W.Va. Succession Laws Must be Clarified
Politics shouldn't get in the way of democracy.
Cast Vote for Candidate Who Will Work for W.Va.
Early voting in the special Senate primary starts Friday.
Obama Teachers Plan a Step in Right Direction
Maintaining the status quo in education is not an option.
Beckley Foundation has Made Area a Better Place
The Beckley Area Foundation celebrated its 25th anniversary this week.
Elected Leaders Must Work to Scale Back
Fiscal responsibility is important for today's leaders.
Baseball Returns to Southern W.Va.
The Linda K. Epling Stadium was the dream of the Epling family that became a reality.
W.Va. Leaders Should Follow Jim Justice's Lead
The Greenbrier Classic shows what West Virginians can do.
Greenbrier Classic Shows off the Mountain State
The first-annual event reintroduced The Greenbrier to the world.
Open Communication Needed in Fayette County Consolidation Talks
School consolidation is never easy.
West Virginians Have Chance to Re-Evaluate Elected Leaders
The Mountain State's political landscape has changed dramatically.
Parents Must Keep Global Economy in Mind When Thinking About Education
Parents in Fayette County have a chance to have their say about the proposed Comprehensive Educational Facilities Plan.
Mt. Everest Climb Proves West Virginians can Reach for the Sky
West Virginia native Lt. Col. Bryan Chapman climbed the world's tallest mountain.
Reflecting on Fourth of July
The Fourth of July is a time to celebrate with friends and family, but also to celebrate living in this great country.
Saying Goodbye to Sen. Robert C. Byrd
Sen. Robert Byrd was a champion for West Virginia.
W.Va. Should Raise Cigarette Taxes
Recently released statistics showing Charleston and Huntington with the most smokers are alarming.
New Chapter of Marsh Fork Elementary
The Marsh Fork Elementary school is proof of the power of hope.
Teachers Union's Plans for Health Care Liability Unthinkable
West Virginia teachers unions want the state to ignore $8 billion in health care liabilities.
Greenbrier Classic Will be Showcase for West Virginia
Greenbrier owner Jim Justice has pulled out all the stops for the inaugural golf tournament.
Electric Bills on the Rise
Power companies are looking to raise their rates in the next few years.
Tragedy in the Gulf
Federal officials are hinting towards pursuing criminal charges in the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.
Remembering Our Veterans
Keep servicemen and women in your thoughts and prayers.
A Glimpse Inside a West Virginia Coal Mine
Bray Cary takes a trip into a coal mine on this week's edition of Decision Makers.
Adults Must Act to Keep Teens Safe During Graduation Season
High school students across the state are getting ready for graduation and the celebrations that follow.
Ongoing Saga on Arch Coal's Water Quality Permit
The saga continues on whether or not the EPA is going to veto a water quality permit for Spruce No. 1 mine.
Important Week In Education
Education takes center stage across West Virginia.
Caruth Worked to Better West Virginia
Senate Minority Leader Don Caruth will be missed in the Legislature.
Lawmakers Must Get Behind Governor's Education Agenda
State legislators should follow the Governor's lead on education.
Thank You to California Philanthropist for School Gift
Charles Weingarten donated money for the new Marsh Fork Elementary in Raleigh County.
State Must Act on Verizon-Frontier Deal
After several months, the West Virginia Public Service Commission has failed to render a decision.
President to Visit Miner Memorial Services
President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden are set to visit the memorial service for the 29 miners killed at the Upper Big Branch Mine disaster.
Mine Rescue Teams Show Amazing Resolve
Rescue teams show what West Virginia is all about.
Tragedy Shows Spirit of West Virginians
The Upper Big Branch Mine tragedy shows the nation Mountaineer spirit.
Thoughts, Prayers Go out to Miners, Families
We all stop to pray for the loss of 25 miners in W.Va.
Huggins Always had eye on the Prize
Sites set on hardwood championship.
Celebrate God's Love
Fans cheer on the 'eers but we should all stop to celebrate Easter.
Audit Could Save Millions
PEIA audit is good for West Virginia.
High Goals Bring Big Win
WVU heads to the NCAA tournament.
Education Needs to Take top Priority
Snow has caused school cancellations but education needs to take priorities.
