Archived

News update: Two found dead in possible murder-suicide

The following was released by the Watauga County Sheriff's Office after press deadline on Monday at noon. See the Wednesday edition of the Watauga Democrat for more information.

On Sunday, June 10, at 9:23 a.m., officers from the Watauga County Sheriff’s Office and Watauga Medics were dispatched to 519 Appaloosa Trail, Boone, in reference to a 911 call.

Upon arrival at the location, officers discovered two bodies, who were later identified as those of Susan Pearce Hayes and Dale Steven Hayes.

At 10:45 a.m., Dr. Brent Hall, Watauga County medical examiner, arrived at the scene.

Preliminary investigation at the scene revealed that Susan Pearce Hayes died of gunshot wounds to the chest area and Dale Steven Hayes died of a single self-inflicted gunshot wound to the neck area

June 8, 2007

Boone hits retiree top 10
Boone has been named one of “10 Bargain Retirement Spots” by the U.S. News and World Report. The selection will appear in a special edition slated for release on June 11, with top national experts on retirement consulted for the list. Read more.

County will move remains
The spirits of 25 people may soon rest in eternal peace for a second and, as countless numbers of descendants hope, a final time. The Watauga County Board of Commissioners approved relocation of what are believed to be 25 graves from the site of a new high school in Perkinsville, starting a formal process of moving the graves a few hundred yards to an established cemetery. Read more.

Boone budget to increase by $4 million
While property tax in Boone may remain as is, the proposed budget indicates an increase in water and sewer service minimums. Released last week for the Boone Town Council’s consideration, the budget presents a grand total of $21,891,888 for fiscal year 2007-08 (beginning July 1), an increase of $4,001,775.

Read more.

Proposal could save county $1.3 million in Medicaid expenses
The state General Assembly’s move toward complete elimination of local Medicaid payments could save Watauga County government about $1.3 million a year, an amount that has increased steadily over the last decade. Read more.

Jobless rate stays low for Watauga County
County employment in North Carolina increased in April for the third consecutive month this year, with Watauga County ranking fourth in terms of low unemployment. to a press release from the Employment Security Commission of North Carolina, unemployment decreased in 60 counties, while it increased in 27 and remained the same in 13. Read more.

June 7, 2007

News Update: Man injured from fall from roof

An unidentified man fell three stories from a roof at approximately 10 a.m. Wednesday.
The man sustained fairly serious back injuries, according to a spokesman for the Foscoe Volunteer Fire Department.
Watauga Medics responded to the scene, a residential home on Basswood Road in Foscoe. They transported him to the Twin Rivers athletic field off N.C. 105, where they were met by a helicopter from WINGS Air Rescue.
The unidentified man was transported to Johnson City (Tenn.) Medical Center for treatment. His condition is unknown as of press time. — Melanie Davis, staff writer

June 6, 2007

Battle continues with tree-killing insect
The beetle battle is continuing as foresters and scientists try different techniques to turn the tide against the hemlock woolly adelgid. The Blue Ridge Parkway is currently seeking public input to identify issues and additional study during an environmental assessment for control strategies against the invasive pest.

Read more.

Sheriff’s reports: Deputies kept busy with thefts, break-ins, dog shooting
The following are compiled from reports from the Watauga County Sheriff’s Office: May 22 — A breaking and entering was reported on Mount Zion Road, Deep Gap. A suspect forcibly opened the garage and removed a Troybuilt pressure washer valued at $300. Read more.

Residents invited to walk or run for a good cause Saturday in Valle Crucis
The High Country Soccer Association (HCSA) and Boone Rotary Club are asking the community to run or walk for a cause on Saturday, June 9, at 8 a.m. with their third annual Valle Crucis 7 Miler, also known as “The Cub.” Read more.

Boone Police reports: Drug violations, reckless driving
The following are Boone Police reports: June 1 — At 8:19 a.m., police responded to a report of criminal damage to property at Custom Muffler Tire and Quick Lube on the N.C. 105 Extension. Read more.

Consumers warned about scams targeting unsuspecting puppy buyers
Careful of too much puppy love. The American Kennel Club and the Better Business Bureau of Northwest North Carolina are warning consumers about scams targeting unsuspecting puppy buyers. Read more.

More viticulture is taking root in the High Country
Bob Johnson has a growing habit. Fortunately, it’s a good habit, and the Blowing Rock resident has been putting his know-how to use on a six-and-a-half acre tract of land in Cove Creek, where he’s founded Hattie Hill Vineyards. Read more.

June 4, 2007

Residents concerned about lights, buildings and access to WHS
People living near the proposed new high school site expressed concerns about lights, access and building height during a May 31 public hearing. hearing, hosted by the Boone Town Council and Boone Area Planning Commission, was required because of Watauga County’s request for a conditional zoning district approval and the closing of a town street. Read more.

Volunteers needed for 1,200 bike riders
It’s 100 miles of pain and joy, but it doesn’t happen without a little grease on the wheels.
The local chapter of the American Red Cross is seeking volunteers for one of its biggest fund-raisers and outreach events, “Blood Sweat and Gears,” scheduled this year for June 22 and 23. Read more.