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The Republican Gazette
"When news breaks, we fix it!"
The Republican Gazette is owned, operated, written and edited by Gary Abernathy, and does not represent the views of any other person or organization, except for guest commentary signed by other contributors.
MONDAY FEBRUARY 23, 2009
County chairs and other Republicans hear an update on the legislature from House Minority Leader Tim Armstead during Saturday morning's chairmen's meeting, part of the day-long activities of the Winter Meeting of the West Virginia Republican Party..
State GOP backs Blair's bill to drug test those who get public assistance
Committee will also study whether to continue letting independents vote in GOP Primary election
(Press Release) Members of the West Virginia State Executive Committee on Saturday passed a resolution endorsing a bill backed by Del. Craig Blair that would require drug testing for anyone receiving welfare, food stamps or jobless benefits, and agreed to study whether to
continue the practice of allowing non-affiliated voters to participate in the GOP Primary election.
While Blair’s proposed legislation won the backing of a solid majority of the state committee, the vote was not unanimous, after State Sen. Clark Barnes raised questions about its constitutionality and fairness, even though he said he respected Blair and understood his intentions with the bill. Del. John Overington had asked for the committee’s approval of the resolution, and state GOP Chairman Doug McKinney allowed Blair, who was also in attendance, to defend the merits of the bill after Barnes spoke. Eventually, a majority of committee members gave it their endorsement.
The committee also agreed to study the issue of whether voters other than registered Republicans should continue to be permitted to participate in the GOP Primary election, a practice that began in the 1980s. Some committee members have indicated a desire to limit the Primary to Republicans only, although it is unclear whether they represent a majority of members. The state Democratic Party recently opened its Primary to non-affiliated voters.
McKinney offered a State of the Party address, reviewing the events of his tenure to date, and describing his decision to hire Gary Abernathy as executive director. McKinney told the committee that fundraising was strong, noting that February was on pace to match or exceed January’s showing of nearly $19,000 raised. A handout on McKinney’s activities since becoming chairman in the summer of 2006 showed that he had traveled nearly 30,000 miles attending more than 160 events, and personally donated more than $57,000 to candidates and the party, including in-kind contributions. 
McKinney noted that GOP opposition to the federal stimulus bill was one of the biggest motivators in recent years for Republicans, and predicted much improved election prospects beginning in 2010, promising, “We will be ready.”  At the conclusion of his remarks, McKinney received a standing ovation.
The committee heard an audit report from Vice Chair Tom O’Neill, who reviewed the findings of a recent examination of the party’s books. While reporting that all records appear to be accurate and in order, O’Neill said the committee was recommending several procedural changes. Treasurer Marti Riggall also addressed the committee and reported that many
of the recommendations have been implemented, or soon will be.
Committee members also heard from 2008 candidates Beth Walker (Supreme Court), Dan Greear (Attorney General) and Michael Teets (Agriculture Commission), all of whom ran strong races while falling short of victory.
During lunch, committee members and guests heard from Dr. Russ Sobel, author of “Unleashing Capitalism,” who discussed findings of research regarding judicial reform that will be presented in a new forthcoming book.
In the morning meeting of county chairs, House Minority Leader Tim Armstead updated chairmen on the legislative session. Joe Garcia, chairman of Summers County and chairman of the county chairs, reviewed the 2008 election county by county, and asked the chairs for input regarding their vision for the future of the party.
In other business, the committee:
•Heard a resolution from National Committeewoman Donna Gosney to add former Gov. Arch Moore, Jr., and his wife, former First Lady Shelley Moore, as emeritus members of the committee. Because the resolution was not offered 30 days in advance of the meeting, it cannot be enacted until the Summer Meeting, but it seemed clear that members were strongly in favor.
•Agreed to examine the issue of removing members from the committee who have missed four or more consecutive meetings.
•Heard a report on Camp Lincoln from Brig. Gen. John “Doc” Bahnsen. Camp Lincoln is a summer camp open to West Virginia high school students, and teaches them about politics and government. Bahnsen said a special scholarship is available again this year for minority students.
•Heard a report on Internet developments at the party from webmaster Tommy Phillips.
•And approved the addition of new committee members Sue McKinney of Harrison County, Gary Howell of Mineral County, and Gary Dungan of Jefferson County.
After the meeting, McKinney expressed his delight at the number of young Republican activists who attended, including Lisa Peana , executive director of the West Virginia Federation of Young Republicans, who carried the proxy of WVFYR Chairman Ashley Stinnett.
New WV Republican  intern program honors the life of former Gov. Cecil H. Underwood
CECIL UNDERWOOD
(Press Release) The West Virginia Republican Party today announced a new program paying tribute to former West Virginia Gov. Cecil H. Underwood, who passed away in November.