WVU Fans have something to cheer about
WVU fans show true colors at game.
Contested Elections
W.Va. will have contested elections this year but many statewide races go uncontested.
School Calendar Change
Thanks to state lawmakers for giving counties a little more flexibility in setting their calendars.
History Calls
Rather than be timid or cater to the special interests, I would ask our lawmakers to stand up.
Fiscal Restraint
If the money isn't there, don't spend it.
On Our Side
We need Senator Byrd to fight for West Virginia.
The EPA is Against West Virginia
They have an agenda.
Who Are They Working For?
Education unions hold sway in House.
A Sham
Lawmakers should have to take their own medicine
Reform
Judicial reform is a must
Someone Has It Right
Our students must be in the classroom 180 days.
Thanks
Our veterans deserve our gratitude.
Just The Facts
Mining debate requires facts, not rhetoric.
The Right Role
Government can't create prosperity.
Realism
Investing in clean coal means a better future for coal and a better future for West Virginia.
Work
We need to celebrate our working men and women.
Reform
Education reform is a must.
Proof
Bond rating plan proves Manchin is on the right path.
Financial Responsibilty
Our elected leaders - at every level - owe it to us, the taxpayers, to be prudent with our money.
Put the Taxpayers First
Manchin has shown leadership.
Sound Managment
Good governance mean fiscal responsibility.
What's The Cure?
Improve, not overhaul.
Tax Reform
We must shrink our state government.
Shift
We all need to win.
Freedom
Remember the real meaning of July 4th.
The Right Thing
WV congressional delegation must stand united.
Fairness
An honest, impartial legal system is at the heart of a just society.
School Work
We live in a global economy and competition is fierce.
We Can Come Back
It just seems that time and again, our state is hit by terrible devastation.
We Must Act Now
Coal may not always be here to save W.Va.
Dropping the Ball
We didn't get it done.
Unacceptable
This kind of arrogance absolutely floors me.
Phonies
Our lawmakers need to do what's right.
Backbone
I wish more politicians had the courage to stand up for what's right
Bad Idea
Collective bargaining for state employees is a power grab.
Faith
Secularism is not the answer.
Fairness
Don't pile on the already-heavy tax burden.
Still Strong
America's economic foundation is still strong.
Get Real
Let's focus on what matters.
Face the Facts
The truth can hurt.
Reality Check
Pay raises for state workers would irresponsible.
Is Help on The Way?
Let's take advantage.
A Time For Hope
The work starts now.
Dire Consequences
Sacrifices need to be made.
We Need Real Growth
We got the tools, we just need the leadership.
Thanks
It's been great to watch Pat White on and off the field.
Fairness
A fair court system is vital to economic development.
Bad Debt
State should not have hordes of cash.
Democracy Matters
The voting process must have integrity.
Double Dipping Isn't Fair
We should hold our elected officials to a high standard.
A Chilling Effect
Words have meaning.
There Needs to be Disclosure
The reason we have a two-party system.
The Search is Under Way
Selection committee for WVU president is on the right track
Government Must Change
Metro government must be considered.
A National Spotlight
Leaders must use platform to promote coal.
Mountaineer Pride
Bob Fitzsimmons did a good deed.
An Unhealthy State
Poverty breeds ill health.
Great News
We must work together.
Diversification is Key
Coal and natural gas provide a strong foundation.
Good Luck
Office seekers deserve respect
On This Fourth, Remember Our Troops and Their Families
Remembering our nation's sons and daughters
Manchin Makes Good Choices for WVU
New WVU BOG members announced
A Reason to Celebrate
It's time to move forward.
The People Have Spoken
The BOG needs to act.
This Must End
BOG must demand that Garrison step down.
Failed Leadership
BOG must demand Garrison's resignation.
Mike Garrison Must Do the Right Thing
A true leader knows when it's time to step down.
The Tax That Keeps on Giving
Lawmaker aren't helping out pain at the pump.
Step Up
WVU BOG needs to defend their man.
We Deserve All the Facts
Spin must end.
We Need A Plan
Someone needs to showcase how important coal is.
Great, Young Minds
Forty under 40 making West Virginia great.
How Sweet It Is
Coach Huggins is doing it right.
It May Be Time For Cuts
For this commentary, we got a little help from our friends.
