UPDATE: Cabell Huntington Hospital Lays Off 40
UPDATE: Cabell Huntington Hospital Lays Off 40 Save Email Print
Posted: 4:02 PM Jan 6, 2009
 Last Updated: 8:08 AM Jan 7, 2009
 Reporter: Scott Saxton; Michael Wooten
Email Address: scott.saxton@wsaz.com; michael.wooten@wsaz.com
223 comments
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Update at 11 p.m.
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. (WSAZ) -- Cabell Huntington Hospital President and CEO Brent Marsteller referred to cutting 40 employees' jobs as "the right thing to do for the future, but it's very difficult."

He said the layoffs ultimately are blamed on the nation's economic emergency.

"In the past ... health care has been kind of isolated from the regular economy, and this is the very -- one of the very few times I've ever seen where the economy really has affected hospitals and the health-care industry," Marsteller said. "There's more people, unfortunately, that do not have health insurance or are under insured, so that hits us in the way of uncompensated care."

That cost the hospital about $45 million last year. Also to blame is the credit crisis. The interest rate on the debt used to build the new North Tower more than doubled in a two-week period, costing nearly an extra $500,000 a month.

"Be leaner -- that's the best way of saying it," Marsteller said. "So we're looking at every area, and our management team throughout the hospital is looking at every line item to see what we can do safely and in an appropriate way to reduce the expenses for our patients."

Despite the job cuts, Cabell Huntington Hospital plans to continue recruiting new doctors.

Overall, the hospital has not seen a reduction in patients. According to the American Hospital Association, however, some hospitals are seeing patient numbers drop 40 percent because families just can't afford health care.

Original story
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. (WSAZ) -- Cabell Huntington Hospital announced Tuesday that it eliminated forty positions as part of an overall plan to cut costs.

The jobs are supervisors and management personnel. A release from the hospital says none of the affected employees are involved in direct patient care.

CHH President and CEO Brent Marsteller said these moves are in response to unstable financial markets, less reimbursement for health care and rising costs.

Marsteller said the hospital provided $45 million in uncompensated and charity care to patients in 2008. Marsteller said that number has been increasing due to the poor economy. He also pointed to increasing costs for supplies and medicine, along with the increased cost of employee benefits.

In 2008, CHH opened a new wing for patients that increased the company's debt by $100 million. The hospital also performs several services at a financial loss, such as trauma care, burn intensive care, pediatric intensive care and neonatal intensive care. Those services aren't cut because of the importance to the community, according to the release.

"Our hearts go out to these employees and their family members, but these changes are necessary for our hospital to remain strongly positioned to fulfill its mission of caring for the community and providing leading-edge medical care,” CHH President Brent Marsteller said.

Marsteller said the hospital implemented a plan to cut costs and increase efficiency. The release did not elaborate on those details.

Cabell Huntington Hospital employs more than 2,000 people. The forty affected employees will get severance packages and job placement assistance.