The Cecil H. Underwood Intern Program will utilize the talents of young Republicans across West Virginia as they work with the State Party each summer to carry out the party’s efforts in a variety of activities.
“Gov. Underwood had a special connection with young people, and this program will be one way for his legacy to live on in our party for years to come,” said state GOP Chairman Doug McKinney.
Cecilia Baker, the governor’s daughter, said, “Our family is honored by this gesture. Our father deeply appreciated the talents and contributions of young people, and this program will help develop and encourage their participation in the political process.”
McKinney said the intern program will provide logistical and ground support for the party, grow new ideas and talent with potential future leaders and party staff, and publicly demonstrate an active, growing, and community-oriented party. Interns will develop conservative values and leadership skills, and gain valuable work experience and interaction with party and community leaders. 
Cecil H. Underwood first ventured into politics in 1944 at age twenty-two with his election to the House of Delegates. He retained this seat until 1956, serving as House minority floor leader in 1949, 1951, 1953, and 1955. In 1957, he became the youngest governor in the history of the state and the first Republican governor in twenty-four years. In 1996, Underwood became the state's oldest governor, forty years after his first election to the office.
For more information or to contribute to the program, contact the WVGOP at 304-768-0493, or email wvgop@wvgop.org.
Members of Young Republican chapters from several counties gathered in Huntington Monday night for the quarterly meeting of the state organization.
Young Republicans OK resolution defending coal industry Monday
Expression of support is a direct rebuttal of Young Democrats' call in '08 for no mountaintop removal
(Press Release) The West Virginia Federation of Young Republicans on Monday unanimously approved a resolution supporting the state's coal industry, including the practice of mountaintop removal to mine coal.
The resolution was in direct response to last year's resolution by the West Virginia Young Democrats calling for a moratorium on mountaintop removal permits in West Virginia.
Ashley Stinnett, chairman of the state Young Republicans, said, "Tonight is a statement to everyone who serves in the coal industry. Tonight the Young Republicans have said we stand with you in full support."
Stinnett said that the Democrat Party "is all about restricting coal with draconian environmental regulations.
"While the current White House may want to bankrupt coal, the West Virginia Young Republicans will stand with the industry in its fight for a better future."
Stinnett added, "Coal is West Virginia's future and our politicians must never work to damage that relationship.
"Organizations like the Friends of Coal Association are the best example of a grassroots movement aimed at bettering the lives of all West Virginians. We welcome to opportunity to work with them in anyway we can."
Meeting at the Marshall Hall of Fame Cafe, the Young Republicans also heard reports on new county chapters, updates on local activities, and extended the terms of officers from one year to two years, beginning with the summer election of officers.
McGeehan speaking today on West Virginia energy plan
Delegate Pat McGeehan (R-Hancock) will give a floor speech today regarding West Virginia energy policy, coal, and American energy independence.
A press advisory from the GOP House caucus said McGeehan will be available immediately following the floor session to answer any questions.
McGeehan, the newest Republican in the House of Delegates, is scheduled to speak at 11 a.m.
McGeehan is on the Energy, Industry & Labor/ Economic Development & Small Business, Constitutional Revision and Government Organization committees.
PAT McGEEHAN
Capito featured in USA Today on bailout
Congresswoman Shelley Moore Capito was featured in a USA Today story Monday regarding the Wall Street financial bailout. The story noted that even though her husband is a Citigroup executive, she voted against the package, saying that despite listening to her husband "as much as a wife is going to listen to her husband ... Policy-wise, the buck stops with me." You can read it here.
TUESDAY FEBRUARY 24, 2009
J.C. Watts draws GOP faithful
Former Congressman J.C. Watts drew more than 250 Republican faithful to the Charleston Civic Center Tuesday evening for the annual Kanawha County Republican Party Lincoln Day Dinner. Above, Watts gives an inspirational speech that connected with the crowd. At right, Kanawha GOP Chair Melody Potter greets Watts upon his arrival Tuesday morning at Yeager Airport. Below, the crowd at the Civic Center featured many public officials, including many lawmakers from around the state who are in Charleston for the legislative session. State GOP Chair Doug McKinney and his wife, Sue, were also on hand.
(Top, bottom photos by Bill Riggall)
(Press Release) Delegate Pat McGeehan (R- Hancock) on Tuesday outlined a bill that will build the first coal-to-liquid plant in the United States. 
The plant would provide many high paying jobs, approximately 2,000 full time and 4,000 construction jobs, to West Virginia not to mention independence from foreign oil.  In the bill, the state will help build the plant through tax credits and exemptions and further provides that the state will buy the fuel at a pre-negotiated price for the first four years of the plants' operation.
