular meeting. At this time speakers wishing to address the City Council on an item that is not on the agenda will be called upon in the order that their speaker card was received. Please be aware that the maximum time allotted for individuals to speak shall not exceed five (5) minutes per speaker. Please be aware that the City Council retains the right to not take action or entertain extended discussion on a topic not listed on the agenda. Please show courtesy to others and direct all of your comments to the Mayor. CONSENT CALENDAR All matters listed on the consent calendar to be approved with one motion unless a member of council requests separate action on a specific item. Approval of minutes: January 6, 2015 City Council Meeting Second and Final Reading of the following Budget Amendment Ordinances: #1419 $570.00 41510-310 CR/Letterhead #1420 $7,456.00 41520-252 CA/Glenn Lawsuit #1421 $516.00 41510-340 CR/Heat Pump Repairs #1422 $80,000.00 44420-736 CC/Leaps Grant (Pass thru) #1423 $231.47 42200-329 FD/Donation from Fred’s #1424 $592.00 41990-146 OGGE/WC Insurance $4,859.00 41990-511 OGGE/Insurance $480.00 41990-512 OGGE/Insurance $93.00 43200-146 SAN/WC Insurance $31.00 44420-146 CC/WC Insurance #1425 $249.00 52100-146 WP/WC Insurance $2,147.00 52100-511 WP/Insurance $2,000.00 52200-511 WWTP/Insurance $1,000.00 52300-511 CD/Insurance $481.00 52300-512 CD/Insurance END OF CONSENT CALENDAR COUNCIL MEMBER ITEMS OF CONCERN / COMMENTS Vice Mayor Bud Crosswhite Alderman Jerry Jordan * The Mountain Sentinel™ * Katherine Hegemann, Editor and Publisher * Jill Penley, Correspondent and Marketing * * 495 Wisteria Lane * Benson, NC 27504 * (919) 600-9352 * [email protected] * * Copyright 2011-2015 * We reserve the right to refuse subscription or advertising service to anyone. * Page 4 of 35 Alderman Kenny Icenhour Alderman Bob Morrison Mayor Lawrence C. Keeble CITY RECORDER – Sheila Shaw CITY ATTORNEY – Steve McEwen DEPARTMENT SUPERVISOR REPORTS / COMMENTS NEW BUSINESS Open bids on two (2) new service trucks for the Collection and Distribution Department and accept the best bid. These bids were done on state contract. ADJOURNMENT The City does not discriminate on the basis of disability in the programs and activities, which it operates pursuant to the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, Public Law 101-336. If you need provisions to attend this City Council meeting notify Sheila Shaw at (423) 7278005. Food & News Shorts The Mountain Sentinel’s editor believes the material posted in this column constitutes fair use. Korean Food Co. Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Shrimp in Mak Kimchi Korean Food Co. in Irving, Texas is recalling Mak kimchi in 32oz and half gallon glass jars, because it may contain undeclared shellfish (shrimp). People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to shellfish (shrimp) run the risk of serious or lifethreatening allergic reaction if they consume these products. Mak kimchi was distributed in retail stores in Plano, TX; Carrollton, TX; Dallas, TX; and Lawton, OK. The Mak kimchi is sold in 32 ounce glass jars (UPC codes is 4205313810) and half gallon glass jars (UPC code is 4205313730) and was sold in Asian markets between December 1, 2014 - January 23, 2015. No illnesses have been reported to date. http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm431542.htm Avian Flu Detected in Foster Farms Turkey Flock A strain of avian flu has been found at a Foster Farms turkey ranch in Stanislaus County, CA, the company announced this past Saturday. It’s the first time the virus has been found in commercial poultry since 2004. According to USDA policy, the ranch was quarantined and the animals are being killed to prevent the virus from spreading to other commercial and migratory flocks. http://www.foodsafetynews.com/2015/01/avian-flu-detected-in-foster-farms-turkeyflock/#.VMeLGmjF8QA * The Mountain Sentinel™ * Katherine Hegemann, Editor and Publisher * Jill Penley, Correspondent and Marketing * * 495 Wisteria Lane * Benson, NC 27504 * (919) 600-9352 * [email protected] * * Copyright 2011-2015 * We reserve the right to refuse subscription or advertising service to anyone. * Page 5 of 35 Cox Veterinary Laboratory, Inc. Issues Voluntary Recall of “Gastroade Xtra” Cox Veterinary Laboratory, Inc. is voluntarily recalling the lots of Gastroade Xtra identified below down to the consumer level distributed nationwide. Gastroade Xtra was previously marketed by Cox Veterinary Laboratory as an OTC drug for use in horses, and contains Omeprazole. This recall has been initiated due to information from the FDA that Gastroade Xtra must have an approved new animal drug application to be legally marketed in the United States. Gastroade Xtra is not approved by the FDA. In addition, some lots may be sub-potent and pose a risk of continued ulceration. As a consequence, Cox Veterinary Laboratory has ceased all production and sales of Gastroade Xtra and is recalling the product. Because the FDA has not approved Gastroade Xtra, the safety and efficacy of the product has not yet been established. To date, however, there have been no reported adverse events associated with the use of Gastroade Xtra. http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm431425.htm Which Cut of Meat Is Least Likely to Make You Sick? When it comes to foodborne illness risk, steaks, cold cuts, and chicken nuggets are not created equal. By Kiera Butler Every time you eat, you're rolling the germ dice. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1 in 6 Americans contracts a foodborne illness annually; 128,000 are hospitalized, and 3,000 die. Pathogens from meat kill more people than those from any other food group. A CDC study found that between 1998 and 2008, contaminated meat was responsible for 29 percent of all deaths from foodborne illness (23 percent of deaths were from produce, 15 percent from dairy and eggs, and 6.4 percent from fish and shellfish). Most carnivores don't let the risk of sickness stop them from eating meat—and a lot of it. The average American eats nearly 271 pounds of meat a year. But here's the good news: When it comes to foodborne illness, not all meats are equally risky. So which kinds are safest? http://www.motherjones.com/environment/2015/01/which-cut-meat-safest-pathogens Garlic Garlic has been used as both food and medicine for thousands of years, dating back to when the Egyptian pyramids were built. In early 18th-century France, gravediggers drank crushed garlic in wine believing it would protect them from the plague. During both World Wars I and II, soldiers were given garlic to prevent gangrene. It was also used as an antiseptic, applied to wounds to prevent infection. Today garlic is used to help prevent heart disease, including atherosclerosis or hardening of the arteries (plaque buildup in the arteries that can block the flow of * The Mountain Sentinel™ * Katherine Hegemann, Editor and Publisher * Jill Penley, Correspondent and Marketing * * 495 Wisteria Lane * Benson, NC 27504 * (919) 600-9352 * [email protected] * * Copyright 2011-2015 * We reserve the right to refuse subscription or advertising service to anyone. * Page 6 of 35 blood and may lead to heart attack or stroke), high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and to boost the immune system. Eating garlic regularly may also help protect against cancer. Garlic is rich in antioxidants. In your body, harmful particles called free radicals build up as you age, and may contribute to heart disease, cancer, and Alzheimer's disease. Antioxidants like those found in garlic fight off free radicals, and may reduce or even help prevent some of the damage caused over time. http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/garlic 10 Tips for Better Digestive Health Your lifestyle and your choice of foods can affect the way your body digests the foods you eat. Drinking water, adding fiber, and exercising all contribute to better digestive health. By Krisha McCoy, MS Your digestive system breaks down the foods you eat into the nutrients your body needs. If you neglect your digestive health, your body could run into problems digesting foods and absorbing those nutrients. 10 Tips for Improving and Maintaining Your Digestive Health Your digestive health is directly impacted by the foods you eat and the lifestyle you live. By taking steps to improve your digestive health, your digestive system will function more efficiently, improving your overall health and sense of well-being. Try these 10 tips for your better digestive health: 1. Eat a high-fiber diet … http://www.everydayhealth.com/health-report/healthy-eating/tips-for-better-digestive-health.aspx Probar LLC Recalls Probar Base® Frosted Peanut Butter Bars Due to Possible Presence of Undeclared Milk Allergen PROBAR LLC of Salt Lake City, UT has initiated a voluntary recall of its PROBAR Base® Frosted Peanut Butter Bars due to the possible presence of an undeclared milk allergen. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to milk run the risk of a serious allergic reaction if they consume this product. No other PROBAR® products are affected. This voluntary recall only involves Frosted Peanut Butter flavored PROBAR Base® Bars in 2.46 oz. packages distributed nationwide to retail stores and online. PROBAR® is voluntarily recalling three lots that may contain the allergen. http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm431832.htm As Toxin Fears Grow, More Chinese Are Buying Imported Rice Editor: I’m including this because some of our readers might buy rice or rice-based products, such as noodles, imported from China or Taiwan. And what about tea? Despite being the number-one producer and consumer of rice in the world, more Chinese citizens are buying rice imported from Japan and elsewhere due to fears about heavy metals and other toxins, according to Reuters. While the amount of rice imported to China from Japan in 2014 is still extremely small, it was triple the amount imported in 2013. * The Mountain Sentinel™ * Katherine Hegemann, Editor and Publisher * Jill Penley, Correspondent and Marketing * * 495 Wisteria Lane * Benson, NC 27504 * (919) 600-9352 * [email protected] * * Copyright 2011-2015 * We reserve the right to refuse subscription or advertising service to anyone. * Page 7 of 35 This news comes on the heels of revelations in 2013 that rice imported to the U.S. from China and Taiwan was contaminated with dangerously high levels of lead. http://www.foodsafetynews.com/2015/01/as-toxin-fearsgrow-more-chinese-buying-importedrice/#.VMj4AWjF8QA Lawmakers Introduce Bills to Create Single Food Safety Agency By Lydia Zuraw Sen. Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Rep. Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) have introduced bills in Congress that would establish a single, independent federal food safety agency. Food safety oversight is currently split up among 15 agencies in the Departments of Health and Human Services, Agriculture, and Commerce. The Safe Food Act of 2015 introduced Wednesday in both houses of Congress would consolidate all the authorities for food safety inspections, enforcement and labeling into the Food Safety Administration — independent of any federal department. http://www.foodsafetynews.com/2015/01/lawmakers-introduce-legislation-to-create-single-foodsafety-agency/#.VMo4aWjF8QA New Book Explores Food Safety and the True Cost of Cheap Meat 'The Chain: Farm, Factory, and the Fate of Our Food,' by Ted Genoways By James Andrews Reading “The Chain: Farm, Factory and the Fate of Our Food,” a new book from journalist Ted Genoways, one begins to wonder who is treated better: the millions of hogs consumed in America each year, or the people who work on the farms and in the factories that breed and slaughter them. The easiest conclusion to draw is that neither are treated well. In Genoways’ own words, the book is “an attempt to calculate the true cost of cheap meat.” The book focuses on the production of Spam, the processed pork product from the Hormel Foods Corporation, to show the wide-reaching impact of industrialized meat production. http://www.foodsafetynews.com/2015/01/food-safety-and-the-true-cost-of-cheap-meat-in-thechain-by-ted-genoways/#.VMo4XWjF8QA Long-Term Multivitamin Reduces Cardiovascular Death Risk in Women By Lee Swanson New research from The Journal of Nutrition indicates women who take multivitamins for three or more years may significantly reduce their risk of dying from cardiovascular disease. The study looked at data from 8,678 men and women aged 40 years and older who took part in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 1988 to 1994 and matched it with mortality data from the National Death Index through 2011 to explore associations between multivitamin use and cardiovascular mortality. http://www.swansonvitamins.com/blog/blogging-with-lee-2/multivitamin-reduces-cardiovasculardeath * The Mountain Sentinel™ * Katherine Hegemann, Editor and Publisher * Jill Penley, Correspondent and Marketing * * 495 Wisteria Lane * Benson, NC 27504 * (919) 600-9352 * [email protected] * * Copyright 2011-2015 * We reserve the right to refuse subscription or advertising service to anyone. * Page 8 of 35 5 Pills That Might Be Hurting You It's time to stop ignoring the aches and pains and finally live a healthy life. By Julia Westbrook More Americans are suffering from chronic pain than have diabetes, according to a panel of researchers at the National Institutes of Health. While 29 million people are diagnosed with diabetes, the panel estimated that 100 million Americans live with chronic pain. While the statistics are staggering, the scary truth is that, despite the apparent universality of pain, there isn't nearly enough research on safe, effective treatments. "We learned that sufficient clinical research doesn't exist to show physicians how best to treat chronic pain in adults, many of whom suffer from multiple health problems," said panel member and founding director of the Indiana University Center for Aging Research, Christopher Callahan, MD. http://www.rodalenews.com/are-painkillers-bad Arcadia Tradings Inc. Recalls Red Thread Fish Due To Possible Health Risk Arcadia Trading Inc. of Brooklyn, N.Y. is recalling all packages of Red Thread Fish because they are uneviscerated. The product comes in a 7 oz. heat sealed plastic bag. The recalled Red Thread Fish was distributed nationwide in supermarkets. Consumers are warned not to use the product even if it does not look or smell spoiled. The potential for contamination was noted by New York State Department of Agriculture inspectors during a routine inspection and subsequent analysis of product by Food Laboratory personnel confirmed that the fish was not properly eviscerated prior to processing. The sale of uneviscerated processed fish is prohibited under New York State Agriculture and Markets regulations because Clostridium botulinum spores are more likely to be concentrated in the viscera than any other portion of the fish. Uneviscerated fish have been linked to outbreaks of botulism poisoning. http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm432297.htm Aleias Gluten Free Foods, LLC Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Peanut Protein in Parmesan Croutons and Classic Croutons Aleias Gluten Free Foods, LLC has issued a voluntary and precautionary recall of certain lots of its 8 ounce Parmesan Croutons and Classic Croutons because they may contain undeclared peanut protein. People who have an allergy to peanuts run the risk of a serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products. The recalled products were distributed nationwide in grocery stores and through web orders. The product is packaged in a brown cardboard box with white text. The Lot Number can be found on the window side of the package. http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm432306.htm Aron Streit, Inc. Issues Allergy Alert On Undeclared Milk Allergens In "Streit's Dark Chocolate Coins" * The Mountain Sentinel™ * Katherine Hegemann, Editor and Publisher * Jill Penley, Correspondent and Marketing * * 495 Wisteria Lane * Benson, NC 27504 * (919) 600-9352 * [email protected] * * Copyright 2011-2015 * We reserve the right to refuse subscription or advertising service to anyone. * Page 9 of 35 Aron Streit, Inc. of New York, NY is recalling its .5 ounce packages of "Streit's Dark Chocolate Coins" because they may contain undeclared milk allergens. Consumers who are allergic to milk allergens may run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reactions if they consume this product. The product comes in .5 ounce mesh bags marked with Code:1814 on the label. The recalled "Streit's Dark Chocolate Coins" were imported by Streit's and distributed nationwide in retail stores. The recall was initiated after a consumer complained of an allergic reaction. Sampling by New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Food Inspectors and subsequent analysis by Food Laboratory personnel revealed the presence of undeclared milk allergens in the .5 ounce mesh bags of "Streit's Dark Chocolate Coins", which did not declare a milk ingredient on the label. Consumers who have purchased .5 ounce mesh bags of "Streit's Dark Chocolate Coins" are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm432313.htm REO Spice & Seasoning, Inc Voluntarily Recalls REO Country Style Chili Seasoning Due to Undeclared Peanut Allergens REO Spice & Seasoning, INC Huntsville, TX is recalling certain REO Country Style Chili Seasoning packages after learning that one ingredient purchased from a supplier may contain peanut protein allergens that are not declared on the products’ ingredient statements. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to peanuts run the risk of serious or life threatening allergic reaction if they consume this product. No illnesses have been reported to date. http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm432331.htm Freeland Foods Voluntarily Recalls Sunflower Seed Due to Potential Health Risk Freeland Foods, Inc. of San Jose, CA is voluntarily recalling the Go Raw Organic Sunflower Seed, UPC number 8 59888 00009 7 with lot number “Enjoy before August 22, 2015 R5,”because it has the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella, an organism which can cause serious infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In rare circumstances, infection with Salmonella can result in the organism getting into the bloodstream and producing more severe illnesses such as arterial infections (i.e., infected aneurysms), endocarditis and arthritis. Based upon a random sampling, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (“CFIA”) has determined that the Go Raw Brand Organic Sunflower Seed, UPC number 8 59888 00009 7, lot number “Enjoy before August 22, 2015 R5,” sold in 1 lb. (454 g) re-sealable plastic bags sold by Ecomax, tested positive for Salmonella. At this time, this is the only lot that is affected by this recall. Although there have been no reported illnesses to date associated with the consumption of this product, out of an abundance of caution Freeland Foods has elected to take the following steps to insure the integrity of its products and protect the public safety. Effective immediately, Freeland Foods will conduct a precautionary voluntary recall to the consumer level of all Go Raw Brand Organic Sunflower Seed packages bearing the UPC 8 59888 00009 7 and “Enjoy Before August 22, 2015 R5” in the United States. Freeland Foods asks that consumers who have purchased this product destroy or return to the place of purchase for a full refund. The Go Raw Organic Sunflower Seed with the lot number “Enjoy before August 22, 2015 R5,” was distributed nationwide and Canada through distributors, retailers and direct customers. http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm432417.htm * The Mountain Sentinel™ * Katherine Hegemann, Editor and Publisher * Jill Penley, Correspondent and Marketing * * 495 Wisteria Lane * Benson, NC 27504 * (919) 600-9352 * [email protected] * * Copyright 2011-2015 * We reserve the right to refuse subscription or advertising service to anyone. * Page 10 of 35 Spiceco Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Peanut Allergen in 5 Oz. Containers of Pride of Szeged Sweet Hungarian Paprika Lot # 091617PAHU05PS Spiceco of Avenel, NJ is recalling PRIDE OF SZEGED SWEET HUNGARIAN PAPRIKA because it may contain undeclared Peanut Allergen. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to Peanut Allergen run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume this product. This product was sold between September 18, 2014 and October 13, 2014 to distributors located in IL, NJ, CT, MI, FL, NY, OH, CA and VA. Pride of Szeged Hungarian Paprika is packaged in a metal tin container with the lot number 091617PAHU05PS printed on the lower edge of the lid. http://www.fda.gov/Safety/Recalls/ucm432501.htm Read All About It Put Your Feet In Their Shoes Pettus L. Read writes for the Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation. He may be contacted by e-mail at [email protected] For the next several weeks I’m involved in my county sheriff’s citizen academy, where I have the opportunity to learn a whole lot about a department that most of us take for granted, except when we need them to get us out of a bad situation. Now this academy is not going to make me into my hero Cordell Walker from Walker Texas Ranger fame, but it will give me insight into the day-to-day operation of the sheriff’s department, communications, problems that affect our county concerning drugs and see what it is like on the other side of the badge. This year’s class, number 47, is a pretty good-sized one, made up of individuals of all walks of life, with myself being the only county commissioner. I’m there because I thought it would be good to see where the tax dollars go and help me make the right decisions when it comes to providing for the protection of our citizens, as well as the law enforcement personnel. I also have to admit I look forward to the “ride along” with an officer one evening and getting to fire a firearm in the new firing range, but most importantly, to understand what these enforcers of today’s laws have to go through. You have always heard you never know what the other guy feels until you walk in his shoes. I’m just trying them on to see how they fit. This bit of training will also show me the problems my county is experiencing with narcotics, gangs and crimes that I never would have thought occurs here, only in major metropolitan cities. Big time crime has come to the country and we, as a population, need to be aware of what its warning signals are. The rural countryside is the perfect place for the production of methamphetamine, better known by most of us as meth, and we need to know what to watch for, and most importantly, what to stay away from. Today’s law enforcement has its hands full and with the new thinking process of society they also must operate in a different manner from days gone by. Their job is one that takes special people and individuals who must deal with problems that can change from our worst nightmare to an opportunity that makes someone’s day the best ever. Each day that they pin on those badges I’m sure they have to wonder what will be waiting for them outside the door and when they take them off after a 14-hour shift will their rest be one of peace or a time of replay of the day’s happenings. During the next session of the academy, I have the chance to do a mock up of a stopped automobile. After seeing what I’m to do in this circumstance, I will be told to walk up beside the car and check out those inside. Of course this is not for real, but these are deputies with weapons that do shoot and * The Mountain Sentinel™ * Katherine Hegemann, Editor and Publisher * Jill Penley, Correspondent and Marketing * * 495 Wisteria Lane * Benson, NC 27504 * (919) 600-9352 * [email protected] * * Copyright 2011-2015 * We reserve the right to refuse subscription or advertising service to anyone. * Page 11 of 35 can sting pretty good, so you have to be careful. Understand, I’m a writer and not Walker Texas Ranger, so I will probably be shot at, but I will remind them that I am the commissioner on the committee that approves their budget each year, so hopefully ink by the barrel, along with votes, will be stronger than bullets. I guarantee this ole farm boy will be peeking real carefully into that car window. Over my years as a writer, I have had the chance to take some of these walks to see for myself what others do so I can better understand their roles in their occupations. I’ll never forget walking the mock up of Baghdad at Fort Campbell where the 101st train and seeing what they go through to learn their missions. I gained a real understanding, appreciation and