WV Headlines, Wed, June 15

by: Clem Guttata

Wed Jun 15, 2011 at 08:16:34 AM EDT

* There's a website for the March on Blair Mountain. Videos, pictures, and audio all available of this inspiring action.

* While most of the WV press hones its skills in the self-appointed craft of stenography, there is still one bright shining light pointing out there's multiple sides to every story. This introduction is a strong hint who:

The Gazette's late publisher, Ned Chilton, was know for his criticism of what he called West Virginia's "insipid press," local newspapers that didn't question the actions of local politicians and powerful institutions.

* Case in point... Division of Energy Director Says W.Va. Embraces Energy Supplier Role.

Here's some suggestions for Mike Ruben and friends... next time you write about WV energy, ask your sources what happens to coal-based energy production when cheap Appalachian coal runs out in 15-20 years? Ask them how much money is saved in reduced healthcare costs each time a coal-fired electrical plant closes. Ask them, when US demand for renewable energy is going up and demand for coal-based energy is going down, why should WV consumers have to pay more for coal-based energy?

* West Virginia gets a new district office for MSHA (Mine Safety and Health Administration). Here's hoping this means even safer mines, too.

Coal City Club in Coal City, West Virginia