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Posted by: doesn't matter now on Jan 25, 2009 at 11:38 AM
Got it from a good source this weekend that the word family is to no longer be used at CHH. Brent, which color do wear and on what day of the week. Please let us all know so we can figure out what team we play on. Or is there a team? No family, next week no team, then what?
Posted by: Kittie on Jan 21, 2009 at 09:57 AM
Just to let all know that the 40 that were let go from CHH are surviving, & that is because we ARE SURVIVORS!!!! CHH will not & never will appreciate any one that CARES!!! Yes there are hospitals letting employees go but I say cut out the bonuses and the million dollar wages!!! All chiefs and no indians does not make for a pretty situation! My prayers to the 40 ...hang in there....better things will be coming for each of you.
Posted by: judi on Jan 17, 2009 at 07:34 PM
It truly is so sad that so many lost their jobs . But, just to put the record straight, SMMC, a non union hospital is NOT in trouble. I am sure that in the near future, they will do whatever they can do to cut cost, however, not at the expense of the patients. Each person has a preference of the hospital, doctor, or even grocery store they will use. I really doubt that the care at chh will be much different. WE chose not to have union at smmc, and so far we are thriving. The unit I work on has 25 beds, and they are always full. So I am not jealous of any other facility, there is a need for all.
Posted by: Mal on Jan 16, 2009 at 08:36 AM
Why doesn't the president lower his salary and stop getting such a huge bonus. I have also heard that they are having quite a bit of board meetings over the last few days and they are also having one on Martin Luther King Day too. Something is going on!
Posted by: in the community on Jan 15, 2009 at 07:36 PM
my neighbor told me one of the vice pres spouses told them that cabell employees are no longer to use the word "family" when they speak of the organization but to use the word team. what a sad, sad day.
Posted by: Setting the record straight on Jan 15, 2009 at 06:08 PM
I want to clarify something that has been said many times. Not all employees of CHH have free insurance. Only those who work full-time or part-time employees who work more than 64 hours in a two-week period get their insurance free of charge. There are many part-time eployees who have to pay for their insurance, so please stop this myth about everybody getting free insurance!
Posted by: To so sorry on Jan 15, 2009 at 02:01 AM
FYI don't blame the union members. All non union members have free insurance too. It is supposed to be a "perk" to working in a hospital and being exposed daily to every virus and disease around. I am a union worker and I don't even make close to $18 an hour. But at least I know that all of my years of service mean something. By the way, union workers being lazy is nothing but an ignorant sterotype. I work hard and don't make nearly what you think I do but I can demand safe working conditions and fair treatment. So get a clue and talk to a union worker today.
Posted by: kenny on Jan 12, 2009 at 10:46 PM
at least some of us were able to keep our jobs.im proud and tight that i did.thanks to whoever is responsible, me and my family thank you!
Posted by: DEBRA STOWERS on Jan 12, 2009 at 03:23 PM
TO THE PERSON WHO IMPLIED VALET SERVICES ARE NOT NEEDED PLEASE REMEMBER ALL THE ELDERLY AND SICK WHO CANNOT WALK TO THE DOORS. THIS SERVICE IS GREATLY NEEDED FOR THEM AND I HAVE USED THIS SERVICE ADN HOPE TO CONTINUE WHEN I NEED IT. THE VALETS ARE KIND, HELPFUL, AND VERY FRIENDLY. THEY DID LOSE ONE OF THE GUYS AND IT WAS SO AWFUL TO SEE HIM GO. HE WILL BE MISSED SO MUCH.OH YEAH , HE WASN'T MANAGEMENT. HE WAS A MAN TRYING TO MAKE A LIVING.
Posted by: anonymous on Jan 12, 2009 at 12:29 PM
This is a terrible situation for the people who have been let go and the people who are still here. Now is not the time to play the "blame" game! Instead, we all need to come together and make sure it doesn't happen again! Everyone has lost sight of what CHH stands for! Everything has a purpose in this world and unfortunately for those let go, this was our wake-up call! God bless everyone involved!
Posted by: melinda on Jan 12, 2009 at 12:16 AM
I am very much for Unions because of such acts like Chh has done to these good employees. Why were they escorted out of the building? I am certain that these People were not Criminals. The CEO has really hurt CHH's reputation because of the way they were treated. I think People should boycott Cabell and try and go to other Hospitals. Maybe it would send a message to the overpaid CEO. I also think that they advertise too much and that would have to cost a lot of money. Sometimes the ones at the TOP are not always the SMARTEST!!!
Posted by: Jon on Jan 11, 2009 at 10:22 PM
By the way "100% union," your "legal binding contract" doesn't guarantee you will have a job tomorrow. I've dealt with you slacky SEIU folks long enough to know when someone expects a free ride. It won't happen. Your contract is a piece of paper, nothing more. If CHH were to fold tomorrow, do you think they're gonna keep paying you? Get real.....
Posted by: Jon on Jan 11, 2009 at 10:17 PM
Now people are starting to see what a detriment to our society these penny-ante unions are becoming. The comments here are all well received. I sure hope you "organized" laborers enjoy the bubble you're riding on, because its eventually going to pop. Do you think you'll just keep getting meaningless raises forever, and the business will do fine? You're going to lose your jobs, or take tremendous cuts in earnings and benefits somewhere down the road. Organize the nurses and watch the company crumble. In the old days, unions fought for clean air to breathe; machines with guards so you don't chop off fingers. Now they fight for a couple dollars, or to get paid because someone else got to work overtime. Its petty and pathetic. Always wanting something for nothing. Grow up, and get with the program, or get in the welfare line. Your days are numbered as well.
Posted by: FYI on Jan 11, 2009 at 08:54 PM
There is a CHH unit being bought out due to bad management decisions. Most likely the people who work in there will be the ones that will pay the price for somebody else's mistakes.
Posted by: Heartbroken on Jan 11, 2009 at 01:09 PM
I sympathize with Broken Promise and for the Pharmacy Director. She is one of the most kind hearted, compassionate, and caring persons I have ever met, and to let her go when the Pharmacy is one of the biggest money makers in the hospital is cruel and inhumane. I agree with one person here who said this will probably lead to decreased business. How can CHH claim to be a Caring Partner with their I Promise campaign while at the same time kicking some of their most loyal employees to the curb? It is one of the most dispicable acts they could have ever done, and I believe it will eventually reflect in loss of revenue. Good job CHH, you've just shot your own self in the foot once again! And building that north tower just to "keep up with the Jones'" was premature and just plain dumb! Your remodeling and building projects always take top priority, but for what? Just more expenditures with little return! "Show" business has taken the place of patient care! Looks aren't everything, care is.
Posted by: HOPE on Jan 11, 2009 at 09:55 AM
I WENT TO CHH LAST YEAR AND WAS TREATED VERY NASTY. I WAS GIVEN A PEE BOTTLE IN FRONT OF THE WHOLE LOBBY IN THE ER. AND TOLD TO USE THE BATH ROOM OUT THERE AND HAD WAITED FOR 5 HOURS WENT TO KINGS DAUGHTERS AFTER THAT WAS WAS TREATED VERY NICELY AND WAS KEEP A FEW DAYS I WAS VERY VERY SICK. I HATE THAT THESE PEOPLE ARE LOSING THERE JOB BUT SOME THAT I MEET AT THE ER SHOULD NEVER BE IN THE FIELD.
Posted by: Joe Blow on Jan 10, 2009 at 10:15 PM
Listen folks, I was one of the 40 that lost their job and I just want to say that it was just business. I admire the men and women at CHH for the jobs they do. Please do not make little of the jobs these folks are doing. Yes my family and I will have a difficult time for the next few months, but this is business and we all need to understand that it must be done in order to prosper. Cabell Huntington Hospital was good to me and my family over the past 20 plus years. They will continue to be good for yours and mine and lets not forget this.
