In Segment 2, Pastor Brad Davis returns to IWVP to give an update on relief response efforts from the flooding that hit southern West Virginia earlier this year, which left many people, including himself, displaced from their homes. He says a conglomeration of churches is working together to help with needs such as water distribution.

In Segment 3, Ripley Mayor Carolyn Rader visits our set to give a sneak peek of “America’s Largest Small Town Independence Day Celebration” in Ripley. This year’s celebration will run from July 2 through July 5, with the traditional Ripley’s 4th of July Parade set to step off on Friday, July 4.

In Segment 4, we round out or show with our very own StormTracker 13 Meteorologist Bryan Hughes sitting down with Rick to talk about the USA Cycling Pro Road National Championships that have been going on in downtown Charleston.

In Segment Two, West Virginia Secretary of State Kris Warner stops by to talk about the importance of voting because this summer, there will be a total of 104 municipal elections for folks to get out and vote in. He also talks about what people can do if they suspect voter fraud.

In Segment Three, former Charleston Mayor Danny Jones sits down with Rick Johnson to chat cars and politics. Jones talks about the controversies of the changing landscape of national politics, such as Qatar's gift of a jet to the president.

In Segment Four, we round out our show with Dr. Michael Kilkenny, executive director of the Cabell Huntington Health Department. Kilkenny, a Marshall alumnus, talks about his passion for community health and the CHHD's role in the community.

In Segment 2, U.S. Congressmen Alex Mooney joins us to discuss the whirlwind effort in Washington of trying to find a new Speaker of the House. When we spoke with Mooney, Tom Emmer (R-IN) was still the nominee. By that same evening he had dropped from the race. By Wednesday afternoon, the new nominee Mike Johnson (R-LA) secured enough votes and was sworn into the position.

For our third segment, we turn back to child welfare in the Mountain State with Kelly Allen who works for the West Virginia Center on Budget and Policy. Allen talks about the statistics of West Virginia having the highest rate of foster children in the nation, meaning for every 1,000 West Virginia kids, 13 are in foster care. She also shares more about what needs to be done to help children and their families before they reach a point of crisis.

In our last segment, we sit down with Kim Newsome of the West Virginia Aging and Disability Resource Center to discuss the importance of Medicare's open enrollment period, which is happening now. The center offers free resources to help Medicare recipients navigate through the process and find the Medicare plan that is best for them.

In our second segment, we continue our look into "Impossible Town," with the documentary's co-producers, Scott Faris and Meg Griffiths. We'll hear from Faris and Griffiths about putting the film together and its importance in bringing awareness to the deadly contamination issues the people of Minden face.

For segment three, Mark sits down with George Manahan to discuss and the annual Fox Trot for Parkinson's Research events, which take place Saturday, Oct. 7 in Charleston and Saturday, Oct. 14 in Huntington. Manahan says everyone is welcome to register for the event, which raises money for the Michael J. Fox Foundation to raise money for research on Parkinson's disease. Manahan also discusses a bill in Congress that could help expand rural healthcare, which would also impact healthcare treatment for Parkinson's and similar diseases in rural communities.

In our final segment, this weeks, we talk to West Virginia Broadcasting Hall of Fame board member Tom Restler about the 2023 Hall of Fame induction coming up Tuesday, Oct. 3 at the Museum of Radio & Technology in Huntington. This year's inductees include founding member of the Mountaineer Sports Network Mike Parsons, WVRC Media's Joe Parsons, Broadcast Attorney and Engineer Tom Taggart, V100 Radio's morning team Steve Bishop and Jenny Murray, and posthumously Radio DJ Jay Jarrell.

In Segment Two, Congresswoman Carol Miller (R-WV) stops by to talk about the game of "red light, green light" for construction of the Mountain Valley Pipeline, and the amicus brief she joined in filing to the U.S. Supreme Court in favor of the project.

In Segments Three, West Virginia Delegate Mike Pushkin (D-Kanawha) tells us about why he and other Democrats in the State Legislature are asking the governor for a special session during the August interim for "pressing needs" such as budgeting, the crisis in the state's jails and prisons, and underfunded higher education institutions.

In Segment Four, Josh Sword, president of the West Virginia AFL-CIO, joins us to discuss jobs in the Mountain State. Between several companies in the midst of bringing their facilities to West Virginia, the state is anticipating the possibility of more than 10,000 new jobs as well as new construction jobs.

Then, we switch gears to take a moment to honor our veterans over Veterans Day weekend. 

First we hear from Brent Casey, the eldest grandson of the late, great Woody Williams, who passed away in June at the age of 98. Woody was the last surviving World War II Medal of Honor recipient. Casey talks about his grandfather's legacy, honoring veterans, the Woody Williams Foundation and Gold Star Families.

In our final segment, Steve Halstead, president of the Mason County Veterans Memorial Committee stops by to share the latest updates on the construction of a Mason County Veterans Memorial and its importance to the community. The Committee broke ground on the memorial on Nov. 10, which will be located in Mason, West Virginia as a county-wide monument honoring all veterans from Mason County.

Guests on the shows this week include Erin Anderson, West Virginia Teacher of the Year 2021 and 5th-grade teacher at Tennerton Elementary School in Upshur County, Brian Casto, West Virginia Teacher of the Year 2022, 8th grade West Virginia Studies teacher at Milton Middle School in Cabell County, Dr. Dino Beckett, CEO and Physician at Williamson Health and Wellness Center and Gaylene Miller, State Director of AARP of West Virginia.

Guests on this week’s episode include Chris Hamilton, President of the West Virginia Coal Association, Karan Ireland from the West Virginia Chapter of the Sierra Club, Chelsea Carter, Director of Services at Brighter Futures, which is affiliated with Boone Memorial Hospital, and Gary Zuckett, Executive Director of West Virginia Citizen Action.

Kelly says he wrote the book because since he first began practicing law in Mingo County, he has been fascinated by West Virginia politics and how unique and personal the state’s politics are in comparison to other counties. In the book, he uses a blend of both fact and fiction to create a narrative describing how the state’s politics work.

The attorney says the plot of the book follows two fictional wealthy, politically connected families in West Virginia who he says are basically the “power brokers,” or the people behind the politicians and candidates, of the state’s politics.

Kelly says while many of the characters and specific situations are fictional, they are based on real people and events that tie into the state’s politics, such as murder cases creating more discussion and advocacy to prevent domestic violence.

In Segment 3, WOWK 13 News Anchor Lily Bradley joins our host and Chief Political Reporter Mark Curtis and guest Attorney and former family court judge Mike Kelly in the discussion of the reality of West Virginia’s politics through his new book “Marrow Bone.” While the book follows fictitious scenarios, many of the issues behind those scenarios are reality.

One of these follows a story of a murdered social worker who had advocated for change to stop domestic violence. Kelly says domestic violence is a “scourge” in the Mountain State, affecting people across all income classes in every county. Bradley has worked with the YWCA’s Girls’ Night Out, an outreach through the YWCA Resolve Family Abuse Program that WOWK 13 News helps sponsor, adds that domestic abuse does not discriminate.

Kelly says having courts that take a specific focus on issues involving domestic situations and/or drug abuse helps to protect victims of domestic violence from their abusers before the danger of their situation escalates and/or helps drug users break their addictions.

“All we see usually in domestic violence cases is the worst ones – when there’s a shooting… What goes under the radar is what happens every day, the activities that lead up to that shooting,” Kelly said.

Those seeking help can contact the following organizations:

• The Drug Helpline: https://drughelpline.org/ or 1-844-289-0879
• Help4WV: https://www.help4wv.com/
• Charleston area Emergency Shelter & 24-Hour Crisis Line: 1-800-681-8663
• Charleston area Emergency Shelter & 24-Hour Crisis Line: 304-340-354
• The National Domestic Violence Hotline: https://www.thehotline.org/

In Segment 1, Dr. Sherri Young, DO, FAAFO, is the Health Officer at the Kanawha-Charleston Health Department. She’s discussing the latest on COVID-19 in West Virginia, including the health department offering a new treatment for the virus.

KCHD is offering monoclonal antibody clinics in addition to their free COVID-19 vaccination and testing clinic. Monoclonal antibodies or mAb are made in a laboratory to fight a particular infection, and in this case, the virus that causes COVID-19. These antibodies are then directly administered through therapy to COVID-positive patients with an infusion or shot.

Young says this treatment is available with a doctor’s recommendation. 

“There’s an increased demand for testing right now because people are positive, they’re symptomatic, people need a negative test to go back to school or work. We’re still vaccinating, and I hope we are capturing more and more people getting that first and second dose. It’s essential that we keep the vaccinations going,” said Young. 

Dr. Sherri Young urges COVID-19 vaccinations

In Segment 2, Dr. Sherri Young, DO, FAAFO, is the Health Officer at the Kanawha-Charleston Health Department, is back to talk about getting children age 12-17 to get the COVID-19 vaccine. 85% of people ages 65 and older have already been fully vaccinated; for people ages 12 years old and older, the number is 60%. 

Young is also encouraging residents who are immunocompromised to get the booster shot. 

Remote patient monitoring now available in West Virginia

In Segment 3, Traci Quillen, Vice President of Community Wellness Technology Inc. is talking about remote patient monitoring telehealth in West Virginia. She says Community Wellness can provide Bluetooth-enabled devices for patients to utilize in their homes so that physicians can continue monitoring patients. “We have the ability to provide Bluetooth-enabled devices for patients to utilize in their homes; that way physicians can continue monitoring patients,” said Quillen. 

For more information about telehealth, visit the Community Wellness website. 

Prescription drug price transparency in West Virginia

In Segment 4, JB McCuskey, West Virginia’s State Auditor, discusses the politics of drug prices in West Virginia. Earlier this week, McCuskey held a press conference with AARP about reducing the prices of prescription drugs for senior citizens.

The State Auditor is in partnership with AARP to post prices and information about prescription drugs, including costs to produce, current drug prices, and why some prices are increasing as well as a list of drugs that have increased in price, drugs that have lost their patent rights, and the costs related to research and development. 

In Segment 1, Dr. Clay Marsh, the COVID-19 Czar in West Virginia, talks about the spike in coronavirus cases due to the impact of the Delta variant. 

Marsh says the Delta variant has caused this large spike as it can spread very quickly and that this strain of the virus is over 1,000 more spreadable than with the initial COVID-19 outbreak.

West Virginia has broken two COVID-19 records within the last week. According to state health data, Thursday, Sept. 9th, the total of confirmed cases was a record 1,738, only to be broken by Saturday, Sept. 11th’s total of 1,821.

The previous one-day high of more than 1,700 was set on Dec. 31.

To find where you can get vaccinated, visit the Department of Health and Human Resources website. Visit their official website to register for the ‘Do it for Babydog: Save a life, Change your life’ Vaccine Sweepstakes.

WV Senator describes experience on 9/11

In Segment 2, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) was the only member of our Congressional Delegation in the office on September 11th, 2021.

Capito describes that day, saying she was in her office in the Long Worth Building on Capitol Hill with some constituents from Harper’s Ferry when her eyes drifted to the TV and watched as the towers were hit. Capito says as they were scrambling around the office, one of her assistants pointed out the window and she says she saw the smoke from the Pentagon.

Capito said she was able to escape to a safe spot and watch it all unfold around her.

Capito discusses COVID-19 and Washington protest

In Segment 3, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) talks about the surge of COVID-19 cases not just in West Virginia but throughout the nation. Capito also gives her thoughts about the fencing set up outside the U.S. Capitol, which is expected to return ahead of the protest in support of the people that were arrested in the last Capitol riot on Jan. 6.

“I’m concerned and disheartened by that. Legal and lawful protest is something that is as old as our nation,” said Capito. “The ability to gather around the Capitol should be something that’s preserved. But I’m really disappointed we have to have another fence. I think it sends a bad signal to what we feel might happen at a protest like that. Think that’s changed the way our law enforcement looks at protecting us and protecting the Capitol.”

Reflecting on 9/11 and West Virginia welcoming Afghan refugees

In Segment 4, Ibtesam “Sue” Barazi, the Vice President of the Islamic Association of West Virginia and the leader of the West Virginia Interfaith Ministry, discusses what changed for American Muslims after 9/11.

Barazi says many Muslims became the target for violence, even when they had nothing to do with the attacks. She talks about how she and the other religious leaders in West Virginia have come together to work on many issues, especially after the attacks. “After 9/11 and after I retired, I saw the need to build bridges. Talk to people, let them know who we are. Invite people to the Islamic center, to the mosque. We had many events to let them know we are not your enemies.”

At this time, there is an effort to welcome Afghan refugees to West Virginia. Charleston Mayor Amy Goodwin read a proclamation welcoming immigrant families at Charleston City Hall on Friday, Sept. 10.  

“This is the time to step up if you are a goodwill individual,” said Bazari. “Afghanis and many immigrants who come to this country are going to do nothing but good deeds and provide services. They’re entrepreneurs, good for the community.”

In Segment 1, Cecil Roberts, the United Mine Workers of America (UMWA) President, discusses the passing of Rich Trumka, former President of the AFL-CIO. An outspoken advocate for social and economic justice, Trumka was the nation’s most straightforward voice on the critical need to ensure that all workers have a good job and the power to determine their wages and working conditions.

Roberts also talks about the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Blair Mountain, the largest labor uprising in United States history and the largest armed uprising since the American Civil War. According to Roberts, this attack was the first time that an airstrike was called within the continental borders of the United States. The attack was called by the coal companies, which dropped bombs on the marchers.

‘Give them a future’: Should get first dibs on solar and wind energy jobs?

In Segment 2, Cecil Roberts, UMWA president, said that as mining jobs decrease and solar and wind energy jobs rise, miners should be the first to get training for these jobs. He says miners are the ones who are being displaced due to these jobs. President Joe Biden said he wanted to make union jobs for those who are displaced.

“We’ve been resisting that obviously because we think we should protect the jobs we have, but if we’re going to have a policy that says coal miners lose their jobs, do what you said you were going to do, create union jobs for those who get displaced,” said Roberts.

Roberts also says current union jobs pay between $75,000 and $100,00 per year with great benefits such as healthcare, pension plan, and time off. At this time, solar and wind energy jobs offer only half of those benefits and half the pay.

“I’m hearing a lot of talk about creating these solar jobs, but I’m not hearing a talk or discussion about making them union jobs. I want to see how that works. If we’re going to displace these coal miners, give them a future,” said Roberts. 

‘We’re sick of it’: Delegate talks about the importance of wearing a mask and getting vaccinated against COVID-19

In Segment 3, Delegate Mike Pushkin of Kanawha County is also the President of the American Federation of Musicians Local 136. He talks about the return of Live on the Levee over this summer and how COVID-19 is affecting future events such as sports events.

Pushkin emphasizes the importance of wearing a mask and getting vaccinated so these events can continue.

“I understand. It’s gone on for so long. We’re sick of it. We’re sick of talking about it, hearing about it, but I’m sick of being sick. I’m sick of seeing the numbers go up. I’m sick of hearing about people I know being hospitalized. We’ve got to do a better job of explaining the only way we get through it is to get shots,” said Pushkin.

As of Sunday, Sept. 5, West Virginia Governor Jim Justice had not issued another mask mandate statewide, but 26 out of 55 counties have mask mandates for schools K-12.

“I think it’s really going to take some tougher decisions from the top, from the governor’s office. The virus doesn’t recognize county boundaries. And I think it’s going to take some strong leadership and the right direction right now,” said Pushkin. 

How unions saved West Virginia miners from industrial oppression

In Segment 4, Myya Helm is a research associate for the West Virginia Center on Budget and Policy who helped write their annual report called “Labor, Race, and Solidarity.” Her study showed the division between Black, White and European miners — the immigrants who came in to fill the huge demand for the mining jobs. 

Helms says that many miners worked in poor conditions because the mine operators wanted to make as much profit as possible. And so in the early 20th century, all workers, black, white, European immigrants, were paid extremely low wages — safety conditions were practically nonexistent, and the conditions worsened when the United Mine Workers of America tried to organize in southern West Virginia…those tactics just further pushed miners to rally against their employers, consistent abuses of authority.” said Helms. 

According to the report, “Unions promised to abolish the system that held them all as workers in forced labor.” The miners actively challenged the social, economic, and political power held by coal companies. Soon, the state’s miner’s union grew as workers sought a better life for themselves and their families.

In Segment 2, Mark Curtis and recently-retired Judge Will Thompson from Boone County talk about Chelsea Carter, who was addicted to drugs as a teenager. She got arrested and sent to jail but has since turned her life around for the better. She later got clean, got her bachelor’s and master’s degree in counseling, and is now the head of Better Futures at Boone Memorial Hospital. 

In Segment 3, Delegate Kayla Young (D) of Kanawha County and Delegate Joshua Higginbotham (R) of Putnam County have announced their new bipartisan legislative podcast. They have partnered with Mountaineer Media. Their show will be called Two sides of the same Mountain. “We felt it was best that Republicans and Democrats actually talk about the issues, and even though Kayla and I have a lot of disagreements on policy, we get along, and we just want to have conversations with different people about policy,” said Higginbotham. 

“Our goal is to talk about the issues and show that we do get along as people,” said Young. “We’re not going to get to a point of understanding unless we can have that conversation. People shouting at each other is never going to.”

 In Segment 4, Delegate Kayla Young (D) of Kanawha County and Delegate Joshua Higginbotham (R) of Putnam County continue discussing their podcast with host Mark Curtis. 

Young says some of the issues they’ll be discussing behind the scenes of national and statewide legislation, such as redistricting, energy policies, and education issues. 

The podcast is about reaching people who have opposing views to have a conversation about differences in opinions. “It’s [the podcast] about building bridges between people with policy disagreements,” said Higginbotham. 

In Segment 1, Rep. Carol Miller, Congresswoman from WV’s 3rd District, discusses West Virginia’s opioid problem. Earlier this week, Miller toured the New Lotus Recovery Facility in Boone County. She says there may be more clinics to open in West Virginia.

“Recovery is such an important part of getting over addiction, period,” said Miller. “Because you have rehab and recovery. The tough physical part of rehab, then you have to go into the multilayer part of recovery, which goes with you.”

Miller also discusses babies born addicted to drugs, how schools react to those children affected years later, and how that affects communities.

West Virginia power plants can continue to operate

In Segment 2, Chris Hamilton, President of the WV Coal Association, talks about the major ruling last week by the West Virginia Public Service Commission that essentially allows three power plants to continue operation in the Mountain State.

Hamilton says the Mountaineer, the Mitchel and the John Amos Plants will be approved for all environmental upgrades and continue operating.

Hamilton says an economic study was commissioned through our states’ lead economist last year. In conjunction with the coal operations that provide the base fuel supply, he said these coal-fired plants are responsible for upwards of $14 billion throughout our state and local economies.

“The state’s economist said that’s about $1 out of every $6 generated in this decision and generated in the local and regional communities is just phenomenal,” said Hamilton. “There’s no replacement for these current jobs and all the payroll dollars that are generated and all the long-term security for all these plant coal miners dependent often on these coal-fired electric generators here in the state of West Virginia.”

Electric bills expected to increase due to plant upgrades

In Segment 3, Emmett Pepper, Environmentalist Attorney, shares his opposition to the Public Service Commission’s decision to extend the lives of three West Virginia coal-fired power plants. “I don’t think you have to be an environmentalist to know this is a bad deal for rate-payers,” said Pepper.

