Opinions
Get the science right before rushing to regulate
In most use cases, we are told, there exists no viable alternative to PFAS, which portends the real potential outrage here. In the end, banning PFAS would mean consumers would be deprived of their iPhones and pharmaceuticals; it would make air travel less safe and automobiles more polluting.
Empowering parents, students and educators shouldn't be controversial
CHARLESTON – While some opponents of comprehensive education reform cheered its defeat during the 2019 regular legislative session, students, parents, and rank-and-file teachers have little reason to celebrate.
'Give me transparency and accountability, but not yet'
The headline above is a reworking of a line from Augustine’s "Confessions" that succinctly summarizes a regretful roué’s desire (and reluctance) to give up a life of vice: “Give me chastity and continence, but not yet.” Change two words and you capture the attitude of some judges toward online access to court records.
Let's focus on what matters – our children’s education
MARINTSBURG – Recently, liberal union bosses and their allies at the Charleston-Gazette Mail have been leveling complaints and allegations against a respected, devoted member of the West Virginia State Senate.
Tabbatha Perdue might want to rethink this lawsuit
“We ask that you become familiar with and abide by the rules below and view the Sky Zone rules video and signage in park and at the Safety Zone. Remember, stay in your comfort zone. Do not attempt any activity, flip, jump, or trick you don’t think you can handle.”
West Virginia students deserve the option of public charter schools
CHARLESTON – Across the country, millions of students, families and educators recently celebrated National Charter Schools Week and how they transform communities by bringing educational opportunities to students. Unfortunately, our students are left out of these celebrations because West Virginia is one of the few states that does not currently allow public charter schools.
Workman made lots of money as a landlady
Remember the hilarious response of state Supreme Court Justice Margaret Workman to the justified outrage when West Virginians found out about her and her fellow justices’ lavish use of taxpayer funds to make themselves more comfortable at our expense?
West Virginia’s opioid settlement with McKesson is best case scenario
MORGANTOWN – West Virginia is one of the states hit hardest by the opioid crisis. The American Enterprise Institute estimates the annual cost to the state is $8.8 billion annually.
Client files suit against Bill Kinder & Associates after loss of $130,000 investment
BECKLEY – A Lewisburg woman is suing a financial adviser and a business after she allegedly lost thousands that she invested based on their recommendations.
My first 90 days on the state Supreme Court
CHARLESTON – On December 12, 2018, Gov. Jim Justice appointed me to fill the vacant seat on the Supreme Court of Appeals of West Virginia. At that time, I assumed that I would have a reasonable amount of time to make the transition from 23 ½ years on the circuit bench in Raleigh County to taking office and starting my career as a Justice in Charleston. Wrong!
Judge gets judged and goes to jail
As of Monday morning, South Central Regional Jail has a distinguished new inmate: former Kanawha County Magistrate Julie Yeager.
Further deconstructing #TheStruggleToStay in West Virginia
Beyond the shouts of the mob through social media, we need to take the time to lift up those who are working to make our state a better place. We do not have to agree with other, but it would help if we would try to find ways to work together when we can.
Asking POTUS to get rid of WOTUS
Please, adopt the new Waters of the United States rule. We’re tired of interrogating ruts, puddles and ditches.
Driving innovation through the support of entrepreneurship
WASHINGTON – The ability of small businesses to drive innovation is critical to U.S. competitiveness. The U.S. Small Business Administration recently announced the addition of seven new clusters to its portfolio of communities it supports through the Regional Innovation Clusters Initiative, raising the total number of clusters in the program to fourteen.
The high price of fantasy and a licentious culture
It’s clear from the increasing prevalence of such cases, however, that our licentious culture is toxic, encouraging adults and the young people they should be protecting to see each other as objects of their sexual fantasies.
A thoughtful approach to water quality standards for West Virginia
The West Virginia Chamber of Commerce applauds conscientious legislators and a diligent and watchful Manufacturer’s Association for providing specific and precise data that convinced legislators to take a step back from the unknown consequences of Senate Bill 163.
State lacks caregivers for those with intellectual, developmental disabilities
It is time to come together to address this workforce crisis. A modest increase in funding will not only provide jobs to thousands of West Virginians but will ensure those with intellectual and developmental disabilities are receiving the care and support they need.
West Virginia is really cooking now
People used to work in their homes. The frontier family and the mom-and-pop shop were the norm once. Maybe they will be again.
2019 Legislative Session: A victory for Agriculture
CHARLESTON – With the 2019 Legislative Session in the books, we now have time to reflect on what our state leaders have accomplished.
West Virginia committed to remain a national leader in election cybersecurity
CHARLESTON – The old saying goes, “Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me.” When it comes to technology, the new saying is, “Hack me once, shame on me.”