total respect of our fighting force. I’ve even gone through a hot sauce plant in New Mexico to see what those workers do behind the scenes where the peppers are ground into a really fine powder. I’ll never forget that day and how my sinus problem was cleared and my breathing turned into a four-alarm fire. I really appreciate those workers doing that job so my tacos will be just right. I understand you don’t have to go out and do what everyone else does just to appreciate their work. Often, we become so complacent and totally involved in ourselves that we forget to realize that these servants of the people, who are out there at all hours watching after our welfare, do exist and have families also. Next time one of them stops you, don’t tell them you pay their salary, because they may ask you for a raise. Instead, put your feet in their shoes. Johnson County Residents Make ETSU Dean's List When East Tennessee State University announced the fall 2014 Dean's List, several local students were included. To receive this honor, students must successfully complete a minimum of 12 hours of undergraduate coursework with a grade point average of at least 3.7 on a 4.0 scale. The Johnson County students who attained a grade point average qualifying them for inclusion in the dean’s list for the fall 2014 semester are: Brianne G. Dunn, Zachary K. Greene, Randi M. Miller, Tabitha A. Miller, Patrick D. South, Deidre N. Burgess, Greta K. Burgess, Amanda D. Cornett, Randall L. Darnell, Elizabeth R. Dugger, Eric A. Helm, Zachary P. Isaacs, Shelley N. Johannesson, Shayla T. Marcum, Andrea R. McKinney, Amber L. Muncy, Teresa M. Niemann, Elijah R. Osborne, Brooke O. Reece, Eden S. Taylor, Dalton B. Timbs, Charlena D. Johnson, and Kyle M. Redwine. Just Ask Please send answers to [email protected] no later than 5 pm Friday to be included in the next edition of the Mountain Sentinel. Thank you for your participation. Responses may be edited for clarity and conciseness. Question: Do you take any prescription drugs or supplements? If so, do you read warnings, side effects, and dosage information provided on the label or from a pharmacy handout? 1. Yes, I do take prescription and over-the-counter medicine and I do read the warnings, side effects and dosage information the first time I start taking them. It was by reading this information that I discovered why my allergy medicine stopped working. I found out if I took my multi-vitamin with my allergy medicine that my allergy medicine would not work as well. So I started taking my multi-vitamin at lunch. Problem solved. 2. I do not take any pharmaceuticals on a regular basis nor vitamin supplements. On the rare occasions I have had to take drugs I have read all warnings completely. * The Mountain Sentinel™ * Katherine Hegemann, Editor and Publisher * Jill Penley, Correspondent and Marketing * * 495 Wisteria Lane * Benson, NC 27504 * (919) 600-9352 * [email protected] * * Copyright 2011-2015 * We reserve the right to refuse subscription or advertising service to anyone. * Page 12 of 35 3. Yes I take both. And yes, I do read information sheets that come with all. I do not take anything without first consulting my doctor and then have a yearly check up when we go over it all after blood work and before writing new script. I also carry with me a list of all medications and supplements. 4. I scan it the first time I get the drug. Thereafter, I ignore it unless I have some side effect. 5. Yes we do take prescription drugs. We read the warnings, side effects and dosage information on the label and on the pharmacy handout. We are usually only concerned about the adverse reactions. 6. Yes I do and NO I do not. 7. Now I do - used to take prescription without questioning - but they all have so many side effects, it's worse than the actual ailment! Don't take any prescription unless absolutely necessary and only for the shortest amount of time. I believe in prevention not medication, that's why I take supplements but only from a health food store, not Walmart - most of their ingredients are imported from China and repackaged in the US. 8. I do read all information on prescriptions even when it is a refill. Information changes. 9. Yes, and yes. 10. Yes and yes... 11. I do not take prescription drugs. I do take vitamin supplements and I always read all the information available to me. 12. I do take daily prescription meds. I do read the warnings and side effects from the pharmacy handouts. The warnings have caused me to take 1/2 of the prescribed amount for Pravastatin & Metformin, but I take the prescribed dosage for Levothyroxine. 13. Yes I do take prescription medications and I have read the information on the accompanying information page that the drug store supplies. I have also looked online about some of them as well. 14. The only one I take is a stomach pill, but I have not read the side effects due to I have to take it. I have tried doing without it, but that doesn't work. 15. Yes, for blood pressure, and yes, I did. 16. Yes, I do read the info provided & often read what’s on the “web” for more info. Our Blue Planet Backyard Permaculture: A 12-Step Program Author Peter Bane grew more than 150 species on less than 2,000 square feet. Here are 12 tips to get you there. By Doug Pibel Permaculture promotes sustainability and self-reliance by creating managed ecosystems—modeled on natural ones—right in our backyards. It’s “garden farming,” says Peter Bane in The Permaculture Handbook. Think you don’t have enough room? Bane grew more than 150 species on less than 2,000 square feet. He identifies 12 principles to guide your permaculture project. 1. Observe and interact. Learn the patterns of your land. Where does the rain runoff? Where does the wind come from? What’s sunny and what’s in the shade? 2. Catch and store energy. You get a gift of energy from the sun. Use it to replace the fossil energy that’s changing our climate. 3. Get a yield (or harvest). * The Mountain Sentinel™ * Katherine Hegemann, Editor and Publisher * Jill Penley, Correspondent and Marketing * * 495 Wisteria Lane * Benson, NC 27504 * (919) 600-9352 * [email protected] * * Copyright 2011-2015 * We reserve the right to refuse subscription or advertising service to anyone. * Page 13 of 35 Natural systems produce a surplus, representing the captured free energy from the sun. In a managed ecosystem, we can harvest that surplus. The harvest may be as direct as picking an apple or it may take several steps: grass makes hay to feed goats that produce both manure to feed more plants and meat for humans to eat. 4. Self-regulate and accept feedback. Taking too much out will make the system break down. If your harvest is sparse, take it as a lesson: find a balance between yield and maintaining the soil. 5. Use and value nature’s gifts. If we focus only on products, we can miss the bonuses that nature provides. Chickens, for instance, produce eggs and meat. At the same time they increase soil fertility and will do light tilling as they scratch for bugs and seeds. 6. Make no waste. In nature, everything’s food for something else—there’s no “away” where waste can go. Use animals, worms, and composting to make food for the soil. 7. Design from pattern to details. Nature has had billions of years to work out how to design systems. Follow natural patterns to make the movement of nutrients and the interactions between plants, animals, and humans as efficient as they are in nature. 8. Integrate, don’t segregate. There’s no separate living space in a forest and nothing that serves a single purpose. Trees provide shade for plants on the forest floor, habitat for birds and animals, and an annual supply of food for plants, animals, and birds. Integrating living and growing spaces makes for more production and more comfort. 9. Choose small and slow solutions. The fast pace of modern life is not the pace of nature. It also requires huge amounts of fossil energy. Use the simplest, lowest-energy tools and processes. It may take more time, but it’s sustainable. 10. Cultivate diversity. In natural systems, there’s always a mix of plants and animals. Include native plants and a wide variety of cultivated ones. It’s more resilient, more productive, and more interesting. 11. Mind the margins and look to the edges. Where different environments connect is where the most biological action is: the edges of swamps and rivers, the border between forest and meadow. 12. Cultivate vision and respond to change. Once your ecosystem is in place, the richness of its life allows it to adapt to changing conditions. Your observation and interaction allow you to help with that adaptation. Doug Pibel wrote this article for What Would Nature Do? [1], the Winter 2013 issue of YES! Magazine. Doug is managing editor of YES! The information in this article was sourced from The Permaculture Handbook [2] by Peter Bane. Resources: 1. http://www.yesmagazine.org/issues/what-would-naturedo/backyard-permaculture-a-12-stepprogram/resolveuid/a4d9226252e182cef9c4dd79a2a07af9 * The Mountain Sentinel™ * Katherine Hegemann, Editor and Publisher * Jill Penley, Correspondent and Marketing * * 495 Wisteria Lane * Benson, NC 27504 * (919) 600-9352 * [email protected] * * Copyright 2011-2015 * We reserve the right to refuse subscription or advertising service to anyone. * Page 14 of 35 2. http://www.powells.com/partner/23116/biblio/9780865716667 Source: http://www.yesmagazine.org/issues/what-would-nature-do/backyard-permaculture-a-12step-program The Hill Report By Rep. Timothy Hill A weekly wrap-up of Tennessee legislative news Tennessee Highway Patrol Accepting Applications For Citizens Trooper Academy The Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) officially announced this week it is accepting applications for its 2015 Citizens Trooper Academy. The Trooper Academy gives interested people an upclose, hands-on look at the extensive work experienced by the THP on a daily basis, including investigations, special operations, and homeland security. In addition, the Academy focuses on helping individuals develop a better understanding of the Highway Patrol and the Department of Safety and Homeland Security, which oversees the THP. Nashville classes are set to begin March 10, with Knoxville sessions scheduled for March 12. For more information on the program and to apply to be a part of the Citizens Academy, visit jttp://www.tn.gov/safety. Taskforce Set To Examine Tennessee Sentencing Structure, Recidivism Rate A task force formed by Governor Bill Haslam is set to meet this Thursday in Nashville to continue studying the state’s sentencing structure and examine ways to reduce Tennessee’s high recidivism rate—that is, the number of people returning to prison within three years of being released. The goal of the task force is to develop recommendations for the Governor and his cabinet in an effort to improve state corrections laws. The current sentencing structure in Tennessee has been in place for more than 20 years, with the recidivism rate averaging approximately 45 percent. After the meeting, the task force is expected to release its findings to the Governor by June. At that point, the Governor will make his own recommendations to various state departments and offer changes to state law to the legislature for approval. Extraordinary Session Set To Begin February 2 The 2015 Extraordinary Session for the General Assembly is set to begin on February 2nd to begin discussion on Governor Haslam’s Insure Tennessee proposal, a two year pilot program unveiled earlier this year with the goal of providing healthcare and Medicaid coverage to Tennesseans who currently do not have access to health insurance or have limited options. After choosing not to expand traditional Medicaid two years ago, Governor Haslam unveiled his new proposal earlier this year. This year’s Extraordinary Session will be the 58th Extraordinary Session in the history of the state. The most recent Extraordinary Session prior to this year was in January 2010, which focused on education reform. * The Mountain Sentinel™ * Katherine Hegemann, Editor and Publisher * Jill Penley, Correspondent and Marketing * * 495 Wisteria Lane * Benson, NC 27504 * (919) 600-9352 * [email protected] * * Copyright 2011-2015 * We reserve the right to refuse subscription or advertising service to anyone. * Page 15 of 35 The 2015 Extraordinary Session is expected to last around a week or two. Timothy Hill Officially Sworn In; Appointed Vice-Chairman Of House Calendar & Rules Committee The House of Representatives officially gaveled into session this week, marking the beginning of the 109th General Assembly in Tennessee. As part of the opening day ceremonies, State Representative Timothy Hill (R–3rd District) took the oath of office and was officially sworn into the Tennessee House of Representatives. In addition, Rep. Hill was appointed as Vice-Chairman of the House Calendar & Rules Committee by Speaker Beth Harwell. The Calendar & Rules Committee is tasked with hearing bills on final consideration prior to presentation on the House floor for the full body. The committee also schedules resolutions and constitutional amendments to be heard on the House floor. Along with his Chairmanship appointment, Rep. Hill will also serve as a member of the House Transportation Committee and Subcommittee, along with the House Insurance & Banking Committee. Bills typically referred to the Transportation Committee deal with truck weights, safety regulations, highways, roads and bridges, as well as public works and utilities. The Insurance and Banking Committee considers legislation regarding insurance, banks, and other financial institutions. This year, legislators are looking to build upon the success of the previous session that saw wasteful government spending cut from the budget, taxes lowered for all Tennesseans, measures passed to encourage job growth, and numerous government reforms.