Posted by: WALKING ON EGGS SHELLS on Jan 10, 2009 at 06:40 PM
I COMPLETELY AGREE WITH THE LAST 3 COMMENTS. MY HEARY IS HEAVY FOR ALL THOSE WHO LOST THEIR JOBS IN SUCH A MANNER. I HAVE ALSO WORKED AT SMMC AND JUST 5-6 YEARS AGO THERE WERE A FEW, MONTHS AND YEARS FROM RETIRING AND WERE LET GO FOR REASONS NONE OF MY EX-CO-WORKERS KNEW. PURCHASING WAS ONE I DONT REMEMBER THE OTHERS BUT IT DOESNT MATTER. WHEN PEOPLE ARE LET GO FROM A JOB THEY DID WELL AND LOVED, TO SAVE A DOLLAR, THEY HAVE NO SHAME. IF I GO TOMORROW I KNOW I HAVE GONE AFTER THE CREAM OF THE CROP. BUT I BELIEVE THERE IS A NEED FOR ADMINISTRATION NEEDS TO OFFER PASTORIAL CARE MEETINGS WITH THOSE OF US WHO ARE HAVING A HARD TIME WITH THIS DECISION. AND A PLEA TO BE MORE CIVIAL WITH FUTURE LAYOFFS IM SURE ARE COMING
Posted by: Sitting on razor blades on Jan 10, 2009 at 10:03 AM
Many comments here refer to "dead weight" and most of the 40 people who were let go do NOT fall into this category. As an employee of CHH it is well known that the hospital has been Top-Heavy for years, and it still is. It is never a good thing when anyone loses their job, but more care should have been taken in the decision as to WHO was let go. I know of one dept. in particular that has TWO Asst. Directors! Why? Speaking of DEAD WEIGHT! These job cuts are another example of poor planning, poor leadership, and very poor decision making. This will undoubtedly lead to decreased confidence in the community for CHH to provide competent care, which will then lead to a lower census. It is one thing to announce cuts like this giving someone ample time to prepare, but to spring it on them suddenly, without warning, then escort them out like common criminals is incomprehensible. Such inhumane acts have to turn a large number of people against CHH, so they've probably done unreparable damage.
Posted by: HUH? on Jan 10, 2009 at 09:05 AM
Dear Concerned, HIMG,Neurology and the others were NOT given the boot. They CHOSE to leave CHH. Now we have an excellent new Neurology dept. and new MDs from MU med school. I just wish everyone would get their stories straight and stop promoting rumors that aren't true. I am a 26 yr employee of CHH and I am heart sick about what happened. Yes it was not done in the right way and yes I worked with those that were "let go". My heart goes out to them as they were my mentors. They are all in my prayers. This is not the only "business" that has done this. I just wish we could go back to being there for the patients and not the $$$$$$$,but in this day and times this is not possible. Please just let us concentrate on the present and the future and stop all the untrue rumors.
Posted by: Broken Promise on Jan 10, 2009 at 01:59 AM
The only reason I have stayed at CHH so long was because of my boss. She was the most loyal, hardworking, committed and nice person I have ever met. Now, she is no longer there!!! There is an abysmal void in the pharmacy family that no one will ever be able to fill! The day she was escorted out, she called and told us to worry about the patients & that she is so sorry she was not allowed to say goodbye. I understand the grimm economic forecast for CHH, but I do believe that there are more humane ways to handle the situation. Every problem has many solutions. During my time at CHH, the pharmacy has lost many dear members due to various reasons and we have operated short staffed for as long as I can remmember. My boss has always encouraged us to give 150% and to think about the patients. She lead by example! She entered orders when we were backed up, she listened to us, she cared about us!!! What a colossal loss!
Posted by: 100% UNION on Jan 9, 2009 at 11:44 PM
First of all to all the union bashers, you are simply jealous that you do not have a legal binding contract on your job. the average wage at CHH is $18.00 per hour. this was accomplished through union negotiations!As far as health insurance they changed the non-union workers health unsurance plan to a ppo at chh, while the union workers retain 100% bluecross bluesheild. CHH hospital is self insured, so as far as cost to the hospital.....well doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure out the workers utilizing that hospital pays them back!The union workers did have bumping rights there were only 3 positions verses the 41 non-union positions.The union workers are still there.They also got a 30 day notice, unlike the moments notice for the managers.As far as the RN's at CHH there are many of them who have always been union supporters, after all they know if we dont keep our health insurance as union workers neither do they! I say lets all join together and build stronger solidarity!
Posted by: concerned on Jan 9, 2009 at 06:35 PM
They say that their loan payment for the new tower went up 500,000.00 a month. My question is, was one of the 40 people let go the financial officer in charge of that loan? That person gets a 100 million dollar loan and does'nt get a fixed rate, what a joke. Once again the working class suffer at the hands of the upper management and their poor decision making.
Posted by: Not Shocked on Jan 9, 2009 at 05:43 PM
Why do people not understand that bad things happen to good people?? Is it sad that these people lost their jobs? Of course it is. It's sad that 500,00 people lost their jobs in the month of December and that even more will lose their jobs this month.
Posted by: Reality check on Jan 9, 2009 at 06:24 AM
Nurses at CHH and elsewhere need to stop and think! Unions prey on people who can't or won't think for themselves. The people who were laid off were MANAGEMENT employees...a nurse's union would have done NOTHING to prevent MANAGEMENT lay-offs. And a union would never authorize a work stoppage to save MANAGEMENT jobs! The hysteria about a nurses union is just an example of the union's opportunisitic sensationalism. UNIONS are worried about signing up more members to protect the union administration's paycheck and benefits...they don't really care about individual employees. Please don't be misled into believing a union can help you...it will only complicate your situation.
Posted by: Brian on Jan 8, 2009 at 11:42 PM
To Melinda on Jan 8, 2009 at 09:35 AM, I was only commenting on a post by "bob on Jan 7, 2009 at 02:14 AM" that the reason his wife left him for another man was becasue he got laid off. I simple stated that he couldn't blame the layoffs for his wife leaving him for another man. And I do know GOD, I haven't missed a Sunday Service in many years & I am active in my church.
Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 8, 2009 at 10:17 PM
can you say"union" thats what you needed now its too late, sorry.
Posted by: rosebud on Jan 8, 2009 at 09:06 PM
jules, what planet are you from????? Im serious. You talk like someone thats been brainwashed . Im sorry but you dont have a clue what your talkin about. The union people have to nearly beg for decent wages, while adminstration is vol, handing out large raises to non union RNs. the money we get is nickel and dime stuff. and I know for a true fact its cheaper to hire part time, prn, or traveling employees. The hospital has to pay no benefits. Some people just dont see the big picture. our ceo made about 750,000 last year. Shame on us for asking for nickels and dimes.
Posted by: Dennis on Jan 8, 2009 at 08:11 PM
Socialize medical care. Only 47 million our uninsured in U.S. We can socialize the financial sector(wall street) why not medicine because its big MONEY. CCH isn't hurting for money its just a way to make more. Third world countries have better medical care than the U.S. It will never change in the U.S. because of the AMA. I feel for the people that lost their job but what do you expect. Health care is not about people its about MONEY in the U.S.
Posted by: Someone who loves you on Jan 8, 2009 at 08:05 PM
