West Virginians Shopped on Black Friday, But They Spent Less

West Virginia Retailers Association President Bridgett Lambert says there were more shoppers than 2008, but on average they spent about $29 less than they did last year.

Teenager Shot on Thanksgiving Day

The investigation continues today after the shooting of a 17-year old hunter in Harper’s Ferry in Jefferson County on Thanksgiving Day.

The teenager, who was shot in the stomach, was being treated at a Washington, D.C. hospital.

It was one of several hospital transfers for him.

Investigators with the Division of Natural Resources say the bullet that hit him came from rifle.

There is no word on who fired the shot.

The victim was wearing blaze orange and was out hunting with his father at the time.

GSC Pioneer Basketball - Tuesday 12.01.09

GSC CHOIR INVITES PUBLIC TO CHRISTMAS CONCERT

The Sand Fork Baptist Church will be the setting for this year’s Glenville State College Concert Choir and Chamber Singers Christmas Concert.

‘Celebration of Lessons in Carols’ will be presented on Wednesday, December 2, 2009 at 7:00 PM.

“A church setting seemed appropriate for this year’s concert which is in the style of Kings Choir College of Cambridge, England. It is also an opportunity for us to share our music out in the community. I hope everyone will join us for an enjoyable and beautiful evening,” said GSC Assistant Professor of Music Teresa Dody.

The program will include traditional Christmas music, spirituals, audience sing-a-long carols, and scripture readings. There is no admission charge; however, donations to the GSC Choral Club will be graciously accepted.

For more information, contact Dody at 304.462.6345

Legislative Update – by – Delegate Brent Boggs - House Majority Leader - 11.30.09

Thanksgiving
I hope everyone enjoyed a safe and happy Thanksgiving holiday with family and friends.  We were blessed to have all the kids and grandkids home, along with nieces and nephews and their kids, all at Mom and Dad’s home for a great meal and visit.  There were eight kids, all ages 1 through 6, so there was no lack of action.  It’s always a treat when the family gathers together for holidays and visits.  It’s also important to impress these family traditions on the next generations.

Little Birch Waterline Extension
Next weekend, I’m looking forward to the dedication and celebration of the completion of the Little Birch waterline extension.  This is one of the first – and possibly the first – waterline project where we have taken advantage of placing water line and fiber optic cable in the same trench.  I am very excited about the completion of this project and what it will mean to opening up further needed expansion projects in central West Virginia.

H1N1 – Swine Flu
I want to comment this week on the recent H1N1 vaccines made available to regional jails around the state.  First, my office and many other legislators have contacted DHHR Bureau of Public Health regarding the essential need for local police and firefighters to be included as “first responders” in West Virginia and accordingly, eligible to be among the first to receive the vaccine.  In many areas of the state, police and firefighters make it to the scene of accidents and render essential aid until EMT’s or paramedics arrive.

In rural counties, it would only take a few dozen cases of influenza running through a volunteer fire department to cripple the emergency response capabilities.  This could prove to be a life-or-death situation to victims of fires, car wrecks or other local emergencies.  Likewise, only a few illnesses could be a major factor in police service.

The answer I have received up to this point is that the guidelines of the federal Center for Disease Control (CDC) are being followed.  While I am far from qualified to determine medical issues, this one by the federal government missed the mark by a mile on several different levels.  I hope our Congressional delegation can influence CDC to make common sense changes that better protect our communities.

Deer Season
Thanksgiving week triggers the beginning of the annual deer (gun) season in West Virginia.  While many have been bow hunting successfully for several weeks prior, the big numbers turn out for this annual event.

DNR estimated approximately 280,000 hunters hit the woods for opening day of the two-week deer gun season in West Virginia.  Generally, weather was much better this week than in 2008, with most of the deer harvest taking place in the first few days of the season.  Full numbers for deer harvest numbers by county should available early this week.

Not only is this a long-standing Mountain State tradition; it also is an economic windfall for local businesses – sports shops, restaurants and hotels, retail and convenience stores, along with many others.  This a real shot in the arm for our economy.  Further, I am always proud when I hear from hunters that live in other parts of West Virginia or out of state, of the kindness, hospitality and friendly folks who live in central West Virginia.  Many have forged decades-long friendships by hunting in our area.

Legilative Interim Meeting
While this was a short week for legislative news, the pace will resume next week, as the final interim meetings for 2009 are slated for December 7 – 9 at the State Capitol.  As I write this column today, the schedule is not yet available from the Legislative Manager’s office.

Contacts
Finally, a reminder when contacting me at home or at the Capitol with your suggestions, concerns or problems:  If I am not home or unavailable, please leave your name, number and a brief message as to your concern or problem.  This helps me or my staff to gather information regarding your call and to expedite an answer.  It is my desire to assist as quickly as possible after the necessary information is gathered for a response.

Through the remainder of the interim period, please address your mail to my home office at PO Box 254, Gassaway, WV 26624.  My phone number is 304.364.8411 and fax 304.364.8711.

If you need immediate assistance, call the Capitol office at 304.340.3220 or my Assistant to the Majority Leader, Mr. Tom Bennett at 304.340.3262 or fax to 304.340.3213.  If you have an interest in any particular bill or a list of all bills that passed both the House and Senate, please let me know.

For those with Internet access, my e-mail address is “Boggs34@aol.com”. You also may obtain additional legislative information, including the copies of bills, conference reports, daily summaries, interim highlights, and other information from the Legislature’s web site at http://www.legis.state.wv.us/.  If you write or leave a message, please remember to include your phone number with your inquiry and any details you can provide.  Additional information, including agency links and state government phone directory may be found at www.wv.gov .

Finally
Remember to thank a veteran for their service to our nation and continue to remember our troops - at home and abroad - and keep them and their families in your thoughts and prayers.  Until next week, take care.

Bon Appétit: Venison Pumpkin Curry

Ingredients:
1 lb. venison, cut into 2-inch cubes
2 Tbsp. curry powder
1 tsp. ground allspice
1 tsp. ground corlander seed
2 Tbsp. vegetable oil
1 onion, chopped
2 large tomatoes, peeled and seed
1 Tbsp. tomato paste
3 garlic cloves, minced
8 oz. diced pumpkin (or other winter squash)
1 habanero chile, seeded and diced (optional)
3⁄4 cup chicken stock
2 Tbsp. cilantro, chopped
Salt and freshly ground pepper

Direction:
Put the cubed venison in a large bowl along with the curry powder, allspice, coriander, and generous doses of salt and pepper.
Mix well to combine the spices and to coat the meat.
Refrigerate, covered, for at least 1 hour (preferably longer).
Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Add the vegetable oil.
When the oil is just beginning to smoke, add the venison and cook until well browned on all sides, about 8 minutes.
Add the onion, tomatoes, and tomato paste, and continue to cook, stirring, for 4 minutes, or until the onions are limp.
Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
Add the pumpkin, chile (if using), and chicken stock, and bring to a simmer.
Reduce the heat to low, and simmer gently for 2 hours or more, or until the meat is very tender.
Stir in the cilantro and serve with lots of rice.

