On Sat, 30 Jun 2012 00:04:19 -0500, wrote:

On Fri, 29 Jun 2012 21:14:56 -0700 (PDT), "hr(bob) "
wrote:

enough to replace it.

It sure does look like a ball style valve, just replace the valve as
trying to clean it will take more time than it is worth spending.

I agree to replace it, but before doing that, shut off the water in the
whole house. Lightly tap on the handle with a hammer. Then try to turn
it with a wrench. If it breaks, it's junk anyhow. Just be sure the
stores are open or you wont have water till you get a new one. Or buy
one first, and return it if you do manage to open the old one.

Buy and return if not needed is the best strategy.