Patient care has to be suffering. The mental, emotional strain of seeing your boss lead out of the building like a common criminal is not easily forgotten. They say that time heals all wounds, and I'm sure it does. My prayer is that each patient receive the best possible care that they are entitled to, and that each employee puts forth their best effort to provide excellent patient care. We can forgive but it will be very difficult to forget. To all of the wonderful employees that were let go...May the peace of God that passes all understanding guard your heart and mind!!! Be encouraged and show your true spirit. Don't let what happened change your "caring spirit" that is within you. You know who this is, and you know I'm talking to you!!! I LOVE YOU!!!
Posted by: Educated on Jan 8, 2009 at 07:40 PM
Hey ART (1/8/09, 509pm), maybe your precious union could teach you some grammar! I believe it is "Cause and Effect." I hope that all union people are as smart as you! GEEZ
Posted by: so sorry on Jan 8, 2009 at 07:34 PM
unfortunately, when the union contract was renewed this last time, the union would not approve a contract that required chh employees pay "any" portion of the cost of their health insurance premiums. chh pays the entire health insurance premium for every one of it's employees and their family members. we might look to the union for this recent financial situation and thank them.
Posted by: Jules on Jan 8, 2009 at 06:56 PM
The union is to blame for this travesty. The union forces administration to take drastic measures to keep up with costs and the union will be crying about the workers not getting more. When the next contract negotiations come due the union will not take into account how the hospital had to let go of a lot of its dedicated and hard working employees. The union should be ashamed for demanding more from a hospital that is already strapped.
Posted by: chh employee on Jan 8, 2009 at 06:50 PM
FYI... to all those people saying that the union people were not affected by the job cuts...they eliminated union positions as well, and people are being bump out of their jobs from the union people that lost their positions. These people did have direct patient contact. The CEO neglected to include them in his news conferance. I hear they are not finished yet.This was only phase 1 and there are at least 2 phases. We are all at risk of losing are jobs, no one is safe....not even the union people and I am union. We all need to pray.
Posted by: K on Jan 8, 2009 at 06:48 PM
The cause and effect of union is that the wages and benefits of the organization are significantly above what the market demands, and therefore above what the industry can support. Cabell has to work harder than other facilities to bring in revenue and cut costs elsewhere because proposed cuts to bring health insurance and other benefit and wage costs into line are rejected and likely to result in devastating work stopages. My position is gone, and the greed of the union is every bit as responsible as any other factor.
Posted by: ART on Jan 8, 2009 at 05:09 PM
GO UNION GO UNION!! THATS THE CAUSE AND AFFECT OF NON-UNION, WHEN WILL PEOPLE OPEN THERE EYES THAT ARE SHUT TIGHT, GEEZ
Posted by: Disgusted on Jan 8, 2009 at 03:59 PM
First off, let me send my thanks to the 40 employees for their years of service to not only the hospital but to the industry. Next, lets clarify some things! I hardly consider employees of an organization that have spent 15 years working their ways through the ranks as "dead weight." You would think that the organization would have figured out they were dead weight long before they spent half of their lives at CHH. I did not know all of the people, but the ones I did know, were the best, and went above and beyond what they were ever expected to do. Most had spent their entire careers at CHH and expected to retire from there. Imagine starting over after 30 years? To finish, everyone needs to understand something, CHH is hurting, physically, financially, and most of all, our feelings are just hurt! We must unite as a organization and overcome this situation. Submitting negative comments and harboring negative feelings will only delay the healing process. United we stand!
Posted by: wvresd. on Jan 8, 2009 at 10:06 AM
you people that think the Union is sooo good well I have to say I was union with chh and lost my job so you may want to think again, you can loose your jobs whether you are union or not, Best of Luck to everyone who is out there, my prayers are with you all in your search now
Posted by: I wonder on Jan 8, 2009 at 10:03 AM
I wonder if the director of Social work was let go? I fear they will merge nursing and social work...not a good idea.
Posted by: Melinda on Jan 8, 2009 at 09:35 AM
To brian this isn't national inquire bring your gossip somewhere else. I'm sure you are as guilty for things yourself. This is awful everyone losing their jobs the government is making this impossible. Their going to make it to where you can only get a job in the military is their plan. Food prices are getting worse and they have cut back the size of the food and gas is going up we have wars and crime is getting worse, we all NEED JESUS to save us, Because he is the only one who can save us from all of this drama. Lay offs are going so much and little money being paid to those who work in jobs but the ceo's and managers of baks have no problem and mayors and politicians stealing our money. THIS WORLD IS GETTING WORSE AS YOU CAN SEE A BRIAN ON HERE TALKING ABOUT AN AFFAIR NOT LAY OFFS. GET TO KNOW GOD FOR HE IS COMING SOON....
Posted by: friend on Jan 8, 2009 at 09:30 AM
The actions taken by Cabell Huntington Hospital this week are nothing short of despicable. 40 dedicated, caring persons' lives have been devastated by these actions. And for what? A $20 million computer system that was unnecessary. A tower and flat screen TVs. These employees were among the best that CHH had and, as the old expression says, they have now been "used and abused." Their "Partners for Life" commercials certainly do not apply to their employees. And isn't it interesting that CHH cannot afford to keep their most dedicated employees due to financial constraints, but plans are still being made for a new nursing unit and children's hospital. Mr. Marsteller and his cronies need to get their priorities straight. As for me, CHH is no longer a "Partner for Life" for me or any member of my family because I do not believe that patient care will not suffer. How can it when staff will live in fear that no matter how good a job they do, their jobs are in constant jeopardy?
Posted by: HMMMM on Jan 8, 2009 at 08:38 AM
WILL I GET FIRED IF MY BOSS MAKES SOME BAD FINANCIAL DECISIONS ON BEHALF OF A COMPANY? WHY DID THESE PEOPLE GET FIRED WHEN IT WAS THERE BOSS THAT MADE THE BAD FINANCIAL DECISION WHEN BUILDING AND ADDING WINGS?WAS THE WRONG ONE FIRED?...OH LAYED OFF
Posted by: CONCERNED on Jan 8, 2009 at 08:27 AM
HUNTINGTON WHATS HAPPENING TO OUR HOSPITAL.FIRST HIMG WAS GIVEN THE BOOT,THEN THERE WAS ORTHOPEDICS INC,THEN NEUROLOGY.THESE GROUPS THAT HAD BEEN AROUND AND SUPPORTED CHH FOR MANY YEARS.NOW THE MANAGERS THAT HAD DEDICATED SO MANY YEARS TO CHH.CHH IS A SMALL TOWN HOSPITAL,AND THOSE THAT WORK AT CHH ARE LIKE FAMILY,AND THOSE THAT ENTER ARE TREATED AS WELCOMED GUEST.SEEMS THIS IS NOT SO IMPORTANT TO THE ADMINATRATION.WHAT A SHAME
Posted by: CHH New Commericals on Jan 8, 2009 at 08:09 AM
Now Cabell will have to pay thousands of dollars for new commerical because most of the staff in the old ones have now been fired. So look for new ones to come out soon and I'm sure they will say they are your "Partners for Life". What a joke and a waste of money. Also, they didn't get rid of the known loafers (for some reason they are protected - probably related to one of upper management persons).
Posted by: union info on Jan 8, 2009 at 08:02 AM
If you are interested in organizing the RNs at Cabell you should contact the local 1199 SEIU and they will assist you. It is a prime time to organize. Seize the opportunity.
Posted by: Brian on Jan 8, 2009 at 03:21 AM
To bob on Jan 7, 2009 at 02:14 AM, I don't think that your wife falling in love with another man & leaving you just happened because you were layed off. She probably was having an affair before this. A little advise, quit whining or you'll never find another woman & you may want to get a divorce before you have an affair, because then she'll definately get whatever $$$ you have or think you may get from your mental anguish.
Posted by: UWOULDLIKE2KNOW on Jan 8, 2009 at 01:48 AM