According to Pepper, The Public Service Commission does not have the authority to say that these expensive upgrades are going through West Virginia ratepayers alone. Kentucky Power also uses the Mitchell Power Plant, but they’ve said they will not have Kentucky rate-payers pay for the upgrades needed at that plant.

“We’ve had a 150% increase over the past 15 years in our electric bills. Our bills are high here,” said Pepper. “Our bills are going up here and we can probably expect to see more of that, or we may see more of that because it seems like there are people in power in this state that are looking to ask us as rate-payers, to pay, apparently unlimited amounts of money.”

Congressman Alex Mooney’s mother shares her story of escaping Cuba

In Segment 4, Lala Suarez-Mooney, the mother of Congressman Alex Mooney, discusses the latest on the unrest and protests that have been happening in Cuba in the last month. Mooney is a native of Cuba who fled Castro in the early 1960s and came to the United States.

“Well, I really wish there was some way we could help them. It’s a desperate situation,” said Suarez-Mooney. “Some of the comments say to the government you’re killing us with hunger, people are just desperate, the economic situation is desperate. Socialism and communism doesn’t work.”

Suarez-Mooney also shares the story of when she was arrested in Cuba following the failed Bay of Pigs demonstration. She shares the story of her escape, saying, “It was desperate in one day, Fidel Castro picked up 100,000 prisoners, said everybody goes to prison. And once in prison, they abuse us. For example, one day, they wanted to move some prisoners, they brought fire trucks, and firemen aimed the water hose at everybody, including one woman who was pregnant, and they aimed it at her stomach. They are cruel, and they don’t hesitate to use any means to keep people scared and bound. I was able to get out, but one of my uncles died in prison, and another fulfilled a 7-year sentence.”

Suarez-Mooney has written a book about her experience titled “Leaving Cuba: One Family’s Journey to America.”

In Segment 1, Ben Salango (D), Kanawha County Commissioner, discusses his contributions around the county, including his involvement in the Shawnee Sports Complex. Salango says the sports complex will bring in more than $100 million in its first four years — money he says is going back to employees, businesses and workers throughout the valley, not just the county.

Salango has also announced his candidacy for the Kanawha County Commission in 2022.

Revamping COVID-19 testing and vaccination efforts in West Virginia

In Segment 2, Dr. Sherri Young from the Kanawha-Charleston Health Department discusses ramping up COVID-19 testing and vaccinations as the latest COVID-19 spike spreads statewide in West Virginia. She discusses the Delta variant and the concerns with the spread as the first day of school is on Monday, Aug. 9. The Delta variant can spread quickly, is more aggressive and affect kids more.

The importance of Paid Family and Medical Leave in West Virginia

In Segment 3, Kelly Allen, the Executive Direct of the West Virginia Center on Budget and Policy, talks about the importance of Paid Family and Medical Leave is being considered in Congress.

According to Allen, 1 in 5 people have paid medical leave with a higher-paying job. With lower-wage workers, 1 in 20 people have paid medical leave.

The West Virginia State Fair returns this August

In Segment 4, Kent Leonhardt, the West Virginia Commissioner of Agriculture, discusses the 96th annual West Virginia State Fair.

Leonhardt says masks are not required for patrons, but vendors who are inside will be wearing masks. “You can see the smiles on people’s faces,” said Leonhardt.

The West Virginia State Fair will take place from Aug. 12th-21st.

Officials at the State Fair of West Virginia are happy to announce the concert series for the 96th annual event set for August 12-21, 2021, featuring Nelly (8/12), Whiskey Myers with special guest the Steel Woods (8/13), for KING & COUNTRY with special guest Rebecca St. James (8/14), STYX (8/15), Tracy Lawrence and Tracy Byrd (8/19), Brantley Gilbert (8/20), and the Buckin’B Bull Ride (8/21).

Mac Powell & The Family Reunion and Shenandoah will play as free shows on August 16 and 17, respectively.

You can buy tickets for the fair by following this link.

In Segment 1, Steve Roberts, The President of the West Virginia Chamber of Commerce, recently had an op-ed in the Charleston Gazette-Mail titled “WV coming out of economic slumber.” Robert discusses how West Virginia is seeing some good signs such as an unemployment rate below the national average, steadily-increasing workforce participation and an economy that is improving faster than the national average. 

Despite these positive signs, many companies are still looking for workers and are even offering sign-up incentives to attract people to sign up. Roberts says this may be because there are not enough workers for those jobs.  

Live on the Levee boosts tourism in Charleston 

In Segment 2, Jim Strawn, the MC for “Live on the Levee” discusses how successful the live music events and vendors are this summer.

Strawn says the event brings in business for Charleston and small business owners in the area. Some attendees travel a good distance to enjoy their time at the event and spend money.

For a full schedule for Live on the Levee, click here.

How the TBT brought an economic boom to Charleston

In Segment 3, Tim Brady, President and CEO of the Charleston Visitor and Convention Bureau, explains the economic boom Charleston is experiencing after COVID-19 guidelines loosened across West Virginia. 

Brady talks about The Basketball Tournament (TBT) that was recently in town and brought an estimated $8.6 million in economic impact with 16 teams plus their fan bases all here staying in hotels, eating, shopping, buying gas—all of the things that you do when you are visiting a city for an extended time.

The importance of investing in West Virginia community and technical colleges

In Segment 4, Del. Joshua Higginbotham, (R) Putnam, discusses the importance of investing in community and technical colleges in West Virginia. Higginbotham says 60% of jobs will soon require a two-year degree or a trade of some kind. 

Higginbotham also discusses the importance of filling out FASFA for students who want to apply for colleges.  

Marsh says this increase is “probably just the beginning” of the Delta variant’s impact on the state. He also believes the overall increase in cases is due to people becoming more “lax” on wearing masks and social distancing, although the state’s mask mandate was lifted just over one month ago on June 20, West Virginia Day. He says this is due, in part, to the number of West Virginians still unvaccinated against the virus. As of Monday, July 26, the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources reported that 67.7% of the state’s eligible population has begun the vaccination process and 56.2% of those eligible for the vaccine are fully vaccinated.

Marsh also encouraged people, even those who are vaccinated, to continue wearing masks in settings where they cannot be sure everyone has been vaccinated as a way to help reduce the chance of spreading the virus to those who have not gotten or cannot get the vaccine.

In Segment 2, we’re joined by John Burdette of Fourth Avenue Financial to take a look at the financial impact of COVID-19 on the stock market and investments.

Early last week, stocks went down in the U.S. Burdette says while COVID-19 concerns are playing a role in the stock markets, it is also common for the markets to take what he calls “a breather” or a correction time after a run-up. He says this will generally happen about once a year, but that we have not seen it happen since approximately 2018.

Burdette says during the pandemic, tech companies have taken off driving their stocks to a higher value compared to other companies. However, he says even with 2020 being a strange year for the markets, he is still encouraging his clients to think ahead on their assets and keep them balanced between long-term and short-term goals, especially as these correction times do happen and will happen throughout their retirement.

In Segment 3, we turn our attention to the unrest currently happening in Cuba. Representative Alex Mooney (R-WV) is a Cuban-American whose mother fled from Cuba during the 1960s. He explains more about what is happening in the country, why people are protesting and what the United States can do to help.

Mooney says Cuba is in a dire situation in regard to access to food and medicine while still dealing with the coronavirus pandemic, which Cuba does not yet have a way to treat effectively.

Cuba does not have laws protecting people’s freedom of speech or freedom of the press such as the United States has in place. Mooney says speaking out against the government in countries like Cuba typically leads to imprisonment. He says before his mother fled the country at the age of 20, she had spent seven weeks in what he describes as a communist prison, simply for the crime of not being a communist supporter.

The representative says it is a unique situation to see protestors out in such large numbers. “So it’s very encouraging to see the people finally be so fed up and call for freedom,” Mooney said.

He says the U.S., as well as other countries, should work diplomatically to help the people of Cuba get some of that freedom, even at the very minimum of condemning Cuba’s government regime and helping the country restore internet access shut down by their government so they can better communicate with the rest of the world again.

In Segment 4, we’re joined by Max Richtman, CEO of the National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare to discuss the issue brought up in Congress to expand dental, vision and hearing benefits to Medicare.

As of now, the issue has been included in a reconciliation budget bill. Richtman says the expansion on these benefits is “critical” because they are not “luxuries” as some people think, especially as some people need vision, dental and hearing care for their daily lives, making them essential medical needs. He says this is something the organization has been trying to make happen for a while and is glad to see there is more support in Congress than ever before to have these benefits included in Medicare.

Richtman says a roadblock in getting the benefits included in Medicare is how they will be paid for. He says one suggestion to offset funds for the benefits is to change the rules for the cost of prescription drugs in the Medicare program by allowing the government to negotiate with pharmaceutical companies. The idea, Richtman says, has so far been welcomed by some lawmakers.

In Segment 1, West Virginia’s Treasurer Riley Moore discusses the Hope Scholarship. According to Moore, the Hope Scholarship Program is an education savings account that allows parents to receive $4,600 per-pupil state funding already set aside for their children’s education onto an electronic, parent-controlled fund for educational expenses. Those expenses can include private school tuition, tutoring, credentialing, therapies, transportation and more. 

This program can also allow parents to take students out of traditional schooling and use that money to help home-school them. 

For years, the teachers’ unions in the state effectively fought and defeated bills for the program. They worry that it’s diverting public money from the public education system and will only hurt the public schools’ system by taking money away and putting it in the private school system. Moore says this money is from state funding, not federal funding. Teachers will not lose federal money in schools.

“The [state] money will follow the student, so they’re not going to have to continue to provide the educational services for that student,” said Moore. 

The Application for the Hope Scholarship Program is expected to open no later than March 1, 2022. If you’re interested in the Hope Scholarship Program, you can sign up here for more information. 

Why the WV Working Families Party supports the American Jobs Plan

In Segment 2, Ryan Frankenberry from the West Virginia Working Families Party discusses the pressure on U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) to support President Joe Biden’s Infrastructure bill. The Biden infrastructure plan is $2.3 Billion, while Manchin’s plan is roughly $1 trillion. 

The West Virginia Working Families Party is a progressive grassroots political party building a multiracial movement of working people to transform America. They have been working to educating West Virginians on the infrastructure plan, including how this plan can create jobs for West Virginians with the American Jobs Plan. 

WV AG addresses opioid lawsuit pay opposition 

In Segment 3, West Virginia Attorney General Patrick Morrisey (R) discusses his recent press conference, saying he was opposed to the bankruptcy settlement by Purdue Pharma. 

Morrisey says his decision to oppose the bankruptcy settlement due to the larger states involved in the lawsuit got together and proposed a population-based formula for the fund allocation plan. Despite being at the epicenter of the opioid pandemic, West Virginia has a smaller population and wouldn’t receive as much settlement money. 

Should we favor Morrisey’s settlement opposition?

In Segment 4, Attorney Rusty Webb shares why he favors West Virginia Attorney General Patrick Morrisey’s decision to oppose the Perdue lawsuit settlement formula.

“Because this formula that they came up with over two years gives West Virginia very little money and it’s based on population, and it gives large states with large populations like New York and California and Texas that don’t have an opioid problem and would get a lot of money,” said Webb. 

In Segment 1, Congress is returning to Washington on Monday, July 12, and Seth DiStefano, the Policy Outreach Director at the West Virginia Center of Budget and Policy, discusses why Congress should prioritize the American Families Plan. 

In July, families with children will begin to see checks as part of the refundable tax credit passed earlier in 2021. According to White House officials, “The American Families Plan will extend key tax cuts in the American Rescue Plan that benefit lower- and middle-income workers and families, including the Child Tax Credit, the Earned Income Tax Credit, and the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit.”

DiStefano says these checks can help improve the lives of 90% of West Virginian kids. 

How do we solve West Virginia’s hunger problem?

In Segment 2, Caitlin Cook, Director of Advocacy and Public Policy at Mountaineer Food Bank, discusses food insecurity in West Virginia and how a bipartisan group may be the solution to solving the problem. 

According to Cook, 1 in 5 children in West Virginia goes to school without a meal in their stomachs. 

Recently, House Speaker Roger Hanshaw (R-Clay) created a working group to deal with food insecurity. It’s a bipartisan group of republicans and democrats. 

Cook says this group is “…an amazing opportunity for the state and the people.” Cook explains that hunger is the root of many issues within West Virginia, such as unemployment and substance abuse disorder. “I am also hopeful out of this working group that we can get things like community food hubs that provide the holistic approach. We can strengthen the safety like snap that do a better job at feeding people than the food bank.”

13 News Reporter Erin Noon shares her own experience with COVID-19

In Segment 3, 13 News Reporter Erin Noon discusses her experience contracting COVID-19. 

Noon says two weeks before she was eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, she contracted the virus. 

“All of a sudden, I started feeling symptomatic…The cough was probably my worst symptom, to be honest. And then that night — well, I got tested, and it came back positive, so I was pretty shaken up just trying to stay calm and everything.” - Erin Noon, 13 News Reporter

Noon says she then began vomiting throughout the night and eventually drove herself to the emergency room. She says because of COVID-19, her body went into diabetic ketoacidosis, a severe complication of diabetes that occurs when your body produces high levels of blood acids called ketones. The condition develops when your body can’t make enough insulin. Noon is a Type 1 diabetic. 

She spent two days in the Intensive Care Unit. 

Noon encourages young people to get the COVID-19 vaccine. “if you have any doubt in your mind, I mean, this could really take a toll on your health, on the people around you, as well. It’s a really scary thing. So I am saying if you have any kind of hesitancy, go out and get that vaccine.”

West Virginia man shares his COVID-19 near-death experience

In Segment 4, Luke Farley, the Secretary-Treasurer and Legal Counsel for the Teamsters Union, shares his experience with COVID-19 and how he nearly died from the virus a year ago. 

Farley says he caught the virus and ended up in the hospital, in the intensive care unit for two weeks and was put on high-flow oxygen and almost died. “I couldn’t walk from me to you [referring to Mark Curtis in the studio] and I would just be out of breath. I ended up with pneumonia, and it was just horrible.”

In Segment 1, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) talks about the infrastructure bill. Manchin is in the bipartisan group. 

He said the $1.2 trillion investment will go into repairing bridges, making the Cardinal Rail system ready for daily use, expanding broadband, installing charging stations for electric vehicles and upgrading lead pipes, water and airports systems. 

Manchin also said he voted yes for the “For the People” Act to pass through procedurally because he had a “guarantee” that the alternate bill he wrote up would get done based on West Virginia Code and Law. 

What will the Equality Act do?

In Segment 2, Andrew Schneider, the Executive Director of Fairness West Virginia, discusses the Federal Equality Act and the possible vote on it in both houses of Congress before the end of the summer. 

The Equality Act will update the federal civil rights act of 1964. It clarifies the Supreme Court decision in Bostock v. Clayton County and protects LGBTQ+ people from discrimination regarding housing, employment, and public spaces. The Equal Rights Act of 1964 focused more on race and gender, and the update will include sexual orientation and gender identity. 

Schneider says. despite this being a nonpartisan issue, there is bipartisan support. 68% of Republicans, 85% of Independents and 95% of Democrats nationwide support the act.

How a recent Supreme Court ruling protects student-athletes

In Segment 3, Charleston Attorney Rusty Webb discusses the recent ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court regarding NCAA Athletes.

He says The NCAA is being challenged on benefits. This particular one relates to educational benefits and whether you can limit educational benefits for student-athletes. 

The Supreme Court ruling protects student-athletes’ educational benefits, such as allowing them to attend school after their eligibility is gone, along with adding graduate school, tutoring, study abroad, and anything else education-related. 

Dr. Young discusses her departure from Kanawha-Charleston Health Department

In Segment 4, Dr. Sherri Young, D.O., FAAFP, Executive Director and Chief Health Officer, discusses her departure from the Kanawha-Charleston Health Department. 

Young says she will be going to the Charleston Area Medical Center, part of the West Virginia Health Network. 

Staton says he is in favor of the “For the People Act” and believes its provisions would stop states from making alleged attempts at voter suppression and create more uniformity in the voting process. He also says he hopes that should the bill pass, it will be upheld by the courts if it is challenged.

The former West Virginia delegate says he is also in favor of the provision that would eliminate “dark money” that goes toward Super-PACs such as 501-C-4 corporations but is then not publicly accounted for, meaning voters are left in the dark about where that money is going and what it is being used for.

Staton does say while he understands that some voting issues are state level, but that he believes when people are waiting in line for three hours for a chance to vote, there may be an issue with how those precincts are configured and it might be time for the government to step in and help.

In Segment 2, Jason Huffman with the West Virginia chapter of Americans for Prosperity stops in to discuss why the organization is not in favor of the “For the People Act.

Huffman says the organization believes the bill could cause further divide while the country is already divided along party lines. He says they are also concerned the act could create erosion of free speech rights and “weaponize majority rule” against grassroots parties.

According to Huffman, the organization says looking for common ground would be a better way to mitigate divisive politics. Huffman says the bill could also force non-profits to chose a political side by putting their advocacy work under the definition of electioneering.

In Segment 3, the discussion around the “For the People Act” continues with West Virginia Delegate Jim Barach (D-Kanawha County).

Barach says he supports the bill because of the alleged voter suppression being seen in some states through legislation that cuts some people out of the process. He says because of this, bringing in some election reform at the federal level is necessary to make sure that, as a democracy, every eligible voter in the United States has the right and the ability to cast their ballots.

The delegate says some of the state-level laws passed through a Republican majority that cut back the number of early voting days, reducing the number of hours polls are open and strict voter ID laws all tend to have the most effect on minority groups and lower-income individuals who tend to vote along Democratic lines.

In Segment 4, Putnam County Clerk and President of the West Virginia Clerks Association Brian Wood shares why he is against the “For the People Act” from a county clerk’s perspective.

Wood says that being against the “For the People Act” does not mean being against the people and that county clerks want and work toward making sure every eligible individual has the right and ability to vote. He says he is concerned, however, the bill creating a “one-size-fits-all” approach from Washington, D.C. taking over West Virginia elections when one size may not actually fit all.

According to Wood, having a national regulation even on the number of days for early elections is not ideal because the states know what’s best for their people as opposed to input from the federal level on how to run elections.

In Segment 1, Delegate Dana Ferrell (R) Kanawha County makes his first appearance on Inside West Virginia Politics and discusses economic development possibilities in West Virginia after an AP article was published saying West Virginia had gone down population-wise. He also discusses his association with Phillips Global, a company that says they have 150 jobs available in Beckley, WV. 

What the West Virginia National Guard’s focus has been so far in 2021

In Segment 2, Brig. Gen. William “Bill” E. Crane, the Adjutant General for the West Virginia Joint Forces Headquarters, talks about all the things the Guard has done within the last six months, such as COVID-19 vaccinations and defense of the Capitol since the insurrection on Jan. 6.

West Virginia National Guard travels to Qatar to advise on World Cup safety response

In Segment 3, Brig. Gen. William “Bill” E. Crane, the Adjutant General for the West Virginia Joint Forces Headquarters, discusses military recruitment, helping students get their high school diplomas with two military academies and going to Qatar due to the FIFA World Cup 2022.