CommunityConcerns™: GFP’s Listing Policy

In the spirit of a TRUE DEMOCRACY, Gilmer Free Press DOES list submissions as Anonymous.

Based on hundreds of correspondences to Gilmer Free Press stating concerns about the existing community political atmosphere, we feel it is important to do this as a service to our readers and for greater good of our community.

Citizens have shown concern and are afraid of possible retaliation to them and or their family members if and when they express their true opinion.

We feel it is so sad, especially in a little piece of this Great America, that these feelings have been created in our community whether it is true or not.

It is not a good idea to create any more obstacles for the taxpaying citizens than already is.

There has also been a BIG FAILURE to inform our citizens by local media by catering specific groups and we feel everyone needs to work hard to change this.

Additionally, when community leaders fail to answer the community concerns and respond to their questions openly, they are absolutely not helping the cause. They are actually making matters worse.

In order for a submission to be posted anonymously, Gilmer Free Press DOES require, the name, address, telephone number, and e-mail address, if any, from the authors.

This information will not post and will be kept confidential by Gilmer Free Press.

All the conditions set forth in GFP’s Site Policy always apply.

Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.

Percentage of Union Workers in WV Drops in Half

Workers in West Virginia were about half as likely to belong to a union in 2007 as they were in 1983.

The percentage of workers represented by union contracts dropped from 28.5% in 1983 to 14.7% two years ago.

By comparison, the percentage of U.S. workers who belonged to a union dropped from 23.3% in 1983 to 13.3%.

Since 1983, West Virginia’s work force has shifted from manufacturing, mining and construction to more service-related fields, such as retail, health care and child care.

OddlyEnough: WV Principal Kisses Frog for Charity

Forget Prince Charming: it turns out kissing a frog can be a way to feed hungry families.

Bluefield Intermediate School Principal Cathy Daniels found that out this week when she kissed a fire belly toad to fulfill a pledge she made to students.

Since they donated 1,426 canned goods to the Bluefield Union Mission, Daniels applied her lips to the amphibian, which was donated for the occasion by a Princeton pet store.

Craig Hammond, director of the Bluefield Union Mission, says the school’s contribution is the largest donation they’ve received this year.

Daniels, incidentally, reports the toad’s kiss was “sticky.‘’

“Christmas from the Heart” Toy Drive

The Braxton County Sheriff’s Office will be participating in the annual “Christmas from the Heart” Toy Drive for our county.

New unwrapped toys may be dropped off at the Sheriff’s Tax Office between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM until December 10, 2009.

Unreported Grades Will Become F’s in 1 Month at WVU

West Virginia University is giving students and faculty a month to resolve unreported grades.

After that, the grades will automatically become F’s.

WVU Registrar Steve Robinson said the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers recommended the change after reviewing WVU’s record keeping policies this past spring.

Unreported grades typically occur when a faculty member fails to assign a grade. They also are given to graduate students enrolled in research courses and students who intend to drop a course but don’t file the necessary paperwork.

The new policy takes effect December 23, 2009.

E-mails will be sent to affected students and faculty members.

Robinson said NRs from past semesters will convert to withdrawals in January.

Grantsville: Christmas Parade

Friday, December 4, 2009
Light Up Night Celebration @ 5:00 PM
Christmas Parade @ 6:00 PM

Movie: Box Office 11.29.09

TW = This Week     LW = Last Week       WOC = Weeks On Chart

WV White House Crashers Looking to Capitalize on Escapade

They’ve canceled their appearance on “Larry King Live” and now the West Virginia couple accused of crashing President Obama’s state dinner last week is now reportedly shopping networks for an offer.

An unidentified television executive says Michaele and Tareq Salahi are now offering to talk to broadcast networks about what happened during their White House escapade for a payment of hundreds of thousands of dollars.

The couple was scheduled to go on “Larry King Live” on Monday, but CNN has confirmed their appearance was canceled.

According to the executive, the couple is looking for a payment in the mid-six figure range.

Network news divisions, including NBC news, don’t pay for interviews.

Michaele Salahi, who was pictured at the dinner greeting both the president and Vice President Joe Biden, is a reality TV hopeful trying to get on Bravo’s “The Real Housewives of D.C.“

Two senators say authorities ought to pursue criminal charges against the Virginia couple who crashed last week’s state dinner at the White House.

Democrat Evan Bayh of Indiana and Republican Jon Kyl of Arizona say such behavior should be strongly discouraged.

Authorities say Michaele and Tareq Salahi were allowed into the White House dinner Tuesday night even though they were not on the guest list.

The Secret Service has apologized for the breakdown in security and an investigation into possible criminal behavior is ongoing.

Bayh says it’s no laughing matter that two people could get so close to President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden without being cleared.

Bayh and Kyl appeared on “Fox News Sunday.“

Bert V. Shaw, Jr.

Bert V. Shaw, Jr.
Age 60, of Sutton, WV died November 25, 2009 at Plateau Medical Center, Oak Hill, WV.

He was born on Oct. 30, 1949 in Sutton to Edna Blankenship Shaw and the late Bert V. Shaw, Sr. and also preceding him in death was his wife, Louella Shaw; and sister, Bonnie Brooks.
He was a construction worker and also worked for the railroad during most of his working life.

Bert attended Spruce Lick United Methodist Church.

He is survived by 5 children, Tommy Shaw & Bert Shaw, III both of Alexandria, Va., Gabriel “Gabby” Shaw, Deanna Lefever both of Sutton, and his step-children John and Eva Rhodes both of Sutton; and mother, Edna Shaw.

Bert is also survived by his brother William “Bill” Shaw of Sutton and 4 sisters, Virginia Milliken of Madison, VA, Eloise Jean Fairfax and Linda L. Smallwood both of Front Royal, VA, and Donna Andrade of Culpeper, VA, and 9 grandchildren; and children’s mother Cheryl Holliday.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, November 28, 2009 at 1:00 PM at Greene-Robertson Funeral Home in Sutton with Rev. Bill Griffin officiating.

