West Virginia Must Participate to Influence National Energy Discussion

by Senator Brooks McCabe on September 3, 2010

energyAs debate expands regarding the future of energy, it’s very important that West Virginia asserts itself within this national conversation. Doing so will help ensure we are perceived as part of the solution, not part of the problem.

My thoughts  on the matter appear in a series of commentaries published by  The State Journal (links below), where I consider West Virginia’s role within the context of the national and global energy economy.

I’m also presenting on this issue today at the West Virginia Business Summit, and hope some of the discussion will cross-over into the realm of the Internet, so feel free to submit your thoughts on the below commentaries.

Part One – Our Energy Future: Let’s Reframe the Coal Debate

Part Two – Energy Opportunity: Reserves, Capacity, Transmission

Part Three – System Stability Key in Nation’s Energy Future

Part Four – Research Critical to West Virginia’s Energy Future

Part Five – West Virginia Can Seize Energy Opportunity

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OPEB: Legislative Subcommittee Offers Possible Solutions to Manage Retiree Health Care Costs

by Senator Brooks McCabe on August 20, 2010

Other Post Employment Benefits (OPEB) remains an $8 billion problem for West Virginia. Other states are also dealing with the growing costs of retirement health care benefits for public employees, but our current system is one of the most costly on a per capita basis.

The Legislature’s Joint Finance Subcommittee C has been exploring solutions to the OPEB challenge, and the subcommittee needs public feedback regarding this “Working List of Possible OPEB Actions” (PDF), so feel free to provide such via blog comment.

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Many Blessings Throughout My Life’s Journey

August 17, 2010

It was a significant honor to be recognized last week in conjunction with the YMCA’s Spirit of the Valley initiative. I extend thanks to the many friends, family, and associates that contributed.
Over $225,000 was raised for programs that will benefit area children and families, including the YMCA Community Assistance Scholarship Fund, the YMCA Activate America Youth [...]

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YMCA Spirit of the Valley Helps Many People

July 20, 2010

Non-profit organizations are essential within any community and the YMCA of Kanawha Valley is a great example. Its facilities and programs help families and individuals live more healthy and socially-engaged lives.
It’s my privilege to be recognized for the organization’s “Spirit of the Valley” award, but more importantly, I welcome you to consider giving for the [...]

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Senator Robert Byrd, West Virginia’s Greatest Statesman

June 28, 2010

Today marks a sad day in West Virginia’s history, given the passing of U.S. Senator Robert C. Byrd, who has died at the age of 92.
It’s fascinating to recount the senator’s life. A man from humble beginnings who eventually became the longest-serving member of Congress, and perhaps its most knowledgeable of the U.S. Constitution.
Robert Byrd [...]

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State of West Virginia Must Address OPEB Liability

June 25, 2010

The state of West Virginia has an $8 billion problem, which is an unfunded liability for retiree health care costs, known as Other Post Employment Benefits (OPEB). The causes are complex, but at its core, the matter has resulted from a lack of strategic thinking and the absence of a long-term focus.
Today the Charleston Gazette [...]

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Expanding Technology, Community and Economic Growth in West Virginia

June 9, 2010

As West Virginia becomes more “wired” to the Internet and community development initiatives expand, the potential for economic growth will increase as well.
The state is primed to benefit from the rise of technology-based jobs, which can be conducted remotely from any place in the world, so long as a broadband connection exists.
Consider Boise, Idaho, recently [...]

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Report Highlights Needs of West Virginia Seniors

June 7, 2010

West Virginia’s seniors are an integral part of the state. Their efforts have established a foundation for many people to succeed and their wisdom continues to guide us. With this in mind, it is our responsibility to help ensure that our elderly maintain a worthwhile quality of living. The importance of such is amplified, when [...]

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Planning Underway for West Virginia Education Research and Technology Park

May 19, 2010

The selection of Battelle Memorial Institute to prepare a long-range plan for the state Education Research and Technology Park is good news for West Virginia.
Battelle is a world-class organization that will help identify the strengths and opportunities associated with the park’s future development.
The group will focus on “creating a globally-competitive, multi-tenant research and innovation center [...]

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SURVEY: Do You Think West Virginia Needs Education Reform?

May 17, 2010

The West Virginia Legislature has been called into a May special session by Gov. Joe Manchin, whose agenda offers several potential reforms within the state’s education system.
Though I’m not a member of the Senate Education Committee, it’s still my job to understand public opinion on such matters. I asked a few of my counterparts serving [...]

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