hm..i think there were other reasons why they were cut,and i have good sources. could it be that they just werent worthy of keeping at cabell? THINK PEOPLE THINK!
Posted by: nurse on Jan 8, 2009 at 12:32 AM
CHH is not the only hospital in the area that is in trouble. EVERY hospital is cutting hours as the patient census drops.People are not paying their hospital bills and health care is costing more and more for the hospital to provide. I believe CEO and manager bonuses should be the first thing to go. Then quit hiring seasonal temp. positions and working weekenders during the week.
Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 8, 2009 at 12:22 AM
Obviously this event has brought about a multitude of emotions. As for the CEO's comment that patient care was not impacted, maybe he doesn't understand the job descriptions of those involved. Nurse Managers at CHH are 24/7 accountable to their units, including providing direct patient care when required. When a number of staff call off and no resources are available, who do you think provides the patient care? Cuts may be acceptable in some cases, but how can you explain that cuts of long tenured managers ocurred, leaving their units to be combined under less experienced managers with no greater qualifications. Someone should inquire about the restructuring. Is it rational and fair, or was it about the money. Why were these employees refused avaiable positions in the organization? If they had not been good employees, they would have been weeded out without the need of job elimination. It's one thing to cut, but how can you justify hiring for positions that those cut could fill?
Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 8, 2009 at 12:22 AM
It comes down to the simple fact that people are seeking medical attention and not bothering to pay one penny of their bills. Most people assume that patients who are on medicaid or medicare get their medical bills paid for also are WRONG! They are so backed up right now that some hospitals haven't been paid for treatment that was done 6 months ago. It's not a wonder the hospitals are going in the hole. CHH won't be the first or last to do lay offs. So get ready!! Of course they laid of people not related to direct patient care. You lay off the nurses and then you see how well your family member gets cared for.
Posted by: rosebud on Jan 7, 2009 at 11:27 PM
unionsux is better thsn managementsux trust me.! Oh sorry! thats what management says Ha Ha!!they dont care about your hard work ,your only a number and yes, people have lost jobs.!!!! Im so sorry for them . Being union would have helped them . To late now. And you can bet your ceo is working under a contract, just like the union people.I work @ another hospital where they would love to cut the budget @ someone elses expense of course. dont ever think you cant be replaced . your just a number and if your number is too high. Guess what,,,,,,, your replaced with cheaper labor. They dont care about human life. To them its all about the numer. Stay Smart Be Union.
Posted by: Chris on Jan 7, 2009 at 11:09 PM
My brother works at CHH for about 17 or 18 years and I know the headaches the he has to go through due to higher rank employees taht violates the union regulations. The health care, reguardless of which hospital it is sood go back to the purpose of helping the injured and sick without bankrupting the patient. I am dying and don't have insurance and appreciate any care that I get,but it's the ones with common colds or people just seeking drugs that makes you sick.At KDMC, there is a lady that helps me to get some of the medical attention that I need and she means alot to me.Unfurtunately I can't have any major operations due to the expense to save my life.All of us down grade these hospitals, but they do try to help on some levels.I feel sorry for the ones who have lost their jobs and wish them a better life somewhere else. It's took me several years to come to terms that I am going to die without some of the proper medical attention I need,but som people are worse then me. God bless
Posted by: rose on Jan 7, 2009 at 11:06 PM
times are hard now but remember God is on your side . I think he is union too. He always cared about the people .
Posted by: rose on Jan 7, 2009 at 10:56 PM
you have to use your head, its all about $$$$$$$$ .. for management ,its cheaper to hire GN , no retirement, no vac. no sick time ,no insurance of course they have no experience ,but
Posted by: juleena on Jan 7, 2009 at 10:48 PM
Im disgusted with the comments about the ceo. hes a good man and this wasnt his decision. he has boss's too. hes a good man and takes VERY good care of his family, they want for nothing and there very proud of him.The marstellers are a good family and he has job security because he does his job RIGHT.The people that were let go were "dead weight" as i heard and werent needed any longer. you have to work for what you have. Cabell is still a great place and we still have the finest of people working here.
Posted by: registered nurse on Jan 7, 2009 at 10:46 PM
I am a registered nurse at cabell huntington hospital, and have worked there for 17 yrs, i was not a union supporter during the last campaign here, believe me when I say that was the biggest mistake i have ever made not voting yes for the UNION!At least union workers have a process that seniority counts and is legal and binding. Our manager had nothing! She was escorted out after 25yrs. I would like information on who to contact about joining the union that represents the workers here. Can someone help?
Posted by: david on Jan 7, 2009 at 10:42 PM
well i lost my job today as well. i was employed at infocision in huntington. had worked there years, never missed a day.but about 40 people were let go today, we were told we were no longer needed. so i feel your pain and wonder why there wasnt anything on the news about us? by the way, were a company with verizon, a major cell phone company.
Posted by: A former employee on Jan 7, 2009 at 10:40 PM
CHH is all about big business.They don't and never did care about their hard working employees.The Union people will not be protected either.What Marsteller says will go while he smiles and continues making enough money in a year for me to live on the rest of my life.What a shame for these dedicated people.As far as charity-all area hospitals do their fair share of charity work and let's face it-we the people in this country pay for that so who does CHH think they are fooling.Don't dog SMMC, they are doing great and hiring everyday-they have nothing to do with what's happening at CHH.Big buildings, more wings(to have shut down half the time because of no patients)Gross mismanagement-bottom line,trying to out do SMMC. Shame on you all-just remember "what goes around comes around." Thinking and praying for all who lost their jobs.
Posted by: anonoymous on Jan 7, 2009 at 10:19 PM
I cannot believe the lack of loyalty to long term employees at chh. I understand layoffs sometimes happen, but I think it should start at the top. An overpaid ceo and too many vps who have made very poor decisions in running this hospital. As a visitor to this hospital I saw so much unnecessary spending in the hallways alone. How many flatscreen tvs do you need? I can only imagine all the excesses on needless spending. As a member of this community with health insurance I will go to St Marys for all of my health needs. I'm sure they are far more loyal to their employees and patients. The interview with Mr.Marstellar showed a man with very little compassion for the employees who lost their jobs.
Posted by: Its time on Jan 7, 2009 at 10:08 PM
RNs - Now is the time to unionize
Posted by: To Marstellar on Jan 7, 2009 at 09:59 PM
On your interview you expressed that you didn't like what you had to do well if that was the case then explain why you didn't cut your pay or bonuses. Looking out for #1 I see. Why is there and has there been remodeling going on in the hospital? There are plenty ways you could have cut before laying off people. You are too busy trying to out do other facilities now look where that has got us. How do you sleep at night. If the hospital truly wanted to save money they should have started with letting you go. It is ridiculous to me that anyone would make $500,000 to run a hospital.
Posted by: Alaine Call on Jan 7, 2009 at 09:54 PM