Burial followed the service in the Barker Ridge Cemetery near Sutton.

Friends called one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Online condolences may be sent to: greene-robertsonfuneralhome.com
Funeral arrangements are by Greene-Robertson Funeral Home, Sutton, WV.

John Ray Donaldson

John Ray Donaldson
Age 74, of Walnut Street, Weston, died Sunday, November 29, 2009, at his residence following an extended illness.

He was born July 26, 1935, in Weston, a son of the late Charles Victor Donaldson and Georgia Scott Donaldson.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Mildred Lee Moneypenny Donaldson on December 26, 2005; two sisters, Ione Burkhammer and Leone Harris; and four brothers, Gerald Donaldson, Burl Donaldson, Leo Donaldson and Bill Donaldson.

He is survived by two daughters, Cyndi Donaldson of Fredericksburg, Va., and Leann Norman of Weston; one son, John Ray Donaldson II of Weston; three grandchildren, Barbi Hardisty, Kathy Norman and Caleb White; two great-grandchildren, Taylor Shock and Paige Carpenter; and several nieces and nephews.
John was a veteran, having served in the United States Army during the Korean War.

He retired from Consolidated Gas as a heavy equipment operator with 38 years of service and later drove truck for Shriver Trucking.

He was Methodist by faith, loved to travel and spend time with his family.

Cremation services were provided by Boyle Funeral Home, Weston.

Interment will be held at a later date in Weston Masonic Cemetery.

Missouri Lee (Brown) Hashman

Missouri Lee (Brown) Hashman
Was born August 14, 1924 to James Edward and Nellie Ethel (Dobbins) Brown in Gassaway, WV.

She attended school at the Little Otter School in Braxton Count, WV.

Missouri married Gerald E. Hashman of Crooked Fork, WV on October 11, 1946.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Gerald; infant daughter, Carolyn Sue; two brothers, Earnest Clayton Brown and Thomas Franklin Brown.

She is survived by one brother, Forest Eugene “Mike” Brown of Gassaway, WV; her five children, Jerry Edward Hashman of Harker Heights, TX, Linda Ellen Veltre of Harker Heights, TX, Terry Edmond Hashman of Marana, AZ, Cindy Sue Shaffer of Harker Heights, TX and Gary Eugene Hashman of Harker Heights, TX; five grandchildren, Dawn Michelle, Jason, Christopher, Kaitlin and Jennifer; five great grandchildren, Tiffany, Kristen, Elizabeth, Heather and Alexis.

Missouri went to rest with God on November 26, 2009 at Scott and White Hospital following a brief illness.

Graveside service will be Tuesday, December 1, 2009 in the Crooked Fork Church Cemetery, Crooked Fork, WV.

Arrangements by Richard M. Roach Funeral Home, Gassaway, WV.

Daily Prayer: 11.30.09

11.30.09

Today: 11.30.yyyy

Today is Monday, Nov. 30, the 334th day of 2009. There are 31 days left in the year.

Thought for Today: “‘Plain English’ - everybody loves it, demands it - from the other fellow.“ - Jacques Barzun, French-born American historian.

Today’s Highlight in History:

On Nov. 30, 1939, the Russo-Finnish War, also known as the Winter War, began as Soviet troops invaded Finland. (The conflict ended the following March with a Soviet victory.)

In 1782, the United States and Britain signed preliminary peace articles in Paris, ending the Revolutionary War.

In 1803, Spain completed the process of ceding Louisiana to France, which had sold it to the United States.

In 1835, Samuel Langhorne Clemens - better known as Mark Twain - was born in Florida, Mo.

In 1874, British statesman Sir Winston Churchill was born at Blenheim Palace.

In 1900, Irish writer Oscar Wilde died in Paris at age 46.

In 1936, London’s famed Crystal Palace, constructed for the Great Exhibition of 1851, was destroyed in a fire.

In 1949, Chinese communist troops captured Chongqing.

In 1962, U Thant of Burma, who had been acting secretary-general of the United Nations following the death of Dag Hammarskjold the year before, was elected to a four-year term.

In 1966, the former British colony of Barbados became independent.

In 1981, the United States and the Soviet Union opened negotiations in Geneva aimed at reducing nuclear weapons in Europe.

Ten years ago: The opening of a 135-nation trade gathering in Seattle was disrupted by at least 40,000 demonstrators, some of whom clashed with police.

Five years ago: Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge announced his resignation. NAACP President Kweisi Mfume announced he was stepping down after a nearly nine-year tenure. President George W. Bush tried to repair strained U.S.-Canada relations during a visit to Ottawa. “Jeopardy!“ fans saw Ken Jennings end his 74-game winning streak as he lost to real estate agent Nancy Zerg.

One year ago: Space shuttle Endeavour returned to Earth after a nearly 16-day mission to repair and upgrade the international space station. The world’s most comprehensive legalized heroin program became permanent with overwhelming approval from Swiss voters, who simultaneously rejected the decriminalization of marijuana.

Today’s Birthdays:
Historian Jacques Barzun is 102
Actor Efrem Zimbalist Jr. is 91
Actor Robert Guillaume is 82
TV personality and producer Dick Clark is 80
Radio talk show host G. Gordon Liddy is 79
Country singer-recording executive Jimmy Bowen is 72
Movie director Ridley Scott is 72
Singer Rob Grill (The Grassroots) is 66
Movie writer-director Terrence Malick is 66
Rock musician Roger Glover (Deep Purple) is 64
Playwright David Mamet is 62
Actress Margaret Whitton is 59
Actor Mandy Patinkin is 57
Musician Shuggie Otis is 56
Country singer Jeannie Kendall is 55
Singer Billy Idol is 54
Historian Michael Beschloss is 54
Rock musician John Ashton (The Psychedelic Furs) is 52
Comedian Colin Mochrie is 52
Former football and baseball player Bo Jackson is 47
Rapper Jalil (Whodini) is 46
Actor-director Ben Stiller is 44
Rock musician Mike Stone is 40
Actress Sandra Oh is 39
Country singer Mindy McCready is 34
Singer Clay Aiken is 31
Actress Elisha Cuthbert is 27
Actress Kaley Cuoco is 24

Marshall Thundering Herd Coach Calling It Quits

Marshall University head football coach Mark Snyder is calling it quits in Huntington.

