West Virginia in the news

by: Clem Guttata

Tue Mar 18, 2008 at 09:32:43 AM EDT

>> Our hearts go out to the 400 workers laid off last Friday at AB&C Corporation call centers in West Virginia. With news that the West Virginia unemployment rate has risen to 5.8%, we wish them the best in their search for new jobs. They may be in for quite the fight to hold AB&C Corporation accountable to follow all applicable state laws.

>> Bob Bastress makes his case for a seat on the West Virginia State Supreme Court

West Virginia University law professor Bob Bastress doesn't think the state Supreme Court is "as accessible or as good" as it was 10 years ago.

He said he is seeking a seat on the court this year to bring back the luster and respect he feels the court has lost.

"Part of my decision to run is based on my concerns about the current board," Bastress said. "It's not as accessible or as good as it was in the past.

"Its reputation has taken a hit in recent years, and I believe the people with ability should step forward."

He pointed out that the court has taken fewer cases up for review in recent months. "And not the ones they should have," Bastress said.

"The number of their signed opinions is way down," he noted. "The court lacks the luster is had 10 to 12 years ago. It had better judgment when (former justices) Tom Miller and Frank Cleckley were on the board."

>> Is West Virginia drinking water tainted with pharmaceuticals like much of the rest of the country? Who knows? Drinking water in W.Va. not checked for pharmaceutical contamination

>> How far do you think WVU will get in this year's NCAA Men's basketball tournament? It'll be a challenge to make the sweet 16.