Delegate McGeehan toured an experimental coal-to-liquid plant in Denver, Colorado in late January.  The company has an interest in locating a plant using their process and technology in West Virginia. Delegate McGeehan has also been in contact with Air Force officials which have set a policy of having half the Air Force fleet flying with coal-to-JP8 jet fuel by 2015.
"Over the past two years, coal-to-liquid technology and development has made significant progress," said Delegate Pat McGeehan. "New policies need to be developed to bring this improved process to West Virginia. This legislation gives West Virginia the opportunity to become a world leader in 'syn gas' as it is with natural gas, coal and timber.  Not only will it provide thousands of jobs, it will make our state and country significantly safer and ultimately save American blood."
The bill provides tax credits for all related state business taxes for four years after the initial operations begin.
It will also exempt any company that owns 50% or greater equity in the plant which also owns any coal mines, from any state coal severance tax on the coal produced for the plant for the first four years after initial operation. The state purchasing division would also be required to purchase their fuel needs from the new plant for the first four years.
McGeehan bill would build 1st coal-liquid plant
Wood Republicans
hear from WVGOP
Nearly 40 Wood County Republicans gathered at a Parkersburg restaurant Tuesday to hear an update on the West Virginia Republican Party from Gary Abernathy, executive director of the state GOP. The event was organized by local Republicans Rocky Peck, Greg Smith, Alan Ross and Bob Fish. Those in attendance made donations totaling $1,500 to the WVGOP. The Parkersburg News & Sentinel has a story.
Abby Sobonya, a sophomore political science major at WVU and daughter of WV House of Delegates' member, Kelli Sobonya (R-Cabell) is running on "The Proven Party Ticket" for the Student Government Association for a position on the Board of Governors.
As a member of Alpha Phi Sorority, Abby has held offices of Senior Panhellenic Delegate and Vice President of Marketing. While in high school, Abby was selected each year for All-County and All-State Choir, served a year as captain of the CMHS cheerleading squad, and was selected to serve on Student Council.
If elected, she plans to use her leadership skills to help create a stronger voice for college students both at the state capitol and within the community.  She hopes to use her relationships forged at the Legislature
Abby Sobonya seeking WVU student position
ABBY SOBONYA
to push for legislative reforms for the benefit of all West Virginia college students. Some issues in her plank include: protecting student scholarships (PROMISE, etc), affordable tuition and textbooks, improved PRT transportation for students ; tenant/landlord issues to address the timely return of deposits; restrictions on unfair towing practices; and improved conditions/access to the student health care center. The election is being held February 24 through February 26, 2009. WVU students are urged to vote on www.mix.wvu.edu. For more information on The Proven Party candidates, visit www.provenparty.com or http://www.zuccaripeters.com/sobonya.html.
WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 25, 2009
FRIDAY FEBRUARY 27, 2009
McKinney: Decision by Chesapeake shows WV still not open for business
(Press Release) West Virginia Republican Party Chairman Doug McKinney said Thursday that the announcement by Chesapeake Energy that it is eliminating 215 of its 255 positions in its Charleston office and warning about doing business in the state is one of the best examples yet of how current economic policies harm the state. 
“Governor Manchin declared that West Virginia was ‘open for business’ back in 2005,” said McKinney. “Clearly, four years later, the same stale economic policies we have lived with for generations continue to drive business out of our state.”
McKinney noted that in announcing the move, Chesapeake CEO Aubrey McClendon said that “a prudent company must be very cautious in committing further resources” in West Virginia. Manchin responded with a statement saying, “West Virginia is a still a great location for
business…” and laid the blame on the national economic crisis.
“Until our governor and the party controlling the State Legislature begin to address the economic and legal reforms necessary to move our state forward, we’ll continue to see a trend that includes big announcements by the governor of new plants and jobs, but nothing ever happening when it comes time to actually build or break ground.”
McKinney said West Virginia must immediately eliminate the anti-growth business franchise tax, reduce the corporate net income tax, further reduce the property tax on equipment, and promote a fair and unbiased court system through the non-partisan election of judges.
“Until we get serious about economic reform and abandon the slow, phase-out approach favored by the governor, nothing will make any difference in regard to jobs and prosperity in West Virginia,” said McKinney.
Blair unveils website on drug testing legislation
(Press Release) Del. Craig Blair on Thursday unveiled a new website, www.notwithmytaxdollars.com, which explains the reasons behind a bill he is introducing that would require random drug testing for those who receive welfare, food stamps or unemployment benefits.