A House Gone Wild
Who are they working for?
Get to Work
Lawmakers need to work for us, not state government.
A Matter of Ethics
Corruption has crippled the state.
Get The Job Done
The time for change is now.
A Job Well Done
The old gold and blue did the state proud.
Happy Holidays
This holiday season, let’s try something different. Let’s all slow down for a minute.
What's Important
Remember the players.
Leadership
Maybe there's still time.
We Can Help
You get back more when you give.
Stop and Think
Redistricting is important, let's do it right.
Move On
It's just one loss.
Taxing Trouble
Government can't tax its way to prosperity.
Giving Thanks
It's important to remember the reason behind the holiday.
Lawson Hamilton 1923-2007
West Virginia says good bye to a true friend
The Real Epidemic in West Virginia
The state has bigger problems than staph and MRSA.
High Note
Joe C. Wright, RIP
Senseless
The explosion of ATV fatalities in September is unacceptable.
Plain to See
The expansion of neighborhood slot parlor gambling could be a blessing in disguise.
Unacceptable
If mine inspectors aren’t getting the job done, pressure must be brought to bear.
Paisley Pride
He didn’t forget where he was from when he got where was going.
Communicate
Issues should be resolved through communication, not fisticuffs.
More Than Words
Getting fired up about a slogan is fine, but it’s actions that count.
Unity
Americans united are unconquerable.
Welcome
The 811th Ordnance Company will supply our community too.
Fighting Words
To move into the future, West Virginia will need to let go of the past.
Coming Together
A good living and a good life can go together.
Everybody’s Interest
Urgent action is needed at the Legislature, but priorities matter.
Winners and Losers
West Virginia needs to make its gambling rules sensible.
For Us or Against Us
Those who oppose economic reforms for political purposes are killing the opportunities of thousands of children.
First Impressions
We know the value of coal. We have to share that message with the rest of America.
Goal Oriented
The members of the Iraqi soccer team provide a good example for their countrymen and Americans.
Which Side of the Line?
Rich states and poor states differ most when it comes to kids.
Healthy Idea
Forward thinking on Medicare should be encouraged.
Fun with a Purpose
Do your part and have fun doing it.
Tenacity
We need to have courage in the face of adversity if we expect to change West Virginia’s economy.
What a Mess
We need a closer look at Rainelle’s finances.
Priorities
There must be room somewhere for the worst of West Virginia’s worst sex offenders.
Liberty
What are we celebrating this week?
Outside Chance
The way to fight childhood obesity is right outside your front door.
Baby Birds, Mature Commitment
The relationship between Bluefield and the Baltimore Orioles reflects well on both parties.
Liberty
West Virginia Day should be a celebration of every citizen’s personal freedom to make the most of themselves.
Connected
Sen. Jay Rockefeller is helping Southern West Virginia get up to speed in the digital age.
Good News, Bad News on Education
Tough tests get better results.
Thinking the Unthinkable
Community officials must consider the impact of disasters elsewhere.
Via con Dios
Let's hope the lawmakers come back from Puerto Rico with some good ideas.
Certainty
For coal-to-liquid technology to work, predictability is key.
Remember
Memorial Day shouldn’t be the only time we remember the men who gave their lives for America.
A Vote of no Consequence
It’s time to consolidate elections in Beckley.
Precious
No compromise on immigration should devalue the precious gift of liberty given to Americans.
Shameless
Using a program to help poor children as a way to promote a political career should be unthinkable.
A Vote for Simplicity
West Virginia would benefit in many ways from consolidating elections.
Prosecutorial Mettle
Copper thieves do much more than just steal property. They rob coal miners of the rescue teams they need.
Rent Check
The staggering size of the state’s bill for office leases should make us all hope that new reforms will work.
Healthy Ideas
Solving West Virginia’s health care problems will require fresh thinking.
Wild Black Yonder
West Virginia has the resources and technology, but not the laws.
Healthy Outlook
Doctor’s orders: find a good use for St. Luke’s hospital.
Stalemate
The government needs to accept defeat in an unwinnable war.
Better Angels of Our Mercy
The horror in Blacksburg shows just how shallow the national discourse has become.
Good Guy
President Jerry Beasley and the administration at Concord University deserve our applause.