“ It's an honor to be placed on these prestigious committees and I'm grateful to serve on behalf of the people who sent me to Nashville,” said Representative Hill. “I will keep working as hard as I can to represent the 3rd District well.” “Representative Hill’s passion and hard work for the people of Tennessee will no doubt be a major asset to this committee,” continued Representative Bill Dunn, Chairman of the House Calendar & Rules Committee. “I look forward to getting to work with him in the coming days.” House Speaker Beth Harwell (R–Nashville) added, “The people have placed their trust in us because of dedicated public servants like Representative Hill whom they know will lead based upon the common sense, conservative values of our state. I look forward to working with him to accomplish a great deal on behalf of all Tennesseans this year.” Commission Sets New License Fee Structure Sportsmen and Women Encouraged to Buy Licenses before July 1 at Current Prices For the first time in a decade, the Tennessee Fish and Wildlife Commission has approved a license fee structure adjustment for the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency. The increase was one of five rule amendments made by the TFWC at its January meeting, which concluded Friday at the Discovery Park of America. Tennessee hunting and fishing licenses expire on Feb. 28, but the changes will not go into effect until July 1. Sportsmen and women are encouraged to buy 2015-16 season licenses at the current prices before July. * The Mountain Sentinel™ * Katherine Hegemann, Editor and Publisher * Jill Penley, Correspondent and Marketing * * 495 Wisteria Lane * Benson, NC 27504 * (919) 600-9352 * [email protected] * * Copyright 2011-2015 * We reserve the right to refuse subscription or advertising service to anyone. * Page 16 of 35 TWRA has sought to increase license fees only twice in the last 25 years, roughly following rises in the Consumer Price Index (CPI). In this case, the Agency’s license revenue will be increased by around 19 percent against a CPI of approximately 22 percent over the last decade. The new structure introduces new licenses for professional guides as well as high-impact users of TWRA’s Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs). Under the new structure, horseback, mountain bike, and off-highway vehicle riders will contribute to the ongoing maintenance of the public WMA trails they use through a new annual license. (All of the new fees and changes will be listed on the TWRA website at www.tnwildlife.org). “Our funding as an Agency comes almost exclusively from the sale of hunting and fishing licenses and matching funds from federal excise taxes on related equipment,” said Tennessee Fish and Wildlife Commissioner Harold Cannon, who chairs the commission’s budget and finance committee. “The license fee package passed in 2004 was designed to cover the revenue shortfall for a period of six to eight years, and we made it work for more than a decade. In 2013, we started working closely with the Agency to identify budget savings, but the reality is everything is more expensive than it was 10 years ago. Changes to the federal matching funds, capital expenditures and the general cost to state government—on top of the 22 percent cost of living increase—made it necessary to introduce this new fee structure.” Major capital expenditures in recent years have included $3.5 million for HVAC/electrical system repairs at the Agency’s Nashville headquarters, $1 million annually for compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, and a critical upgrade for inter-agency law enforcement communications for $7 million. Another rule amendment simplifies the process by which the TWRA selects an organization to auction an annual permit for the special elk hunt. In other business, during Thursday’s committee meeting, Daryl Ratajczak, TWRA Chief of Wildlife and Forestry gave report on several of the state’s hunting seasons which have concluded. The final deer harvest is again in the 165,000 range. Reports indicate that this is the state’s lowest percentage of 1 ½ year old bucks harvested at 36 percent with almost two-thirds of the bucks 2 ½ years or older. A complete report on the deer season will be made at the April meeting. The black bear hunting season number showed a slight decline from last year. Ratajczak said that an outstanding mast crop this year may have been a big reason as the bears did not have to move as much for food. It was also the first year of bear hunting in the redefined bear-hunting zone and included a pair of harvests in the transitional zones. The second sandhill crane hunting season concluded at the start of the year. The TWRA is waiting to receive all the postcards from those sportsmen who received permits, but the harvest is expected to be near of the inaugural harvest of 350. The number stands at 314 so far for the second hunt. As requested from a prior TFWC meeting, TWRA Fisheries Division Chief Bobby Wilson gave a presentation in regard to stocking Florida bass in Tennessee waters. The Agency’s recommendation was not to stock all state waters due to concerns including backcrosses, genetic integrity, hatchery space, and outside of zones determined to be climate suitable. The proposal is to continue current stocking at Chickamauga Reservoir, Lake Graham, Gibson County Lake, Brown’s Creek Lake, and Shellcracker Lake. The new waters to be stocked are Nickajack Lake, Watts Bar Lake, Fort Loudoun Lake, the middle portion of Kentucky Lake, and TWRA’s Herb Parsons Lake in Fayette County. * The Mountain Sentinel™ * Katherine Hegemann, Editor and Publisher * Jill Penley, Correspondent and Marketing * * 495 Wisteria Lane * Benson, NC 27504 * (919) 600-9352 * [email protected] * * Copyright 2011-2015 * We reserve the right to refuse subscription or advertising service to anyone. * Page 17 of 35 The first episode of the new television program, Tennessee Uncharted, was shown on Thursday. Don King, TWRA Chief of Information, gave a status report on the program and filming of season two which is scheduled to begin at this weekend’s Sandhill Crane Festival in East Tennessee. The meeting was the first for the TFWC at the Discovery Park which opened in late 2013. The TFWC will return to Nashville for its February meeting. The meeting will be a one day event on Thursday, February 12. Obituaries Obituaries are alphabetical by last name. MICHAEL ‘MIKE’ CHAFIN Michael “Mike” Chafin, age 55, of 195 Rocky Knob Road, Mountain City, TN passed away unexpectedly Wednesday, January 28, 2015 at his residence. He was born March 11, 1959 to the late Arlen Chafin and Mildred White Chafin. Mike enjoyed fishing, riding motorcycles and was a member of the Johnson County Knights. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, Donald “Twink” Chafin and Thurman Weeks. Survivors include: his wife, Kimmie Eller Chafin, of the home; daughter: Sondra Chafin of Abingdon, VA; two sons: Steven Chafin of Blountville, TN and Michael Chafin of Abingdon, VA; special son: Hunter Blevins of Mountain City, TN; special father-in-law: Jim Eller of Shady Valley, TN; three sisters: Ella Mae Sutherland of Hickory, NC; Rita Keene of Lebanon, VA and Brenda Tankersley of Lebanon, VA; two grandchildren: Grace and Christian; one special great niece: Bella; several nieces and nephews and many special friends. Funeral services for Mike Chafin were conducted at 7:00 p.m. Friday, January 30, 2015 from the Charles B. Hux Memorial Chapel of Hux-Lipford Funeral Home with Mr. Buddy Morefield officiating. Graveside service and interment was 11:00 a.m. Saturday, January 31, 2015 in McQueen Cemetery in Shady Valley, TN. Active pallbearers were friends. Honorary pallbearers were Dr. John Swank, Jim Eller and Scotty Gentry. Online condolences may be sent to the family through our website at www.huxlipfordfh.com. Professional services for the Chafin family are in the care of Hux-Lipford Funeral Home, Mountain City, TN. LOISTEEN HORTON PHILLIPS Loisteen Horton Phillips, age 76, of Lansing, North Carolina passed away Monday morning, January 26, 2015 at her residence. She was born March 23, 1938 in Mitchell County, NC to John Horton and Carrie Webb Horton. She was a member of the Gillespie Community Church. She enjoyed gardening and flowers. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by one brother, D.C. Horton. Survivors include: her husband of 55 years, Dean Phillips of the home; daughter Gyween Phillips of Kibryville, TX; son Billy Phillips and wife Amanda of Ashe County, NC; six sisters: Erma Houser of Green Mountain, NC; Idaleen Peterson of Green Mountain, NC; Nadine Bennett of Green Mountain, NC; Geraldine Honeycutt of Green Mountain, NC; Kathy Green of Spruce Pine, NC; and Betty Horton of Marion, NC; one brother Bradley Horton of Erwin, TN; two grandchildren: Chelsie Ozan of TX and Brian Phillips of Lansing, NC; four great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. Special friend Jim Farmer also survives. * The Mountain Sentinel™ * Katherine Hegemann, Editor and Publisher * Jill Penley, Correspondent and Marketing * * 495 Wisteria Lane * Benson, NC 27504 * (919) 600-9352 * [email protected] * * Copyright 2011-2015 * We reserve the right to refuse subscription or advertising service to anyone. * Page 18 of 35 Funeral services were conducted Friday, January 30, 2015 from the Gillespie Community Church with Rev. Jim Frances officiating. Burial followed in the Phillips and Hamm Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Gillespie Community Church. Online condolences may be sent to the family through our website at www.huxlipfordfh.com. Professional services for the Phillips family are in the care of Hux-Lipford Funeral Home, Mountain City, TN. LT. COL. BEN ALLEN ROBERTS Lt. Col.Ben Allen Roberts, age 88, of 3209 Bristol Highway, Johnson City, TN passed away on Saturday January 24, 2015 at N.H.C Nursing Facility in Johnson City, TN. Lt. Col Ben Allen Roberts was a native of Johnson County and the youngest of the Roberts children of Gray and Venie Stout Roberts. He was preceded in death by six brothers: Tyler, Fred, Bert, Bruce, Ralph, and Shelton, and four sisters: Leta Kate, Mary Nell, Mildred, and Grace. He was a member of Bethel Baptist Church, a member of Prudential Masonic Lodge #719 of Alcoa, TN and Kerbela Shriner, and was an avid supporter of the Shriner’s Hospitals. Col. Roberts graduated from Johnson County High School in 1945, The University of Tennessee of Knoxville in 1953 and the Air Force Institute of Technology in 1960. Col. Roberts retired from the United States Air Force in 1972. He was a command pilot and served in Korea and Vietnam. He also was an electrical engineer and worked in the development and procurement of weapons systems for the Air Force. During his career he was awarded several medals which include The Distinguished Flying Cross, six Air Medals, and two Air Force Commendation Medals. After retiring from the Air Force he returned to the University of Tennessee of Knoxville where he worked until he retired in 1989. Survivors include: several nieces and nephews, Caris Hospice Caregivers, and a host friends. Funeral Services for Lt. Col. Ben Allen Roberts will be conducted Monday, February 2, 2015 at 2:00 p.m. from the Hux-Lipford Funeral Home with Rev. Ricky Campbell officiating. Military Honors will be accorded by the Johnson County Honor Guard. Graveside will follow in the Stout – Roberts Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. prior to the service. Online condolences may be sent to his family through our website at www.huxlipfordfh.com. Professional Services for Ben Allen Roberts are being provided by the Hux Lipford Funeral Home. 300 west Main Street, Mountain City, Tennessee. PEGGY ANN ‘NANNY’ VANCE Peggy Ann ‘Nanny’ Vance, age 79, of Mountain City, Tennessee, went to be with the Lord on Sunday, January 25, 2015 at the Mountain City Care Center. She was born on October 10, 1935 in Brooklyn, New York to the late Stacy Pennington and Eva Neukrich Pennington. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husbands, Bernie Delaney Vance and Justin Trivette; daughters: Linda Self, Jackie Forrester and Joyce Trivette, and brothers: Johnny and Marty. Peggy loved to be around people and especially loved a good game of Bingo. She especially loved spending time with all of her grandchildren and her special friends, Dot, Betty, and Virgie. Survivors include her daughters: Betty Smith, Jean Morefield and the late Jack Morefield, Yvonne Wilkins and LouWanna Wortman; sons: Thomas Vance and Wayne Vance and fiancé Joy; sisters: Phyllis, Jeannie and Vicky; brother, Harry; several grandchildren, great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren. * The Mountain Sentinel™ * Katherine Hegemann, Editor and Publisher * Jill Penley, Correspondent and Marketing * * 495 Wisteria Lane * Benson, NC 27504 * (919) 600-9352 * [email protected] * * Copyright 2011-2015 * We reserve the right to refuse subscription or advertising service to anyone. * Page 19 of 35 Funeral services were conducted at 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, January 28, 2015 at the Mountain City Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Roy Dowell officiating. Graveside service and interment followed at the Sunset Memorial Park. Pallbearers were Billy Morefield, Jerry Rhymer, Eric Crabtree, Mikey Jones, Ricky Haight, and Josh Vance. Honorary pallbearers were Tommy Vance, Wayne Vance, , Dillon Rhymer, B.J. Taylor, Clark Self, John Reece, Josh Vance, Derrick Vance, Joseph Morefield, Zack Wills, Justin Rhymer, Brandon Rhymer, Ethan Norris, Randy Norris, Clark Owens, and Dr. John Whitlock, who was Peggy’s doctor and friend for over 30 years. Condolences may be sent to the family through our website at www.mountaincityfh.com. The family of Peggy Ann ‘Nanny’ Vance has entrusted her services to Mountain City Funeral Home, 224 S. Church Street, Mountain City, TN 37683. February Traditional Art Workshops at Sycamore Shoals Sunday, February 1 – Saturday, February 28 What is a traditional art? The people who lived in this region had a special way of turning everyday objects of survival and necessity into works of art. Through our workshops and wonderful instructors, we strive to keep these unique skills alive. Whether it be baskets, fibers, music, finelycrafted arrow points or just a better understanding of days gone by, we hope you will find something to learn and keep with you forever. A traditional art is a skill worth preserving! If you would like to receive updated information throughout the year, please send your email address to [email protected]. To hold your place in a workshop, pre-registration and payment is required. Please register early to ensure a spot in the class! INTRODUCTION TO BEE KEEPING Sunday, February 8 from 2 p.m. – 3 p.m. Instructor: Joe Schultz Cost: No Charge – Registration is NOT necessary for this session Curious about bees? Learn about the benefits of back yard beekeeping, the critical necessity of their function of pollination, and local resources that would aid a beginning beekeeper. BEGINNING SEWING Saturday, February 7 & 21, March 7 & 21 from 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. Instructor: Donna Horowitz Cost: $80 for all 4 classes - plus supplies * The Mountain Sentinel™ * Katherine Hegemann, Editor and Publisher * Jill Penley, Correspondent and Marketing * * 495 Wisteria Lane * Benson, NC 27504 * (919) 600-9352 * [email protected] * * Copyright 2011-2015 * We reserve the right to refuse subscription or advertising service to anyone. * Page 20 of 35 Min: 2/Max: 6 Learn to sew an easy starter project! Class is designed for true beginners. Topics covered: pattern layout, importance of grain line / seam allowances, pattern terminology and many much more. Student will sew a bathrobe as their project. Please bring sewing machine & manual, basic sewing supplies , fabric and pattern. Instructor will provide a supply list at the first class. Bring your machine to class #1. MIXED MEDIA AND WATERCOLOR TECHNIQUES Saturday, February 14 & 21 from 9 a.m. – noon Instructor: Barbara Jernigan Cost: $20 All Materials Provided Min: 5/Max: open Learn and practice mixed media techniques using acrylic paints, inks, & more. WOOL DRYER BALLS Saturday, February 28 from 9 a.m. - noon Instructor: Jane Doan Cost: $30 Min: 2/Max: 10 Save energy, reduce waste and protect your family from chemicals by using environmentally friendly wool dryer balls. In our class, we will create 4-6 dryer balls from 100% wool. Wool dryer balls are an all-natural alternative to fabric softeners and dryer sheets. Dryer balls also shorten drying time and remove wrinkles in the dryer. 100% safe for all laundry including cloth diapers. Bring an old towel. Source: http://tnstateparks.com/parks/event_details/sycamore-shoals/february-traditional-artworkshops Things To Do HERITAGE HALL NEWS Heritage Hall will go black until mid February. However, the 2015 lineup is exciting with returns such as “Keep on the Sunnyside”, Wayne Henderson & Jeff Little, Kody Norris, Robin & Linda Williams, Steve Sensenig, and JCHS’s “Grease”, but we’re also looking forward to first time events such as Symphony of the Mtns’ Brass Ensemble, Carson Peters’ Band, Mike Taylor’s Laurel Creek Band, and Blue Highway, along with JCCT’s ”Dashing Thru the Snow”& “Nine to Five” On Thursday, February 26, the Barter Players will present “Anne of Green Gables.” This is a must see play for the entire family. All seats are $5. Call (423) 727-7444 for more information or to reserve your seat. Supporting Heritage Hall is a great way to support Johnson County since we serve the area with great live entertainment and offer an affordable arena for local school & organization events. Please help us keep the lights on at Heritage Hall by attending events and/or becoming a Curtain Raiser. Heritage Hall is a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving the area with great shows and pricing. For more information about Heritage Hall, visit heritagehalltheatre.org. Most tickets are $10 advance and $12 at door. Most youth seats are $5. For tickets, or reservations, call 423-727-7444 and leave a message. The Box Office will reopen in February. * The Mountain Sentinel™ * Katherine Hegemann, Editor and Publisher * Jill Penley, Correspondent and Marketing * * 495 Wisteria Lane * Benson, NC 27504 * (919) 600-9352 * [email protected] * * Copyright 2011-2015 * We reserve the right to refuse subscription or advertising service to anyone. * Page 21 of 35 FREE MEDICAL SERVICE: Crossroads Medical Mission, the free medical service sponsored by First United Methodist Church, comes to Mountain City’s St. Anthony’s Church, where a food pantry is also located, on the first Thursday of each month. The next clinic is February 5. Patients are seen beginning at 9:00 am. Crossroads is a mobile medical clinic and Christian mission providing free healthcare to the uninsured and underserved of the Mountain Empire. The Doctor’s Office on Wheels provides medical care and can often help with testing, lab work, minor surgeries, and in some instances medications. For more information, call Crossroads Office at 276466-1600. Schedules and directions can be found on the internet at crossroadsmedicalmission.org If schools in area are closed for weather, the clinic will be canceled. JOHNSON COUNTY ANNOUCEMENT: The Johnson County Planning Commission Meeting scheduled for Monday February 9, 2015 has been cancelled due to lack of business. MOUNTAIN CITY ANNOUNCEMENT: The City Council of Mountain City will meet Tuesday, February 3, 2015 at 6:30 pm in Town Hall. BRIDGE PLAYERS WANTED: Anyone wishing to play bridge, locally, call Calvin at 423-291-1331. ON-GOING GED / HiSET CLASSES: GED / HiSET classes are “up and running”!! Don’t get left behind. If you are in need of your High School Equivalency Diploma, now is the time to pursue it. Day and Night classes are in “full swing”, both in Johnson and Carter Counties, and we also offer ESOL classes in Johnson Co. and will soon be offering ESOL classes in Carter Co. in the near future! Stay tuned for updates….Graduation for all our graduates will be this Spring. Don’t miss it! For information or enrollment/orientation to our Adult Ed. program, please call 727-2654 (Johnson Co) or 518-1212 (Carter Co.) Hope to see you soon. GED/HiSET classes are ongoing this winter! With a $50 voucher also being offered for each qualifying student, NOW is the time to earn your GED! Call Carol at (423)727-2654 today! [Certain restrictions apply] DMRA MEETING NOTICES: All DMRA meeting notices and minutes are posted on doemountain.org. Please note that DMRA Board meeting minutes are available for viewing after the next scheduled Board meeting, at which the previous meeting’s minutes are approved. Meeting notices will also be announced via The Mountain Sentinel, The Tomahawk, WMCT, and the Johnson City Press. DMRA MEETING SCHEDULE: February 2015 The Doe Mountain Recreation Authority Board will meet on Tuesday, February 3, 2015 at 1:00 pm, First Tennessee Development District conference room, 3211 North Roan Street, Johnson City, TN. The DMRA Marketing & Outreach committee meets 1st Monday of each month at 5:30 pm, Johnson County Courthouse lower courtroom, 222 West Main St., Mountain City, TN. The DMRA Administration committee will meet on Wednesday, February 11, 2015 at 11:00 a.m., Johnson County Mayor’s Office, 222 West Main Street, Mountain City Tennessee. DMRA Roads & Trails Committee meets 4th Monday of each month at 6:00 p.m., Johnson County Courthouse lower courtroom, 222 West Main Street, Mountain City Tennessee. * The Mountain Sentinel™ * Katherine Hegemann, Editor and Publisher * Jill Penley, Correspondent and Marketing * * 495 Wisteria Lane * Benson, NC 27504 * (919) 600-9352 * [email protected] * * Copyright 2011-2015 * We reserve the right to refuse subscription or advertising service to anyone. * Page 22 of 35 ADVERTISERS: If you keep your listing out there where customers can see it each week, they will automatically think of you when the time comes that they need your product or service. Advertising pays! FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH: First United Methodist Church, 128 N. Church St., has an open heart, an open mind, and an open door for all to come in and be welcomed by a gracious and friendly church family. We have a traditional service with strong preaching, children’s church, and an exceptional music program. One of our major areas of concern is local missions to which we donate, along with member contributions, the earnings from our Unique Boutique, located behind the church on Butler Street. Each Sunday morning Coffee begins at 9:30; Sunday School at 10:00; and Morning Worship at 11:00. mountaincitymethodist.org COMMUNITY NOTICE: The office hours for groundwater protection services (septic permits) are available on Wednesdays from 10:00 am – 11:30 am, in the County Mayor’s office, 222 West Main Street, Mountain City TN 37683. To schedule an appointment to meet with the environmentalist, please call J.K. Perkins at (423) 547-5885 or (423) 298-5355. REECE CEMETERY MAINTENANCE: The Reece Cemetery on Bulldog Road in Trade has been nicely maintained by donors whose family members are buried there, and we really appreciate that assistance. If you have one or more family members in this cemetery and would like to continue