“People across the state are emailing and calling me with questions about the bill,” said Blair.
“They’re excited about finally doing something to address this problem, but they’re curious about how it would work. This new website answers all their questions.”
The new site includes links to recent news coverage of the bill, a question and answer section, a copy of the legislation itself, a comments section featuring samples of the
hundreds of communications he has received on the subject, and other features. 
“Public assistance is meant to be there for those who truly have a short-term need,” said Blair. “But people across the state are fed up with those who make a career out of using taxpayer dollars to feed their illegal drug habits. It’s time we get serious about ending the abuse.”
Blair added, “More and more private employers are requiring drug testing these days. How can people find a job if they can’t pass a drug test? My bill will essentially serve as a pre-screening service, and provide a rehabilitation program so recipients of public assistance can find gainful employment sooner rather than later.”
MONDAY MARCH 2, 2009
From 2001-2005, Joe Manchin was notorious for using the Secretary of State's office for shameless self-promotion as he prepared for his campaign for governor. 
After Betty Ireland greatly curtailed the use of the office for personal promotion, new Secretary of State Natalie Tennant has reverted to using taxpayer dollars for public relations that might even make Manchin blush.
Her latest PR adventure is a "Live Chat With Natalie Tennant,"  an Internet feature connected to the Charleston Gazette that will feature Tennant fielding questions on March 5, but until then features her picture and name on the Gazette website every day. This is apparently a Gazette-sponsored event, but Tennant issues press releases several times weekly on items as mundane as the fact that she spoke to one small group or the other, and is aggressively marketing herself to appear in front of just about any gathering that will have her. After all, the 2012 gov race is coming right up.
(Press Release) The West Virginia Republican Party again raised nearly $19,000 in February and increased its cash on hand as it continues to build for the 2010 election cycle.
In January, the state GOP raised nearly $19,000 and ended the month with about $26,000 cash on hand, up from $18,000 on hand at the end of December.
February’s books closed with numbers showing nearly another $19,000 raised and more than $32,000 cash on hand.
“We continue enjoying great support from Republicans around the state who want to make sure the party is in position to support our candidates, county party organizations and grassroots volunteers,” said state GOP Chairman Doug McKinney. “Even in this tough economy, Republicans are stepping up to the plate and starting now to make sure we’re on sound footing for the challenges ahead.”
February’s finance report will be filed with the Federal Elections Commission by the March 20 filing deadline.
State GOP enjoys another strong fundraising month
SOS office is campaign central again
New Secretary of State busy with self promotion
Natalie Tennant, the first and only female WVU Mountaineer, as she might appear in a new SOS seal, as imagined by a reader.
Mojo's 'Newsweek' article causes buzz at Capitol
The Capitol was abuzz late last week as word spread about an online "Newsweek" article on efforts to change West Virginia's image and featuring  Gov. Joe Manchin.
First, the article referred to Manchin as "a charismatic Republican." The governor's office has reportedly asked "Newsweek" for a correction (prompting the Charleston Gazette's Phil Kabler to cheekily ask, "Which part? The charismatic or the Republican?")
But causing greater chatter were a couple of quotes attributed to Mojo. After being asked about the annual Road Kill Cook-Off in Pocahontas, the article reported the following response from the gov: "Are they still running that s––– down south?" he asks an aide in disbelief, before adding: "Well, I tell you what, if you see [the organizer], kill the son of a bitch."
Clearly, the governor did not believe that his comments were going to be quoted, and the call from his office to "Newsweek" to get his party affiliation corrected no doubt focused much more on the reporter's decision to quote Manchin using language not intended for inclusion in the article.
The incident brings up an age old question regarding reporters and their subjects, and what rules apply in regard to comments or actions meant on the record or off. That issue was also highlighted recently in regard to a Charleston Gazette article by Paul Nyden on Brent Benjamin encountering Don Blankenship at a local restaurant three years ago. Supreme Court public information officer (and former AP reporter) Jennifer Bundy addressed the subject in a letter to the editor that appeared Sunday and that you can find online here.
Caruth offering update of session at Kanawha lunch
DON CARUTH
Senate Minority Leader Don Caruth will be the featured speaker at the monthly luncheon of the Kanawha County Republican Party.
The lunch will be held at noon Tuesday, March 17, at the Whitewater Grill at the Charleston Marriott.
In the Senate, Caruth serves on several committees, including Government Organization, Judiciary, Rules, Economic Development and Interstate Cooperation.
(Press Release) The recent layoffs at Chesapeake Energy has led West Virginia Young Republicans Chair Ashley Stinnett to ask, "How can the younger generation expect to give back to West Virginia after they graduate college when companies are packing up and moving on?”