Stand Down
Being funny doesn’t have to mean being vicious.
Wouldn’t it be Nice
Take time this week to put a little love in your heart.
Convince, not Coerce
The tenor of the debate over the presidential selection process at WVU reveals a fundamental problem in this state: a lack of reasonable public debate.
Shameful
Defacing the state veterans’ memorial deserves harsh punishment.
Sound and Fury Signifying Nothing
When coal becomes a national issue, it has implications.
A Lesson for Lawmakers
The potential of labor unrest in the schools should teach lawmakers the perils of letting public workers unionize.
Bet on West Virginia
It’s not too late for lawmakers to bet on West Virginia and learn that we can compete and win.
What Will it Take?
The dearth toll from ATVs on Southern West Virginia roads is mounting, but one senator still blocks action.
How About a Raise for Everybody?
Teachers aren’t alone in feeling the pull of better opportunities elsewhere.
One Size Doesn’t Fit All
West Virginia lawmakers need to add options for cities, not take them away.
Good Man
Congratulations to James H. “Buck” Harless, winner of The State Journal’s 2007 Lorenelle White Lifetime Achievement Award.
Ninety Percent to Go
The speed and consensus with which table games was approved was impressive -- if only those same traits applied to the issues most pressing to the future of the state.
Pick a Winner
The removal of Ron Thompson complete, perhaps we can get down to business.
Warm Wishes
Make sure that the people you know will through this cold snap, safe and warm.
Community Counts
The mourning is just now beginning, but in time healing will begin.
Making the Most of Education
Public education is so important to our future that we should be looking at new ideas.
Missing Representation
When Delegate Thompson is well enough to show himself, he needs to explain himself too.
Grow Up
Learning to share and cooperate is a lesson for students and, apparently, school administrators.
Up in Smoke
Taxing cigarettes makes more sense than taxing baby food.
Tragic Toll
Law enforcement, not bigger state government, is the answer to the ATV fatality crisis.
Remarkable Service
Senator Robert Byrd’s historic ninth term in the U.S. Senate is something to be proud of.
Belt Tightening
It’s time for state government to make a New Year’s resolution of its own to get fit.
Real Welfare
It’s time to let people keep more of what they earn and make more of their own decisions.
Craig Broadwater, R.I.P.
U.S. District Judge Craig Broadwater’s life should be an inspiration to every West Virginian.
Poor Sports
West Virginians working tough jobs for low wages demonstrate more class than the multi-millionaires of the NBA.
High Hopes
A new Speaker with a new voice has a chance to move the state ahead.
Good Sense
It’s time to clear the air in Lewisburg.
A Bargain at Twice the Price
One of the things that’s already becoming clear is what a bargain we have had in president David Hardesty.
A Tale of Two Virginias
West Virginia could learn a lot from its older sibling.
No Shame in Their Game
Convicted state employees seeking to keep their pensions are an embarrassment.
“Singular Deliverances and Blessings”
Giving thanks in times of trouble is an act of faith and boldness.
Digging Out
Falling coal prices should alarm every West Virginian.
Time to Act
The delay on the investigation into the claims of wrongdoing in the Greenbrier County Sheriff’s Department is an embarrassment to the county
Power Play
People in positions of power at the West Virginia will be held to account for producing results and creating change
Policy Not Politics
With the election over, the work of government can begin.
Worn Out
Election Day comes not a moment too soon.
Growing Pains
In defense of partisanship
Abundance of Caution
State officials must take extra care to avoid influencing the outcomes of elections
Taxing Problem
New tax report reveals major impediments to West Virginia’s growth.
Risks of Reform
Many have benefited from the corruption in this state, and those folks stand to lose a lot if reform takes hold
Another Look
Allegations of wrongdoing in law enforcement agencies demand extra attention and extra scrutiny
Change Order
Change will only come when West Virginia voters demand it
Valor
The world still needs men like Brandon Asbury.
Action Speaks
Being a superpower is not easy, but it is still preferable to being defeated.
Well Done
McDowell County Schools’ progress provides hope for a better future.
What's Wrong With the World?
Return to church-based values needed
Come Together
Manchin and Blankenship come together for a worthy cause.
Change Order
Voters will be tempted to ignore this election, but the cost of sitting this one out will be paid by generations of West Virginians.
