radioNOVO News WV News Roundup 05-14-26

Good Morning, West Virginia’s coal and manufacturing sectors are seeing a major boost this morning. Governor Patrick Morrisey announced a new 25-million-dollar manufacturing facility coming to the Mountain State, a joint venture between global engineering group Sandvik and Alpha Metallurgical Resources. The 100,000-square-foot plant will focus on essential mining materials like rock bolts and resin capsules. While the exact location is still under wraps, the project is expected to create at least 120 new jobs. Leaders say this move secures the local supply chain, moving production from overseas directly into the heart of Central Appalachia.The legal community is mourning the loss of a true West Virginia icon. Senior U.S. District Judge John T. Copenhaver Junior has passed away at the age of 100. Appointed by President Gerald Ford in 1976, Copenhaver served on the federal bench for nearly five decades. Known for his brilliant legal mind and a remarkable two-percent reversal rate, he was a Charleston native and a World War Two veteran. Chief District Judge Frank Volk described him as the "cornerstone of the federal judiciary." His impact on West Virginia law will be felt for generations.Check your budgets: Appalachian Power customers will see a rate hike starting June 1st. The Public Service Commission approved a base rate increase that will add roughly four-dollars and 84-cents to the average monthly bill. In exchange, the utility has agreed not to file for another base increase until mid-2027. Meanwhile, State Treasurer Larry Pack is calling for immediate relief at the pump. With gas prices averaging four-dollars and 43-cents a gallon, Pack is urging the Governor to call a special session to suspend the state’s 35.7-cent gas tax. He suggests using the state’s budget surplus to backfill road funds during the suspension.If your commute takes you through Weirton, expect delays today. A portion of WV Route 2 will have lane closures until 4 p.m. for bridge inspections. Looking north to the panhandle, the Fort Steuben Mall is facing a crisis. City officials have denied deadline extensions for safety repairs; the building—already declared unsafe—now faces potential condemnation if structural issues aren't addressed immediately.Finally, the West Virginia DNR has a springtime reminder: if you see a fawn or young bird alone in the woods, leave it be. Mother animals often leave their young for hours to forage or distract predators. Human intervention rarely helps and can actually spread disease or lead to the animal being unnecessarily removed from the wild.