"Our state government has ruined the business climate here in West Virginia with no hope in sight,” added Stinnett.
YRs bemoan state's business climate
TUESDAY MARCH 3, 2009
Breaking news: Sen. Jeff Kessler runs government
The debate over Del. Craig Blair's bill that would require drug testing for recipients of public assistance has been met largely with support from the public, attention (and in some cases praise) from the media, and even an endorsement from the state executive committee of the West Virginia Republican Party.
Even most who disagree with Blair's proposal have at least recognized some merits in the plan. Fellow Republican Senator Clark Barnes clearly opposes the measure on principle, but has said he was making no final judgment on the bill itself until he has a chance to read it.
That's not the case for Democrat Senator Jeff Kessler, who told the Wheeling Intelligencer, "This is an intrusion into one's personal life, and I see no state interest in this. It will go absolutely nowhere." It will go absolutely nowhere? Since when does Kessler get to decide such things for his 133 fellow Senate and House members?
Kessler added, "What do you do when these benefits are usually for dependent children? Mom has pot in her system, and has three or four hungry kids at home."
Does Kessler not understand that the children of drug abusing parents are already not receiving the assistance that is supposed to be going to them? Drug testing is a controversial issue, and I am among those who are not happy that it has become so widespread in the private business world. But since it has, how is it so wrong to test those who are supposed to be looking for work? But Kessler has spoken. So it is written, so it shall be done.
WSJ oped on Caperton case: Free speech on trial
Today's Wall Street Journal contains a lengthy opinion piece by Bradley A. Smith and Jeff Patch of the Center for Competitive Politics, who correctly point out that a ruling by the Supreme Court in favor of Caperton "would establish the proposition that political speech -- not contributions to a politician's campaign, but the independent speech of citizens -- 'corrupts' democracy. For those who think that free speech and a healthy democracy go hand in hand, the stakes could hardly be higher." Read the entire oped here.
GOP lawmakers oppose closing Republican primary
Republican lawmakers in the West Virginia House and Senate are unanimously opposed to closing the state's GOP primary to all but Republican voters.
A letter sent Monday and signed by all GOP members of the Senate says, "We support the present open primary system of the West Virginia Republican Party." The GOP caucus in the House of Delegates has reportedly also voiced unanimous opposition to closing the primary, and a letter is on the way from those members as well. Congresswoman Shelley Moore Capito is also on record opposing the idea.
A motion to close the primary was made Feb. 21 at the Winter Meeting of the GOP state executive committee by Gregg Hendry of Cabell County, and was referred to an ad-hoc committee for study and a recommendation by this summer.
WEDNESDAY MARCH 4, 2009
RUSH LIMBAUGH
BRENT BENJAMIN
Dems working hard to make Rush the boss
Recusal issue brings pointed Court queries
Media plays along with effort to marginalize GOP
Scalia sums up the case with aggressive questions
One of the best examples of political maneuvering has been front
and center in the news courtesy of the Democratic Party's effort to identify radio talker Rush Limbaugh as the defacto leader of the Republican Party. Aided and abetted by the Democrats' public relations department -- aka the national mainstream media -- Dem leaders from Barack Obama through James Carville have offered a textbook example of how to create an issue, frame the question, and begin the process of embedding a purely ridiculous proposition as accepted fact.
Faced with a smart, well-spoken African American media star as the new chairman of the Republican National Committee, coupled with a disastrous political start by President Obama (whose every utterance drops the stock market another few hundred points), Democrats want nothing more than to distract everyone's attention by creating a phony debate over who's in charge at the GOP. The national media is naturally happy to play along, and the Democrats don't even have to pay them a consulting fee.
The way the Dems see it, Rush is hugely popular among right-wing conservatives, but pretty much loathed or at least mildly disliked by everyone else -- independents, moderates and, of course, died-in-the wool liberals. So creating the notion that Limbaugh is the voice and face of the Republican Party helps discredit everything the GOP does.
For his part, Limbaugh -- who did not get where he is today by shunning the limelight -- eats it up and devotes an inordinate portion of each day's show engaging in the debate himself, modestly denying that he's in charge of anything while simultaneously reminding us that he is the incubator and promulgator of all sound philosophies, scientifically proven to be right 99 percent of the time, don't forget.
Rush Limbaugh is great entertainment and one of the most talented and successful broadcasters in radio history. One of his greatest talents is his ability to recognize daily political trends and adjust his rhetoric accordingly, allowing him to declare victory no matter what happens at the end of the day.
He is an entertainer, and sometimes a mischievous prankster (remember "Operation Chaos?"), but he is not a leader so much as an instigator. When Republicans give credence to the notion that he's the boss, they help the Democrats score another victory in their own refined version of bait-and-switch.