to or begin to donate money toward its upkeep, please send your contribution to Bobby Wills, 903 Harbin Hill Rd., Mtn. City, TN 37683. Also, if you are interested in mowing this cemetery, please send your bid to the same address. CHILDREN'S STORYTIME: Join us at the Johnson County Library the 2nd Friday of each month for stories and poems. Hope to see you there! JCHSI RECYCLING PROGRAMS: As part of our fundraising to help the animals of Johnson County, the Johnson County Humane Society collects aluminum cans for recycling. Our collection bins are at the Mountain City Food Lion (just outside the north entrance near the soda machines and phones) and at the Mountain City Food Country (in between the east entrance and Auto Zone, next to the soda machines). Both bins have a magnet embedded in the lid. If a can sticks to a magnet, it's not aluminum and we can't use it. UNIQUE BOUTIQUE OPEN: Unique Boutique, sponsored by First United Methodist Church, is a thrift store with something for everyone. Located at 122 Butler Lane in Mountain City, you can shop on Wednesdays, when the ‘OPEN’ sign is out, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Over 80% of all profits made at the thrift store are donated to community organizations and local missions. None of the money leaves the community. CANS TO CASH PROGRAM: The A.C.T.I.O.N. Coalition/Johnson County Volunteer Center is recycling aluminum cans to fund youth programming in the county. You can drop your aluminum cans off at the A.C.T.I.O.N. Coalition Office on 138 East Main St. from 8 am to 4 pm M-F. The cans must be in bags when they are dropped off. For further information on the collection of aluminum cans, you may contact Denise Woods at 727-0780. TRADE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH: Sunday Worship 9:30 am; Sunday School 10:45 am; Wednesday Choir Rehearsal 6:30 pm; Holy Communion is the first Sunday of each month. trademethodist.org REGULAR ORGANIZATION MEETINGS: A.C.T.I.O.N. COALITION, INC.: The ACTION Coalition meetings, 3rd Tuesday of each month, Community Center, 11:30 am – 1:00 pm, jctnac.org Contact Person: Angela Wills, 727-0780 * The Mountain Sentinel™ * Katherine Hegemann, Editor and Publisher * Jill Penley, Correspondent and Marketing * * 495 Wisteria Lane * Benson, NC 27504 * (919) 600-9352 * [email protected] * * Copyright 2011-2015 * We reserve the right to refuse subscription or advertising service to anyone. * Page 23 of 35 ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS: AA, Monday and Thursday at JC/MC Community Center, at 7:00 pm. Call Chuck at 768-0643 for more information. AMATEUR RADIO CLUB: The Johnson County Amateur Radio Club, 2nd Tuesday of each month at 7:00 pm, conference room at the Johnson County Hospital. For more information, call Danny Herman [K4DHT] AT 423-727-0723. BUTLER RURITAN: 4th Monday of every month at the Butler Ruritan Hall, 6:30 pm for the potluck, 7:00 pm meeting. We welcome any interested seasonal and permanent residents, as well as businesses, to our meetings. Located just one block off Hwy. 67, on Piercetown Rd., above the Butler Fire Dept. Inquiries? Call 423-768-3936 or 423-768-3159. CHAMBER OF COMMERCE: The J.C. Chamber is organized for the purpose of advancing the economic, industrial, professional, cultural, and civil welfare of the Johnson County area. The Chamber meetings are each month on the 3rd Tuesday, 6:30 p.m. at the Johnson County Welcome Center. johnsoncountytnchamber.org CROSSROADS MEDICAL MISSION: Crossroads Medical Mission is held the 1st Thursday, St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. They perform urgent care, screenings, minor surgery, patient education, referrals, pharmacy and labs. This is done without regard to one’s ability to pay, although they will accept donations. This service is open to the public and sponsored by First United Methodist Church. FIBROMYALGIA SUPPORT GROUP: Fibromyalgia support group meetings are held the 1st Tuesday, 2:00 pm, Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, 3385 Roan Creek Rd, Mountain City, TN 37683.Enter through lower level rear door. 423-727-0345. FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY: Meets quarterly and supports the library through fund-raising events Contact Linda Icenhour 727-6544 for details. HIGHER GROUND PEER SUPPORT GROUP: This is a social support group for those recovering from mental illness and/or substance abuse. Call 727-8685 for more information. We are now open three days a week Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9:00 am- 5:00 pm. Activities are subject to change, and Higher Ground does not run a pickup service on those days with snow. JOHNSON COUNTY TRAILS COMMITTEE: Meets as needed throughout the year. For more information email [email protected], visit johnsoncountytrails.org, or write to P.O. Box 16 Mountain City, TN 37683 MOUNTAIN CITY NAMI: NAMI is a support and education group for people with a mental illness and for their family, friends, and caregivers. Someone you know has a mental illness. That's why there is NAMI. Meetings are held on the 3rd Tuesday, 7:00 pm, 1404 Crossroads Drive. Call Coy Lauer at 727-4794 for more information. NEWCOMERS CLUB: The Newcomer’s Club will be meeting the 2nd Thursday, 6:30 pm. If you’re new to the area and enjoy good food, conversation, and meeting new friends, please come and join us! Contact Carol Frank at 727-5487 for directions and other information. ROTARY CLUB: The Mountain City chapter of Rotary International, a service organization with both local and international projects, meets on the 2nd and 4th Mondays, noon, JC Public Library conference room. For more info, call Howard Moon at 727-3009. SENIOR CITIZENS ADVISORY COUNCIL: 3rd Wednesday, noon, Senior Center. Call 727-8883 for more info. SHADY VALLEY RURITAN CLUB: 2nd Thursday. Contact person: Jean Sparger 739-4326 * The Mountain Sentinel™ * Katherine Hegemann, Editor and Publisher * Jill Penley, Correspondent and Marketing * * 495 Wisteria Lane * Benson, NC 27504 * (919) 600-9352 * [email protected] * * Copyright 2011-2015 * We reserve the right to refuse subscription or advertising service to anyone. * Page 24 of 35 TEA PARTY MEETING: TAFL TEA Party Meeting. 4th Tuesday, American Legion Hall on Hwy. 91 in Mountain City (North Church St.), TN, 6:30 pm until ? Free Admission, finger food, and drinks UNITED WAY OF MOUNTAIN CITY/JOHNSON COUNTY: Regular meeting dates: monthly – then weekly during campaign. Contact person: Judy McGuire 423-727-6737 WATAUGA WATERSHED ALLIANCE/SIERRA CLUB: 2nd Tuesday. Contact Gloria 423-727-4797 or Dennis 423-534-4804 for details. TWRA Answers Fee Hike Questions Frequently Asked Questions: Proposed Hunting, Fishing and Public Land Access Fee Structure Why is TWRA increasing license fees? The cost of managing wildlife and habitat has increased dramatically in recent years everything from fuel to fertilizer is more expensive than ever before. One ton of fish food that could be purchased for $700 in 2004 now costs the TWRA $2,000! The Consumer Price Index (which tracks the general cost of goods and services nationally) is up more than 20 percent over the last decade, and Tennessee has long maintained some of the best and most diverse hunting and fishing opportunities in the nation without continually raising license fees. Our mission is to manage our state's natural resources for the benefit of all Tennesseans, and our focus is on doing it as efficiently and effectively as possible. Even with a reduction in employees and implementation of cost-saving programs, we are unable to continue funding the programs at the current level. Unforeseen crises, such as the global Recession, the major floods of 2010 and 2011, and changes to federal funding regulations have strained resources on an unprecedented level over the past 10 years. Yet still we enjoy some of the greatest public land and hunting and fishing to be found anywhere in America. When was the last time the fees were increased? It has been a decade since Tennessee hunting and fishing license fees saw an increase, and prior to that, a fee change had not been sought by TWRA for 15 years. Every dollar generated by licenses is utilized for the benefit of our wildlife and fisheries, so that Tennesseans have an opportunity to enjoy the incredible natural resources owned by all of us. That includes everything from ensuring access to more than a million acres of high quality public lands to enforcing wildlife laws that ensure healthy, sustainable game and fish populations for the future. How much will costs increase? The proposed license package and fee increase will allow TWRA to balance the existing budget, and the percentage change on existing fees is based on the increase of the Consumer Price Index over the last 10 years. As a point of reference, the change to the Type 01 Annual Resident Hunting and Fishing license would be $6 - or about the price of a box of shotgun shells for the skeet range. TWRA is also planning to incorporate new user groups as contributors. * The Mountain Sentinel™ * Katherine Hegemann, Editor and Publisher * Jill Penley, Correspondent and Marketing * * 495 Wisteria Lane * Benson, NC 27504 * (919) 600-9352 * [email protected] * * Copyright 2011-2015 * We reserve the right to refuse subscription or advertising service to anyone. * Page 25 of 35 It's worth noting that this is the smallest increase in the Agenc y's 65-year history: the last fee structure change (in 2005) represented more than a 35 percent increase over the previous change (1990). This is only the second time in 25 years that TWRA has had to increase license fees for hunters and fishermen. What other changes are included in the proposal? In many ways, Tennessee is a national success story: fish and wildlife that were once nearly extinct or no longer found in the state are now thriving here, both on land and in the water... and that includes non-game species. Meanwhile, the habitat that they rely on is shrinking at an alarming rate. As a result, TWRA has implemented a new strategic plan that shifts the focus from species recovery to habitat management, working to ensure that we provide suitable habitat so that the fish and wildlife of our state can continue to thrive. As part of that strategic shift in approach, Tennessee hunters and fishermen - while generating the vast majority of funding - would no longer bear the cost exclusively. A Wildlife Management Area user fee for high-impact groups would be incorporated, for example, and non-resident licenses would be adjusted to seek additional revenue from those who live outside the state but travel here to utilize our world-class resources. Additionally, professional hunting and fishing guides who make a living on the public's resources will also be included under the proposed license structure, as will recreational shooters at state-owned and operated firing ranges. To view the proposed fee structure, please visit www.tnwildlife.org. Why can't you just cut costs, or ask for additional funding through tax revenues? TWRA is a self-funding agency, meaning that license fees, boat registration fees, and federal excise taxes on hunting and fishing products essentially make up the entire annual budget. The Agency has cut costs and expenses where possible, but further cuts will result in a reduction in the services we have historically provided. Salaries and benefits are a large portion of the Agency's budget, and while TWRA employs 46 fewer employees than it did in 2008, the cost of an employee today -from prevailing wages to health insurance - has obviously increased. TWRA employees in wildlife-related positions are currently paid less, on average, than their peers in bordering states. Are other users besides hunters and fishermen contributing anything? Historically, sportsmen and women have "paid the freight" for the general public, by single-handedly generating the funds that have restored countless species and conserved and maintained their habitat. All people who enjoy access to public land and wildlife have been the beneficiaries. Non-hunting/fishing groups, such as horseback, off-highway vehicle and mountain bike riders who have a significant ongoing impact on the terrain of public areas, would now be required to contribute on a reasonable level. Our guiding principle is to accommodate as many uses as possible, while spreading the program costs across all of the user groups in an equitable manner, and