‘Solar power jobs are growing’: Opposition to Mitchell Power Plant increases

In Segment 4, Karan Ireland of the Sierra Club is opposed to keeping Mitchell Power Plant open past 2028. “I want to see an economic solution for West Virginia repairs and a transition plan for those workers,” said Ireland. “We see that solar jobs are growing across the country and have been over the last years. What better time than to put these communities first. To pay attention to their needs and to make a plan. Real leadership is not promising with these jobs. They’ve been going away.”

One of the most iconic West Virginia businesses, Dickinson Salt Works, in Eastern Kanawha County is now 100% using solar energy. “It’s good for business,” said Ireland. “Solar and renewables, there’s so many reasons to go solar, the most popular is because it saves bills. Renewable energy is here, it’s affordable, it’s the way of the future, and, you know, this could be a time — a win-win for everyone.”

In Segment 1, Del. Lisa Zukoff (D) from Marshall County discusses Governor Jim Justice’s request to move $150 million from the general fund to the road fund. She says the money is “much needed” in her district.

“We are a big county; we have oil and gas development still going on. A lot of big trucks in our community, which takes its toll on the roads,” said Zukoff. 

In 2019, Justice acknowledged that Marshall County had the worst roads in the state and declared a state of emergency. It worked, and it helped bring additional funds for the county to help fix the roads, but Zukoff says a lot more work needs to be done.

The Department of Transportation says there are 400 road projects throughout West Virginia. Zukoff says some road projects are needed such as on Route 250, on Boggs Dam Road in her district, and the Kammer plant on Route 2. “That’s $3.4 million worth of work,” said Zukoff.  

The importance of repairing West Virginia roads

In Segment 2, Del. Daniel Linville (R-Cabell) discusses the importance of the roads in West Virginia being fixed.

“It’s a continuance of our work to try to fix the darn roads here in the state of West Virginia. It’s very important because with all this money that’s coming in from the federal government and several other areas, and the cost inning creases we’ve begun to see in materials, to deploy this money as fast as we can,” said Linville. “It’s the third year out of three we’ve made an additional appropriation out of our general revenue new fund.”

‘Cautiously optimistic’: Nearing the end of the COVID-19 Pandemic

In Segment 3, Dr. Sherri Young from the Kanawha-Charleston Health Department says they are in the last stretch for vaccinating against COVID-19 in West Virginia.

“We did so well in the beginning, with huge clinics, huge numbers, that made the biggest impact in our 65 and older. That’s who we vaccinated first,” said Young. “We are getting younger people vaccinated, which gives us courage to say, hopefully, when school starts this year, we don’t see the uptick like we did last summer.”

When discussing the end of the Pandemic, Young says to be “cautiously optimistic.” 

“There are places, if you are fully vaccinated, you don’t need to wear your mask in public,” said Young. “There are requirements when you there’s still certain establishments that prefer you get — you wear the mask, even if you are vaccinated, so everyone’s protected.”

1,500 people to lose jobs in Morgantown

In Segment 4, Josh Sword of the West Virginia AFL-CIO discusses the Labor Rally that happened at the State’s Capitol on Tuesday, June 8, regarding the Viatris plant closing up in Morgantown.

“1,500 people are getting ready to lose a good job at the end of next month,” said Sword. 

During one of his press briefings, Governor Jim Justice said that he had been in touch with the company. The company said we’re not going to listen; we’re not open to staying here and keep the doors open. According to 13 News Political Mark Curtis, the governor has the commerce secretary out trying to find a suitable company or business to take that factory or plant and use it for something else.

In Segment 1, U.S. Rep. David McKinley (R-WV) from West Virginia’s 1st District visited Charleston to testify before the Public Service Commission regarding the potential closure of the Mitchell Power Plant in Marshall County. At this time, there are two options: shut down in 2028 or shut down in 2040. 

McKinley says things to be considered before closures are its economic effects for that area and National security. 

“Is the issue of what effect is that going to have, the closure of the Mitchell power plant,” said McKinley. “We don’t have a replication of what happened down in Texas when they lost power for weeks on end.” 

According to McKinley, the market that controls electricity on the east coast is called PJM. PJM only has about 10% of its power grid in renewable energy. West Virginia is in the process of making a transition over to renewable energies. “We want to make sure that during this transition period of time, plants like Mitchell will still stay operational,” said McKinley.

The critics of the plant remaining open say this is going to be paid for by the ratepayers. “Will rates go up? Of course they will,” says McKinley. “It pales in comparison to people’s lost income, their lost jobs. The uncertainty of their future if plants close down. We’re talking about, at a power plant, maybe it’s only 200 jobs. It’s the railroad workers, the dock workers. They only have an impact on how we’re going to operate that, I think it pales in comparison to a miner rate increase to what we’re talking about, people’s lives.”

‘Stay to the issues’: Rep. McKinley on President Biden’s infrastructure bill

In Segment 2, U.S. Rep. David McKinley (R) from West Virginia’s 1st District discusses various topics, including Reta May’s life sentencing, President Joe Biden’s infrastructure bill, corridor H, and West Virginia losing its congressional seat. 

McKinley is one of two professional engineers in the entire congress. He says he’s behind what U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) is trying to do as the Republican representative. He’s behind what Biden’s trying to do with this bill. “We need to address the infrastructure, sewer, water lines, roads and bridges. But also broadband. And that’s where Shelley comes in,” said McKinley. “[Shelley] would stick to those matters, the basics and the core of what makes up infrastructure. It would pass bipartisan overwhelmingly.”

However, McKinley disagrees with Biden’s social issues being in the infrastructure bill. “They’re good issues. I know they’re important for society. But don’t lump them in with an infrastructure bill,” said McKinley. “When you add the other things into it, it causes a delay. That’s where we have to get this thing. Tactic. Stay to the issues that need to be done.”

Is incentivizing people to get the COVID-19 vaccine a good idea?

In segment 3, Del. Mike Pushkin (D) of Kanawha County discusses Governor Jim Justice’s vaccine sweepstakes, which includes chances to win million-dollar drawings, a couple of pickup trucks, rifles and shotguns, and hunting and fishing licenses to incentive West Virginians to get their COVID-19 vaccine. 

“I’m all for incentivizing for people to get the vaccine,” said Pushkin. “I want to see people at the ballpark. I want to see people at live music events. And we’re not going to get there until we reach herd immunity. We’re not able to reach herd immunity until more and more people get the vaccine.” 

Pushkin also says he disagrees with the governor ending the $300 weekly supplement to people on unemployment. “I don’t think it’s going to have the desired effect,” said Pushkin. “I realize that in certain segments of the economy, there’s a labor shortage. I’m not sure if that’s really what’s causing the labor shortage. If you look at the numbers, the unemployment rate has steadily gone on in the past five months. A lot of folks have found other ways to make money, even when they’re back to work…I’m all for incentivizing people to work. I’m not sure if this is the way to get there.”

Should child care issues stay in Biden‘s infrastructure bill?

In Segment 4, Del. Kaley Young (D) Kanawha County discusses the child care issue attached to President Joe Biden’s infrastructure bill. He wants funding in there for child care and home health care. She says she’s for that because it’s the thing working families need. “In the American Family’s Plan, we have money for working parents. Because… child care is expensive,” said Young. 

According to Young, child care is up to 35% of a person’s wages. During the COVID-19 pandemic, essential workers got free child care and are still getting free child care. “Give essential workers free child care. We’ve seen workers in other states move here to take advantage of that. I don’t know why putting child care first isn’t something we’re doing to try to get people to be here,” said Young. 

In Segment 1, 13 News Reporter Moriah Davis shares Charleston’s black community’s thoughts on what has changed what hasn’t changed since the death of George Floyd, who was killed by a Minneapolis police officer.

Tuesday, May 25th marked the first anniversary of Floyd’s death.

The horrible incident was caught on video and police body cameras, which lead to nationwide outrage demanding justice for police reform, including here in West Virginia.

People in the community say they haven’t seen many changes within the city, but what has changed is how people fight for their rights behind the scenes.

The death of George Floyd also sparked renewed calls for the removal of the Stonewall Jackson Statue from capitol grounds. 13 News Reporter Larisa Casillas spoke with activist James Cochran, who was in the thick of the efforts surrounding removing the Stonewall Jackson statue, organizing rallies, collecting thousands of signatures on a petition, and even fasting in front of it last year.

However, the statue remains as the Governor and the State Capitol Grounds.

Can we save WV’s population from decreasing more?

In Segment 2, Brian Dayton, Vice President of Policy & Advocacy for the West Virginia Chamber of Commerce, discusses business and politics in the Mountain State.

Dayton addresses topics such as the decline in population, the WV Ascend Program to attract remote workers and the job market before and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

For more information on the latest updates or to make a complaint about an issue you care about visit the West Virginia Public Commission’s website.

Should WV look into power alternatives?

In Segment 3, Emmet Pepper, the Legal and Policy Director for Energy Efficient WV, discusses the closure of the Mitchell Power Plant in Marshall County.

Pepper also says West Virginia should start looking toward other energy sources to power the state.

Why WV should keep the Mitchell Power Plant

In Segment 4, Chris Hamilton, President of the WV Coal Association shares his thoughts about the closure on the Mitchell Power Plant and how closing it down would be a financial large hit to West Virginia’s Northern Panhandle.

Follow Mark Curtis on Facebook and Twitter for the latest local and breaking news.

For local and breaking news, weather alerts, video and more, download the FREE WOWK 13 News App from the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store.

In Segment 1, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) is the Republican lead for President Joe Biden’s infrastructure bill and how they are trying to aim for bipartisanship on the bill.

“We’re giving it the old college try,” said Sen. Capito.

While Biden wants to spend $2.3 trillion on the bill, Republicans, including Capito, want to spend $568 million. Capito says the infrastructure bill should only include roads, bridges, water, airports, rails and broadband. While Biden agrees with this, he’s also added several social infrastructures such as Medicaid, home health, building schools and homes.

Capito discusses Reta Mays sentencing and $300M from infrastructure bill

In Segment 2, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) discusses the Reta Mays sentencing and how the Veteran’s Affairs Medical Center in Clarksburg failed the victims and their families.

Capito also discusses the $300 million West Virginia will receive as part of President Joe Biden’s Infrastructure bill. The money will go towards expanding broadband, maximizing the United State Department of Agriculture and Appalachian Regional Commission programs,

‘Help the people out’: Delegate shares thoughts on how $667M should be spent in WV

In Segment 3, Delegate Jim Barack (D) Kanawha County discusses how state delegates will help Gov. Jim Justice (R) divide the $667 million of the American Relief Plan money.

Barack says there will be more COVID-19 testing and vaccination sites. “We need to do is help the people out,” said Barrack. “I think our community health centers should get a nice chunk of that [money] because they take care of the health of the people in the poorer communities. They’re the ones that are suffering the most from COVID.”

Barack also says the money should also go into helping businesses that were impacted by COVID-19 because the money goes right back into the community.

How do you power your home? The latest on WV energy policy

In Segment 4, Del. Josh Higginbotham (R) Putnam joins Mark Curtis discussing the latest on energy policy.

Higginbotham sponsored a bill that dictates what municipalities can do in terms of energy procurement. He says that cities and towns are prohibiting a free market and capitalism in their city markets across the county.

The bill would not allow towns, municipalities or cities to ban energy sources. “these are consumers who want to buy energy just like they want to buy a particular type of drink or food or clothing or car,” said Higginbotham.

In Segment 1, Gayle Manchin, new co-chair of Appalachian Regional Commission’s (ARC) thirteenth federal co-chair, talks with hosts Mark Curtis about what ARC is about and how it began after former President John F. Kennedy visited West Virginia. 

Manchin was the former First-Lady of West Virginia, former President of the Board of Education, and is currently the first ARC federal co-chair from West Virginia.

How Corridor H may lead to more tourism in West Virginia

In Segment 2, Gayle Manchin discusses how the Appalachian Regional Commission is assisting with the construction of Route 48, commonly known as Corridor H, and the significance of the route.

Corridor H would extend from Interstate 79 (I-79) in Weston, West Virginia, eastward across the crest of the Allegheny Mountains to I-81 in Strasburg, Virginia. Doing so would shorten the trip to Washington D.C. by an estimated one hour and allow tourism to flourish in West Virginia with tourists from Washington D.C. 

Victims’ families’ attorney discusses Reta Mays’ sentencing

In Segment 3, West Virginia Attorney Tony O’Dell talks about the recent sentencing of Reta Mays, a fraudulent nursing assistant, who confessed to using insulin to murder seven elderly patients at the Clarksburg Veteran’s Affairs Medical Center.

Mays was sentenced to serve seven consecutive life sentences, plus 20 years for an eighth victim she tried to kill, on Tuesday, May 11.

O’Dell talks about what the families want out of their lawsuit against the VAMC.

Suddenlink to submit improvement plan for West Virginia customers

In Segment 4, Charlotte Lane, the Public Service Commission Chair, discusses the letter she wrote to the heads of Suddenlink, requesting for them to submit a plan by Monday, June 7. The plan should detail what the company will fix to address common complaints West Virginia customers have, such as bills not being posted promptly, cut-offs being done in an untimely way and excessive 911 fees being charged to customers.  

Lane also says she wants to see plans for a Suddenlink Customer Call Center in West Virginia. There are no call centers in the Mountain State at this time. She also wants the company to properly train technicians who can fix the problems many customers call about. 

Suddenlink has 350,000 customers in 31 West Virginia counties. 

In Segment 1, Gary Zuckett, Executive Director of the West Virginia Citizen Action Group, talks about key political issues that affect citizens of the Mountain State, including the Reclaim Act, For the People Act, and Medicare.

For more information, you can visit the official WV Citizen Action Group website.

The new common COVID-19 variant in WV

In Segment 2, Dr. Clay Marsh, the COVID-19 Czar in West Virginia, discusses the latest coronavirus news in the Mountain State, such as how the United Kingdom variant of COVID-19 is becoming the most common variant of the United States and in West Virginia.

According to Marsh, The U.K. variant is 50% more infectious and lethal, along with a higher chance for children to get it, which is the state’s focus on vaccinations have switched toward getting them vaccinated.

Getting ready for COVID-19 vaccinations for 12-to-15 year-olds

In Segment 3, Dr. Ayne Amjad, West Virginia Public Health Officer, talks about the Joint Inter-Agency Task Force (JIATF) and how they are getting ready for the anticipated announcement that 12-to-15-year-olds can now receive the COVID-19 vaccine.

Amjad says with the United Kingdom variant of COVID-19, it’s more important to have kids vaccinated now, and the availability to get the vaccine will also expand to middle schools.

What you need to know about medical cannabis in West Virginia

In Segment 4, Rusty Williams, a patient advocate on the WV Medical Cannabis Advisory Board, discusses how the Department of Health and Human Resources has opened applications for patients to receive a medical cannabis I.D. card, which is needed to purchase medical marijuana. 

Patients who qualify to receive an I.D. card must have one of these conditions: 

• Cancer
• Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
• Parkinson’s Disease
• Neurological problems
• Chronic pain

Is Biden’s infrastructure bill a pork barrel spending bill? 

In Segment 1, U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R) Kentucky shares his concerns about the $2.3 trillion infrastructure bill proposed by President Joe Biden on top of the $6 trillion spendings related to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Paul said Republicans want bipartisan support to have the infrastructure bill focus on repairing and replacing roads and bridges. However, Paul says the infrastructure bill is being used as a “pork barrel spending bill” due to board terms within the bill to include childcare, reparations and medicare. 

Republican Senator Mitt Romney (R-Utah) has an alternative plan which includes a $700 billion infrastructure plan that would focus on roads and bridges. “If we made it bipartisan and about infrastructure, I think we could get big support for this,” said Paul. 

Why are children and frontline workers a part of Biden’s infrastructure bill?

In Segment 2, Seth DiStefano from the West Virginia Center on Budget and Policy office says he supports President Joe Biden’s infrastructure plan, which affects the Child Tax Credit and Earned Income Tax Credit. “When it comes to West Virginia kids and West Virginia working families, there really is no danger in doing too much. There is a danger in doing too little,” said DiStefano. 

The American Rescue Plan expanded the child tax credit to around 3,600 per child depending on economic status and made it more refundable. Under the current expansion, this tax credit is temporary. According to DiStefano, 94% of West Virginian children would benefit from the Child Tax Credit if the expansion was made permanent under Biden’s infrastructure bill. 

The Earned Income Tax Credit now maximizes the tax refund for families in West Virginia under the American Rescue Plan and was expanded to include people who do not have children. DiStefano says if this expansion were made permanent, 110,000 frontline workers would be able to take their own money out at tax time and drive economic growth. 

Distefano says frontline and essential workers are a part of the infrastructure bill because they were necessary during the pandemic and giving them more money would show the country’s appreciation for them.  

How expanding broadband can help repopulate West Virginia

In Segment 3, Del. Daniel Linville (R) Cabell County, Assistant Majority Whip, discusses the importance of broadband expansion in the Mountain State. 

During the 2021 Legislative Session, Linville says two bills passed that would regulate red-tape cutting, move the process significantly faster, add many consumer protections, and provide funding for the Broadband Insurance Program, allowing local providers to take advantage of federal dollars. 

It’s estimated that between 23% to 40% of West Virginia had no broadband signal, and a study shows West Virginia has the nation’s second-slowest internet speeds. Linville says the leading cause for slower internet speeds has been lack of competition in the market, as Frontier Communications dominates in West Virginia and the older technology still being used. According to Linville, DSL cannot use gigabit internet as Fiber Broadband can. 

He also discusses Gov. Jim Justice’s ASCEND West Virginia Program that entices remote workers to move to West Virginia. Linville agrees with the program and says broadband would allow the state to expand the economy and help regain some population back. 

$1 Million donation to Wesleyan for Undergrad fellowship research

In Segment 4, John McCuskey, a former member of the House of Delegates and a well-known Charleston lawyer, discusses his recent $1 million donation to Wesleyan University, his alma mater. 

McCuskey says he wants to see what his donation can accomplish. The donation will help fund fellowship programs for research in the science fields for undergraduates.  

McElhinney says the overriding headline of the session was the governor’s proposed removal of the state income tax, which caused a stir with the suggested sales tax increase to offset the loss of revenue. If the bill had passed, the state would have had the highest sales tax in the country. The bill was shut down in the House of Delegates with a 0-100 vote within hours of the governor saying the House wouldn’t vote on the bill.

In Segment 2, Brad McElhinney of WV Metro News returns to our reporters’ roundtable to discuss more highlights of the legislative session, including Education Savings Accounts and expanding charter schools. Issues regarding education were among the earliest discussed, with the House of Delegates working to move through its priorities quickly should COVID-19 pause or close the session.

Two years ago, educators across the state went to the Capitol Building to show opposition to expanding charter schools. That pushback didn’t happen this year because the sessions were closed to the public. With the legislation passed, the ESAs will help families save up for tuition and other educational expenses should they choose nontraditional schooling, such as private schools, for their children.

The legislature also passed a bill tightening the existing law against teachers’ strikes, stating that should teachers strike again in the future, they would not be paid for those days. Teachers’ unions called the bill, “vindictive” and “punitive.”

In Segment 3, Chief Political Reporter Mark Curtis is joined by Lacie Pierson, reporter for the Charleston Gazette-Mail, and Steven Adams, Capitol Correspondent for Ogden Newspapers, to discuss their experiences this year covering the 2021 West Virginia legislative session amid protocols set in place for COVID-19 guidelines.