I certainly understand that restructuring is sometimes needed, especially in tough economic times such as these. What disturbs me is that these tenured employees were told their jobs were being eliminated and then escorted to their cars like prisoners and they were not even allowed to collect their personal belongings from their offices. My daughter needed hospital treatment yesterday and I took her to another local hospital that actually has compassion on their fellow man. A word to CHH.... people don't CARE WHAT YOU KNOW: they want to KNOW THAT YOU CARE. While I am sure it was difficult for the CEO/President to let these individuals go, a lot more compassion could have been shown to your employees. You may want to start up your "In My Hospital, I promise to..." commercials again, but this time make the promises to your employees who deserve the same loyalty and compassion you promise to your patients.
Posted by: To BO ref Healthnet on Jan 7, 2009 at 09:47 PM
Bob-I believe you are splitting hairs. While the hospital does not "own" healthnet, CHH DOES pay for the helicopter and CHH DOES pay for the crew. The crew is CHH employees. So how is it possible they hospital is in this terrible shape that they must lay off 40 folks but are still hiring new crew members to staff a helicopter in Prestonsburg and will now be paying for another aircraft.
Posted by: What now? on Jan 7, 2009 at 09:38 PM
I agree completely with CHH employee. Nurse management on critical care floors were let go. Patients and parents think they have a hard time finding their nurse now? Just wait until those who are left on the floors have to pull double duty to cover these personnel losses. Patient satisfaction scores will plunge. And who will get the blame for that? Bedside nurses. Who will suffer? The patients. How fair is that? And did those 40 salaries REALLY make that much of a difference? No.
Posted by: UnionSux on Jan 7, 2009 at 09:24 PM
The union "workers" (I use the term workers very loosely) say that the jobs would have been saved if they just organized. You mean like all of those UAW jobs in MI? Keeping unproductive people on the payroll and losing money just insures that no one has a job. Economy and business flows in cycles. If these people are such wonderful workers, they will have no problem finding another job.
Posted by: CHH EMPLOYEE on Jan 7, 2009 at 09:14 PM
Yea it was only 40 people but for you ppl who are saying so what. well just think of this a lot of them ppl are the ones who runs the units you or your CHILDREN are on. they make the choices. and are the best. like some for example PICU nurse manager, NICU nurse manager Peds nurse manager i wouldnt wont my baby going to these units unless i know that there in the best hands. The managers over this is who confirmed alot of stuff. so yea the 40 lost was a big deal.. and i guess you will be thinking of that next time your in the hospital woundering what your choices are. and you dont have them all because the main ppl are gone. so yea
Posted by: anon on Jan 7, 2009 at 08:42 PM
i'm sure mr ceo will rest comfortably in his home that is already paid for and owned by the hospital.
Posted by: Betty on Jan 7, 2009 at 08:26 PM
Amazing.... they keep retired part time people that someone has already replaced them but fire loyal employees. This would not have happened if a new tower that they couldn't afford had not been built. But whatever another hospital has that is what Mr. Marstellar wants. It's been said he would run the place in the ground ans so he has. Sorry the employees had to pay for his mistakes.
Posted by: anon on Jan 7, 2009 at 08:26 PM
From a laid off union CHH employee to Shana RN...there was NO 6 month notice to anyone..CHH is a private not for profit (yeah right) hospital it is a 403B not a 401K..so you really need to get your facts straight. And yes it has broken my heart to see to know that Cabell thinks of us as non-essential to the well being of their CARING SPIRIT hospital. CHH has made a terrible mistake they have lost the trust of their employees and the community..This is something that will never be forgiven nor forgotten. Yes we will move on and yes we will survive and yes the VPs and CEO of CHH will have to answer to this grievance on their fellow employees. May God be with you and forgive you because I can't and won't.
Posted by: 911 on Jan 7, 2009 at 08:18 PM
To Concerned; Kings' Daughters is not making their work "short". They did cut overtime and are having nurse managers work more on the units. You have a hospital laying off people after bad spending and you are bashing KDMC for trying to spend more wisely...I don't understand. It's a smart thing to do. The nurses at KDMC actually have a better nurse patient ratio than anywhere else. Sorry to disappoint you!
Posted by: dd on Jan 7, 2009 at 08:09 PM
I do believe other steps could have been taken. Cabell employees do not pay a nickle for their insurance. I would gladly pay some for health insurance (I'm sure other would too) just to keep from laying off. I'm sure the insurance will come soon enough, though. Cabell has to have money to keep building. Next is the Pediatric Hospital, why????? Why keep building when there is no money??? Stupid.
Posted by: ANON on Jan 7, 2009 at 07:53 PM
My wife is an employee at the hospital and as she and her coworkers are working short staffed so the upper manage,ment (5 supervisors) in her department all get bonuses. The management take away their overtime even if it's only 15 minutes they adjust their time cards because the time was not preapproved, well how would it ever be approved when you can not reach the boss, Maybe if the hospital would have give up some upper management bonuses that could budget enough to pay off the new additions. Try NO bonuses for any manager for the 2009 year and see if the budget lines are in the clear. Try getting rid of the managers who dont know their job or do it efficiently. I know that having 4 lower managers and 2 higher mgrs in a dept could use a trim. I just think that all areas need looked at not just nursing. THE NEGAITIVITY and tension right now is so thick. The economy is tight and it is sad but could have been far worse. I am glad my wife still has her Union job for NOW.
Posted by: Judy Lewis on Jan 7, 2009 at 07:51 PM
OUR DEAR FRIEND AND BOSS WAS LET GO. I JUST WANT EVERYONE TO KNOW THAT SHE GAVE 15O% OF HERSELF. SHE WOULD DO HER JOB AND HELP WITH ORDERS TOO. JUST WANT TO GIVE HER THE PRAISE THAT IS DUE TO HER, WE LOVE HER AND WILL SURLEY MISS HER. YOUR FAMILY.
Posted by: Ben Thar on Jan 7, 2009 at 07:16 PM
I won't say that all hospitals are the same but it has come down to the all mighty dollar! If you are a benefitted employee God forbid that you use those benefits because there is a hospital in the area that fired one of its employees on a false charge because their spouse had been on the insurance and had used the benefits too much to their liking,now thats health care for you.So if medicare and the state funded programs start to feel like the corporate a holes do perhaps all these ceos will be working at your favorite drive thru resturant some day;)
Posted by: Miamifannow on Jan 7, 2009 at 07:08 PM
some times you need to cut the fat to get lean I'm sure there is a good reason these people where let go maybe slacking on there jobs Good employs are the ones most company's always seam to keep think about this when you go to work tomorrow
Posted by: Surprised on Jan 7, 2009 at 07:07 PM
I am sitting here reading all these comments wondering how in the world did St. Mary's get dragged into this?? I am for sure the employees there had nothing to do with the layoffs at CHH. Why would anyone at St. Mary's be jealous of someone working at CHH. I am for sure that they are grateful that they have their jobs. I actually know people that work at both hospitals and the ones at St. Mary's were saddened about the news. I hope and pray that the people that lost their job will find better paying jobs and a job that they enjoy.
Posted by: union all the way on Jan 7, 2009 at 06:48 PM
this is whats going to happen at kdmc if the nures dont go union?????
Posted by: Randy on Jan 7, 2009 at 06:41 PM
I see this situation as a total disaster. Mr. Marsteller and the Chief Financial Officer's heads should be the ones on the chopping block. Not the men and women who had nothing directly related to the poor economic decisions made.