The United States Supreme Court heard oral arguments in the
much-hyped case of Caperton v. A.T. Massey on Tuesday, and there was much breathless reporting on the questions being asked and comments offered by various justices as cases were made by Caperton lawyer Theodore Olson and Massey attorney Andrew Frey, both veterans of Supreme Court cases.
At the center of the case, of course, is whether Justice Brent Benjamin should have recused himself from the case since Massey CEO Don Blankenship spent around $3 million in an independent campaign to defeat Benjamin's opponent, incumbent Warren McGraw.
Trying to gleen how a court will rule based on the questions or statements by judges during arguments is usually more misleading than an email from a Bolivian millionaire. But among all the comments reported in the press, none got to the heart of the matter better than those posed by Antonin Scalia.
Scalia, obviously contemptuous of the whole issue, said at one point to Olson, "We're being urged to adopt out of nowhere a probability of bias. It's not in the Constitution."
As reported by the Washington Post, "Scalia said the court had never decided that anything other than a judge's direct financial interest in the outcome of a case were grounds for recusal. Finding that a judge must recuse because of either an 'appearance of bias' or because he owed a 'debt of gratitude' would open a limitless ability for litigants to challenge judges they didn't like." Precisely!
Even Justice David Souter, who would be predicted by most to side with Caperton, seemed reluctant to do so. As the Post reported, "Souter seemed sympathetic to Olson's arguments but wondered whether recusal standards should be better set by the 39 states where judges are elected."
Justice Anthony Kennedy, as usual, is seen as a swing vote on the subject and reportedly made comments and posed questions that at various times seemed sympathetic to both sides. 
Meanwhile, statistics released by the West Virginia Supreme Court in recent days revealed that in practice, rather than spin or theory, Benjamin has so far ruled against Massey 82 percent of the time, raising the question of whether Massey ought to be arguing for Benjamin's removal from its cases, rather than arguing against it. Hoppy Kercheval has insight today.
MOLLOHAN
(Press Release) Rep. Alan Mollohan (D-WV) claims he supports clean coal technology, but his relationship with party leader Chris Van Hollen raises serious questions about the sincerity of Mollohan’s support for coal production.  DCCC Chairman Van Hollen’s ardent opposition to clean coal at Monday’s rally in Washington, D.C. puts hard-working Pennsylvanian’s in jeopardy of losing their jobs.
Alan Mollohan claims he supports clean coal: “At the same time, we have vast coal reserves that can power our nation for generations to come. It is in our best interest to develop the most environmentally sound technologies for using coal, and to offer real incentives to apply those technologies in our nation's electric generating facilities,” (Alan Mollohan Official Website, http://www.house.gov/mollohan/news06-26-01.htm)
But, what’s more important to Alan Mollohan: His party bosses and their campaign cash, or ensuring that the middle-class jobs of his constituents are secure?
“The image of Democrats rallying for climate change during a Washington snowstorm may provide irony for some, but it is no laughing matter for the coal workers whose livelihoods are at stake,” said NRCC spokesman Paul Lindsay.   “How does Alan Mollohan expect to explain his plans to get our economy moving again when the chairman of his party’s campaign arm is front and center in the fight to destroy the jobs of his constituents?  While these middle-class families in Pennsylvania are fighting to make ends meet, their leaders in Washington continue to side with radical environmentalists rather than promoting clean technology that is the backbone of many rural economies in their state.”
According to the National Mining Association (NMA), coal accounts for over 16,000 jobs in Alan Mollohan’s district. It’s time for Alan Mollohan to decide what he’s going to put first: good jobs for the middle-class families in his district or his party bosses in Washington and their campaign cash. 
NRCC says it's time for Alan Mollohan to decide if party bosses or jobs matter more
(Press Release) On Thursday, March 19, pro-lifers will be holding a rally in the State Capitol Rotunda in Charleston in support of legislation that would stop taxpayer funded abortions in West Virginia. 
The Monongalia County Chapter of West Virginians for Life is sponsoring a bus to the Pro-Life Rally in Charleston.
The bus will be leaving the parking lot of Covenant Evangelical Methodist Church on the Greenbag Rd, Morgantown at 6:00 a.m. 
The bus will also pick up pro-lifers at the Bridgeport K-Mart located in the East Point Plaza fro 6:30 – 6:40 a.m. 
The chapter is asking for a $5 donation per seat to cover the cost of gas.  To reserve your seat please call Maryanne at (304) 216-6573
The rally will include music and exciting speakers, including National Right to Life President Wanda Franz and National Right to Life Political Director Karen Cross. 
