The outcome of West Virginia’s 1^st Congressional District Democratic primary this week has made national headlines and other Democratic incumbents nervous. Congressman Alan Mollohan had held the seat for almost 30 years, but he lost the primary to state senator Mike Oliverio (pictured). Mollohan was the first incumbent Democratic congressman to be ousted during this mid-term election.

Republicans in central Kentucky’s 6^th Congressional District smell blood in the water. Six candidates are in next week’s GOP primary there. Two years ago, the same race featured three Republicans. In 2006, there were none. Political observers agree incumbent Democrat Ben Chandler could face a tough re-election bid if Republicans can select a candidate who appeals to Kentucky’s main stream voters. That’s a lot tougher than it sounds.

The federal office of Miners Health Safety and Training held a meeting on Mine Emergency Preparedness and Response in Beckley, WV this week. Speakers gave presentations on how to prevent but also prepare for mine emergencies. And a coal mine in Tazewell County, VA owned by Massey Energy could be put on the "pattern of violations" status. The label gives federal regulators more authority to temporarily shut down mines. Such action against Massey's Tiller mine would be only the second time a mine was put on this status. 

The FBI is reportedly investigating the explosion at the Upper Big Branch mine in Raleigh County. They’re looking into Massey Energy, as well as reports of possible bribery of Mine Safety and Health Administration officials. But,  inappropriate relationships between coal operators and MSHA officials are nothing new. Also this week, the United Mine Workers along with the families of two of the miners killed in the April 5 mine explosion filed a lawsuit against MSHA and its director in Charleston federal court. 

Young readers can learn about life in wetlands through the eyes of a beaver in a book written by a ten-year-old boy with ties to West Virginia. “The Adventures of Buddy the Beaver: Buddy Explores the Pond” reads like a typical children’s book. But it was written by 10-year-old Carson Clark, with a little help from his dad Jim. Carson’s father is nature photographer and West Virginia native Jim Clark, who now lives in Leesburg, VA. (Pictured: Jim & Carson Clark)