Posted by: Employee on Jan 7, 2009 at 06:30 PM
I am a current union employee. I, like everyone else, am worried if Im next?? Will I get bumped? There are so many reconstructuring "things" that could be done at the hospital. It didnt have to come to this. Yes times are bad I realize that but I also know the money that comes in. While we cut here and cut there, it seems to me they pay more attention to the small things instead of the larger problems at hand. Now that this has happened we are being told we are a team...even called family. I personally dont treat my family like they are a common criminal nor do I treat them as if Im scared to death they will take more than one pen or use one to many staples. Worry about the big issues! Lets look at some of the paychecks. Some are making what the normal American could retire on and live off the rest of their life. And Valet parking?? What are we the Ritz Carlton? The morale is awful...that definately needs a boost now. Pray for us all!
Posted by: BO on Jan 7, 2009 at 06:11 PM
this is for timmy about health net cabell huntington does not own health net health net has 6 bases each hospital pays for there own helicopter Cabell huntington has a agreement as well as the other 5 hospitals to base there helicopters at these certain hospitials health net is there own company .and believe me they bring in the money to .its poor decisions on management not the economy thats why these folks are loosing there jobs.trying to build to big to fast to compete and competing shouldnt be a option we have two great hospitials for care we dont to loose them.we wait now sometimes for 2 or three hours to see a doc close one and only have one hosipital and wait 6 to 10 hours to see a doc like some of the bigger cities.
Posted by: yo momma on Jan 7, 2009 at 05:55 PM
To the people who post that we should be glad that it was "only 40 people- be glad, it could have been 2000"... you wouldn't take it so lightly if you; your spouse or family member were one of the 40! Keep in mind to ALL out there, this could happen to ANY one of US at ANY GIVEN TIME... so when you say "it's just 40- what's the big deal?"... remember YOU COULD BE NEXT~~~~ Have a heart, this is terrible situation our economy is in- don't kick a dead horse when it's down... these people have experienced a dramatic shock--- if you have no words of encouragement...move on. Always keep in the back of your mind- I COULD BE NEXT ON THE CHOPPING BLOCK.
Posted by: employee on Jan 7, 2009 at 05:38 PM
I think it should have started at the top with pay cuts and the huge bonuses they get several times a year!! But instead it was the ones who donated money at of there own pay checks for the new tower to be built. I hope Mr. Marstellar is having trouble sleeping !!!!! But i agree with Liz enjoy the break , stay in your pj's and fuzzy slippers and draw your unemployment!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I am praying for you all.
Posted by: One Last Thing on Jan 7, 2009 at 05:27 PM
There is a wall downstairs near the cafeteria that features the handprints of employees, signifying commitment and loyalty. This needs to be painted over, as it has lost its meaning.
Posted by: REAL FACTS on Jan 7, 2009 at 05:20 PM
GET YOUR FACTS STRAIGHT! WITH NO WARNING THEY TOLD THEM THERE SERVICES WERE NO LONGER NEEDED AND THEN THEY ESCORTED THEM TO THE DOOR. JUST LIKE YOU WOULD DO WHEN YOU FIRE A PERSON
Posted by: Anon on Jan 7, 2009 at 04:49 PM
I think are a lot of questions that remain unanswered at CHH. What steps were taken to reduce overhead prior to the job cuts? Were cuts made in supplies, were employees asked to share the cost of insurance premiums,were the union and physician contracts reviewed? The CEO cites the economy, charity care, and lower reimbursements as cause for the layoffs. The other facilities in the area face the same issues. Another question is where has the CHH Board of Directors been? Did they not see the bumps ahead in the road? Are they questioning the performance of the CEO and VPs? The CEO repeatedly states that patient care will not be affected. But how long can that be true if their interest payment alone has increased by $500K/month? That's not sustainable! Does anyone believe that 40 jobs cut will make dent in the $100 million in debt and the $45 million in uncompensated care? How can they continue to operate without cutting positions associated w/patient care? Best of luck to all...
Posted by: Patty on Jan 7, 2009 at 04:37 PM
As a CHH Union employee that was given a lay off notice yesterday I would like to thank my Union brothers and sisters for their support, I am still a working employee at CHH with options provided through collective bargaining I will remain a 27 year employee. So yes, thank God for unions, family, friends and co-workers.
Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 7, 2009 at 04:13 PM
Layoffs and restructuring
Posted by: some1 on Jan 7, 2009 at 03:45 PM
is the ceo willing to have there pay day cut too? and get laid off?
Posted by: mugrad on Jan 7, 2009 at 03:41 PM
to the ones who lost their jobs I do hope the best for you and may god be with you and your families at this time, its a shame to hear of anyone out of a job. It doesnt matter if your in a union or not if they want to cut you they will...It could have been done differntly and that is somthing they will remember when they look in the mirror, God Bless you all
Posted by: Brian on Jan 7, 2009 at 03:19 PM
There are more layoffs coming and the severance pay they gave was only one weeks pay.
Posted by: Dee on Jan 7, 2009 at 02:39 PM
To Rn, you are right they probably do intend to hire GN's or experienced nurses as float pool, use them without benefits and call just in time to cancel them when the census drops for five minutes. When my kids were little I worked "float" and they did me that way all the time, then after cancelling me, they'd call in the middle of the night, wake me up, tell me they had a bunch of admissions and wanted me to come in, needless to say I found something else. I'd say that's what they plan to do.
Posted by: Concerned on Jan 7, 2009 at 02:38 PM
I would like wsaz to do a story about kings daughters because they are cutting staffs hours to save and working short. Getting good medical care is going to get harder and harder without staff to take care of you and the management will regret it when their family gets admitted to one of these hospitals cutting staff!
Posted by: Anon. on Jan 7, 2009 at 02:35 PM
Stand up for unions!!!!!!!!!!!!! Individuals need to understand this in NOT the union's doing!!! Get your facts straight, union employees lose their jobs too, we just have people that will help us fight for our jobs.
Posted by: anon on Jan 7, 2009 at 02:09 PM
in watching the interview with marsteller yesterday on wsaz, i noticed he failed to mention his salary along with that of the administration staff and vp's in addition to his $500,000 bonus he received a year or so ago plus any others since then.the cuts should have started at the top if they are that concerned with expenses. i see first hand every day what happens and the overworked people making things run. shame on you people from marsteller and his administration staff. get a grip
Posted by: TO facts straight AT 11:41PM on Jan 7, 2009 at 01:47 PM
Not true!! I know of several nurse managers who asked to be reduced to a staff nurse on their unit and were told NO, while there are currently positions posted for that unit. Explian that!!! It's so they can hire a new grad with NO experience, over a seasoned nurse who would not have to be "taught" the position, at a much lower pay scale . It's all about the benjamins. CHH does not care about its "family"
Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 7, 2009 at 01:33 PM
As an employee, PATIENT SATISFACTION score have been shoved down my throat since being employed there. I ask you, Mr. Marstellar, how can we be expected to give outstanding patient care when we feel our job will be next?? What you did yesterday was damage your remaining employees morale beyond comprehension. I hope you are proud of yourself!!! I, too, feel that this will decrease our patient numbers drastically, as they will seek out our competitors where ther is not so much animosity. Great job, Marstellar!!! Maybe you should another big BONUS!!!