In the roundtable, Adams describes the difficulties in covering the session with limited opportunities to speak with legislators due to protocol put in place for social distancing. Pierson says while the media was still able to access the same rooms, it was still very limited and she had to rely on her press pass more so than previous years to show she was allowed in since the general public was not.

Our guests also talk about the state income tax plan, which was shot down 0-100 by the House of Delegates. The biggest question now is what happens next, especially with the governor’s plan for a road tour to gain support for the income tax plan.

In Segment 4, Lacie Pierson, reporter for the Charleston Gazette-Mail, and Steven Adams, Capitol Correspondent for Ogden Newspapers, return for a discussion on the Mountain State’s 2021 legislative session.

Pierson discusses the legislature’s approval of an Intermediate Court of Appeals in the Mountain State. She called the decision “a long time coming,” as the state is one of only a handful without a middle court.

Adams talks about the state’s budget, which he called a “compromised budget” as it takes money from higher education institutions, particularly Marshall and West Virginia University. He says the compromise is that this does put money in other areas, and the surplus the state expects at the end of the fiscal year would backfill the funds. It also included a 1.5% cut to state agencies due to the proposed, and failed, state income tax plan. However, while the income tax plan failed, that cut remained in the budget.

In Segment 1, Del. Roger Hanshaw (R) Clay, Speaker of the House, discusses the highlights of the West Virginia 2021 legislative session, including:

• Passing state budgeting within 60 days with no extra expense to taxpayers
• Passing a state bill that creates an immediate court of appeals,
• The 0 – 100 vote that rejected Gov. Jim Justice’s personal income tax deduction bill,
• expansion of previous bills to allow more telehealth and improvements on internet access in West Virginia.

In Segment 2, Minority Leader Del. Doug Skaff (D), Kanawha, gives thoughts on how the 2021 legislative session went this year.

According to Skaff, the House and Senate “could have done more” for specific bills, including giving women equal pay and investing in higher education for young people.

Highlights of the session include pushing for “West Virginians First,” which would make the focus on current West Virginians in the state.

Skaff also says he expects a special session to take place later in the year to address the Gov. Justice’s personal state income tax plan.

In Segment 3, West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice declined an interview to discuss his personal state income tax elimination proposal.

Over the last week, the governor spoke out about its rejections during his COVID-19 press briefing, especially while discussing a new remote worker program to attract new residents to the Mountain State.

In Segment 4, State Senator Mike Woelfel (D), Cabell, and Minority Whip in the West Virginia Senate discusses some of the lowlights of the 2021 legislative session.

The State Senator says a lowlight was the lack of transparency during the session due to the Capitol building being closed. “Citizens have a constitutional right to be present, to address their grievances with this legislators, [and] to peaceably assemble,” said Woelfel. “Keeping the public out was bad policy. It looked bad — it was bad.”

Another lowlight Woelfel discussed was the budget cuts to higher education, specifically to Marshall University and West Virginia University. He also says they’ve disrespected public education Pre-K – 12 by now funding for-profit public charter schools and allowing private schools to have vouchers. “All of this sucks money from our public education, which wasn’t in great shape to start with.”

Manchin suggests what needs to be fixed with the immigration problem, pointing to the criminal element of immigration in which the Cartel is profiting off human suffering.

The Senator also talks about why he’s against a single infrastructure bill that would incorporate everything in one package. “We need to separate it — we need to get back to regular order. We need to get all in the input we can from 100 senators — the majority and the minority,” said Manchin.

In Segment 2, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin discusses the importance of voter rights and the need to evolve them to allow convenience for voting.

This comes after the 2020 Presidential Election allowed mail-in votes due to COVID-19 pandemic concerns.

In Segment 3, West Virginia Attorney General Patrick Morrisey talks about the 13 state lawsuit against the Biden Administration and the U.S. Treasury over a provision in the federal stimulus that bars tax cuts from being offset with relief money.

According to the attorney general, the latest spending bill would give West Virginia $1.25 billion, however, one of the conditions to accepting the money is that the state cannot lower taxes and cannot use any of the money from COVID-19, either directly or indirectly, to have a net lower revenue.

Morrisey says if this is not fixed, West Virginia and the state treasury could face a clawback. A clawback is a provision under which money that’s already been paid out must be returned to the employer or the firm.

The lawsuit says this provision in the federal spending violates the state’s sovereignty because they’re trying to command the state’s right to use their core taxing power.

In Segment 4, Gaylene Miller, the Executive Director of AARP of West Virginia, discusses the bills she lobbied for during this legislative session.

Some of the bills lobbied include the Telehealth Bill, broadband expansion and financial exploitation.

Visit the West Virginia Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston website here.

In Segment 2, Rabbi Victor Urecki of the B’nai Jacob Synagogue in Charleston speaks of the significance of the story of Passover in the Jewish faith and how, through that story, important it is to know your history and your identity, as well as the importance of patience.

“In broader strokes, the ideas of Passover are almost universal in it’s messages. A universal message of hope, the idea of liberation, the idea of taking care of the stranger,” said Rabbi Victor Urecki, B’nai Jacob Synagogue.

Visit the Congregation B’nai Jacob website here.

In Segment 3, Imam Nasir Abdussalem of the Islamic Association of West Virginia continues the conversation of practicing and exercising patience through difficult times.

Ramadan starts on April 12 and Abdussalem says the idea behind the holiday is to exercise patience over oneself. During the entire month of Ramadan, Muslims are obligated to fast, every day from dawn to sunset. Fasting requires abstinence from food and drink.

“Patience and hope, they go together like hand and glove. Because if I’m hoping for something better to happen…I have to be patient while I’m in the difficult situation in order to see it through,” said Abdussalem.

Visit the Islamic Association of West Virginia website here.

In Segment 4, Father Donald Higgs, Rector of the Basilica of the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, shares the message of Easter and the importance of renewing one’s faith in times of hopelessness.

The message of Easter the Father shares is the same message shared for the last 2,000 years — how the resurrection of Jesus Christ breaks the fear of death for many Catholics.

Visit the Basilica of the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart website here.

The delegates say they want to work toward keeping young West Virginians in the state and that starts with rebuilding, specifically in roads, broadband and education. Garcia says they include roads in this because of the shape of some of the state’s secondary roads, some of which are almost impassable. He says the state needs to make sure the money that has been put toward the roads is spread more evenly throughout the state.

Garcia says another major factor is education, starting with attracting and retaining qualified people to teach students, including providing teachers with better salaries. Another plan is to help those going to trade and technical schools instead of four-year colleges with programs such as the Jumpstart Savings Act.

In Segment 2, we focus on healthcare in politics with Dan Lauffer, President and CEO of Thomas Health Systems. Lauffer explains more about House Bill 2264, which would ease regulations for hospitals in West Virginia.

Before the pandemic, the state saw multiple rural hospitals report bankruptcies, including Thomas Health, and even some closures. Thomas Health has since emerged from bankruptcy. Hospitals have also been losing money over the past several months while trying to take care of patients during the pandemic, including the supply and affordability of PPE. Lauffer says he hopes this bill would help some of those rural hospitals reopen and make a come back as it would allow them to expand to better serve the community and be exempt from the certificate of need rules.

To read the full bill, visit the the West Virginia Legislature’s website.

In Segment 3, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) joins us to talk about her visit to the U.S./Mexican border near El Paso regarding the country’s immigration crisis and what needs to happen to solve it including a quicker asylum process.

“It’s just a human tragedy. I can’t imagine the desperation, that parents are sending their children. I understand that’s a difficult situation, but we need to solve it in their countries and also have policy that doesn’t just say ‘our borders are open,'” Capito said.

Capito says some of the issues she saw at the border included a facility built to house 1,000 adults overcrowded and housing about 1,100 children as well as over-worked border agents being pulled from the field to help care for those children. She also says the children are being kept in these Department of Homeland Security facilities much longer than they are supposed to be there before they go to a Health and Human Services facility. Capito says she is concerned about the fact the president has not acted on the situation because the crisis continues to grow.

In Segment 4, Chelsea Carter, program coordinator and therapist for Brighter Futures located at Boone Memorial Hospital, tells us about the effect the COVID-19 pandemic has had on the state’s problems with substance abuse.

Carter herself is in recovery from substance use disorder. After getting out of jail, Carter was able to get her criminal record expunged and has now been sober for 12 years. She has also gone on to get her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in counseling. Now, she is helping others struggling with substance use disorder.

She tells us the pandemic has affected people on “enormous levels” and that the state is up 40% in the opioid crisis, including an opioid death rate that has jumped 25%. Carter says in-person meetings are a lifeline for those struggling but with the pandemic, people were feeling more isolated even with virtual meetings and unable to get help. She says her workplace is now doing in-person meetings and counseling again.

If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use disorder, please contact:

• HELP4WV at help4wv.com, or call/text 844-435-7498
• Brighter Futures in Boone County at 304-369-7876
• Drug Helpline: online or by calling 1-844-289-0879.

Early in March, Health officials have identified 165 deaths related to COVID-19 that were unreported. Kaufman says paperwork flow and human error were the main causes of the unreported deaths.

Kaufman addresses the issue, saying that the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (DHHR) did an audit of the deaths associated with COVID-19 and said they were able to identify the issue and made sure they were accurate.

In Segment two, Jim Kaufman, President and CEO of the West Virginia Hospital Association, says many West Virginia hospitals in our area have been suffering a “financial shortfall” of $400 million between March 2020 and March 2021.

The latest COVID-19 aid bill from Congress provides $8.3 billion for hospitals nationwide and it couldn’t come soon enough. Kaufman says a lot of revenue was lost to hospitals during the early pandemic after non-emergency procedures were shut down.

According to Kaufman, three out of four West Virginians have insurance through either Medicare, Medicaid, or PEIA. Kaufman says these insurances pay below the cost of care and the coverage is reimbursing the provider at less than cost.

At this time, a bill in the West Virginia Legislature will address how to manage the gap to help pay for hospitals. Another bill would also stop non-state agencies from enrolling in PEIA and a third bill that would require PEIA to raise its rates to the medicare level on the in-patient side.

For more information on these bills, visit www.wvlegislature.gov.

In Segment three, West Virginia State Auditor JB McCuskey (R) explains how the state will spend stimulus money in the Mountain State and address fraudulent unemployment claims in the state.

McCuskey says the state auditor’s office is making sure every dollar that goes to the counties and cities is accounted for, along with being as transparent with the public about how the money is being spent by creating processes by which the counties and cities can use to pool their money to tackle large-scale infrastructure projects such as high-speed internet and road repairs.

McCuskey also says the state auditor’s office is helping WorkForce West Virginia as they continue to receive “tens of thousands” of fraudulent claims for unemployment benefits. Most of the claims are being filed by people out of state, or even from foreign countries.

To look up any records about how money is being spent in West Virginia, just visit WVcheckbook.gov.

In Segment four, Dave Allen, the host of the 580 Live show, tells us how West Virginia citizens are reacting to Gov. Jim Justice’s State Income Tax repeal and how it’ll affect people from those who own and run small businesses to West Virginia families.

You can find the 580 Live Show on WCHSNetwork.com on air Monday – Friday from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.

The governor says even with increases to other taxes, the plan would put money in the pockets of every West Virginian as well as bringing people to the state, increasing wages and increasing home values.

Critics, however, worry raising the sales tax would put the burden of the sales tax on middle and lower class income households. Justice says the concern is “totally backwards,” and the tax increase would not create this issue.

For more information on Justice’s tax plan, visit the governor’s website.

In Segment 2, West Virginia Chamber of Commerce President Steve Roberts says the chamber is still evaluating the governor’s tax plan. The chamber is looking at the lengthy Senate bill to find any nuances and reading the 77-page analysis of what the bill would say.

According to Roberts, the chamber has long said they want the state to be competitive in all areas, including tax, which he says should also include examining the income tax. Roberts says West Virginia has a higher personal income tax than any of the surrounding states.

He also says the chamber is concerned about the possibility of raising the state’s sales tax because more than half of the population lives in a border county and could start shopping in their neighboring states to avoid the high tax.

For more information, visit www.wvchamber.com.

In Segment 3, Jared Walczak, vice president for state projects for the Tax Foundation, joins us from Washington, D.C. to discuss the proposed tax reforms in the Mountain State. The nonpartisan organization works independently to evaluate tax policy and then renders its verdict.

Walczak says it’s great West Virginia is having discussions about making the state more competitive, and that Governor Jim Justice “rightly recognizes” that the state’s income tax should be part of that conversation.

However, he says the foundation is concerned that the current plan shifts a lot of the burden to alleviate the state’s income tax to small businesses. He says the established local taxes on top of the state sales tax could also make the rate higher than the proposed 7.9% in some cases. He also called the proposed advertising tax a “bad idea” because it could cause “strange disparities” between West Virginia businesses and their out-of-state competitors.

For more information, visit www.taxfoundation.org.

In Segment 4, West Virginia Delegate Sean Hornbuckle (D-Cabell) discusses some bills aimed at keeping young West Virginians from leaving the Mountain State.

He says this includes Delegate Shawn Fluharty’s (D-Ohio) Stay in the State Act, which is geared at keeping West Virginia’s best and brightest in the state. Hornbuckle has also sponsored a bill called the Young Professionals Tax Credit, which aims to both young people in the state and attract out-of-state youth to come to West Virginia by recognizing what they have in student loans and child care.

Hornbuckle also says a major focus of bringing young people to the state is education and making sure the state has the aptitude to attract some of the jobs.

For more information on these bills, visit www.wvlegislature.gov.

He also tells us that with closed doors, audio-only streams and no public discussion, the legislature could pass bills that end up having a negative impact on working families in the Mountain State. Sword says the organization has sent a letter to the legislature, and if they do not receive a response they could consider a legal challenge.

In Segment 2, we take a step back from politics and turn our attention to medicine, specifically, with the construction of the new WVU Medicine Children’s Hospital. President and CEO of WVU Health System Albert Wright Jr. says progress on the construction is moving along and he was able to tour the site last week, describing it as “pretty fabulous.”

He says the pandemic has made for a challenging time to build a hospital between supply delays and subcontractors who have had to quarantine. Wright says despite the challenges, they’re getting final schedule done and hoping to announce an opening date later this year.

The current children’s hospital is the sixth floor of Ruby Memorial Hospital. Wright says the new stand-alone children’s hospital will allow WVU Medicine to embrace specialized care to better serve the community, including a unique birthing center for high-risk pregnancies.

Last week, WVU Health System hosted a media-thon to help raise money for construction, which raised about $684,000 dollars, according to Wright. They are still taking donations from those who wish to help with the costs necessary to complete the hospital.

“We’re so thankful for everyone’s support,” Wright said.

In Segment 3, we’re talking money with West Virginia’s new State Treasurer Riley Moore, including two bills in the legislature he has been advocating for this year.

One project Moore has played a key role in is the Jumpstart Savings Act, which would help West Virginians who want to pursue a vocation or trade the ability to save up to potentially start their own business. Moore says the bill focuses on after schooling, helping people afford the costs that come after education, such as licensing, certifications and purchasing equipment needed for their trade.

Moore has also been an advocate for the Online Payments Bill, which would allow anyone anywhere in the state of West Virginia to make payments online. He says this would extend to fees, fines, taxes, licenses and other payments. Moore says this bill does not mean people wouldn’t be able to make payments in-person, and if that is their preferred method of paying, they will still be able to do so. For those who do wish to make their payments online, he says this bill will save people time and money.

In Segment 4, Mercer County Commissioner Greg Puckett joins us to talk about his concerns over Senate Bill 12.

The bill would gives more authority to county commissions for oversight of local health departments. Puckett says the bill would take away provisions from local public health, which he says is “a detriment to the community at large.” He says the idea of giving a political body authority over public health is concerning. Moving that authority would also transfer the legal liability back to county commissions, which could put them up to litigation in some cases and cause constituents more money, according to Puckett.

Health departments’ boards make multiple decisions regarding public health from handling the COVID-19 pandemic to needle exchange programs. Puckett, who is also a member of the Coalition for Tobacco-Free West Virginia, says the bill would put these decisions above them, whic could also open doors to other issues, such as permitting smoking in bars, casinos, racetracks, etc. He says legal scrutiny could also mean county commissions would not move forward with additional regulations.

The governor’s goal for these virtual town halls is to discuss his proposal to eventually phase out or eliminate the state income tax. He says with the state’s current strong economics, now is the time to move forward with removing the tax. While some taxes may raise slightly to offset the state income tax removal, Justice says his goal is for West Virginians’ net tax burden to go down.

In Segment 2, the discussion on the state income tax continues with Delegate Jim Barach (D-Kanawha). Barach says he is concerned about the proposal to eliminate West Virginia’s state income tax, calling it “a return to supply-side economics.”

Barach says the proposal to backfill the lost revenue from the income tax by raising the state sales tax, among other taxes, because the sales tax is a “regressive tax” and those “on the lower end of the economic spectrum pay a higher amount of their money in the sales tax.” However he says he is in favor of the proposed taxes on tobacco and sugary drinks to help West Virginians cut back on their consumption of those products.

In Segment 3, Delegate Jason Barrett (R-Berkeley) stops by to continue the discussion on West Virginia Governor Jim Justice’s proposal to repeal the state income tax. Barrett says while he does think removing the tax would help working West Virginians, the governor’s plan is a bit “aggressive” and “may be too large of a bite of the apple too quickly.”

He says he believes the finance committees for the House of Delegates and the State Senate can create an economically responsible plan to phase out the income tax. Barrett also tells us he is getting questions and concerns on the current proposal, which would include increasing the state sales tax, from West Virginians who want a better understanding of the proposal.

Barrett also shares his concerns that several counties are not receiving enough vaccine doses, especially in Berkeley, Morgan and Jefferson counties.

In Segment 4, Sean O’Leary, with the West Virginia Center on Budget and Policy, says the governor’s proposed plan to eliminate the state’s income tax “is not going to be a winner for West Virginia” as it is now.

He says raising sales taxes will mean West Virginians, especially in low to middle-income households, will be paying more, but will only get the state “halfway there” in making up for the income tax. He says this plan could mean cutting revenue from other areas to make up for the lost tax revenue, an issue he says is seen uniformly across the states that do not have income taxes.

Miller says their main issue with the bill is that it would give nursing homes, assisted living and other residential care facilities a “blanket immunity for COVID-19.” She says the reason the bill poses a problem is the residents are in a “unique position” because the facilities are their homes and many of them are more vulnerable to the virus.

She says they are also watching the state budget to make sure services for senior citizens stay fully funded.

In Segment 2, State Senate Majority Whip, Senator Ryan Weld (R-Brooke) tells us more about the bill that could limit or eliminate the liability of COVID-19 for businesses.

Weld, a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, says legislators across the country have been discussing whether an employer, business or even an individual could be sued because of something they did or did not do during the COVID-19 pandemic.

He says one reason for the bill is to prevent people such as those who made and sold masks from being sued if someone still contracted the virus after purchasing one of the masks. It would also protect facilities where an outbreak occurred even though government guidelines were being followed.

In Segment 3, charter schools and education savings accounts are once again a hot topic in the legislature. President of the West Virginia Education Association Dale Lee tells us why the organization is against that idea.

Lee says charter schools go against the advancement of public education in West Virginia and would mean the state paid for the option to have private schooling. Lee says the last time charter schools were in the legislative discussion, 86% of the public said they didn’t want them. With Education Savings Accounts, Lee says the organization is concerned those funds would cause taxpayers to pay for private schools.