Several media outlets began reporting Sunday afternoon that Snyder had resigned from his position. WSAZ TV in Huntington was the first to break the news at around 2:30 PM.

Snyder was set to meet with the Herd football team Sunday afternoon to inform them of his decision.

The coach was first hired in 2005 to replace Coach Bob Pruett in the midst of Marshall’s transition from the MAC to Conference USA.

The Herd was teetering on the edge of bowl eligibility as it wrapped a 6-6 season with a major loss to UTEP. The final score of that game was 52-21.

Snyder leaves Marshall with a coaching record of 22-37.

Microsoft Begins Work on Windows 8

Its official - Microsoft is recruiting new software engineers for the follow up to Windows 7, currently named Windows 8.

The job description states Microsoft needs engineers with minimum of five years of industry experience, and an engineering degree or greater in Computer Science or related technical fields.

The official statement reads “We just finished up work on Windows 7, and are pushing forth on Windows 8 planning and preparation,“ the description read. “There are opportunities to work on a number of hard problems, including third-party application updating, updating virtual machines while they’re turned off (turns out this is pretty hard!), and delivering full applications, among others.“

Earlier Robert Morgan, an employee of Microsoft for seven years had ‘accidentally’ posted details of Windows 8 on his Linkedin profile. He described himself as: “Working in high security department for research and development involving strategic planning for medium and long-term projects. Research & Development projects including 128bit architecture compatibility with the Windows 8 kernel and Windows 9 project plan.“

Microsoft will release Windows 8 in 128bit, which is a huge leap for OS.

Windows 7, which released on October 22, 2009 came in 64bit and 32bit flavors.

The jump to 128bit confirms that Microsoft is banking on computers that use much substantially multi core processors and a buoyant hardware refresh cycle.

Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer has confirmed that the firm is working on a client operating system to follow Windows 7. However details have been kept tightly under wraps. According to Baller the earliest expected date would be 2012 and moreover, details of Windows 9 would also be unveiled in early 2010.

WV High School Football: Semi-Final Results

Class A

#5 Wheeling Central (9-4) = 7
#1 Madonna (13-0) = 18

#3 Richwood (12-1) = 20
#2 Man (12-1) = 27

Class AA

#4 Frankfort (11-2) = 21
#1 Wayne (13-0) = 27

#6 Bluefield (11-2) = 13
#2 Magnolia (12-1) = 10

Class AAA

#13 University (9-4) = 15
#1 Brooke (13-0) = 32

#3 Bridgeport (12-1) = 25
#2 South Charleston (12-1) = 28

Gingerbread House Contest

The Flatwoods Factory Outlet Stores will be hosting a Gingerbread House contest.

Contestants can make their best gingerbread creation.

All creations will be on display on FFOS in the Winter Wonderland Classic Christmas Museum.

For more information please call 304.765-.3300.

Recalls - 11.27.09

CHILDREN’S PENDANTS
Team Work Trading is recalling Children’s Metal Pendants sold nationwide from November 2008 to March 2009. The recalled children’s pendants contain high levels of lead.
This recall involves eleven types of metal pendants sold with silver-colored chains. The pendants feature symbols from the following animations/cartoons: “Bleach,” “Death Note,” “Naruto” and “One Piece.”
Consumer should contact Team Work Trading at 213.680.4489 between 9 AM and 5 PM PT Monday through Friday to receive a full refund or replacement product.

HOODED SWEATSHIRTS
Allura Imports Inc. is recalling Girl’s Hooded Sweatshirts sold exclusively at Burlington Coat Factory stores nationwide from October 2008 to July 2009. The sweatshirts have a drawstring through the hood, which can pose a strangulation hazard.
This recall involves girl’s velour hooded sweatshirts with a zip front. The sweatshirts were sold as a part of a 2-piece set. “Major Diva” is printed on the front of the sweatshirts. The tag on the inside of the sweatshirts reads, “2b REAL.” The sweatshirts were sold in hot pink, light pink, ivory and khaki, and in sizes 4, 5/6 and 6X.
Consumers should immediately remove the drawstrings from the sweatshirts to eliminate the hazard, or return the garments to either the place of purchase or to Allura Imports for a full refund.
Consumers can contact Allura Imports at 800.695.4510 between 10 AM and 4 PM ET Monday through Friday or visit www.burlingtoncoatfactory.com .

GAS RANGES
Electrolux Home Products Inc. is recalling Electrolux ICON and Kenmore Pro 30” Gas Ranges sold nationwide from August 2008 to October 2009. An incorrect part allows more fuel to pass to the range’s oven than can be burned efficiently, causing incomplete combustion and the release of carbon monoxide. This poses a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
For Electrolux ICON, the model and serial numbers are located on the back of the range. For the Kenmore PRO, the model and serial numbers are located near the base of the range just below the bottom right portion of the oven door and also on the back of the range.
Consumers should contact Electrolux for the Electrolux ICON at 888.360.8557 between 8 AM and 10 PM ET Monday through Friday and on Saturdays between 10 AM and 3 PM or visit www.gasrangeorifice.com to schedule a free repair.
Consumers with the Kenmore PRO should contact Sears at 800.733.2299 between 8 AM and 10 PM ET Monday through Saturday to schedule a free repair.

WARM-UP SUITS
Fashion Options is recalling Boy’s Velour Warm-up Sets sold at Burlington Coat Factory stores nationwide from September 2007 to October 2009. The sweatshirts have drawstrings through the hoods, posing a strangulation hazard.
This recall involves boy’s hooded sweatshirts style B639BC in colors black, chocolate and charcoal. The velour sweatshirts were sold in sizes S, M, L, or XL and have the name “Beverly Hills Polo Club” on the hangtag and on the center back neck.
Consumers should immediately remove the drawstrings from the sweatshirts to eliminate the hazard, or return the garment any Burlington Coat Factory store for a full refund.
Consumers can also contact Fashion Options at 212.947.2223 between 8:30am and 5:30pm ET Monday through Friday or visit www.fashionoptions.com .