allowing individuals to better tailor their license purchases to specific activities. What do you plan to do with the additional funds? Let's be clear: the revenues generated from license fees, boat registrations and federal excise taxes on equipment vary as a result of countless natural and manmade factors, while the Agency's budget remains essentially fixed over time. Inflation and other cost increases ultimately create a scenario * The Mountain Sentinel™ * Katherine Hegemann, Editor and Publisher * Jill Penley, Correspondent and Marketing * * 495 Wisteria Lane * Benson, NC 27504 * (919) 600-9352 * [email protected] * * Copyright 2011-2015 * We reserve the right to refuse subscription or advertising service to anyone. * Page 26 of 35 where the revenues don't cover the expenses, and either fees have to be increased or programs have to be cut. This proposal is designed to generate additional revenues to continue funding Agency programs at current levels, and to ensure that the nationally recognized work of our state's wildlife agency can continue without any negative impact on the public or its resources. Will this fee structure allow TWRA to continue providing the programs and services that Tennesseans have come to expect? This is only the second time that TWRA has sought a license increase in 25 years, and a step that we have staved off for as long as possible. However, the economic realities are undeniable, and without this new fee structure, programs and services would have to be cut. Every aspect of the budget is reviewed each year, both internally and by the Tennessee Fish and Wildlife Commission, and cost-saving measures are implemented wherever possible, even throughout the year. We want every Tennessean to have an opportunity to enjoy our wildlife and wild places, and that means it must be affordable. What does the approval process look like? The Tennessee Fish & Wildlife Commission governs these licenses and fees and will consider this proposed license and fee structure in January. The Joint Government Operations Committee of the Tennessee General Assembly will also review the proposal in the first quarter of 2015. When is the increase scheduled to go into effect? If passed by the Tennessee Fish & Wildlife Commission in January, the new fee structure would not go into effect until July 1. However, the 2015 licenses will be available in mid-February and may be purchased at the current price until the new fees become effective on July 1. Sheriff’s Report 01/30/2015 01/23/2015 Kyle M Haines, Wake Forest NC, Solicitation Of Sexual Exploitation Of A Minor, Solicitation Of Minor To Observe Sexual Conduct X 8 01/23/2015 Steven M Phipps, Mill Creek Rd, Theft U/$500 X 2, Forgery 01/23/2015 Robert L Simpler, Forge Creek Rd, Resisting Arrest, Assault As Domestic Violence 01/23/2015 Sandra J Worley, Hwy 421 N, Driving Under The Influence, Violation Of Implied Consent Law, Driving On Revoked Drivers Licnese 01/24/2015 Clifford A Lunceford, Eldridge Ln, Disorderly Conduct, Public Intoxication 01/25/2015 Christopher A Brown, Reece Hill Rd, Criminal Conspiracy To Manufacture Methamphetamine, Possession Of Schedule Vi For Resale, Possession Of Drug Paraphernalia 01/25/2015 Jeffery R Brown, Reece Hill Rd, Initiation Of A Process To Manufacture Methamphetamine, Promotion Of Methamphetamine, Felony Possession Of Drug Paraphernalia, Maintaining A Dwelling For The Process To Manufacture Methamphetamine 01/26/2015 Joey F Church, Pedro Shoun Ln, Violation Of Probation 01/26/2015 Michael R Mays, Hwy 133, Failure To Appear * The Mountain Sentinel™ * Katherine Hegemann, Editor and Publisher * Jill Penley, Correspondent and Marketing * * 495 Wisteria Lane * Benson, NC 27504 * (919) 600-9352 * [email protected] * * Copyright 2011-2015 * We reserve the right to refuse subscription or advertising service to anyone. * Page 27 of 35 01/27/2015 Thurman S Dowell, Seahorn Ln, Violation Of Probation 01/27/2015 Jerry G Pennington, Crestview Dr, Driving Under The Influence, Aggravated Assault On An Officer X 2, Resisting Arrest 01/27/2015 Kelly M Thomas, Little Dry Run Rd, Assault As Domestic Violence, Possession Of Drug Paraphernalia 01/27/2015 Audrey L Winebarger, Valley Crucis NC, Assault As Domestic Violence 01/28/2015 Robert J Blankensip, Sugar Creek Rd, Violation Of Probation, Capias, Intiation Of A Process Intended To Result In The Manufacture Of Methamphetamine, Promotion Of Methamphetamine Manufacture, Simple Possession 01/29/2015 Dorothy A Smith, Medical Park Dr, Assault HHS Pledges To Quicken Pace toward Quality-Based Medicare Payments By Jordan Rau, Kaiser Health News The Obama administration Monday announced a goal of accelerating changes to Medicare so that within four years, half of the program’s traditional spending will go to doctors, hospitals and other providers that coordinate their patient care, stressing quality and frugality. The announcement [1] by Health and Human Services Secretary Sylvia Burwell is intended to spur efforts to supplant Medicare’s traditional fee-for-service medicine, in which doctors, hospitals and other medical providers are paid for each case or service without regard to how the patient fares. Since the passage of the federal health law in 2010, the administration has been designing new programs and underwriting experiments to come up with alternate payment models. Last year, 20 percent of traditional Medicare spending, about $72 billion, went to models such as accountable care organizations, or ACOs [2], where doctors and others band together to care for patients with the promise of getting a piece of any savings they bring to Medicare, administration officials said. There are now 424 ACOs, and 105 hospitals and other health care groups that accept bundled payments, where Medicare gives them a fixed sum for each patient, which is supposed to cover not only their initial treatment for a specific ailment but also all the follow-up care. Other Medicare-funded pilot projects give doctors extra money to coordinate patient care among specialists and seek to get Medicare to work more in harmony with Medicaid, the state-federal health insurer for low-income people. Burwell’s targets are for 30 percent, or about $113 billion, of Medicare’s traditional spending to go to these kind of endeavors by the end of President Barack Obama’s term in 2016, and 50 percent — about $215 billion — to be spent by the end of 2018. The administration also wants Medicare spending with any quality component, such as bonuses and penalties on top of traditional fee-for-service payments, to increase, so that by the end of 2018, 90 percent of Medicare spending has some sort of link to quality. These figures do not include the money that now goes to private insurers in the Medicare Advantage program, which enrolls about a third of all Medicare beneficiaries [3]. Monday’s announcement did not include any new policies or funding to encourage providers, but Burwell said setting a concrete goal alone would prompt changes not only in Medicare but also by private insurers, which are also trying some of these alternative models. Leavitt Partners, a consulting firm, counts 317 commercial ACOs and 40 in the Medicaid program. * The Mountain Sentinel™ * Katherine Hegemann, Editor and Publisher * Jill Penley, Correspondent and Marketing * * 495 Wisteria Lane * Benson, NC 27504 * (919) 600-9352 * [email protected] * * Copyright 2011-2015 * We reserve the right to refuse subscription or advertising service to anyone. * Page 28 of 35 “For the first time we’re actually going to set clear goals and establish a clear timeline for moving from volume to value in the Medicare system,” Burwell said at an announcement at the department’s headquarters, where she was joined by leaders from insurance, hospitals and doctors groups. “So today what we want to do is measure our progress and we want to hold ourselves in the federal government accountable.” What is an ACO? The law takes a carrot-and-stick approach by encouraging the formation of Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs) in the Medicare program. Providers make more if they keep their patients healthy. About four million Some providers have eagerly embraced the new Medicare beneficiaries are now in payment models, some with success. Roughly a quarter of ACOs saved Medicare enough money to an ACO, and, combined with the win bonuses last year [4]. Others are wary, private sector, more than 428 particularly since they could lose money if they fall provider groups have already short on either saving Medicare money or achieving signed up. An estimated 14 the dozens of quality benchmarks the government percent of the U.S. population is has established. now being served by an ACO. You “ACOs are quite expensive to set up,” said Andrea may even be in one and not know Ducas, a program officer at the Robert Wood Johnson The law takes a carrot-and-stick Foundation, a New Jersey philanthropy that is funding research into ACO performance. “There’s a approach by encouraging the significant upfront investment and if you’re not sure you’re going to make it back, there’sCare a pause.” formation of Accountable Organizations (ACOs) inenough the money In the largest ACO experiment, the Medicare Shared Savings Program, 53 ACOs saved in 2013 to get bonuses from the government, but 41 spentMedicare more than program. the government estimated they Providers make should have. Those ACOs did not have to repay any money, but in years their Medicare intends to more if future they keep patients require reimbursements from those who fall short. Providers have been pushing Medicare to increase healthy. About four million the cut they get from these programs and lessen the financial risks in ACOs and the other programs. Medicare beneficiaries are now in “Government needs to do more to make sure there’s more shared savings going back to the an ACO, and, combined with the providers,” said Blair Childs, an executive with Premier, a company that assists hospitals and private sector, more than 428 providers in establishing ACOs and other models. provider groups have already It is still too early to know whether these alternate payment models actually improve the health of signed up. An estimated 14 patients and whether the savings that have been achieved so far — often by focusing on the most percent of the U.S. expensive patients — will plateau. Studies on the success of these programs havepopulation shown mixedis now being served by an ACO. You results. may even be in to one not know “We still have very little evidence about which payment methods are going be and successful in it. getting the results we want, which are better quality care and more affordable care,” said Suzanne Delbanco, executive director of Catalyst For Payment Reform, a California-based nonprofit that has been tracking the spread of alternative payment models [5] in the private sector. “We’re just wanting to avoid a situation where a few years from now, where we’ve completely gotten rid of fee-forservice, we don’t want to wake up and say, ‘Oh my gosh, we did it and we’re no better off.’” Kaiser Health News [6] (KHN) is a nonprofit national health policy news service. Reference Links: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. http://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMp1500445 http://kaiserhealthnews.org/acos-explained/ http://kff.org/medicare/fact-sheet/medicare-at-a-glance-fact-sheet/ http://kaiserhealthnews.org/news/one-quarter-of-acos-save-enough-money-to-earn-bonuses/ http://www.catalyzepaymentreform.org/images/documents/nationalscorecard2014.pdf http://www.kaiserhealthnews.org/ Source: http://kaiserhealthnews.org/news/hhs-pledges-to-quicken-pace-toward-quality-basedmedicare-payments/ * The Mountain Sentinel™ * Katherine Hegemann, Editor and Publisher * Jill Penley, Correspondent and Marketing * * 495 Wisteria Lane * Benson, NC 27504 * (919) 600-9352 * [email protected] * * Copyright 2011-2015 * We reserve the right to refuse subscription or advertising service to anyone. * Page 29 of 35 Congressional Voting Voting information comes from GovTrack.us. Users are encouraged to reuse any material on this site. GovTrack supports other Congress-tracking websites through their open data. Referenced in several votes: H.R. 161, which is the Natural Gas Pipeline Permitting Reform Act Suspension of the rules is typically used to pass non-controversial bills. Votes under suspension require