Lee also discusses the bill concerning tighter restrictions on public employees’ worker strikes, which are already illegal in the Mountain State.

In Segment 4, we sit down with one of our state legislature’s “rookies” Delegate Kayla Young (D-Kanawha), a first-time lawmaker, to talk about what she wants to see happen this legislative session.

Young says one of the most important issues to her is dealing with unemployment, especially as many people, including Young herself, found themselves unemployed during the COVID-19 pandemic. She says she is working with the unemployment agency and her fellow lawmakers to see what can be done to help those who are now unemployed.

She says she’s also working on policy for small businesses and energy. Young, a small business owner born and raised in Kanawha County, said she chose to run for public office hoping to make a difference in the state.

Summers also says the Education Savings Account, which would allow parents to set aside money for their child’s education, tax-free, and possibly send them to private school. The controversial topic has been brought up by the legislature before, but Summers says this time it’s the parents starting the conversation.

In Segment 2, State Senate Minority Whip Mike Woelfel (D-Cabell) weighs in on the importance the legislature is placing on tax reform and how the state needs a plan to make up revenue lost for any repealed taxes. Woelfel says he thinks the legislature’s first order of business, however, should be financial relief in the pandemic, especially for the small businesses who have lost business and much of their revenue.

The senator also discusses some previously controversial bills that have come up in previous sessions and failed and how those could resurface in the supermajority legislature. He says the minority party’s goal is to work with the Republicans to pass legislation that benefits West Virginians.

In Segment 3, we look at the economics of the state’s political system with Professor John Deskins, Ph.D., director of the West Virginia University Bureau of Business and Economic Research.

Deskins says due to the pandemic, the state suffered the biggest economic shock it has ever seen with 94,000 jobs, or 13% of jobs, lost over the course of two to three months. Since the state started reopening, about 57,000 of those lost jobs have now been added back. According to Deskins, a major way to help the state’s economy is to make West Virginia more attractive to potential businesses and entrepreneurship.

In Segment 4, Education Savings Accounts have been a topic of discussion at the state legislature before, and a controversial one, however, legislation surrounding them has yet to pass. Jason Huffman, state director of the West Virginia Chapter of Americans for Prosperity, joins us to talk about why his organization wants them passed.

The ESAs would allow parents to set aside money for their child’s education, tax-free. This would also give them the opportunity and funding to look into private schooling. Huffman says the ESAs would help ensure students have access to the education that’s right for them.

The big argument that has made the ESAs so controversial in years past is will they pull funding away from the public school system and its students while helping fund private schools?

Blair talks about the possibility of phasing out the state’s income tax as part of the upcoming session. He says if the tax is eliminated, there is no defined timeline and it could still take several years to fully remove the tax. He says eliminating the tax would help bring people to the Mountain State rather than seeing them move to states that already have no income tax.

The senate president also praises Governor Jim Justice’s decision to appoint his predecessor Mitch Carmichael to an economic development position in the governor’s office. He says he believes the decision was the best choice due to Carmichael’s background in broadband.

In Segment 2, continuing to gear up for the legislative session, we hear from Senate Minority Leader Stephen Baldwin (D-Greenbrier County) on what the party is hoping to see come out of the session. He says they are looking for “real solutions for real problems.”

One of those problems, Baldwin says, is healthcare as families and small businesses are “maxed out” amid the pandemic. He also says he hopes to continue fighting another issue West Virginia has been facing long before the COVID-19 pandemic – substance abuse. With crisis calls and overdoses both up, he says it’s important to continue the fight against the opioid crisis.

Baldwin says he hopes to find a way to be transparent and hear from the people on the issues affecting them, especially as there will not be as much access to the Capitol amid COVID-19 precautions.

In Segment 3, we continue our look ahead at the legislative session with House Speaker Roger Hanshaw (R-Clay). Hanshaw says one of the big changes coming to the West Virginia Capitol is the protocol to keep everyone safe during the pandemic.

The galleries will be closed to the public as those areas are being reserved for remote seating for members and staff who choose not to wear a mask. Masks will be required to be on the floor of both the House and Senate.

Hanshaw also weighs in on the state income tax, saying the House, Senate and the governor’s staff have been meeting for the past month to see if there is a path forward in eliminating the tax. Both Republicans and Democrats agree broadband in West Virginia needs fixing. Telework, telehealth and virtual learning have brought the issue with the Mountain State’s internet connectivity into the spotlight throughout the pandemic.

In Segment 4, Minority Whip Delegate Sean Fluharty (D-Ohio County) talks about making the 23 Democrats’ voices heard in the 100-member House of Delegates among the Republican supermajority.

Fluharty says it will be important for the Democrats to work with the majority party to move forward legislation that benefits working West Virginians, and to speak up if a piece of legislation could have negative impacts on the majority of people in the state.

The minority whip also says he plans to continue his work with Republican Moore Capito in a bipartisan effort to get more high tech industries to West Virginia. The two have already formed a high tech caucus for the issue. Fluharty says the move will help diversify the state’s economy and bring more business to the Mountain State.

Long says bringing solar energy to the Mountain State would help diversify the state’s energy economy and maintain West Virginia’s relevance as an energy-producing state. She says West Virginia has an opportunity to be part of a changing energy economy where renewable resources are coming to the forefront as a generation source for clean sustainable energy production.

She says for businesses, such as Dickenson Saltworks in Malden, which switched to solar energy in 2020, going solar can be a return on investment that saves money in the long run.

In Segment 2, we hear from the State Director of the Sierra Club for West Virginia Karan Ireland. She says having a new federal administration that wants to move more toward renewable energy provides a huge opportunity in regard to climate change, reclamation in West Virginia and West Virginia jobs.

Ireland says wind operators and solar jobs have been the fastest-growing job sectors in the United States for a couple of years and bringing those industries to the Mountain State would create more jobs, including for coal miners who have lost work.

West Virginia Program Director for Solar United Neighbors Autumn Davis also returns to talk about the importance of policy to set the tone to make solar energy work in West Virginia. She says SUN hopes to see more pro-solar energy legislation bills passed in the Mountain State.

In Segment 3, former West Virginia State Treasurer John Perdue looks back at some of the highlights of his six terms in office, including the Smart 529 College Savings Program, which helps parents and guardians save for their children’s education.

He says as part of the program, they also started the 529 Walk to benefit foster children in the Mountain State by raising money for scholarships. According to Perdue, only about 2% of the state’s foster children get the opportunity to go on to higher education.

Perdue says one major issue he was focusing on when his last term ended is bringing broadband to West Virginia. He says he hopes to see the work continue because providing broadband across the state is critical to the Mountain State’s future. The problem with little to no access in more rural areas has been further highlighted by the ongoing pandemic as people need more internet access for virtual learning, telework and telehealth.

In Segment 4, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of West Virginia Mike Stuart talks about providing justice to victims of crimes, including for West Virginia’s veterans, such as in his recent prosecution of Dr. Jonathan Yates, a former doctor at the Beckley VA Medical Center who was accused of sexually molesting U.S. Military Veterans at the facility.

He says his main goal as a prosecutor is bringing justice to the victims of crimes, including the victims of another tough case involving, the suspicious deaths of multiple veterans at the VA Medical Center in Clarksburg. While the northern district is handling the prosecution of Reta Mays, a former employee at the center who is set to be sentenced later this month, Stuart’s office is handling the civil lawsuits filed by the victims’ families.

Stuart has also been heavily involved in trying to crack down on the opioid epidemic in the state, taking part in operations such as Project Parkersburg, the largest meth takedown in the history of both West Virginia and Ohio. He also helped prosecute in Operation Saigon Sunset, which took down a large network of drug dealers in the state.

The governor shares the importance of bringing more COVID-19 vaccines to the Mountain State and how quickly the state has been putting its current supply into the arms of the people, especially the elderly. He also talks about bringing students back to the classroom while keeping both the kids and the teachers safe. Justice says it was important to return to in-person learning to help students struggling with online learning and potential problems at home.

In Segment 2, West Virginia Governor Jim Justice returns to talk about broadband and the income tax.

Justice says a major goal of his second term is to “blanket the state” in broadband, especially after the pandemic has shown the need for better, more reliable access to broadband in the state through online learning, telehealth and telework.

The governor says the possibility of eliminating the income tax in the state is a big undertaking, especially with the tax being 43% of the total revenue of the state. He says the idea has had a lot of appeal to many West Virginians, and making it happen will need to be an “all in type of approach” to see if there is a way to move forward with the endeavor. Justice also shares plans for the “Roads to Prosperity” project and making the state’s roads safer for drivers.

Justice and our host Mark Curtis also take a moment to honor the memory of Cabinet Secretary for the West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance, Dennis Davis, who died Jan. 19. Mark asks West Virginians to remember Davis’s legacy by buying a plant or flowers and placing them on a veteran’s grave at the state cemetery for veterans because Davis himself worked hard to keep the veterans’ cemeteries beautiful.

In Segment 3, Bill Raney, who recently retired from being president of the West Virginia Coal Association, joins us to talk about the importance of the coal industry in the Mountain State and sending West Virginia coal to other industries.

The WV Coal Association works to represent the coal-producing part of the industry, including coal miners. The group’s objective is to make sure coal mines keep running and make the job more economical for coal miners.

In the 28 years Raney was part of the association, he says many changes have come to make coal-mining more efficient and safe. He says the organization plans to work to raise awareness of the importance of coal to the state and the country.

In Segment 4, Former president of the West Virginia Coal Association Bill Raney is back, and we’re also joined by another special guest, Raney’s successor to the position, Chris Hamilton.

Raney says Hamilton and the rest of the Association are more than prepared to represent the industry amid transitions in federal politics. Hamilton talks about the hopes of getting the business inventory tax repealed, a big objective for both the WV Coal Association and the Business Industry Council, for which Hamilton also serves as president. The largest question before moving forward is how to replace the money.

He says it is also important to first remove doubts that Joe Biden won the election and to prove to Americans the election was fair and secure.

Manchin also clarifies his thoughts on future stimulus checks are not against stimulus checks, but that the checks should be targeted to those who need help the most.

In Segment 2, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) returns to talk about rebuilding the government after several secretaries resigned following riots at the U.S. Capitol. He also says a top priority needs to be getting vaccinations for COVID-19 in people’s arms.

“We’ve got to do everything we can to get people a mind set of ‘I’m safe’,” Mancin said.

He also talks about the future of coal in West Virginia and how the U.S. needs to be energy independent, using technology to make that energy as clean and efficient as possible in a bipartisan way.

Manchin, our host Chief Political Reporter Mark Curtis and guest host 13 News Anchor Lily Bradley also take a moment to remember Brig. Gen. Chuck Yeager following a Jan. 15 memorial service for the West Virginia native and American Hero.

In Segment 3, Dale Lee, head of the West Virginia Education Associations talks about the West Virginia Board of Education’s decision to return to in-person learning.

He says the union should have been more involved in the decisions because the WVEA is member-driven and shares the concerns they have about returning to the classroom before vaccines are more widely available. Lee says he isn’t entirely against a complete return to the classroom, but believes now is not the time and the numbers for it to be a safe environment.

In Segment 4, West Virginia State Superintendent of Schools Clayton Burch boils down the WV Board of Education’s decision to return to in-person learning. He says the decision came after four hours of debate and open dialogue.

He says parents will still have the option to keep their students in virtual school if they choose, but they also wanted parents to have the option for in-person learning following national and state level health officials’ advice that it is safe with a mitigation strategy.

Burch says its important to have in-person learning available to students to make sure they have resources they may not have access to in virtual school.

He says even amid the pandemic, the court was never able to fully close, providing access to those in emergency situations. Jenkins says learning to use technology to provide new means of accessing the court can also be used in the future.

In Segment 2, we switch gears from politics to pandemic. Reverend Matthew Watts of Grace Baptist Church talks about the importance of getting the vaccine out to minority groups in the state.

Watts has been an advocate for providing COVID-19 testing to minority communities throughout the pandemic, as studies have shown minorities are two to three times more likely to die from COVID-19 than the rest of the population. He commended the Kanawha County Commission and Kanawha-Charleston Health Department for making those testing events happen.

He says those statistics also make getting the vaccine available to minority communities important to protect the community.

In Segment 3, Charlie Burd, the executive director of the new Gas and Oil Association of West Virginia stops by to talk about the organization. The association is a merger of the West Virginia Oil and Natural Gas Association and the Independent Oil and Gas Association.

Burd says the two organization’s dividing lines started merging and it was time to start tracking the same issues. He says the merger makes the organization stronger and gives them more of an opportunity to advocate for issues such as public policy, environmental safety, drilling and production, and taxes.

In Segment 4, Seth DiStefano with the West Virginia Center on Budget and Policy talks about the COVID-19 aid package. The recent package included funding for aid to child nutrition and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.

DiStefano says in West Virginia, that funding will amount to about $100 extra dollars in federal food assistance per month per family. He says he believes its important for state lawmakers heading into the legislative session to keep these needs in mind and remember many families in the Mountain State were struggling with high rates of poverty and joblessness before the pandemic began.

Reporters weighing in include Brad McElhinny of WV Metro News, Joe Stevens of WMOV Radio, WOWK 13 News Morning Anchor Lily Bradley and Steven Allen Adams of Ogden Newspapers.

In Segment 1, we discuss the biggest story of the year – the COVID-19 pandemic. Our guests discuss how West Virginia has handled the crisis in comparison to other states, highlighting how West Virginia took precautions early before the virus reached the state and how health officials made it easier for West Virginians to get tested for COVID-19.

We also take a moment to remember two tragedies in the Mountain State. First, the murders of seven veterans at the Louis A. Johnson VA Medical Center in Clarksburg. An unlicensed “nursing aid,” Reta Mays pleaded guilty to those murders and will be sentenced in February. We also remember 28-year-old Charleston Police Department Patrolman Cassie Johnson, who was shot in the line of duty Dec. 1. She died two days later on Dec. 3 and as a final heroic act, donated her organs to continue saving the lives of others.

In Segment 2, we switch from pandemic to politics. One of the biggest election headlines in the Mountain State came in the June Primary Election when incumbent and Senate President Mitch Carmichael was defeated by Amy Grady, who went on to win the Nov. 3 race.

We also talk about policy in the state, especially surrounding elections and early voting, which became a hot topic as states worked to make voting as safe and accessible as possible during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The pandemic also highlighted the Mountain State’s crucial need for better broadband. With schools moving to virtual learning as well as telehealth and telework, the pandemic showed how many of the state’s rural areas do not have reliable access to broadband to connect.

In Segment 3, we discuss politics and what the upcoming legislative session will look like between the pandemic and the Republican supermajority.

One question on the session is what will it look like? With the pandemic still ongoing and cases on the rise, the public has only been able to enter the building for specific businesses, questions arise as to how the public’s right to observe the sessions and have a voice in the building will work out, especially if legislators are moved to the gallery for social distancing. Plans for keeping the sessions safe have not yet been finalized.

In Segment 4, the topic turns to the state’s continued economic struggles, made more difficult by closures and unemployment caused by the pandemic. Some major economic stories from the Mountain State include the closure of the Mylan plant in the Morgantown area. The loss of the Minor League Team West Virginia Power in downtown Charleston.

In good economic news of 2020, West Virginia was chosen as the new site for the Virgin Hyperloop Certification Center. Construction on the site is expected to begin this year.

Lily also reflects on Medal of Honor Recipient Woody Williams, who turned 97 in 2020, and getting to travel with him to Norfolk, Virginia before shutdowns began as the USNS Hershel “Woody” Williams was converted to the USS Hershel “Woody” Williams.

Mark also remembers another pre-pandemic moment – the fifth day of the 2020 legislative session and the standing ovation Delegate Sean Hornbuckle received when he announced he had missed the first four days because he had been in the hospital donating a life-saving kidney to his sister.

Klusmeyer says while churches are going virtual, it’s a time when people are more connected with people from across the world joining local churches on live-streamed services and yet more isolated. He says this Christmas and Advent season is a time to be quiet and listen to the voice of God for comfort.

In Segment 2, Joe Stevens with the West Virginia Ski Area Association says wintery weather on the slopes is a-go for ski season. While the ski resorts will be open, safety precautions will be in place to protect guests and employees from COVID-19. Stevens says he has one piece of advice for skiers – “Mask up.”

Face coverings will be required in lift lines, on the lifts and other areas. People can go to goskiwv.com for a full list of guidelines at the ski resorts. Stevens says in a normal year, the industry brings in $250 million and 5,000 jobs.

In Segment 3, we switch gears to politics with West Virginia Senate President Mitch Carmichael (R-Jackson) to discuss the supermajority in both the House of Delegates and the State Senate.

While Carmichael himself was voted out in the primary election in June, he attributes the Republican party’s overall success in the Mountain State’s general election to the legislature’s focus on issues West Virginians care about. He says he believes it’s important for the legislature to work toward making the best decisions for the state.

In Segment 4, West Virginia Senate President Mitch Carmichael (R-Jackson) returns to talk about working in public office and what it’s like to make changes to better the state’s future.

He also talks about the discussions around phasing out the state income tax, saying the State Senate has led many of those conversations. Charmichael says it needs to be addressed because economists across the country have said it’s the “number one job-killing tax in our state.”

She said the rising COVID-19 numbers in the state prompted her visit.

“Well, that’s why we wanted to come because obviously, you can see West Virginia right now, rising test positivity, rising cases, rising hospitalizations, rising fatalities. Now is the moment every West Virginian really needs to take care,” Dr. Birx said.

She also said she is excited to see the long-awaited vaccine finally begin to roll out as the first doses are given to those who need it most.

In Segment 2, we continue our exclusive interview with White House Coronavirus Response Coordinator Dr. Deborah Birx during her visit to West Virginia.

In the past weeks, the Mountain State has seen a spike in its coronavirus numbers. Dr. Birx says a lot of this came from before Thanksgiving, and the holiday is accelerating this increase.

She also urges people to keep their masks on even around friends and family, as many people move gatherings indoors as the weather grows colder. She says if people do choose to gather with close family and friends this holiday season, follow the CDC guidelines to keep each other safe and prevent further spread of the virus.

In Segment 3, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) and her husband Charlie Capito talk about a first for the Congressional Club in Washington this coming year. For the first time in the club’s history, it will have a male president, Charlie Capito.

The Congressional Club first began in 1908 as a club for the spouses of members of Congress. In the early days of the club, it served primarily as a women’s social group, as all Congress members at the time were men. Charlie Capito says his first invitation for the Republican Spouses’ Club, 20 years ago when his wife made history as West Virginia’s first female elected to the House of Representatives, came in a pink correspondence.

The couple says having a supportive family is important for those making the tough decisions on Capitol Hill.

In Segment 4, we continue our conversation with U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) and her husband Charlie Capito, this time talking about policy and politics.

Senator Capito tells us she believes important components of a COVID-19 aid package include help for small businesses, schools and hospitals; providing for continued testing and rolling out vaccine distribution; and aiding those receiving unemployment due to the pandemic. She says a major part of making sure the vaccine can be sent out to states quickly, is making sure the funding is there for production.

Charlie Capito, a member of the West Virginia University Board of Governors and the Charleston Area Medical Center Board of Directors, talks about the university’s and hospital’s responses to the fluidity of the COVID-19 pandemic and the curveballs they’ve been thrown.