STORK CRAFT CRIBS
Stork Craft Manufacturing Inc. is recalling Stork Craft drop-side cribs and Stork Craft drop-side cribs with the Fisher-Price logo sold nationwide and in Canada from January 1993 to October 2009. The cribs’ drop-side plastic hardware can break, deform, or parts can become missing. In addition, the drop-side can be installed upside-down, which can result in broken or disengaged plastic parts. All of these problems can cause the drop-side to detach in one or more corners.
This recall includes Stork Craft cribs with manufacturing and distribution dates between January 1993 and October 2009. This recall also includes Stork Craft cribs with the Fisher-Price logo that have manufacturing dates between October 1997 and December 2004. The manufacture date, model number, crib name, country of origin, and the firm’s name, address, and contact information are located on the assembly instruction sheet attached to the mattress support board.
Consumers should contact Stork Craft at 877.274.0277 anytime to receive a free repair kit or visit www.storkcraft.com .

UTEP Stomps the Thundering Herd

The Thundering Herd went to El Paso, hoping to end the regular season on a good note.

But UTEP had other plans.

The Miners came ready to play in a 52-21 walloping of the Thundering Herd.

Trevor Vittatoe had a magnificent game, throwing for over 500 yards and five touchdowns.

The Herd was only down by six points at halftime, but the Miners came out on fire in the second half, outscoring Marshall by 25 points.

This game marks the end of the regular season for the Herd.

They will find out about any bowl game invitations in the coming weeks.

‘Swine’ Flu Vaccine Trickling into WV

West Virginia public health officials report that 558 physicians, hospitals and clinics have signed up for the H1N1 vaccine, and many are still awaiting shipments.

Part of the problem is the vaccine is first heading to high-risk segments of the population, and in many instances there simply is not enough to go around.

State officials are attempting to organize a mass distribution of the vaccine at the start of 2010.

The Department of Health and Human Resources reports the virus is now widespread throughout West Virginia. Roughly 13,000 cases of influenza-like illnesses have been reported.

Why Big Shopping Bargains Are Bad News for America

Well, pardon my saying so, but I don’t want them. I don’t want to pay less. If anything, I’d rather pay a little more.

Crazy talk, I know. Where is this coming from? Well, it began with some reading I’ve been doing about the trade-offs we make for ultra-cheap goods—the child workers in Bangladesh who sew our clothes and brush their teeth with ash since they can’t afford toothpaste, the oceanic dead zones that come with $5 factory-farmed salmon filets. They’re the sorts of stories that make a person think that buying carts full of cheap stuff—ensuring the production of even more cheap stuff—shouldn’t be the social goal we’ve made it out to be.

Now, I do realize it’s an odd time to lobby for higher prices. We’re coming off the worst recession in a quarter century. One in ten Americans is out of work and plenty of people feel like they need low prices to be able to buy anything at all.

But I also realize that part of what got us here was overspending, and that that overspending was fostered by a shopping culture that uses cheap goods to hook people on feeling like they’re winning at something. As a country, we held nearly $1 trillion in credit-card debt this time last year—about the same as the value of all the goods and services produced in South Korea annually. We’ve bought so much stuff that we’ve struggled to find places to fit it all. The U.S. went from having 300 million square feet of self-storage space in 1984 to 2.4 billion square feet in 2008, according to the Self Storage Association, a 700% surge. By 2005, one in five new houses came with three garage bays—the third, real-estate agents explained, to store all the “toys.“

Consumer spending and debt have been on the decline of late, that’s true. But the most recent numbers show signs of a return to our old ways. In October, consumer spending rose 0.7% over the previous month, according to the Commerce Department, which is particularly interesting since personal income only edged up 0.2%. It seems it’s going to take more than economic calamity for us to realize that perhaps we should be more prudent with our money.

And that leads to my second argument for higher prices: if stuff costs more, we’ll buy less of it (that’s the demand curve in action). If we are forced to buy fewer things, then perhaps we’ll start to break this mentality that the way to happiness is to own more.

I’m not the only one singing this song. Anti-consumerism groups like Adbusters and the Church of Stop Shopping have been buoyed by the recent hiccup in the Age of Excess and are protesting against shopping centers with renewed zeal. The Center for the New American Dream, which promotes responsible consumption, is out in full force this holiday season, explaining how to give gifts that don’t include buying things at the store (for example: coupons for free babysitting).

“We have this cycle we’ve developed—work intensively, buy more, repeat,“ says Carolyn Danckaert, New American Dream’s director of home and communities programs. “At a certain point, the accumulation of stuff starts to drive your life.“ As Juliet Schor, an economist at Boston College who helps run the group, points out in her book The Overworked American, when workers became more productive over the second half of the 20th century, we as a society chose to take the benefit as more stuff. We could have also decided to, say, work a little less.

The lure of cheap goods, though, is incredibly strong, even once we’ve reached the point of substantial creature comfort. In her book Cheap: The High Cost of Discount Culture, writer Ellen Ruppel Shell devotes the better part of two chapters to how inexpensive goods mess with our minds. She describes one experiment in which researchers used brain scans to show that the joy of a discounted item comes before it’s bought; by the time a person is at home with his new thing, the luster is gone. On Black Friday, I watched shoppers on TV proudly state how much they were saving on this and that. No one mentioned how much they were spending.

Or how long they expected any of their stuff to last. For that’s the other big trade-off we make for low-priced goods—often cheap simply means cheap. Shell likes to tell the story of how she once bought three blenders in quick succession; the flimsy blades were no match for the ice that goes into smoothies. When “low cost” is the marketing trope we most respond to, quality easily falls by the wayside. And that state of affairs, Shell concludes based on the response to her book, bothers no one as much as the less affluent people who inexpensive goods are supposed to benefit the most. They can’t always afford a replacement.

All of which is why in this year’s mad present-buying rush, I’m not celebrating the notion that I get to pay less. I’d rather have the sorts of things that only come with a higher price.
~~  By BARBARA KIVIAT - TIME   ~~

G-OB™: Company Seeking to Fill 100 Morgantown Jobs

TeleTech Holdings Inc. is creating up to 100 customer management jobs in Morgantown.

The provider of business process outsourcing solutions is asking job prospects to apply online at HirePoint.com or attend a job fair Wednesday and Thursday at the TeleTech office in the Mountaineer Mall in Morgantown.

TeleTech said the positions will be full- and part-time and will include benefits. It said wages will be competitive.

The company said candidates should have a high school diploma or equivalent, have strong computer skills and a background in customer management.

Weekly Horoscope: 11.29.09 - 12.05.09

Aries (Mar 21-Apr 19) - Show what you have to offer on the 29th 30th and 1st and you will attract someone that is willing to help you. Don’t let unexpected changes slow you down. Adapt and proceed to the finish line. Be prepared to delegate not take on responsibilities that don’t belong to you. Practical concise action will lead to victory. Don’t use force on the 2nd and 3rd if you want to get someone to do something for you. Problems burdens or a responsibility you’ve taken all will try your patience. Take a little time for pampering. Socializing will lead to a better relationship and understanding with someone special on the 4th and 5th. Self-improvement projects will bring good results.