The Founders’ Gift
The U.S. Constitution is our shield against tyranny and the cornerstone of our national greatness. Celebrate it this Constitution Week.
Opening Up
New Fayette County development is the start of a new era.
Remembrance Isn’t Enough
America must stay vigilant and on the march against its enemies in this long struggle.
Closer Look
The embezzlement at RESA-1 should make us rethink our educational approach.
Right Direction
The reduction of the number of state employees should be the first step toward a smaller, less powerful state government.
Always Vigilant
Prostitution is symptomatic of larger problems and must be addressed on an ongoing basis, not periodically.
Sad Distinction
The state’s 41st ATV fatality, fittingly, was in Southern West Virginia.
Diversity and Diversification
The new census numbers reveal a challenge for West Virginia.
Giveback
State officials should act now to lessen the future impact of the bad decisions of the past.
Keep the Promise to Poor Kids
Scholarships should reward excellence or help those in need.
Diversion
Senator Bailey’s late complaints about road spending are not helpful.
Naked Greed (7/25/2006)
Abusing the public trust is far worse than paying for a private dance.
Don’t Balk
A Greenbrier County big-leaguer provides a powerful example of how to succeed – never stop trying.
Getting Better All the Time
The Suggestion Box is filling up; get yours in today.
Home Run
The arrival of Virginia’s little league tournament is great news for our region.
Shrink First (7/6/2006)
Taxes exist as a consequence of government spending. We must control spending first.
Protect Yourself (6/29/2006)
America’s commitment to civil liberties is worth fighting for.
Daily Defense (6/20/2006)
West Virginia Day is a good time to remember the people who defend our freedom.
Four-Wheel Justice (6/15/2006)
Raleigh County law enforcement doesn’t stop at the end of the pavement.
Worth Doing Right (06/13/2006)
Child sex abuse legislation is too important to leave any lawmaker out of the process.
Relief
News on the final sale of Raleigh General Hospital will help our community move forward.
Results (6/06/2006)
Most West Virginians would agree that child sex offender legislation is a good start.
Shrink First (6/1/2006)
Tax reforms should start with a plan to dramatically shrink state government.
Who Pays? (5/30/2006)
The problem with the Budget Digest wasn’t just the process, it was the pork.
Remember (5/25/2006)
West Virginians have a special connection to Memorial Day.
Public Domain (5/22/2006)
Governments that take private property from one person to give to another are redistributing wealth.
Kids at Risk (5/18/2006)
A grade school drug bust should make every parent look at what risks their own children face.
Race to the Bottom (5/9/2006)
Election Day marks the end of a sometimes unpleasant primary election cycle. Today’s winners must decide what the summer and fall may bring.
Winning Ugly (5/4/2006)
The race for the 9th State Senate district is doing a disservice to voters.
Go Slow (5/2/2006)
West Virginia needs a backup to new electronic voting machines.
Choices (4/20/2006)
Eminent domain battle reflects the changing nature of West Virginia’s mountains.
On the Line (4/18/2006)
We owe the people fighting and rebuilding in Iraq our attention in this debate over the future of the war.
Real Entitlements (4/11/2006)
Questions about federal budget earmarks in West Virginia reveal the shortcomings of the current system.
Private Sector (4/6/2006)
West Virginia’s private schools have earned their own athletic conference.
Giving Back (4/4/2006)
Fixing West Virginia’s economy requires good policy, not state handouts.
Farewell (3/30/2006)
Erma Byrd was an example for us all.
Well Done (3/28/2006)
Paying off our debts is a bet on West Virginia’s future.
Vigilance (3/23/2006)
Taxpayers beware: the natural tendency of government and taxes are to grow.
Priorities (3/21/2006)
We welcome President Bush, but hope he’ll pay careful attention to our security concerns.
Blame to Share (3/16/2006)
Parents must take responsibility for the acts of their children.
Good News and Bad News (3/14/2006)
The failure of the West Virginia Legislature to deal with sex crimes reveals a larger problem with the way lawmakers do their work.
Justice (3/9/2006)
It seems that the need for stronger penalties for sex offenders is obvious to everyone but lawmakers.
Safety First (3/2/2006)
Fayette County officials must remember that public safety is their first responsibility.