The first phase of distribution is to stabilize the healthcare system to allow workers to continue providing healthcare and to protect the most vulnerable in nursing homes and assisted living facilities.

Hoyer also shares his thoughts on the passing of West Virginia legend Brig. Gen. Chuck Yeager (Ret.), saying he hopes people will remember him not only as the man to break the sound bearer, but also an American Hero who bravely fought for our country, flying combat missions in both World War II and Vietnam and trained 26 of the nation’s first astronauts.

In Segment 2, West Virginia’s Public Health Officer Dr. Ayne Amjad says the state is starting to see an increase in COVID-19 cases, partially from Thanksgiving holiday travel, but not all of that data is in yet, and numbers could continue to increase. She also says a significant number of people with COVID-19 aren’t answering their phones for contact tracing, urging people to pick up the phone because identifying those contacts is important to prevent further spread of the virus. She says the number will usually be from your local health department.

In Segment 3, Delegate Daniel Linville (R – Cabell County), vice-chair of the House Committee on Technology and Infrastructure, talks about an issue with a bipartisan agreement – the lack of broadband in rural West Virginia needs to be fixed. He says the state has put together a more accurate map to tailor resources to fund ways to expand and enhance broadband in the state. Previous maps have shown broadband in areas where there is none.

He says broadband has become an important part of 21st-century technology, and the digital divide has been highlighted amid the need for telehealth, telework and online learning during the pandemic.

In Segment 4, the new Minority Leader for the West Virginia House of Delegates, Delegate Doug Skaff (D-Kanawha County) talks about working to make the minority party’s voice heard in a super majority in state legislature.

Skaff says he remembers what it was like working with the minority party and building relationships across the aisle when Democrats were a majority when he first joined the legislature in 2009, and hopes the House of Delegates can work together across party lines to meet common goals for the state.

He says he feels the legislature is on a united front in what it will take to help the state and small businesses through the pandemic.

In Segment 1, West Virginia National Guard Maj. Gen. James Hoyer, an integral part of the governor’s COVID-19 response team, talks about retiring from his position as Adjutant General, West Virginia Joint Forces Headquarters-West Virginia to becoming a senior associate vice president at WVU. He says he wants to continue helping the Mountain State through the pandemic in COVID-19 response and vaccine distribution as well as other projects across the state.

In Segment 2, West Virginia COVID-19 Czar Dr. Clay Marsh talks about why COVID-19 numbers are on an uptick in the Mountain State and across the country. Marsh says one factor is health officials believe people are beginning to let their guards down around family and friends as a large number of recent cases are through community spread. Marsh says this holiday season is best to keep just with those in your household or through Zoom, Skype or other virtual platforms, saying “Wish others well, but don’t wish them well in person.” The COVD-19 Czar also talks about COVID-19 aid packages and why support from the federal government is important in offering free testing, providing contact tracing and soon-to-be vaccine distribution.

In Segment 3, Seth DiStefano with the West Virginia Center on Budget and Policy talks about the necessity of another CARES Act package. He says many of the provisions in the first package, such as the $600 per week boost to unemployment benefits were essential to keeping West Virginians afloat and keeping the state’s economy from crashing. However, DiStefano says much of those provisions have already run out or will soon run out.

In Segment 4, we switch gears from pandemic to politics with former West Virginia Delegate Dr. Chris Stansbury to talk about Republican Party’s numerous wins in the state legislature during the 2020 General Election. Dr. Stansbury analyzes why he thinks the party had such a large success in the election, saying the party’s views are more in line with West Virginians’ values.

Stansbury also gives a preview of the upcoming legislative session. He says some issues include more dollars for the state’s roads – a point of contention for many West Virginians, possible raises for state employees, and making healthcare more accessible and affordable.

In segment one, Professor Robert Rupp, professor of political science at West Virginia Wesleyan College, explains what he believes we can expect from Tuesday’s General Election, why he thinks Republicans will do very well in the Mountain State, and the impact the coronavirus had on this election cycle.

In segment two, Rupp, author of the new book “The Primary that Made a President” explains why the 1960 Presidential Primary was such a critical Primary Election, what impact Former President John F. Kennedy’s religion had on his campaign, and the importance of “retail politics” in Kennedy’s day, as well as now in West Virginia.

In segment three, Garrett Ballengee, executive director of The Cardinal Institute of West Virginia, explains why he would like to see candidates who can present a positive vision for the state do well in Tuesday’s election, why his organization supports school choice, and what they would like to see to promote economic development in the Mountain State.

In segment four, Josh Sword, president of The American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations of West Virginia, explains what his organization supports candidates that support working families, why he believes national politics often takes the spotlight off of state and local politics, which directly impacts our lives more, and why his organization supports more funding for public schools.

In segment one, Kanawha County Commissioner Ben Salango, Democratic candidate for West Virginia Governor, explains why he decided to run for the office, what she would do differently for the state in terms of economic development, and what he has already done to help West Virginia small businesses.

In segment two, Gov. Jim Justice, Republican candidate for West Virginia Governor explains why he chose to run for another term, what he believes to be his greatest accomplishments while in office, and how “Roads for Prosperity” has helped the Mountain State.

In segment three, Salango grades Justice’s response to the coronavirus, explains what Salango has done to help the Mountain State during the pandemic, and why he believes voters should vote for him.

In segment four, Justice explains how he believes Salango stripped the funding from local health departments, what Justice has done for the state during the coronavirus pandemic, and how a federal investigation proved his privately-owned business’ dealings were on the up and up.

In segment one, West Virginia Attorney General Patrick Morrisey explains how he plans to help those searching for work in the Mountain State find a job, how he plans to continue the fight against the opioid crisis, and how he differs from his opponent.

In segment two, Sam Brown Petsonk, Democratic candidate for West Virginia Attorney General, explains how he differs from his opponent, why he believes Morrisey should have fought more for West Virginians in the opioid settlements, and why he believes hundreds of thousands of Mountain State residents will lose their health insurance if Morrisey is elected.

In segment three, Morrisey explains why he feels the Affordable Care Act should be repealed, how he plans to help West Virginians keep their healthcare, and his top priorities if re-elected.

In segment four, Petsonk explains why he disputes Morrisey’s claims that West Virginians will keep their health insurance if the Affordable Care Act is repealed, how he wants to help save the Mountain State’s power sector, and how he plans to fight for the state’s coal miners.

In segment one, Natalie Tennant, Democratic candidate of West Virginia Secretary of State, explains why much work still needs to be completed for automatic voter registration, why she believes this race comes down to “dignity and decency,” and why she takes issue with absentee ballot applications not being sent to all Mountain State voters for the General Election.

In segment two, West Virginia Secretary of State Mac Warner explains why he decided to run for re-election, what he chose to terminate some Secretary of State employees when he took office in 2016, and why he does not believe West Virginia systems are not ready for automatic voters registration.

In segment three, Tennant explains how she wants to make it easier for West Virginians to start small businesses, why she says the voting app is vulnerable and hackable, and what she plans to do for the state if elected.

In segment four, Warner explains why his office chose to not mail out absentee ballot applications to all voters in West Virginia, why he believes the mobile voting system is safe, and how his “one-stop-shop” for small businesses is helping business owners throughout the Mountain State.

In segment one, Riley Moore, Republican candidate for West Virginia Treasurer, explains what he hopes to accomplish if elected to the office, what experience he would bring, and how he differs from his opponent.

In segment two, West Virginia Treasurer John Perdue explains what he believes to be his biggest accomplishments as State Treasurer, how he’s helped to return money into the pockets of West Virginia residents through the unclaimed property process, and how he’s helped to balance the state’s budget during his time in office.

In segment three, Moore explains what he plans to do differently than this opponent if elected, and how he wants to help those in the state wanting to go to college, and how he responds to critics who say he’s not qualified.

In segment four, Perdue explains how the current Smart 529 Plan already benefits those wanting to further their education, how he’s confident about about the state handled providing medical marijuana to those who need it, and why he thinks voters should re-elect him.

In segment one, Rep. Carol Miller (R-Dist. 3), Republican candidate for U.S. Congress Dist. 3, explains what she thinks her greatest accomplishments have been while in office, why she thinks Congress needs to find a balance between helping the unemployed and encouraging everyone to return to work, and what her mission has been from her first day in office.

In segment two, Hillary Turner, Democratic candidate for U.S. Congress Dist. 3, explains what spurred her decision to run for Congress, how she thinks the government can pay for universal healthcare, and what she would do differently to help families during the coronavirus pandemic.

In segment three, Kent Leonhardt, the Republican candidate for State Agriculture Commissioner, explains what he believes to be his greatest accomplishments during his first term, how the state is growing the agriculture economy, and the impact the veteran’s farming program has on the Mountain State.

In segment four, West Virginia Sen. Bob Beach (D-Monongalia), the Democratic candidate for State Agriculture Commissioner, explains what he believes he will bring to the office if elected, how he thinks agriculture equals economic development, and how he plans to address the issues different farmers struggle within the state.

In segment one, Rep. Alex Mooney (R-WV), the Republican candidate for the United States House of Representatives, District 2, explains why he thinks he represents West Virginia values, how he thinks healthcare can be made more affordable for all, and how he thinks government should encourage residents to go back to work.

In segment two, Cathy Kunkel, the Democratic candidate for the United States House of Representatives, District 2, explains why she thinks West Virginians should vote for her, why she supports Medicare for all, and what she thinks should be provided in the next stimulus package.

In segment three, David McKinley, (R-WV), the Republican candidate for the United States House of Representatives, District 1, explains why he chose to run for another term, what he believes to be his greatest accomplishments over the past 10 years, and where Congress stands on current CARES Act legislation.

In segment four, Natalie Cline, the Democratic candidate for the United States House of Representatives, District 1, explains why the opioid epidemic helped spur her decision to run for office, how she hopes to help provide broadband coverage for all West Virginians, and why she wants the state to invest in science, technology, engineering and math courses.

In segment one, State Superintendent of Schools Clayton Burch explains how the state prepared to reopen schools, his advice for Mountain State parents and students, and how the schools will handle lunch service during the pandemic.

In segment two, West Virginia Public Health Officer Dr. Ayne Amjad explains what procedure schools will follow if a student tests positive for the coronavirus, her thoughts on the vaccine possibly being made available in October, and the emotional toll the pandemic has taken on parents.

In segment three, Dale Lee, president of the West Virginia Education Association, explains how comfortable some teachers are with reopening schools, how he thinks the color-coded map will help, and how the state should determine if any changes need to be made to the system.

In segment 4, Seth DiStefano, policy outreach director for West Virginia Center on Budget and Policy, explains his concerns with families being unable to get to a lunch drop-off site, with feeding those students who attend school online, and what the state needs from Congress to feed its families.

In segment one, Del. Andrew Robinson (D-Kanawha), the Democratic candidate for West Virginia State Senate, District 12, explains why he chose to run for State Senate, what he considers his greatest accomplishments while in the House of Representatives, and how he would attract economic development to the Mountain State.

In segment two, Del. Eric Nelson (R-Kanawha County), the Republican candidate for West Virginia Senate, District 12, explains why he chose to run for the West Virginia Senate, what work he’s most proud of while in the House of Representatives, and what he would do to change education in the state.

In segment three, Any Nichole Grady, the Republican nominee for West Virginia Senate, District 4, explains how’s she’s preparing to go back into the classroom, what her priorities are if she wins the seat, and what she would do to rebuild business in West Virginia.

In segment four, Bruce Ashworth, the Democratic nominee for West Virginia Senate, District 4 explains why he chose to run for Senate, why the state government should do more to support small businesses in the state, and how he would improve education in the state.

In segment one, Del. Daniel Linville (R-Cabell County) talks about what still needs to be done to increase broadband in West Virginia, why he believes the state will be ready to implement the new program that will provide internet to school children, and why internet access is so important for the education of West Virginians.

In segment two, Dr. William Simmons, former president of Glenville State College, explains his concerns with online learning during the pandemic, whether new tests need to be developed to measure its effectiveness, and why personal contact between teachers and students is so important for education.

In segment three, Tom Susman, president of TSG Consulting, explains the issues being encountered in health departments during the ongoing pandemic, how the coronavirus is causing health department staff to be overburdened, and how the state needs to strengthen the infrastructure in order to prepare for future medical needs.

In segment four, Ohio County attorney Teresa Toriseva explains why some West Virginia firefighters are fighting to get what she describes as lost wages and damages, how current lawsuits will provide retroactive pay and help fix the issue for the future, and why she says firefighters in whole are a great group to represent.

In segment one, West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice explains why the Sept. 8th reopening date for Mountain State schools is still a fluid situation, why the state must still “stay on their toes” and be ready to pivot in the case of a COVID-19 spike, and why he rebukes Democratic candidate for governor’s claims that schools are not ready to reopen.

In segment two, Kanawha County Commissioner Ben Salango, the Democratic candidate for governor, explains why he thinks West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice should be using the funds received from the Department of Education and the CARES Act to make the state’s schools safe to reopen, why the state needs to provide personal protective equipment for teachers and students, and why he believes schools are not safe for reopening at this time.

In segment three, State Superintendent of Schools Clayton Burch explains how the county has been working on reopening plans for months, why the county needed to provide options for parents, and where the state stands with extracurricular activities.

In segment four, Fred Albert, president of the West Virginia chapter of American Federation of Teachers, explains his concerns for teaches as schools reopen, why not testing everyone for COVID before going back to school would be a catastrophe, and how teachers are handling the online learning needed to help stop the spread of the virus.

In segment one, West Virginia Secretary of State Mac Warner explains how the "new and improved" absentee ballot request form goes directly to the county clerk and removes any issues with the United States Postal Service, how the changes will make the process faster and less expensive, and how the state currently prepares to protect West Virginians from COVID-19 during the upcoming election.

In segment two, Natalie Tennant, Democratic nominee for West Virginia Secretary of State explains how she decided to run for re-election to help take the state forward, why she thinks changes to the primary election absentee ballot request system will suppress voters, and why she takes issue with Warner's vote against what she describes as voting right acts.  

In segment three, freelance travel writer Clay Abney explains why more people should experience the many sights and activities throughout the Mountain State, how many things can be experienced in the state with simple day trips, and why he describes West Virginia as "the epicenter of adventure."

In segment four, freelance travel writer Clay Abney and Heather Johnson with River Expeditions explains the changes made to the white water rafting experience to keep everyone safe from the coronavirus, why many travels from throughout the nation to guide on West Virginia rivers, and why no one is ever too old to start rafting.

In segment one, Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) explains how the Senate Republican's COVID-aid package will differ from what was offered in the House, how the Senate package offers "targeted relief" to help the country reopen and how the current pandemic impacts her current campaign.

In segment two, Paula Jean Swearengin, the Democratic candidate for Senate explains why the current $600 employment benefit should continue, why the government should help small businesses to be able to pay their employees a living wage and how the nation needs more "people servants" instead of "corporate servants" in Congress.

In segment three, Anne Landgrebe, a West Virginia House employee who tested positive for COVID-19 explains how she helped to protect 49 others in a Health Committee hearing room by wearing a mask before she learned she had the virus and why others should wear a mask to help protect others.

In segment four, Jason Huffman, the state director of the West Virginia Chapter of Americans for Prosperity, explains how the organization's "Legislative Scorecard" helps create transparency with the state government, how the information helps voters and how the organization hopes to change the political culture to encourage West Virginians to get more involved in politics.

In segment one, Sen. Joe Manchin (D-WV) explains why he continues to want answers on how the VA Medical Center murders were able to take place, how he hopes to help those who lost their jobs to the COVID-19 pandemic and how the “hot spots” provision will help those throughout the Mountain State.

In segment two, Mary Collins, chief financial officer for Q-Labs explains how the lab allows some COVID-19 tests to be processed in West Virginia, how testing in-state speeds up the process and how Q-Labs currently works to test the faculty and staff at West Virginia University.

In segment three, West Virginia Public Health Officer Dr. Ayne Amjad explains why West Virginians traveling back from out of state should take precautions to help stop the current spike of COVID-19 cases, what vacation spots she considers to be hot spots for the virus and what she wants to accomplish while she’s West Virginia’s public health officer.

In segment four, Rep. Alex Mooney, (R-WV) explains why he believes COVID-aid funding should help small businesses and help the state’s schools to reopen, how benefits should help encourage Mountain State employees should go back to work and who is eventually going to pay for the CARES packages.

In segment one, Tony O'Dell, the attorney for many of the VA Clarksburg Medical Center victims' families, explains how the recent guilty plea of Reta Mays is a great start, but the medical center must also be held accountable for system failures that allowed it to happen.

In segment two, Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) explains how she hopes Reta's Mays' conviction will help bring closure for the families and how the investigation into the cases will continue. She also explains why she believes the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention should continue to track COVID-19 cases.

In segment three, West Virginia COVID-19 Czar Dr. Clay Marsh explains what steps the state government plans to take to bring the COVID-19 numbers down, why the governor chose to shut down the Monongalia County bars for 10 days and the steps Mountain State residents should take to keep themselves healthy during the pandemic.

In segment four, Dr. Sherri Young, executive director of the Kanawha-Charleston Health Department explains where Kanawha County currently stands during the coronavirus pandemic, what steps still may need to be taken to stop the spread in the county and what advice she gives to area churches to keep its congregations safe. 

In segment one, Charlie Burd, the executive director of the Independent Oil and Gas Association of West Virginia, explains why he believes the halting of the Atlantic Coast Pipeline is disappointing, why all may not be lost with construction and why he thinks the construction will be good for the state.

In segment two, Karan Ireland with the West Virginia Chapter of the Sierra Club, explains why she believes the decision to halt the Atlanta’s Coast Pipeline’s construction was the best decision, how several organizations vowed to continue to fight the construction and how the pipeline would negatively impact the Mountain State.

In segment three, Nancy Bruns, co-owner of J.Q. Dickinson Salt-Works, explains why the company is converting over to solar energy, why they believe it’s so important to have a low carbon footprint and how they expect to make their large investment back within 5-7 years.

In segment four, Zach Drennan, co-owner of Revolt-Energy, who is converting J.Q. Dickinson Salt-Works to solar energy, explains how exciting the project is for the Mountain State, why he believes solar energy makes economic sense for West Virginia businesses and how the solar energy industry will positively impact the job market for the state.

In segment 1, West Virginia Del. Mike Pushkin (D-Kanawha) explains why he disagrees with some of Justices' decisions on how the state should spend the CARES Act funds, why he encourages all West Virginia municipalities to apply for their share of the money and why he believes the funds should be spent on "struggling" Mountain State families and business, not to fix roads.

In segment 2, Rev. Matthew Watts with Grace Bible Church in Charleston explains why be believes 20% of the CARES Act funds should be dedicated to the 20% living below the poverty level in West Virginia, how the coronavirus pandemic helped to identify the lack of healthcare for those living in poverty and why the state simply needs to develop a plan to help the impoverished.

In segment 3, West Virginia Del. Heather Tully (R-Nicholas) explains why healthcare is one of the big issues she plans to tackle while in office, why she believes the state should stockpile supplies for a possible second COVID-19 wave and what needs to change in the fight against opioid addiction during the pandemic.

In segment 4, Caitlin Cook with the Mountaineer Food Bank explains how the organization works to engage the state to help end the fight on hunger, how they worked with the National Guard to help feed children and the elderly throughout the pandemic and how programs will continue to help feed school children throughout the summer.