Pro-life rally set for March 19; bus transport readied
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Blair's drug test bill ready for introduction
Del. Craig Blair's drug testing bill for those on public assistance has emerged from the drafting process and will be introduced on Thursday, with five Republican co-sponsors signed on and the Berkeley Republican waiting to see if Democrats sign onto the remaining six co-sponsor spots before adding more GOP names to the measure.
The bill has generated a ton of interest across the state, with Blair receiving mostly positive feedback from West Virginians who want more accountability in the system. One of the staunchest critics of the bill has turned out to be Sen. Jeff Kessler (D-Marshall), and the video at right features a WOWK-TV story with comments from both Blair and Kessler.
Barbie brought in to face lawmakers
Glamour doll linked to scandals, as reason for Eldridge's proposed ban becomes more clear to WV legislators
Barbie (lower left)  waits patiently at the desk of Del. Troy Andes on Wednesday as legislators prepare to question her on a variety of charges that led Del. Jeff Eldridge to propose her complete banishment from West Virginia.
When Del. Jeff Eldridge first proposed a bill that would ban Barbie from the state of West Virginia, his idea was universally derided, and his proposal given little chance of passage.
But on Wednesday, the House of Delegates subpoened the half-century-old glamour doll after word leaked out that she has been linked to various scandals across the Mountain State.
In an exclusive report, The Republican Gazette has learned that Eldridge only moved to ban Barbie after finding out that she has been a habitual troublemaker and is connected to a variety of controversial characters and incidents.
In fact, the Charleston Gazette is said to be preparing a story revealing that in late 2005, Barbie was seen dining with a coal company executive at a local restaurant, where she reportedly enjoyed a thimble of Diet Coke and discussed plans to vacation on the French Riviera with a Supreme Court justice.
Meanwhile, Del. Craig Blair revealed that Barbie has been drawing unemployment benefits in West Virginia, and demanded she undergo a drug test, saying, "If she ever tries to get a job as a stewardess, or a fashion model, or a nurse, or even an astronaut, she'll have to pass a drug test. Why shouldn't she pass one here and now?"
But Del. Sally Susman said Blair's idea "is an insult to downtrodden little plastic dolls everywhere who are trying to maintain their perfect figures while at the same time warding off complete starvation.”
Law enforcement officials stumbled across Barbie by accident last week when she was among several patrons cited for smoking at a local bar. She was unable to produce identification beyond a peel-off sticker that identified her as "Charleston Barbie" and a tattoo on the back of her neck that said "Mattel." Police hauled her in for questioning and soon discovered she was wanted in 27 other states on charges ranging from unpaid parking tickets to practicing medicine without a license.
During her own testimony yesterday, Barbie claimed to have earned an eMBA degree from West Virginia University, but she could not produce records to back up her claim, and professors who were at WVU at the time could not recall Barbie attending graduation ceremonies.
Barbie was also questioned about her lifestyle, since she has no visible source of income but owns several vehicles, a vacation home in Malibu, and an almost unlimited supply of clothes, shoes, hats, purses, and other accessories.  
For his part, Eldridge said that after learning of Barbie's arrest, he became more suspicious after leafing through several old catalogues and discovering that Barbie has employed numerous disguises over the years, frequently changing her hair color, makeup and wardrobe, and posing in a variety of occupations.
"This woman has passed herself off as everything from a doctor to a race car driver to a scuba diver," said Eldridge. "She seems to be a master of disguise and a world class con artist."
Lawmakers were divided over how to punish the 11.5-inch blonde bombshell. While Eldridge continued to push for banishment, Sen. Jeff Kessler recommended leniency and rehabilitation. But Del. John Overington suggested that capital punishment might not be out of the question, depending on whether law enforcement officials could locate Barbie's former companion, Ken.
Police said they have impounded a sporty pink Corvette allegedly belonging to the suspect, which is being kept in a shoe box in an undisclosed closet.
Barbie is expected to return today for another round of grilling.
THURSDAY MARCH 5, 2009
GOP lawmakers welcome J.C. Watts
Republican lawmakers welcomed former Oklahoma Congressman J.C. Watts to West Virginia at the recent Kanawha County Lincoln Day Dinner. From left: Sen. Dave Sypolt, Del. Kelli Sobonya, Del. John Overington, Watts, Del. Linda Sumner, Minority Leader Tim Armstead, and Del. Carol Miller. The dinner was held at the Charleston Civic Center.
In an undated photo, Barbie is shown in one of the many disguises that first alerted Del. Jeff Eldridge to her suspicious behavior and prompted him to introduce legislation banning her from West Virginia. Barbie was grilled by lawmakers in a surprise appearance Wednesday.