Eminent Action Needed (2/28/2006)
West Virginia’s Legislature should enact strong eminent domain legislation sooner rather than later.
High on Tech (2/23/2006)
The future of WVU Tech depends on community support as much as it does the state.
Time to Act (2/20/2006)
Lawmakers need to make the most of the remaining days of the Legislative Session.
Taking a Toll (2/16/2006)
Southern West Virginia has to stay engaged when it comes to not only tolls, but every issue.
Balance of Power (2/14/2006)
Turnpike decision demonstrates the importance of equal branches of power.
Priorities (2/9/2006)
The theft of $1 million from the RESA system reveals the scope of the state’s education administration bureaucracy.
Enough is Enough (1/31/2006)
Taxpayers are starting to wake up to abuse and fraud.
Public Input (1/26/2006)
Whatever happens with the toll hike, citizens should have a say in how toll revenues are used.
Priorities (1/24/2006)
Legislators need to set priorities and set aside petty politics.
Appalachian Springs (1/19/2006)
Glade Springs is proof that this region’s beauty is our greatest asset.
Paying Attention (1/17/2006)
Sometimes the people have to speak loudly for the politicians to listen.
Taking its Toll (1/12/2006)
We should make the most of the time it takes to work through the lawsuit over the turnpike toll increase.
News Judgment
West Virginia Media will not provide a platform for hate.
Courage (1/4/2006)
West Virginia’s miners face huge risks every day to keep America running.
Happy New Year
Opportunities abound for 2006 after a successful 2005.
Give of Yourself (12/27/2005)
Sharing time can be more important than money.
Merry Christmas
As we count our blessing this holiday season, our viewers are high on the list.
Good Debate (12/15/2005)
Southern West Virginians aren’t interested in extremism in the coal mining debate.
Revenue Requirements (12/13/2005)
West Virginia’s cities need more ways to fund infrastructure and public safety needs.
Safe and Warm (12/8/2005)
Home heating requires careful attention to safety.
Always Vigilant
Those who died at Pearl Harbor have taught generations of Americans about the costs and duties of freedom.
Recognizing Success (12/1/2005)
Mercer County residents should take pride in their commitment to kids.
Keep the Promise
Providing access to higher education for motivated low-income students is one of the best ways to create a culture of opportunity in West Virginia.
Holiday Homecoming (11/24/2005)
West Virginians living out of state represent an untapped resource for making a brighter future for all of us.
Advanced Citizenship (11/22/2005)
As we debate the American presence in Iraq, we should think first of the Americans serving there.
Growing Pains
Property crime in growth areas has a larger cost than just what’s taken.
Choose or Lose
Seniors must pay careful attention as they select their Medicare prescription drug benefit plan.
A Land of Heroes (11/10/2005)
The sacrifices and successes of the Southern West Virginia’s veterans deserve our deepest gratitude.
A Matter of Respect (11/7/2005)
Gov. Manchin is right to treat sexual harassment allegations in state government with the utmost seriousness.
State of the Union
The question of allowing state workers to collectively bargain demands careful consideration and the input of the taxpayers.
Baby Steps (11/1/2005)
Creating a culture of opportunity in West Virginia will take more than we’ve seen so far.
Success is Contagious (10/27/2005)
The new investment in McDowell County shows potential for growth.
Goodbye Government Giveaways (10/25/2005)
The state’s new economic development policy is sensible and long overdue.
Charity Begins at Home
Giving spirit runs deep in Southern W.Va,, but local charities still need help.
A Great Idea (10/18/2005)
A coal liquefaction plant could brighten West Virginia's future.
Jump for Joy (10/13/2005)
Outdoor adventure tourism has become a big part of the economic life of Southern West Virginia.
Old Wounds Slow to Heal (10/11/2005)
POW/MIA families and loved ones struggle to find closure, but there’s some good news for one W.Va. family.
Military, Politics Must be Separate (10/4/2005)
State officials should make sure that there is no confusion about the proper role for officers.
Perpetual Elections Take a Toll (9/27/2005)
Modern politics are too often long on vitriol and short on substance.
A Good Start (9/13/2005)
Tax reform must be comprehensive and significant.
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Bray Cary is president and chief executive officer of West Virginia Media, a multi-media company that serves 90 percent of West Virginia.