In segment 1, Andrew Snyder, executive director of Fairness West Virginia explains why he believes the Supreme Court recent decision ruling against discrimination of the LGBTQ community in the workplace the “best gift that we could have asked for during Pride Month” and how the decision helps the debate for West Virginia’s Fairness Law.

In segment 2, West Virginia Attorney General Patrick Morrisey, who’s running for re-election in November, explains why he believes West Virginians should vote for him, how the Supreme Court ruling that allows the construction of the Atlantic Coast Pipeline’s construction to continue could result in West Virginia jobs and how the ruling helps correct the law that created “an impenetrable barrier” through all federal Trailways.

In segment 3, Sam Brown Petsonk, the Democratic candidate for West Virginia Attorney General explains why he believes Mountain State residents should vote for him, why he takes issue with drug settlements West Virginia Attorney General Patrick Morrisey has made with drug manufacturers over the opioid crisis and why he believes repealing Obamacare would negatively impact many West Virginians.

In segment 4, WVU Medicine Children's Hospital CEO Albert Wright Jr. and Chief Operating Officer Amy Bush Marone explain why the hospital’s future facility will benefit West Virginia, what future treatments and technology we can expect and how the completed facility will provide much-needed visual distractions for sick children.

In segment 1, Amy Grady, the Republican candidate for the West Virginia State Senate, District 4 seat explains how she believes she pulled out the victory in the Primary against Mitch Carmichael, how she tried to earn the trust of West Virginia residents and her political philosophy.

In segment 2, Bruce Ashworth the Democratic candidate for the West Virginia State Senate, District 4 seat explains how he’s in this race to help get the state’s unions back up and running, how he would improve education and why Mountain State residents should vote for him in November.

In segment 3, Marshall Wilson, the Independent candidate for West Virginia Governor explains why he chose to run, why he doesn't believe his competitors uphold the individual and natural rights of each West Virginia resident and how he says Gov. Jim Justice’s handling of the statewide shutdown due to the coronavirus pandemic is unconstitutional.

In segment 4, Mark Curtis presented a recap of “My Lost Moment: The Class of 2020,” which showed how some found unique ways to honor West Virginia seniors, gave a platform for some of the state’s valedictorians and class presidents to be able to give their prepared speeches and congratulated each and every graduate for a job well done

In segment 1, Professor Robert Rupp with West Virginia Wesleyan explains how this year’s primary was a “campaign without traditional campaigning” and how Gov. Jim Justice helped secure the Republican nomination by how he managed West Virginia’s response to the coronavirus pandemic.

In segment 2, Rupp explains what he described as the teacher protest movement that helped secure Amy Grady victory in the State Senator District 4’s Republican Primary over incumbent and current Senate President Mitch Carmichael and how the negative ads often shown during elections help to poison the atmosphere of the race.

In segment 3, West Virginia Secretary of State Mac Warner explains how he thinks the West Virginia Primary went with the increased number of mail-in ballots due to the coronavirus and how he thinks current conditions will impact November’s General Election.

In segment 4, Natalie Tennant, who will challenge incumbent Mac Warner for West Virginia Secretary of State in November explains why she believes West Virginia should elect her and why she thinks West Virginia should continue allowing mail-in ballots.

In segment 1, West Virginia Governor Jim Justice explains why he believes West Virginia residents should re-elect him as governor, saying that he is in office “for the right reasons” and hopes to continue his position. He also tells us why opponent Woody Thrasher’s criticisms show he doesn’t understand state government.

In segment 2, Republican Gubernatorial Candidate Woody Thrasher explains how he would help West Virginia move forward if elected into office, shares his concerns about the current pandemic and economy, and tells us what the state government should have done differently throughout the crisis.

In segment 3, Michael Folk, another republican candidate for West Virginia governor, tells us his reasons for running, why he should be elected over all other candidates, and says the lack of consistency amid the COVID-19 pandemic is a major problem.

In segment 4, Reverend Matthew Watts of Charleston’s Grace Bible Church updates us on the battle against the Coronavirus within the state’s minority population, explains the importance of addressing systemic poverty’s impact on health, and discusses with us the recent protests in response to the death of George Floyd.

In segment 1, Kanawha County Commissioner Ben Salango tells us why he wants to be governor of West Virginia, why he believes he is the best choice of the democratic candidates, and what he would do if faced with a second wave of COVID-19 while in office.

In segment 2, West Virginia Senator Ron Stollings explains why he thinks his medical background makes him the best choice for governor, the future of the Hobet mine project, and what he would do differently than the current administration, should he be elected.

In segment 3, Democratic Candidate Stephen Smith tells us how his campaign differs from other candidates, highlights the people and organizations backing him, and tells us his plan to fix the state budget deficit. 

In segment 4, Richie Robb, attorney and former mayor of South Charleston, tells us why he is running for U.S. Senate, details his platform, and explains how he plans to bring jobs to the Mountain state.

In segment 1, Haynes Mansfield, Marketing Director of ACE Adventure Resort reflects on the importance of tourism to the Mountain state, details some of the new restrictions and practices that are in place amid the COVID-19 pandemic, and tells us about some employment opportunities in the industry.

In segment 2, West Virginia Hospitality and Travel Association's Richie Heath discusses the impact of reopening outdoor activities on other sectors in the state and shares some advice on how to keep yourself safe as you venture out into this new normal we find ourselves in.

In segment 3, U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito tells us why she wants to continue her position in the Senate, responds to some of competitor Allen Whitt's criticisms, and highlights some of her highest priorities to focus on.

In segment 4, Republican Candidate for Senate Allen Whitt tells us about his platform and views, some of his concerns regarding state and federal governmental entities, and why he believes people should vote for him over incumbent senator Shelley Moore Capito.

In segment 1, we share a portion of our latest COVID-19 special, "Opening West Virginia." U.S. Senator Joe Manchin lists what he thinks needs to be done in order to fully re-open West Virginia, Ohio County Delegate and President of the Wheeling Chamber of Commerce Erikka Storch talks about what we can do to support our local businesses, and Governor Jim Justice addresses COVID testing concerns and reflects on how West Virginia residents have come together to combat the virus.

In segment 2, you'll hear more highlights from "Opening West Virginia," including Wally Thornhill on the automobile supply chain and what dealers are doing to get through the pandemic, COVID-19 Czar Dr. Clay Marsh on testing expansion, and Dr. E. Gordon Gee on changes for West Virginia University students. Dr. Gee also answers one of the public's most burning questions... will WVU football continue in the fall?

In segment 3, we change topics, speaking with one democratic candidate for the United States Senate. Paula Jean Swearengin talks about the importance of representation in politics, the long-term implications of COVID-19, and why she believes she's the right choice, over fellow candidate Richard Ojeda.

In segment 4, U.S. Senate Candidate Richard Ojeda responds to Swearengin's comments, tells us who he is and why he believes the public should vote for him, shares his opinion on a new stimulus package, and details some of his priorities in politics.

In segment 1, Republican House Speaker Roger Hanshaw tells us about West Virginia's projected budget deficits -- with the local economy just starting to reopen, he details what the state will be able to do about revenue shortfalls, including budget cuts, federal money in the state, and who can act on any decisions made. He also shares his opinion on the move to transfer federal prisoners into West Virginia facilities, telling us why he doesn't think it's a good idea. 

In segment 2, Kent Carper, president of the Kanawha County Commission, tells us how Kanawha County is doing under the shadow of the projected state budget deficit, as well as how they've combated financial troubles. He also talks about the gradual reopening of county parks, including guidelines to be followed, as well as the facilities that will not be opening.

In segment 3, Caren Stone, owner of Serendipity Spa & Salon in Charleston, tells us about the process of re-opening her facility, how customers are handling changes, and what they're doing to keep everyone safe, like offering services by appointment only and providing masks to employees and clients. She also tells us that she is concerned whether her fellow shop owners and entrepreneurs will be able to stay in operation in the long run.

In segment 4, John Roberts, executive director of Mountain Mission, talks about how you can participate in his organization's latest campaign, partnered with WOWK-TV, which aims to purchase food and other emergency needs for people affected by COVID-19. He also discusses how astounding West Virginia's generosity amid a crisis can be.

In segment 1, West Virginia Governor Jim Justice joins us via Skype to discuss elective surgeries, restaurants, and small businesses reopening, saying we have to take baby steps to ensure everyone's safety. He also details the differences between stay-at-home orders and the "safer at home" order he just enacted, and says, above all else, that we can't forget that COVID-19 is still here.

In segment 2, Dr. Sherri Young, Executive Director & Health Officer at the Kanawha-Charleston Health Department and President of the West Virginia Medical Association talks about the impact of elective procedures on both the economy and hospital revenue, restaurants reopening, and the number you can call to schedule an appointment at a Kanawha County drive-thru clinic.

In segment 3, Steve Roberts, President of the West Virginia Chamber of Commerce talks about how the governor's schedule to get back to work is translating to a more vigorous, innovative spirit from West Virginians. He also tells us about how, in response to the realization of how crucial broadband access is, the Chamber of Commerce has put together a plan for moving the Mountain state forward.

In segment 4, Deno Stanley, owner of Adelphia Sports Bar and Grille and member of the West Virginia Hospitality and Travel Association tells us all the steps restaurants are taking in preparation for reopening day, including what you can expect to see the next time you decide to outdoor dine. 

In segment 1, Dale Lee, President of the West Virginia Education Association, talks with us about the latest education news. He shares his opinion on the move to online learning, tells us about how teachers and other school service personnel are becoming more creative every day to meet the needs of students, and talks about the challenges educators are facing that will need to be resolved in the coming weeks.

In segment 2, Reverend Matthew Watts of Grace Bible Church discusses with us why minorities are getting hit harder during the pandemic than the general population and shares the details of his personal project to get testing access to the community, including what you need to do to sign up for the next round.

In segment 3, Attorney Harry Bell talks about the wildfire effect of illness in nursing homes, with emphasis on the main reason behind transmission. He also tells us where to go for more information, if you are looking into a nursing home for yourself or a family member.

In segment 4, Chelsea Carter, Program Coordinator and Social Worker at Brighter Futures, talks about addiction treatment options during a pandemic, with most clinics and groups offering Zoom meetings. She shares why she feels the lack of in-person meetings is hurting those in recovery, and where you can go for help.

In segment 1, United States Senator Shelley Moore Capito and Brendan Carr, Commissioner of the Federal Communications Commission, join us for a conversation on broadband and telehealth.  Senator Capito shares with us her concerns: do patients even have access to this technology? She tells us that she's pushing for an expansion under the CARES (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security) Act, to reach those rural areas. Commissioner Carr tells us about the telehealth initiative he is championing, specifically how they are working to bridge the digital divide that some areas experience, in order to provide equal means for doctor visits online. Finally, Senator Capito tells us why she thinks telehealth is going to become a crucial part of our lives, even after the pandemic.

In segment 2, we continue the conversation about broadband and telehealth with Senator Capito and Commissioner Carr. Senator Shelley Moore Capito talks about technological diagnostic tools that you can use and monitor right from your living room, as well as how this online health care service is an easy way to bring mental health experts into the homes of the people who need them. Commissioner Brendan Carr talks about the broadband capabilities in the state, saying that this pandemic has been an extreme stress test on the system and that it's actually overperforming. He also says the ownership cap on television stations is something that needs addressed, especially in the current climate.

In segment 3, Major General James Hoyer, Adjutant General of the West Virginia National Guard, tells us what his guardsmen and women are doing to help the public in the coronavirus crisis, including sanitizing emergency vehicles for first responders, securing masks, and more. He also explains where the Guard is getting it's funding and if the deficit will impact them, and tells us how he is seeing an increased interest in becoming a member of the National Guard as more and more people are seeing all the things they do for West Virginia.

In segment 4, Advantage Valley Executive Director Terrell Ellis tells us about the business climate amid COVID-19, and that, surprisingly, people are actually still wanting to start businesses in the Mountain state right now, regardless. She says even with all this going on, there are resources available, including Advantage Valley's recent FASTER WV Initiative, and tells you where you can find all the information you need.

In segment 1, United States Senator Joe Manchin tells us what is going on in Washington amid COVID-19, including how they're looking to provide more relief for hospitals, because he doesn't believe the stimulus did enough. He also talks about where you can go for assistance during the pandemic, as well as his new project, West Virginia Strong, where they are honoring people who do good deeds for others out of the kindness of their hearts.

In segment 2, Bishop Mark Brennan of the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston joins us to have a conversation about Easter, including the importance of the holiday on the Christian calendar, as well as how technology is allowing churches around the world to still hold service during stay-at-home orders. He says while we may not be able to physically be together in worship, our current climate is ideal for the domestic church to thrive.

In segment 3, Rabbi Victor Urecki of B'nai Jacob Synagogue talks about the importance of faith during dire times, like the current pandemic. He tells us how streaming services have helped his congregation, and remarks on why he and other religious leaders come together each year to open the legislature with prayer.

In segment 4, Imam Nasir Abdussalam from the Islamic Association of West Virginia tells us the significance of Ramadan in the Islamic faith, what it entails, and why they do it, as well as why the first day changes by year. He also tells us how not being able to meet in person is affecting their sense of community.

In segment 1, Mike Stuart, United States Attorney for the Southern District of West Virginia, talks  about the West Virginia Coronavirus Fraud Task Force, a joint state and federal operation, and how one of its main goals is to make sure the proper equipment gets to where it needs to be. He assures us that we will make it through this, if we just listen to the professionals.

In segment 2, West Virginia Attorney General Patrick Morrisey tells us his hands are full with scammers and that his office is working around the clock to keep us safe, details the types of scams most common right now, and talks about the one of the main factors behind the decision to move the primary.

In segment 3, IWVP host Mark Curtis reviews some of the most important decisions made by the state government last week, with special focus on COVID-19's impact on schools and elections, including the primary being moved, absentee voting, and the push to close schools for the rest of the season.

In segment 4, former Glenville State College President William Simmons joins us to talk all things education, including the importance of bringing technology to the Mountain state, how we need to change school curriculum to attract a larger workforce, and how teachers and students alike are adapting to change.

Finally, we pay tribute to the late Bill Withers, who recently passed away at age 81. In 2018, students from the West Virginia Schools for the Deaf and Blind performed "Lean On Me" at the Capitol to ring in the legislature. We share that music with you to end the show.

In segment 1, Dr. Sherri Young with the Kanawha-Charleston Health Department gives us the most recent total of confirmed cases in Kanawha County (accurate as of Thursday morning, which is when this show is recorded; check the Health Department's website for updated numbers), and explains why there are discrepancies between COVID-19 statistics on county heath department websites and the statistics on the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources website. She also says it is our responsibility to stay away from others and implement social distancing, and that we should all pay attention to trends and take this seriously even while our numbers seem low.

In segment 2, Dr. Angie Settle, Chief Executive Officer of West Virginia Health Right, breaks down for us who the organization treats and why it is especially important during this pandemic, when collateral damage is bringing even more people through its doors. She also tells us that because of coronavirus needs, the supplies the organization typically gets free and quickly are now delayed and paid for, so any and all donations are welcome.

In segment 3, West Virginia Secretary of State Mac Warner tells us how politics have been impacted by COVID-19, including the need for poll workers, why officials are predicting absentee voter numbers to skyrocket -- and why they're actually the ones urging people to take advantage of the absentee ballots in the first place.

In segment 4, John Burdette, financial adviser with Fourth Avenue Financial LLC, breaks down the impact of coronavirus on the stock market, telling us that no one can truly predict the exact day it is going to plummet or rise. He says it is important for us to evaluate our long- and short-term goals to figure out the plan that best suits our needs. For example, investing might be ideal for someone wanting to gain money in the long run, but not necessarily for people who need the money within the next couple years.

In segment 1, we share a portion of our WOWK COVID-19 special, "Facts Over Fear." Governor Jim Justice shares how being prepared has helped us combat the virus, shares his thoughts on restricting travel, and tells us the most important thing we can do right now: be "mountaineer strong." Dr. Clay Marsh, Vice President and Executive Dean of Health Sciences at West Virginia University, breaks down mortality rate numbers, talks about the advantages of living in a state with natural barriers and distance between people, and tells us how we can avoid overwhelming hospitals.

In segment 2, another portion of "Facts Over Fear," West Virginia State Health Officer Dr. Catherine Slemp and DHHR Secretary Bill Crouch share why broadband access is crucial in times like these, discuss the challenges and sacrifices of small businesses, and address concerns about how those in recovery will be impacted.

In segment 3, United States Representative Carol Miller talks about the $8.2 billion aid package that will be used to handle a variety of coronavirus-related efforts, including providing food for children and families, COVID-19 testing, and IRS tax credits, among others. She also tells us that it's important to do everything you can to protect yourself, but says you cannot forget to live your life in the process.

In segment 4, Steve Roberts, President of the West Virginia Chamber of Commerce tells us where to find useful information and resources during this pandemic, addresses unemployment concerns, and talks with us about the carry-out only impact on businesses.

In segment 1, Dr. Cathy Slemp, West Virginia State Health Officer and Commissioner of DHHR’s Bureau for Public Health, breaks down COVID-19 for our audience, telling us how (and how quickly) disease spreads, how far away from others you should be to avoid catching an illness, and the population that should take extra precaution. She also explains the goal behind prevention, which is not necessarily to keep people from getting sick.

In segment 2, Speaker of the House Roger Hanshaw uses his background in chemistry to give us insight into West Virginia's preparations, including the budgeting of money for quick use in case of a coronavirus outbreak. And as a small reprieve from all the COVID-19 talk, he tells us about a few accomplishments this legislative session.

In segment 3, Bill Bissett, President & CEO at the Huntington Regional Chamber of Commerce, weighs in on the impact of coronavirus on colleges and businesses, with emphasis on the fact that many events aren't just being rescheduled, they're being canceled until next year.

In segment 4, Terrell Ellis talks about Advantage Valley and shares her first-hand experience of events being postponed out of precaution. She reassures us that the Advantage Valley Business Expo will be reschedule for later this year, but there is not yet a set date.

In segment 1, West Virginia Attorney Tony O'Dell talks about the progress in the Clarksburg VA Medical Center investigation, including the first lawsuit filed on behalf of one of the affected families and the significance of the person of interest to the case.

In segment 2, Attorney Rusty Webb tells us about the Huntington and Cabell County trial against opioid manufacturers, with emphasis on the ultimate outcome he'd like to see as a result of the case.

In segment 3, AARP WV State Director Gaylene Miller discusses with us some of the legislation going back and forth at the capitol, including prescription drug affordability and transparency, and helping both senior citizens and their family caregivers.

In segment 4, Erica Mani, Chief Executive Officer at Red Cross WV Region, talks all things Red Cross Month, including the importance of checking and maintaining smoke alarms, the role the organization could play in any coronavirus issues in the Mountain state, and ways you can help the Red Cross this month.

In segment 1, Republican Senator Craig Blair talks about the proposed budget, including any progress toward an agreement, and tells us about the recovery process after his traffic accident.

In segment 2, Democratic Senator Corey Palumbo shares legislative session highlights and tells us which bills he hopes to see pass, talks about the parts of the proposed budget that surprised him, and tells us how working together can move the state forward.

In segment 3, Delegate Kevan Bartlett talks all things religion and politics, focusing primarily on his proposed bill, which would allow high school students to take an elective academic course about the Bible.

In segment 4, Delegate Mike Pushkin tells us his problems with the House version of the previously stated religious studies bill and his concerns about the proposed budget.