a 2/3rds majority. A failed vote under suspension can be taken again. Motion to recommit provides one final opportunity for the House to debate and amend a measure, typically after the engrossment and third reading of the bill, before the Speaker orders the vote on final passage. The motion is the prerogative of the Minority party and in many cases constitutes the Minority’s one opportunity to obtain a vote on an alternative or a proposal to improve the measure. Cloture means to end debate so that an up-or-down vote can be taken. A vote in favor is a vote to end debate and move to a vote on the issue itself, while a vote against is a vote to prolong debate or to filibuster. Motion to table is a non-debatable motion in the House and Senate (and in their committees) by which a simple majority may agree to negatively and permanently dispose of a question (e.g., an amendment). The US Congress has a glossary of all these terms at https://www.congress.gov/help/legislativeglossary#c Cloture on S. Amdt. 2 (Murkowski) to S. 1: In the nature of a substitute. Jan 26, 2015 5:31 p.m. — Vote Cloture Motion Rejected 53/39 Sen. Alexander [R-TN]: Yea Sen. Corker [R-TN]: Yea Cloture on S. 1: Keystone XL Pipeline Act Jan 26, 2015 5:58 p.m. — Vote Cloture Motion Rejected 53/39 Sen. Alexander [R-TN]: Yea Sen. Corker [R-TN]: Yea * The Mountain Sentinel™ * Katherine Hegemann, Editor and Publisher * Jill Penley, Correspondent and Marketing * * 495 Wisteria Lane * Benson, NC 27504 * (919) 600-9352 * [email protected] * * Copyright 2011-2015 * We reserve the right to refuse subscription or advertising service to anyone. * Page 30 of 35 H.Res. 48: Providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 351) to provide for expedited approval of exportation of natural gas, ... Jan 27, 2015 4:06 p.m. — Vote Passed 241/169 Rep. Roe [R-TN1]: Not Voting H.R. 469: Strengthening Child Welfare Response to Trafficking Act of 2015 Jan 27, 2015 4:16 p.m. — Vote Passed 410/0 Rep. Roe [R-TN1]: Not Voting H.R. 246: To improve the response to victims of child sex trafficking. Jan 27, 2015 4:23 p.m. — Vote Passed 411/0 Rep. Roe [R-TN1]: Not Voting On Motion to Recommit with Instructions: H.R. 351: LNG Permitting Certainty and Transparency Act Jan 28, 2015 10:50 a.m. — Vote Failed 175/237 Rep. Roe [R-TN1]: Not Voting H.R. 351: LNG Permitting Certainty and Transparency Act Jan 28, 2015 10:57 a.m. — Vote Passed 277/133 Rep. Roe [R-TN1]: Not Voting S.Amdt. 75 (Cardin) to S. 1: To provide communities that rely on drinking water from a source that may be ... Jan 28, 2015 2:33 p.m. — Vote Amendment Rejected 37/61 Sen. Alexander [R-TN]: Nay Sen. Corker [R-TN]: Nay S.Amdt. 70 (Peters) to S. 1: To require that the Administrator of the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration make ... Jan 28, 2015 3:03 p.m. — Vote Amendment Rejected 40/58 Sen. Alexander [R-TN]: Nay Sen. Corker [R-TN]: Nay S.Amdt. 23 (Sanders) to S. 1: To increase the quantity of solar photovoltaic electricity by providing rebates for the purchase ... Jan 28, 2015 3:22 p.m. — Vote Amendment Rejected 40/58 Sen. Alexander [R-TN]: Nay Sen. Corker [R-TN]: Nay S.Amdt. 15 (Cruz) to S. 1: To promote economic growth and job creation by increasing exports. Jan 28, 2015 3:41 p.m. — Vote Amendment Rejected 53/45 Sen. Alexander [R-TN]: Yea Sen. Corker [R-TN]: Yea * The Mountain Sentinel™ * Katherine Hegemann, Editor and Publisher * Jill Penley, Correspondent and Marketing * * 495 Wisteria Lane * Benson, NC 27504 * (919) 600-9352 * [email protected] * * Copyright 2011-2015 * We reserve the right to refuse subscription or advertising service to anyone. * Page 31 of 35 S.Amdt. 73 (Moran) to S. 1: To delist the lesser prairie-chicken as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act ... Jan 28, 2015 4:01 p.m. — Vote Amendment Rejected 54/44 Sen. Alexander [R-TN]: Yea Sen. Corker [R-TN]: Yea S.Amdt. 148 (Whitehouse) to S. 1: To require campaign finance disclosures for certain persons benefitting from tar sands development. Jan 28, 2015 4:19 p.m. — Vote Amendment Rejected 44/52 Sen. Alexander [R-TN]: Nay Sen. Corker [R-TN]: Nay S.Amdt. 132 (Daines) to S. 1: To express the sense of Congress regarding the designation of National Monuments. Jan 28, 2015 4:39 p.m. — Vote Amendment Rejected 50/47 Sen. Alexander [R-TN]: Nay Sen. Corker [R-TN]: Yea S.Amdt. 115 (Coons) to S. 1: To express the sense of Congress regarding climate change and infrastructure. Jan 28, 2015 5:02 p.m. — Vote Amendment Rejected 47/51 Sen. Alexander [R-TN]: Nay Sen. Corker [R-TN]: Nay S.Amdt. 166 (Murkowski) to S. 1: To release certain wilderness study areas from management for preservation as wilderness. Jan 28, 2015 5:23 p.m. — Vote Amendment Rejected 50/48 Sen. Alexander [R-TN]: Nay Sen. Corker [R-TN]: Yea S.Amdt. 133 (Heitkamp) to S. 1: To express the sense of Congress that the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 should ... Jan 28, 2015 5:44 p.m. — Vote Amendment Rejected 47/51 Sen. Alexander [R-TN]: Nay Sen. Corker [R-TN]: Nay S.Amdt. 48 (Gillibrand) to S. 1: To modify the definition of underground injection. Jan 28, 2015 6:03 p.m. — Vote Amendment Rejected 35/63 Sen. Alexander [R-TN]: Nay Sen. Corker [R-TN]: Nay S.Amdt. 246 (Daines) to S. 1: To express the sense of Congress that reauthorizing the Land and Water Conservation Fund ... Jan 29, 2015 11:29 a.m. — Vote Amendment Rejected 47/51 Sen. Alexander [R-TN]: Yea Sen. Corker [R-TN]: Yea * The Mountain Sentinel™ * Katherine Hegemann, Editor and Publisher * Jill Penley, Correspondent and Marketing * * 495 Wisteria Lane * Benson, NC 27504 * (919) 600-9352 * [email protected] * * Copyright 2011-2015 * We reserve the right to refuse subscription or advertising service to anyone. * Page 32 of 35 S.Amdt. 92 (Burr) to S. 1: To permanently reauthorize the Land and Water Conservation Fund. Amendment Rejected 59/39 Jan 29, 2015 11:59 a.m. — Vote Sen. Alexander [R-TN]: Yea Sen. Corker [R-TN]: Yea S.Amdt. 77 (Udall) to S. 1: To establish a renewable electricity standard, and for other purposes. Jan 29, 2015 12:25 p.m. — Vote Amendment Rejected 45/53 Sen. Alexander [R-TN]: Nay Sen. Corker [R-TN]: Nay Cloture on S. 1: Keystone XL Pipeline Act Jan 29, 2015 12:46 p.m. — Vote Cloture Motion Agreed to 62/35 Sen. Alexander [R-TN]: Yea Sen. Corker [R-TN]: Yea S.Amdt. 155 (Booker) to S. 1: To allow permitting agencies to consider new circumstances and new information. Jan 29, 2015 2:36 p.m. — Vote Amendment Rejected 41/56 Sen. Alexander [R-TN]: Nay Sen. Corker [R-TN]: Nay S.Amdt. 141 (Markey) to S. 1: To delay the effective date until the President determines that the pipeline will not ... Jan 29, 2015 3:10 p.m. — Vote Amendment Rejected 36/62 Sen. Alexander [R-TN]: Nay Sen. Corker [R-TN]: Nay S.Amdt. 178 (Markey) to S. 1: To ensure that products derived from tar sands are treated as crude oil for ... Jan 29, 2015 3:30 p.m. — Vote Amendment Rejected 44/54 Sen. Alexander [R-TN]: Nay Sen. Corker [R-TN]: Nay S. 1: Keystone XL Pipeline Act Jan 29, 2015 3:47 p.m. — Vote Bill Passed 62/36 Sen. Alexander [R-TN]: Yea Sen. Corker [R-TN]: Yea * The Mountain Sentinel™ * Katherine Hegemann, Editor and Publisher * Jill Penley, Correspondent and Marketing * * 495 Wisteria Lane * Benson, NC 27504 * (919) 600-9352 * [email protected] * * Copyright 2011-2015 * We reserve the right to refuse subscription or advertising service to anyone. * Page 33 of 35 General Sessions Court Docket The information provided below comes directly from the Johnson County General Sessions Court Docket for February 4, 2015, the Honorable William B. Hawkins, presiding. The charges/allegations against the persons identified herein are copied from the report verbatim, without any editorial comment or revision by this newspaper. All persons listed are innocent until proven guilty by the trial court exercising jurisdiction over the alleged offense. Also, the data contained in these reports may change as cases are reclassified or records expunged. Court reports indicate court cases/charges only and do not indicate guilt or innocence. KATIE AUGUSTINE – PD - GS-13-CR-1626/Reck Endg/Div Dismissal ROBERT J BLANKENSHIP – Picked up on Capias – GS-14-CR-564/DOSL 1st /Dep Curd Gs-14-TR1221/Light Law NEW CHARGES GS-15-CR-48/CT 1: Init Process to Manufacture Meth/Inv. Lipford CT 2: Prom Meth Manuf CT 3: Simple Poss Meth BRENDA C BOUTON – BAT –HYDER - GS-14-CR-654/DUI 1st / Dep Roark NANCY HOLMAN BREWER – TOX-PD- GS-2014-CR-315/CT 1: DUI 1st/Dep Guinn CT 2: VICL CT 3:Leaving The Scene CT 4: False Report GS-20I4-CR-434/ DUI 1st/ Dep Roark CHRISTOPHER A BROWN – SMITH - GS- 15-CR-42/ CT 1: Criminal Conspiracy to Manuf Meth/Inv Stout CT 2: Poss Sch VI for Resale CT 3: Poss Drug Para CHRISTOPHER J BUNN – HEARING-PECTOL- State to Notify - GS-14-CR-543/ CT 1: Burglary/ Dep Eller CT 2: Theft of Property JEREMIAH A CLEMMONS - GS-15-CR-16/DOSL/ Asst Chief Norris WILLIAM CORUM - GS-14-CR-779/ Pymt Comp GREGORY A. CRATCH - GS-14-CR-741/ Assault as DV/TB Dismissed if PIF JEFFERY DUNN - GS-14-TR-1408/ Pymt Comp GS- 14-TR-1447/ Pymt Compliance JOHN K EISENHOWER - GS-14-CR-771/DUI 1st / Dep Roark GEORGE P FORD- LAWSON –GS-14-CR-753/ Viol OP/Sandra Lee Abbott ADAM GALLAGHER – HEARING – LAWSON – State to Notify – GS-14-CR-655/ Agg Assault/Dep Eller CT 2: Reck Endg GREGORY KEITH HARMON – PD- 55846-V/ 55845 B & D -V/ VOP/ PIF ROBERT LEE HENSON – HEARING – FALLIN – State to Notify – GS-14-TR-1349/B: Reckless Driving / Dep Guinn D: Add Change I: Following too Close T: Fin Resp REBEKAH M HUMPHREY – CT 1: Failure to Stop @ light / Dep Curd CT 2: Reg Viol CT 3: Fin Resp. TIFFANY KIMERLY – HEARING – STOUT – State to Notify – GS-14-CR-366/Assault as DV/Dep. Guinn BRITTANY KNIGHT – PD- 80887-V/ VOP HAROLD R MABE - To Have Atty GS-14-CR-756/ Assault As DV/ Dep Guinn * The Mountain Sentinel™ * Katherine Hegemann, Editor and Publisher * Jill Penley, Correspondent and Marketing * * 495 Wisteria Lane * Benson, NC 27504 * (919) 600-9352 * [email protected] * * Copyright 2011-2015 * We reserve the right to refuse subscription or advertising service to anyone. * Page 34 of 35 JAMES MASON - GS-14-TR-1357/ PYMT COMP CHARLES EDWARD MAY – HEARING-PD- State to Notify - GS-14-CR-676/ Agg Assault/Douglas Matz DANNY K MITCHELL – GS-14-CR-790/ Assault as DV/ Dep Roark DAVID G OSBORNE – See if has Atty – STOUT? - GS-15-CR-31 / Viol OP/ Dep Sutherland GS-15-CR32/ CT 1: Agg Burglary/ Inv Brown CT 2: Viol. Court Order GS-15-CR-33 CT 1: Poss Sch IV/Inv. Stout CT 2: Poss Sch II GS-15-CR-37/ Theft of Property/ Inv. Brown GS-15-CR-35/ Viol OP/ DepMullins GS-15-CR-34/ CT 1: Initiate Process To Manuf Meth/Inv. Stout CT 2: Promotion Meth Manuf CT 3: False Report CT 4: Tampering W/ Evidence CT 5: Viol OP TIMOTHY RYAN OSBORNE - GS-14-CR-1149/ Reckless Driving/Dep Curd NATHAN T PARDUE - GS-15-TR-1/ CT 1: Reg Viol / Dep Roark CT 2: Fin Resp CT 3: U-TURN JOSEPH D PRICE – GS-13-CR-1758-V/VOP CCI JOY L REECE – HEARING- FALLIN – State to Notify – GS-14-CR-610/CT 1: DUI 2nd /Dep Guinn CT 2: VICL GREGORY ALLEN ROARK - GS-14-CR-789/ CT 1-8: Vandalism Dep Guinn CT 9: Contributing to the Delinquency of Minor KRISTOPHER SELF - PD - GS-13-CR-1464/ Simple Poss/Div Dismissal TIMOTHY L SMITH - GS-14-CR-737/ DORL/ Dep Guinn DANIEL J SNYDER-SEE IF ROBERTS CAN TAKE-ROBERTS- GS-14-CR-755/ Assault/ Victor Mallore GREGORY R SNYDER - GS-14-TR-1373/ CT 1: DL Expired / THP Wills JASON M SNYDER - GS-14-CR-758 / Assault as DV / Dep Eller DORAN DARRELL SWIFT – BAT – PD- GS-14-CR-606/ DUI 1st / Dep Curd TYLER TAYLOR – GS-14-TR-684 / Seatbelt 2nd / Inv. Brown CHARLES THOMPSON - TBI CERT – PD – GS-15-CR-9 / Assault as DV/ Dep Roark JESSICA R THOMPSON – GS-15-CR-10 /CT 1: DUI 3rd /Dep Guinn CT 2: Driving W/Out Lic CT 3: Simp Poss Sch VI KEVIN B TEDDER - GS-15-CR-12/ CT 1: DUI 2nd CURD CT 2: Reckless Endg MILD ENDG OS- I 5TR-10/ EDI RESP ALEXANDRIA DAWN TESTER- STATUS OF REHAB – PD- 82566-V/ 82567-V/82568-V/ GS-13-CR1634-V/ VOP/ CCI MADELYN THOMPSON - GS-14-7R-1001/ Trf Control Device/ Dep Guinn ROBERT TRIVETTE – GS-14-CR-183/Pymt Comp JENNIFER WINTERS- GS-14-TR-1313/ Pymt Comp COURTNEY YOUNG – GS -14-TR-1422 / Pymt Comp * The Mountain Sentinel™ * Katherine Hegemann, Editor and Publisher * Jill Penley, Correspondent and Marketing * * 495 Wisteria Lane * Benson, NC 27504 * (919) 600-9352 * [email protected] * * Copyright 2011-2015 * We reserve the right to refuse subscription or advertising service to anyone. * Page 35 of 35
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