Taurus (Apr 20-May 20) - Rethink your strategy on the 29th 30th and 1st. Getting involved in someone else’s affairs will lead to pressure stress and blame that you can do without. Improve your own situation by making alterations that are sure to please the people that count as well as yourself. Take a healthier approach to life mentally and physically. A clash with someone in a position of authority will develop on the 2nd and 3rd if you don’t take care of your responsibilities as requested. Don’t limit your chance to excel because you ignore an important detail. Concentrate on pleasing someone you love on the 4th and 5th and you will avoid any backlash that might occur if you are neglectful.

Gemini (May 21-Jun 20) - Do whatever it takes to initiate the changes to your home and family life on the 29th 30th and 1st to improve the situation. A strict budget will help you save for a surprise you want to give to someone special. Establish your goals and set timelines that you must adhere to and you will achieve everything you have included in your agenda. You don’t have to spend money on the 2nd and 3rd to appease someone you’ve upset. Show restraint and offer your time and services not a token with a hefty price tag. Sort through emotional or personal problems and resolve issues that have been stifling your love life on the 4th and 5th. Passionate action will bring good results.

Cancer (Jun 21-Jul 22) - You’ll have to juggle your time carefully if you want to take care of your responsibilities and have time to attend an event you’ve been looking forward to on the 29th 30th and 1st. You will face a power struggle if you give someone too much leeway. Romance is highlighted and can contribute to how things unfold in your personal life. Don’t let your personal and professional life collide on the 2nd and 3rd. Productivity will enhance your reputation but making excuses due to family issues will not. Attending a conference or networking will give you greater insight into something you are working on as well as the edge you’ve been looking for on the 4th and 5th.

Leo (Jul 23-Aug 22) - Take control and someone will recognize your leadership ability and stand by you on the 29th 30th and 1st. You have to stipulate what you want to see happen so that you aren’t lead astray by someone else’s vision. Invest in your own ideas and goals and you will accomplish what you set out to do. You can move forward on your own if necessary. Someone in a power position may be withholding information on the 2nd and 3rd that will affect your personal and professional status. Don’t leave room for error. Show your playful side on the 4th and 5th and you will attract attention and the interest of someone that has something to offer you in terms of a prosperous partnership.

Virgo (Aug 23-Sep 22) - You’ll be subject to other peoples opinions on the 29th 30th and 1st. Don’t think that someone else can do things better than you. Consider what it is you want to achieve and follow a path that will help you reach your goals. You will set your own standard by letting everyone know what your plans and how you intend to proceed. Pay more attention to the choices you make on the 2nd and 3rd. The people you affect with the decisions you make will determine how far you go and well you do. Align yourself with people who have common interests on the 4th and 5th and you will build a strong team that can conquer whatever task or challenge you take on in the future.

Libra (Sep 23-Oct 22) - Personal changes made on the 29th 30th and 1st will give you a new lease on life. Do whatever it takes to change your appeal and attract the type of people that can offer you something in return. Strive for greater equality amongst you and your peers, colleagues and friends. Don’t let anyone dictate what you can and cannot do. Talk travel about and share your thoughts on the 2nd and 3rd and you will get others interested in something you want to do. Make a commitment to someone you want to spend more time with. You will be blamed for not doing your part on the 4th and 5th. Take Immediate action or you will jeopardize your position and ruin your reputation.

Scorpio (Oct 23-Nov 21) - You will not get things straight on the 29th 30th and 1st if you are indulgent or make assumptions. Ask questions before you get involved in something that may disrupt your home and family life. Stick to the people that have always been in your corner instead of taking a chance on a big talker. Think about the people you will affect on the 2nd and 3rd before you make an important decision. You should talk about the pros and cons and take whatever input you get into consideration. You need a break and a change of scenery on the 4th and 5th. Take a short trip or visit someone who puts you at ease and you will find it easier to figure you what to do next.

Sagittarius (Nov 22-Dec 21) - What you reap you will sow on the 29th 30th and 1st. Don’t think that using force will work long term; in the end you will be accused of meddling. You can expect someone to pull out of one of your plans at the last minute leaving you to fend alone. Make sure that you stick to the rules and regulations. Use your imagination on the 2nd and 3rd and you will find a way to sort through any emotional differences you have with a partner. A change at home may be required in order to please everyone. Take action on the 4th and 5th and challenge anyone that stands in your way. Set your course and don’t give up or in until you get to where you want to go.

Capricorn (Dec 22-Jan 19) - Do whatever it takes to satisfy the needs of the people you love and care for on the 29th 30th and 1st. You can avoid interference from someone butting in to your affairs by revoking these people’s privileges with you. Take care of personal papers or a debt that is owed. Good fortune is heading in your direction. You may feel like changing your job or doing something new on the 2nd and 3rd but before you leave what you have or neglect to complete something consider what you are giving up and the ramifications. You will be able to make the necessary alterations on the 4th and 5th that will ensure you reach your goals and please the people in your life that count.

Aquarius (Jan 20-Feb 18) - Find out first hand what’s going happening on the 29th 30th and 1st or you may be mislead by someone that only gives you one side of the story. Deal with any pressing issues head on before they spin out of control. You will be able to make changes regarding your vocation or educational plans by taking an alternate route. You can talk all you want on the 2nd and 3rd but if you don’t follow through with your promises you will end up facing changes that will leave you confused and wondering what to do next. Make special plans geared toward love and romance on the 4th and 5th. You will make someone you care for happy and satisfy your own needs at the same time.

Pisces (Feb 19-Mar 20) - Don’t jump to conclusions on the 29th 30th and 1st when there is so much more going on behind your back. Keep a watchful eye but don’t take action until you have all the pieces to the puzzle. Personal problems will develop if you mess up a surprise. Focus on career opportunities and your resume. You have a good shot at getting ahead. Don’t be afraid to shake things up a little on the 2nd and 3rd. It will help you gain control and confuse anyone that has been opposing or trying to derail your plans. You can make personal changes on the 4th and 5th that will boost your confidence and bring you some very nice compliments. Love and romance are in the stars.

Hilda “Virginia” Parker

Hilda “Virginia” Parker
Age 89, of Harrisville, died November 27, 2009, at her residence.