In segment 1, United States Senator Joe Manchin responds to the hospital closure, saying we cannot let Marion County go without medical care, and also tells us about his tweet war with President Trump.

In segment 2, West Virginia Delegate Amy Summers talks about some of the accomplishments at the Capitol so far, including the approval of bills that aren't necessarily headliners, but do impact daily life. She also gives us insight into how FRMC closing could impact the Mountain state.

In segment 3, Republican State Senator Rollan Roberts gives his thoughts on the state's tax plan, and talks about an issue that is ever-present in the United States, but has lately flown under the radar - vaping.

And in segment 4, Democratic Senator Roman Preszioso addresses concerns about the Fairmont hospital closure, talks about West Virginia's foster care, and shares his opinion on the tax plan.

In segment 1, Democratic Senator William Ihlenfeld talks about why the investigation into the suspicious deaths at the VA Medical Center in Clarksburg is taking so much time, and tells us why the loss of greyhound racing would be devastating to the area.

In segment 2, Senate Majority Whip Ryan Weld, a veteran and an attorney, shares his thoughts on the VA investigation, the impact of greyhound racing on the Mountain state, and the Tim Tebow bill.

In segment 3, Democratic Senator Mike Romano talks about the intermediate court of appeals, the Tim Tebow bill, and why his opinion has changed on greyhound racing.

In segment 4, Republican Delegate Ruth Rowan tells us all about the West Virginia Schools for the Deaf and Blind, highlighting the student performance at the WV State Capitol for Deaf Awareness Day.

In segment 1, United States Senator Shelley Moore Capito  shares her frustrations about the ongoing investigation into the suspicious deaths at the VA Medical Center in Clarksburg, gives her opinion on the State of the Union Address, and tells us why she voted to acquit President Donald Trump.

In segment 2, we talk to Republican congressional candidate Matt Hahn, M.D.,  about why health care is the central topic of his campaign. He also tells us why he thinks division is a real problem, and addresses other issues West Virginia is currently facing.

In segment 3, Secretary of State Mac Warner addresses all things cell phone voting, including the Iowa caucus meltdown and why the technology is so important to the Mountain state specifically.

In segment 4, U.S. Attorney Mike Stuart talks about how, in the midst of the impeachment trial, the nation still continued the fight against opioids, and shares his thoughts on the push for the  legalization of recreational marijuana in the state.

In segment 1, Speaker of the House Roger Hanshaw reacts to news that a federal grand jury has convened in Clarksburg in the suspicious deaths at the VA Medical Center, and talks about issues going on in the state, including foster care, the state's tech industry, and the Mountaineer Impact Fund.

In segment 2, Democratic Delegate Shawn Fluharty talks about bills that would legalize or decriminalize marijuana in the Mountain state, efforts to make West Virginia a technological hub, and what the newest VA Medical Center update could mean for the investigation.

In segment 3, Republican State Senator Mike Azinger tells us not only why he's opposed to legalizing adult use cannabis, but also why he is wary of the state pursuing medical marijuana.

In segment 4, Democratic Delegate Evan Hansen talks about environmental legislation, including the Clean Drinking Water Act, and why he thinks renewable energy jobs are passing West Virginia by.

In segment 1, Republican Congressman David McKinley talks about the impeachment process, the investigation into the suspicious deaths at the VA Medical Center in Clarksburg, and his feelings on the plan to end the use of fossil fuels by 2050.

In segment 2, Republican Congresswoman Carol Miller tells us about the most important part of her joint bill with Congressmen David McKinley and Alex Mooney, how transportation projects will impact economic development, and why she voted against the articles of impeachment.

In segment 3, Republican Congressman Alex Mooney shares the issues he feels are important as he runs for reelection, talks about introducing the joint bill targeting the VA Medical Center, and tells us what he finds most outrageous about the impeachment trial.

In segment 4, Democratic Delegate Barbara Fleischauer and 13 News Digital Reporter Erin Noon discuss lowering prescription drug prices, the introduction of the insulin bill, and the recent caravan to Canada.

In segment 1, Republican Senator Eric Tarr shares his experience of running the Senate Finance Committee while committee chair Craig Blair is recovering, and tells us why he believes the proposed repeal of the business and inventory tax would benefit the state.

In segment 2, Democratic Senate Minority Leader Roman Prezioso talks about why he thinks a repeal of the business and inventory tax should proceed with caution, and shares his opinion on the development of another rainy day fund.

In segment 3, Seth DiStefano, Policy Outreach Director with the Center on Budget and Policy joins us in number-crunching after the annual West Virginia Budget Breakfast and comments on the recent State of the State Address, including where he thinks the governor should invest money instead of establishing a rainy day fund.

And finally, in segment 4, Delegate Sean Hornbuckle reflects on receiving a standing ovation upon his return to the House floor after donating a kidney to his sister, walks us through his thought process leading up to the donation, and, most importantly, gives us an update on his sister's health after transplant surgery.

In segment 1, West Virginia Governor Jim Justice talks about the potential benefits of Ramaco Carbon coming to the Mountain State, as well as the resolution of the U.S. Department of Justice's investigation, which was launched after questions arose about the financing of his Military Tribute tournament at the Greenbrier.

In segment 2, Senate President Mitch Carmichael reflects on the governor's recent State of the State Address. He also talks about the status of medical marijuana and where he stands on the Fairness Act.

In segment 3, Josh Sword, President of AFL-CIO shares his hopes for this legislative session, including his thoughts on a possible repeal of the business and inventory tax, the future of right-to-work legislation, and why he expects to be on the defense this session.

In segment 4, House of Delegates Minority Leader Tim Miley gives us a different view on the governor's State of the State Address and talks about how we need to "start putting West Virginian's first."

Finally, we bid a fond farewell to co-host Adrienne Robbins, who has joined our sister station WCMH, in Columbus, Ohio. Best of luck, Adrienne!

In segment 1, Tom Hunter, the Associate State Director of Communication for AARP West Virginia, talks about the issues they will be advocating about in the upcoming legislative session, including family caregivers, fraud & elder abuse.

In segment 2, WOWK 13 News Digital Reporter Erin Noon talks about her experience covering a caravan that traveled from West Virginia to Canada to buy cheaper insulin.

In segment 3, Jason Huffman, the State Director for the West Virginia Chapter of Americans for Prosperity, talks about the issues they will be advocating about in the upcoming legislative session, including licensure, regulations, and comprehensive tax reform.

In segment 4, West Virginia Delegate Mike Pushkin (D-Kanawha) gives his thoughts on the 34 correction officer trainees who were photographed giving a Nazi salute.

In segment 1, West Virginia Governor Jim Justice (R) and First Lady Cathy Justice talk about the holiday season in the Mountain State.

In segment 2, Randall Reid-Smith the Curator for the West Virginia Department of Arts, Culture and History talks about the annual Joyful Night Celebration and the history of the decorations at the Governor's Mansion.

In segment 3, Canon Donald Vinson of St. John's Episcopal Church and Rabbi Victor Urecki of B'nai Jacob Synagogue discuss the reason for the season.

For more Inside West Virginia Politics, go to wowktv.com/iwvp.

In segment 1, Dale Lee, the West Virginia Education Association President, talks about the previous teachers strikes and what they want to see passed in the 2020 legislative session.

In segment 2, Andrew Schneider, Executive Director of Fairness West Virginia, talks about the Fairness Act which would ban discrimination in hiring, access to housing and public spaces for LGBTQ people in West Virginia.

In segment 3, Seth DiStefano, Policy Outreach Director for the West Virginia Center on Budget and Policy, talks about the state budget, multiple taxes in the Mountain State, and the 2020 Legislative Session.

In segment 4, Garrett Ballengee, the Executive Director of the Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy, talks about what issues are important to them in the upcoming legislative session.

In segment 1, we talk to Anne Barth, the Executive Director of TechConnect West Virginia.

In segment 2, we talk to Bernie McKay, the Chief Public Policy Officer for Intuit.

In segment 3, we talk to Josh Spence, the Chief Technology Officer for the state of West Virginia.

In segment 4, we talk to Matt Turner, the Executive Vice Chancellor for Administration for the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission.

For more Inside West Virginia Politics, go to wowktv.com/iwvp.

In segment 1, Former West Virginia West Virginia Secretary of State Natalie Tennant (D) discusses why she is running to regain the position.

In segment 2, West Virginia State Delegate Amanda Estep-Burton (D-Kanawha) talks about her first legislative session and what she is expecting in the 2020 session.

In segment 3, Kylee Hassan from Mission West Virginia stops by to talk about National Adoption Month.

In segment 4, Joe Stevens, the spokesperson for the West Virginia Ski Areas Association, talks about the 2019-2020 ski season in the Mountain State.

For more Inside West Virginia Politics, go to wowktv.com/iwvp.

In segment 1, Del. Barbara Evans Fleischauer (D-Monongalia) discusses rising insulin prices and the caravan from West Virginia to Canada to buy insulin.

In segment 2, Jody Murphy, a Democratic Candidate for Governor of West Virginia, talks about his campaign and why he decided to run.

In segment 3, Del. Caleb Hannah (R-Webster), talks about the November special session, education policy, and the border wall.

In segment 4, State Senator Stephen Baldwin (D-Greenbrier), discussed the aftermath of the 2016 flood, what is being done for flood prevention, and more.

For more Inside West Virginia Politics, go to wowktv.com/iwvp.

In segment 1, Ajit Pai, Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission, discusses rural broadband in West Virginia.

In segment 2, Sen. Joe Manchin (D-West Virginia) discusses rural broadband issues and shares his thoughts on the FCC's broadcast ownership rules.

In segment 3, Allen Whitt, a Republican Candidate for U.S. Senate, talks about his campaign and why he decided to run against Sen. Shelley Moore Capito.

In segment 4, Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-West Virginia) talks about United States Economic Development Administration grants coming to West Virginia, introducing the American Miners Act, and her primary challenger Allen Whitt.

For more Inside West Virginia Politics, go to wowktv.com/iwvp.

In segment 1, Tony O'Dell, an attorney for victims at the Clarksburg VA Medical Center, gives an update on the investigation into the homicides and suspicious deaths.

In segment 2, Capt. James McCormick,  U.S. Army (Ret.), talks about the Clarksburg VA investigation, the Military Order of the Purple Heart, and issues impacting veterans in West Virginia.

In segment 3, Secretary of West Virginia Veterans Affairs Dennis Davis talks about the services available to veterans in West Virginia

In segment 4, President of AARP of West Virginia Rich Stonestreet talks about how November is National Family Caregivers Month and what resources they provide.

For more Inside West Virginia Politics, go to wowktv.com/iwvp.

For more Inside West Virginia Politics, go to wowktv.com/iwvp.

In segment 1, Major General James Hoyer, Adjutant General of the West Virginia National Guard, gives an update on the RISE WV program and recovery from the 2016 floods.

In segment 2, Rabbi Victor Urecki, of the B'nai Jacob Synagogue in Charleston, West Virginia, talks about his visit to the US-Mexico border, immigration reform, and refugees.

In segment 3, Barb Mallory, the West Virginia Statewide Director for United Way's 211, talks about the resources they have available going into the holiday season.

For more Inside West Virginia Politics, go to wowktv.com/iwvp.

In segment 1, Kanawha County Commissioner Ben Salango (D) discusses why he decided to run for Governor of West Virginia.

In segment 2, Rep. Carol Miller (R) discusses her first year in Congress, the bill to redesignate the New River Gorge National River in West Virginia as the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, the latest on the investigation into the Clarksburg VA Hospital, and more.

In segment 3, Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R) gives her thoughts on the latest information on the investigation into the Clarksburg VA Hospital, broadband expansion in West Virginia, redesignating the New River Gorge National River in West Virginia as the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, and more.

In segment 4, Professor John Deskins from the WVU Chambers College of Business & Economics presents the Economic Outlook for West Virginia for 2020-2024.

For more Inside West Virginia Politics, go to wowktv.com/iwvp.

In segment 1, West Virginia First Lady Cathy Justice discusses the ongoing "Communities in Schools" Program

In segment 2, West Virginia Board of Education President Dave Perry discusses the boards "Statewide Listening Tour"

In segment 3, Jason Huffman, of Americans for Prosperity-WV Chapter discusses their 2019 Legislative Scorecard

In segment 4, Nick Spence, a student at George Washington High School and a cancer patient, talks about working with Senator Joe Manchin (D-West Virginia) on cancer issues.

For more Inside West Virginia Politics, go to wowktv.com/iwvp.

In segment 1, Peter Szijjarto, Hungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, talks about what brought him back to West Virginia and the similarity in West Virginia's and Hungary's economies.

In segment 2, West Virginia State Senator Ron Stallings (D-Boone) discusses why he decided to run for Governor and some of what his platform will be.

In segment 3, Jacob Green, the Special Assistant to the Chief Career and Technical Education Officer for the West Virginia Department of Education, talks 'Second Chance Job Fair' which brings employers together with people who were previously incarcerated and 'Jobs for Hope,' which is for people who previously had substance addictions.

In segment 4, Delegate Larry Rowe (D-Kanawha) talks about the importance of the salt industry in West Virginia and his new book "Virginia Slavery and King Salt in Booker T. Washington's Boyhood Home."

In segment 1, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of West Virginia Mike Stuart talks about cracking down on drugs in the Mountain State.

In segment 2, Attorney Rusty Webb talks about opioid settlements and where they stand, when can West Virginia expect to see that cash.

In segment 3, West Virginia State Delegate Mike Pushkin (D-Kanawha) talks about the new revenue numbers, if they are concerning, and when will medical cannabis be available in West Virginia

In segment 4, Steve Mallory, a WOWK employee and a 2019 West Virginia Broadcasting Hall of Fame Inductee, and Tom Resler, Chair of the West Virginia Broadcasting Hall of Fame, talk about the upcoming induction ceremony for the Hall of Fame on Saturday, September 28, 2019 at the at the Museum of Radio and Technology in Huntington, W.Va.

For more Inside West Virginia Politics, go to wowktv.com/iwvp

In segment 1, Tony O'Dell, an attorney for victims at the Clarksburg VA Medical Center, talks about the investigation into the homicides at the medical center.

In segment 2, Stephen Smith, a Democratic gubernatorial candidate, talks about why he is running for Governor of West Virginia.

In segment 3, Tim Dent, Chief Compliance Officer for DraftKings, talks about sports betting apps in West Virginia.

For more Inside West Virginia Politics, go to wowktv.com/iwvp.

In segment 1, Steven Roberts, the President of the West Virginia Chamber of Commerce, discusses the increases in available jobs in West Virginia over the last couple of years.

In segment 2, Josh Sword, the President of the West Virginia AFL-CIO, discusses the latest on 'Right to Work' and what issues are facing workers in West Virginia.

In segment 3, Chuck Palmer, the Business Manager for the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 132, talks about the road projects going on in West Virginia and the union apprenticeship opportunities that are available.

In segment 4, Elaine Harris, a representative for the Communications Workers of America union, talks about pay equality and the gender pay gap in West Virginia.

For more Inside West Virginia Politics, go to wowktv.com/iwvp.

In segment 1, Senator Joe Manchin (D) talks about gun law reform, expanded background checks, and closing loopholes.

In segment 2, State Delegate Jim Butler (R-Mason) shares his concerns about the call for gun law reform.

In segment 3, Dee Price Childers, from Moms Demand Action, calls for gun law reform, red flag laws, and loophole closings.

In segment 4, we talk to Sam Petsonk, an attorney representing some of the miners that did not get paid when Blackjewel went under.

For more Inside West Virginia Politics, go to wowktv.com/iwvp.

In segment 1, we talk to Jim Estep, President and CEO of the West Virginia High Tech Foundation

In segment 2, we talk to Rod Rogers, Vice President for Development of the West Virginia High Tech Foundation

In segment 3, we talk to Richard Rock, Airport Director at North Central West Virginia Airport

In segment 4, we talk to Tracy Miller, President of the Mid-Atlantic Aerospace Complex.

For more Inside West Virginia Politics, go to wowktv.com/iwvp.

In segment 1, First Lady of West Virginia Cathy Justice and Assistant West Virginia State Superintendent Michelle Blatt talk about the importance of the "Communities in Schools" programs and the value it brings to kids.

In segment 2, West Virginia State Superintendent of Schools Dr. Steven Paine talks about what the Department of Education is focusing on and what department needs the most help.

In segment 3, Dr. Paine talks about the pros and cons of House Bill 206 and weighs in on charter schools.

In segment 4, 2019 West Virginia History Teacher of the Year Matt Cox talks about what it means to him to be nominated as teacher of the year and what motivated him to get there.

For more Inside West Virginia Politics, go to wowktv.com/iwvp.

In segment 1, Mike Surbaugh, Chief Executive of the Scouts of America, talks about the importance of the World Scout Jamboree and it's impact it has on the scouts.

In segment 2, Astronaut and Eagle Scout, Col. Mike Fossum talks about how scouting impacted his life and his guided him to a path of being an astronaut.

In segment 3, Adjutant Gen. James Hoyer talks about what the National Guard is doing to make sure the Jamboree runs smoothly. He also talks about how scouting is great for turning kids into leaders for the future.

In segment 4, Owen Reid and Jack Sharp, Scouts from Scotland, talk about what the World Scout Jamboree has been like for them, and they even sing a little "Country Roads."

For more Inside West Virginia Politics, go to wowktv.com/iwvp.

Dr. Paul Ziemkiewicz, director for the West Virginia Water Research Institute talks about what Rare Earth Elements are and the impact they could have on the Mountain State.

In the next segment, Dr. Paul Ziemkiewicz discusses the environmental impact of Rare Earth Elements and the ongoing trade war with China.

West Virginia Senator Joe Manchin talks about the obstacles he is facing on Capitol Hill to get black lung funding for Coal Miners.

Cecil Roberts, President of the United Mine Workers of America discusses the impact of Miners going to Washington, D.C. and the importance of securing funding for these miners.

In segment 1, Gary Zuckett, the Executive Director for West Virginia Citizen Action Group, talks about why WV-CAG opposes the lawsuit saying 'Obamacare' is unconstitutional.

In segment 2, West Virginia Attorney General Patrick Morrisey talks about why he is working to get 'Obamacare' ruled to be unconstitutional

In segment 3, Sam Petsonk, who is running as a Democrat for West Virginia Attorney General in 2020, talks about why he is running and what his top priorities would be.

In segment 4, Stephen Smith, who is running as a Democrat for Governor of West Virginia in 2020, talks about his grassroots campaign and what should voters know about him and his policies.

For more Inside West Virginia Politics, go to wowktv.com/iwvp.

In segment 1, Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R) talks about First Lady Melania Trump's visit to the Huntington, and the impact that the opioid crisis has on the children of the mountain state.

In segment 2, Huntington Mayor Steve Williams talks about First Lady Melania Trump's visit and what constructive things the city of Huntington is doing to battle the opioid crisis.

In segment 3, West Virginia Treasurer John Perdue talks about why he is running for his 7th term as state treasurer and his accomplishments while working as treasurer.

In segment 4, Riley Moore (R) talks about the changes he would like to see if he were to be nominated as state treasurer. He also discusses the current marijuana banking issues faced in the mountain state.

For more Inside West Virginia Politics, go to wowktv.com/iwvp.

You can get more Inside West Virginia Politics at wowktv.com/iwvp