WEST VIRGINIA VS. BARBIE, DAY ONE
FRIDAY MARCH 6, 2009
Del. Craig Blair, center, addresses the media Thursday regarding his bill to require random drug testing of recipients of public assistance. Other Delegates joining Blair included, from left, Larry Border, Carol Miller, Kelli Sobonya and John Overington. At far right are Delegates Jonathan Miller and Patti Eagloski Schoen. Other Delegates were also in attendance. Below, Blair shakes hands with Del. Tom Louisos, the lone Democrat to sign onto Blair's measure.
Blair does Reagan, takes case directly to West Virginians
Del. Craig Blair fielded questions from the media Thursday about his upcoming bill to require random drug testing of individuals who sign up for public assistance, saying he was going over the heads of legislative Democrats and taking his case directly to the people of West Virginia.
Blair said he was "pulling a Ronald Reagan," referring to the 40th president's success in bypassing an unfriendly Congress and gaining public support for his proposals through personal appeals on television and radio. 
One Democrat, Del. Tom Louisos, signed on as a cosponsor of Blair's bill, but other Dems passed despite the overwhelming popular support demonstrated for the measure on talk radio, blogs and emails. So Blair asked citizens to contact Democrat lawmakers and urge them to vote for the bill.
Aside from the press conference, Blair had a full day of media appearances, starting with the "Tom Roten Morning Show" on WVHU in Huntington, then "Talkline" with Hoppy Kercheval on the MetroNews statewide network, and ending with a late afternoon appearance on Charleston's "58 Live" with Rick Johnson and Mike Agnello.
Blair will tape a segment for "Decision Makers" with Bray Cary on Friday for airing over the weekend on the West Virginia Media television network.
Blair has posted new information about the bill at www.notwithmytaxdollars.com.
Democrat anti-Barbie bill brings ridicule on WV from across U.S.
As predicted (by Hoppy Kercheval, among others), a Democrat lawmaker's bill to ban the sale of the Barbie doll in West Virginia is gaining national attention and once more subjecting the Mountain State to ridicule.
The bill has been featured on almost every national news network, and commented on by Fox News' Sean Hannity and Greta Van Sustern.
A report circulating around the Capitol was that the bill's sponsor, Del. Jeff Eldridge, had been invited to appear on the "Late Show with David Letterman," an invitation Eldridge declined. The Delegate also apparently decided to quit talking to reporters about the bill.
An example of the out-of-state take on it comes from Mary Robb Jackson of  KDKA in Pittsburgh, who writes:
Barbie is about to turn 50, but one West Virginia legislator wants to see the fashion icon banned from his state...
"I grew up and loved Barbies - played with them my whole life - but I think they try to educate young children as well," Stacy Macik of Bridgeville says.
Virginia Petersen of Murrysville agrees.
"I think it's ridiculous because Barbie makes billions of dollars a year and it'll hurt the economy even more - we have more important things to think about," she said.
"I think families are the ones who should quite frankly legislate how their children should be raised and what influences that should have," Anthony Graves from Plum said.
"Barbie is really a longstanding, and sort of complicated cultural icon and I think there are many ways Barbie could be viewed," Frayda Cohen, a professor of women's studies at the University of Pittsburgh, said...
In terms of role models, Barbie has already logged 108 careers in her lifetime. With a resume like that, the West Virginia gentleman's prospects are fading fast.
"I couldn't get anybody to sign on the bill with me," Eldridge said.
What Eldridge did accomplish was to prevent his fellow Dems from attacking Del. Craig Blair's drug testing bill as particularly outrageous.
IT'S A BARBIE WORLD -- Sue McKinney, wife of state GOP Chair Doug McKinney, has been collecting Barbie dolls all her life, and sent along this photo showing a display of part of her collection. A bill introduced by Democrat Delegate Jeff Eldridge would prevent Sue and every other West Virginian from purchasing Barbie dolls within the state.
Del. Craig Blair's proposal to require random drug testing for recipients of public assistance continues to pick up steam, with officer Tony Payne of the Charleston Metro Drug Unit telling WCHS-TV that drug abuse is a common problem among recipients of state and federal aide, and he supports the proposition.
Meanwhile, a WSAZ-TV poll posted yesterday showed more than 90 percent of respondents favoring Blair's bill, according to the evening newscast. The station's online story is followed by hundreds of reader comments, overwhelmingly favorable. Those two stations, along with WOWK-TV, covered Blair's Thursday press conference. You can view their reports at right.
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WOWK-TV report
Drug testing gains support
from law agencies, public
(Late Thursday)