She was born Feb. 1, 1920, in Harrisville, the daughter of the late Guy and Clara Wilson Stanley.

Virginia had been a cook at Harrisville High School and Ellenboro Grade School and attended the Rock Camp Methodist Church.

She is survived by six children, Carolyn Vincent of Harrisville, Roberta Lockhart and Robert Parker and wife, Dianna, of Parkersburg, Pastor Dale Parker of Harrisville, Elmer Parker and wife, Lula, and Lois Currey and husband, Jeff, of Parkersburg; seven grandchildren, Bub Vincent of Harrisville, Norma Jean Parker of St. Louis, Mo., Dale Parker Jr. of Cairo, Jennifer Mowery of Parkersburg, Lori McDonald of Harrisville, Belinda Williams of Washington, WV, and Elmer Parker Jr. of Parkersburg; 20 great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; and many of her cats that she loved dearly.

Funeral services will be 1 PM Tuesday, December 1, 2009, at Raiguel Funeral Home, Harrisville, with Pastor Robert Perine and the Rev. Dale Parker officiating. Burial will follow in the Harrisville I.O.O.F. Cemetery. Friends may call from 2-8 PM Monday at the funeral home.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.mcculloughrogersfuneralhome.com

Fred “Ted” Frame

Fred “Ted” Frame
Age 81, lifelong resident of Gassaway, WV went home to be with the Lord on November 28, 2009 in Braxton Health Care Center.

He was born Feb. 1, 1928 in Gassaway, a son of the late John Morrison and Samantha Darrell Reynolds Frame.

Also preceding him in death were his 3 brothers Howard, Wesley and John Richard Frame.

Ted was an Army Veteran of WW II, an avid hunter, and loved to fish. He was employed during his life as a bulldozer operator.

Surviving him are his wife, Betty; sons, Greg and wife Teresa Frame of Duck, WV, Jeff Frame of Johns Island, S.C.; his three sisters, Ethel Weiss of TN, Audrey Duffield and June Cochran both of Gassaway, WV; grandchildren, Bridget Grounds and Gregory Ted Frame, II; and great-grandchildren, Cody and Clayton Grounds and Christopher Frame.

Graveside services will be held on Tuesday, December 1, 2009 at 11:00 AM at Braxton Memorial Cemetery with the Rev. Jim Buckhannon officiating.
Friends may call from 6-8 PM Monday, November 30, 2009 at Greene-Robertson Funeral Home in Sutton, WV.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Braxton Health Care Center, 200 Days Drive, Sutton, WV 26601.

Online condolences can be sent to greene-robertsonfuneralhome.com

Greene-Robertson Funeral Home is an exclusive Member of Veterans and Family Memorial Care.

Daily Prayer: 11.29.09

11.29.09

Today: 11.29.yyyy

Today is Sunday, Nov. 29, the 333rd day of 2009. There are 32 days left in the year.

Today’s Highlight in History:

On Nov. 29, 1961, Enos the chimp was launched from Cape Canaveral aboard the Mercury-Atlas 5 spacecraft, which orbited earth twice before returning.

In 1530, Cardinal Thomas Wolsey, onetime adviser to England’s King Henry VIII, died.

In 1864, a Colorado militia killed at least 150 peaceful Cheyenne Indians in the Sand Creek Massacre.

In 1924, Italian composer Giacomo Puccini died in Brussels before he could complete his opera “Turandot.“ (It was finished by Franco Alfano.)

In 1929, Navy Lt. Cmdr. Richard E. Byrd, pilot Bernt Balchen, radio operator Harold June and photographer Ashley McKinney made the first airplane flight over the South Pole.

In 1947, the U.N. General Assembly passed a resolution calling for the partitioning of Palestine between Arabs and Jews.

In 1967, Secretary of Defense Robert S. McNamara announced he was leaving the Johnson administration to become president of the World Bank.

In 1981, actress Natalie Wood drowned in a boating accident off Santa Catalina Island, Calif., at age 43.

In 1986, actor Cary Grant died in Davenport, Iowa, at age 82.

In 1989, in response to a growing pro-democracy movement in Czechoslovakia, the Communist-run Parliament ended the party’s 40-year monopoly on power.

In 2001, George Harrison, the “quiet Beatle,“ died in Los Angeles following a battle with cancer; he was 58.

Ten years ago: Protestant and Catholic adversaries formed an extraordinary Northern Ireland government designed to bring together every branch of opinion within the bitterly divided society. Game show host Gene Rayburn died in Gloucester, Mass., at age 81.

Five years ago: President George W. Bush picked Carlos Gutierrez, the chief executive officer of cereal giant Kellogg Co., to be commerce secretary. The US Supreme Court rejected a challenge to a gay-marriage law in Massachusetts. An Army helicopter crashed near Waco, Texas, killing seven soldiers. John Drew Barrymore, the sometimes troubled heir to an acting dynasty and absent father of actress Drew Barrymore, died in Los Angeles at age 72.

One year ago: Indian commandos killed the last remaining gunmen holed up at a luxury Mumbai hotel, ending a 60-hour rampage through India’s financial capital by suspected Pakistani-based militants that killed 166 people. Architect Joern Utzon, who designed the iconic Sydney Opera House in Sydney, Australia, died at age 90.

PAWV Now Accepting Nominations for 2010 Endangered Properties List

Nominations to the Preservation Alliance of West Virginia’s 2010 Endangered Properties List are being accepted through December 1, 2009.

Properties named to the list will receive services supporting preservation and rehabilitation as part of PAWV’s Endangered Properties Program. Services will include on-site assistance such as help with needs assessment, redevelopment and sustainability plans as well as identifying funding sources and assisting with grant writing for preservation projects.

Lynn Stasick hopes to make a difference in West Virginia as PAWV’s first full-time field representative. “The quality and abundance of the state’s historic resources is outstanding and so many properties are worthy of preservation, both from a historic and economic perspective,“ said Stasick. “Moreover, there is a fast and growing body of people interested in preserving their community resources.“

Stasick’s position with PAWV is funded in part by a $75,000 National Trust for Historic Preservation Partners in the Field challenge grant. The NTHP funds are matched dollar for dollar by PAWV donors who have pledged their support to the field services program. Preservation Alliance hopes to continue the program beyond the three-year grant period.

Endangered lists are collections of at-risk historic properties in a given region compiled primarily to bring attention to the plight of the properties and organizations involved in their preservation. Properties are usually determined endangered by a number of criteria that might include historic significance, geographic location, preservation emergency and resources available to resolve the endangerment.

Endangered lists have been used by preservation organizations for many years to help draw attention to diminishing historic resources. An endangered list is an effective way to help focus the attention of an organization on the most pressing issues or significant resources in a community or region, particularly when an organization is responsible for a large geographic area.

There are many circumstances that can lead to the endangerment of a historic property. Neglect is most often the culprit. In West Virginia, shifting economic forces push jobs and people to other locations, leaving communities or property owners without the financial resources to maintain properties.

Conversely, growth and development can also prey upon historic resources. Likewise, changes or variances to zoning and planning ordinances can also put heritage at risk, allowing changes that can compromise the integrity of a building or historic district.

Properties named to the 2009 list included Hinton’s McCreery Hotel, Capitol Theatre of Wheeling, First Ward School of Elkins, Wyco Church near Mullens, Tyler County Home, Glenville Bridge and the Waldo Hotel of Clarksburg.

A limited number of properties will be accepted to the 2010 list and nominations are expected to be competitive. To be considered, properties must be listed or eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places and meet other criteria such as historic significance, geographic location, preservation emergency and resources available to resolve the endangerment.

The nomination form for PAWV’s 2010 Endangered Properties List can be found at www.pawv.org/endanger or may be requested by phone from the PAWV office by calling 304.345.6005. The list will be announced in January 2010.

Preservation Alliance of West Virginia, founded in 1981, is a private nonprofit organization dedicated to historic preservation, heritage development, related education and advocacy.

Sand Fork: Breakfast with Santa at Sand Fork Baptist Church

Breakfast with Santa will be at the new gym at the Sand Fork Baptist Church on Saturday, December 5, 2009 from 9:00 AM to Noon.

All donations will help to send the Sand Fork Seminoles to 4-H camp.

Come and join the fun and get a picture with Santa!

American Scholar Application Deadline Approaching

The application deadline for the fourth American Scholar Program, a four-year full tuition and fees scholarship to West Virginia Wesleyan College in Buckhannon, is December 1, 2009.

The scholarship competition is sponsored by West Virginia Radio Corp., G&S Cellular, Dr. Jerry Shepherd, DDS Family Dentistry, Exit 132 Pontiac Buick GMC and Shoney’s.

In addition to the first prize award valued at more than $90,000, the first runner-up will receive a $5,000, four-year renewable scholarship that can be added to other Wesleyan scholarships. The second runner-up will receive a $2,500, four-year renewable scholarship.

The scholarship competition is open to high school seniors from Barbour, Braxton, Doddridge, Gilmer, Harrison, Lewis, Marion, Monongalia, Preston, Randolph, Ritchie, Taylor, Tucker and Upshur Counties.

Students can apply online at www.wvmagic.com or submit a paper application to West Virginia Wesleyan’s Office of Admission. Scholarship candidates are required to send Wesleyan their high school transcript and ACT or SAT scores. All materials must be submitted on or before Dec. 1.

Twenty-five semi-finalists will be selected from the applicant pool, and from that group 12 finalists will be chosen. The online voting component of the competition will take place in January and the winner will be announced in February.

The previous three American Scholar winners are Kate Turner, Jennifer Collins and Marissa Pulice.

PATH Update

Although West Virginia’s Public Service Commission staff wanted the case totally dismissed, the commission issued an order to stop the current procedural schedule for the PATH Power line Project.

This puts the PATH project on hold in West Virginia for now.

Last month a lawyer with the Public Service Commission motioned to dismiss Allegheny Power’s proposal to start the PATH project.

The Potomac Appalachian Transmission Highline, also known as PATH, has been a highly controversial proposal for bringing power from southern West Virginia to a substation in Frederick, Maryland.

G-InMyOpinion™: MAPP and PATH - Time to Draw the Line

I have a minor suggestion for the utility companies. If you’re going to try to portray your attempts to build gigantic interstate transmission lines as a way to transfer renewable energy, don’t connect them to coal plants.

Coal power squared: That’s what Pepco Holdings Inc. is trying to sell us with the Mid-Atlantic Power Pathway, along with Allegheny Energy and American Electric Power pushing the Potomac Appalachian Transmission Highline. MAPP is 150 miles long and starts at a coal-powered plant in Virginia, which crosses into this state and ends in Delaware, racing across the Chesapeake Bay in the process. PATH is 275 miles long, starts at one of the nation’s largest and dirtiest coal-fired power plants in West Virginia and arrives in Kemptown, Md.

The motivation for both projects is pretty simple. The local electricity markets for these coal-fired power plants pay 6.63 cents a kilowatt hour in West Virginia and 9.1 cents in Virginia. There’s a considerable profit to be made by selling this power in a state such as Maryland, where the average market price is 13.45 cents a kilowatt hour.

I think that’s fine — profit is always the motivator — but the question is, what do ordinary people and not just companies get out of the deal?

If you like people, the residents who live in the way of the combined 425 miles of massive transmission lines would face upheaval from eminent domain due to the “right of way” for an approved transmission line. The people who live by the coal plants get to breathe more rarefied air. If you like nature, the lines would also cut across forests, a wildlife refuge and the Chesapeake Bay. If you like money, you’re in luck if you work for one of the utilities. Ratepayers will cover the $1.8 billion cost of PATH and $1.4 billion cost of MAPP. Is a sense of absurdity unavoidable?

Perhaps the most unfortunate thing about these lines is they would lower the incentive for Maryland to use our enviable offshore wind resources. The U.S. Energy Department said the state has “outstanding” wind for power generation offshore, with breezes steadily averaging 18 to 20 mph and about 160 feet above the waves. This is about the height at which wind turbines would spin.

Earlier this year, the Interior Department declared that U.S. offshore wind resources could lead America’s clean energy revolution. Over 1,000 gigawatts of wind potential exists off of the Atlantic coast alone. It would be tremendous if the state could lead the way and tap into this clean energy source. Plus, I’d like to write about something we’re building that’s a good idea for a change.

Fortunately, citizens in states that will be impacted by these transmission lines have been rising up in opposition and demanding their public service commissions make decisions on MAPP and PATH in the interest of the public. State activists are looking to stop the importation of dirty coal power into the state by holding a rally December 1, 2009 at 1:00 PM at Preston Gardens Park in Baltimore. Join them and help convince state legislators to make the right decision: No to new coal.
By Matt Dernoga