Posted by: informed on Jan 7, 2009 at 01:24 PM
CHH has long been interested in "putting SMMC out of business". They have overextended themselves trying to do this and are now paying for it. This is a sad day for loyal employees of that hospital.
Posted by: anon on Jan 7, 2009 at 11:54 AM
This is truly a sad situation. Marsteller said that the interest rate on the new North Tower rose and had something to do with the layoffs. Why build the thing in the first place? Everything is about competition between the hospitals in this area. More and more money is spent on improving "the look" of the hospitals, while in the hospital, at the patient bedside, where the real work is done, not enough people are hired. One person ends up doing the jobs of several. This leads to patientt dissatisfastion and nursing burnout. The commercials are ridiculous. Remember the Chad Pennington commercials for SMMC several years ago? Who cares wht he says about SMMC - could the money that was paid for that have been used to pay for more RN's and bedside workers rather than to improve their "image"? Well, this laying off doesn't do much for Cabell's image. They will hire new grads who will make the starting rate - much cheaper than those who have been there for years.
Posted by: disheartend employee on Jan 7, 2009 at 11:39 AM
I am a employee@ CHH for >5yrs, and it's a sad day when you lose so many that have served with blood, sweat and tears for so many years. Bad choices were made and consequences will inevitably be paid by the remaining staff and patients, not the VP's whose made those choices. Shouldn't we be asking ourselves why CHH is still planning on remodeling and increasing our debt when we currently have nursing units shut down for over a year to open the NPBT. I was always under the assumption that a hospital's revenue came from patient care. They say that CHH has lost significant amount of money from "charity cases," well I say ney, ney! We are a hospital not a 5 star hotel! Who needs the brand new cafeteria and valet parking; VP's who make salaries in a year well over what nurses do in a lifetime. I understand that many people are without jobs and insurance but CHH just assissted with putting 40 more people in that category. SHAME ON YOU! God bless those that are gone. You will be missed!
Posted by: PB on Jan 7, 2009 at 11:36 AM
yeah, they got a real nice severance package.....3 weeks paid and they get to keep their insurance until Feb. 1st. Thanks for being so generous Marstellar.
Posted by: Update Comments Now on Jan 7, 2009 at 11:29 AM
I know there have been comments posted since 6:27am. Approve them so that they will be posted for us to see! This is a topic that people should have a right to publically share their opinions. Do not suppress.
Posted by: Just wondering on Jan 7, 2009 at 11:23 AM
I am also a 25 yr employee of CHH. My questions: Why not cut some of the VPs or cut some of the salaries of the TOP management to save these jobs? I have been brainwashed with the PATIENT SATISFACTION phrase but how can i provide good patient care when I fear losing my job? Why have hospitals become a BUSINESS instead of being in the business of patient care? I became a nurse to administer patient care, not to do paper work for JCAHO. My thoughts and prayers are with my many long time friends. I pray for all of us still employed here. We will keep up the excellent patient care we give because most of us do care about our patients, not the almighty dollar. WHAT GOES AROUND , COMES AROUND. PS Would it be asking too much for the truth to be printed or reported instead of all these rumors? Just wondering
Posted by: k.d. on Jan 7, 2009 at 11:16 AM
Hey Steve, While you were watching everyone drinking coffee, did you bother to ask if your doctor was even there yet. I bet you'd be surprised that your doc probably wasn't. Guess what- we spend half of our time waiting on them, so the next time you think your tattling on somebody just remember that. Your doctor didn't care that you were waiting.
Posted by: emw on Jan 7, 2009 at 10:58 AM
Just to let you know I was one of the people let go-there was NO warning & you were lead out of the bldg. like a criminal being watched.Union people let go will be able to bump for a new position, which will mean someone else without work. I have been @ CHH for 28 yrs and have gone above & beyond to do my job to the best of my ability. As for a new job, I say Let CHH pay for our unemployment & enjoy the 6 months off. If offered to come back to work @ CHH I would say NO!!! Your talent & expertise is not appreciated. My thoughts & prayers go out to all of us that unemployed and especially to those that are still @ CHH -- they may be NEXT.CHH did hire a big fancy company to help us all find new jobs, wouldn't that money been better spent on those of us let go than some fancy company!!!????
Posted by: Tricia on Jan 7, 2009 at 10:13 AM
The Board needs to look long and hard at all the secretaries in administration. It's terrible that highly trained employees are shown the door before looking closely at all the secretaries, their salaries, and their responsibilities. Administration could easily cut back on the number of secretaries. The Board should NOT let this matter go without consideration.
Posted by: Informed on Jan 7, 2009 at 10:11 AM
Cabell builds a new patient tower that actually cuts their number of patient beds, tries to get into the heart and cancer market, is heavy in management and has to cut jobs? What a surprise. They should stop paying for the "awards" such as "top orthopedic care in the area and start focusing on patient care and quality healthcare.
Posted by: HGTN Resident on Jan 7, 2009 at 10:11 AM
Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 7, 2009 at 02:16 AM You obviously don't have a clue what you are talking about. SMMC is fine. There are and will be no plans for layoffs. Obviously they know how to budget money better than some people. They are hiring for several positions, so maybe some of those 40 can switch over to the stable hospital.
Posted by: Dental Implants?? on Jan 7, 2009 at 09:18 AM
You got dental implants for your job? What were you, Director of Vampires?!? That's your own fault, lady. I used to work at a hospital, and middle management positions turned over left and right. It's the nature of the job. If these people are dedicated and qualified, they will find employment elsewhere. Does it stink? Absolutely. I was fired from my job years ago, but I picked myself up off the floor, stayed positive and persistant, took a job I hated just to have a job and eventually got into a better field that represents my skill sets. Have faith, those who have been fired. There is life after firing!
Posted by: T on Jan 7, 2009 at 09:17 AM
It could be possible that they removed these management position in order to bring an outside management firm in to tighten up the daily operations. Those tha thad management positions that offered to take staff positions would have been an obstruction to an outside company gaining control over the employees. This may not be the case, but its a thought. The housekeeping department is already being ran by a management firm.
Posted by: John on Jan 7, 2009 at 09:01 AM
This really is a sad day for the sick at CHH. I would hate to be a patient there right now. I can't beleive that they let that much experience walk out the door. I agree that the CEO's could have taken a paycut or elimanated some of the VP's to save the supervisor positions. Who will supervise these young nurse now. I wouldn't feel safe going there right now due to the lack of supervision. I pray that they bring them back soon.
Posted by: shocked and appauled on Jan 7, 2009 at 08:39 AM
Did Marsteller and company even pray about the situation at hand???? A little prayer intervention might have given them a different direction and 40 peoples jobs might have been spared. Next time, get on your knees and seek the answer. I hope you and the administration can't sleep at night. I happen to know that they let a cath lab manager go in the same manner a few months ago in not so brutal fashion, but same ultimatum as the others, and she was a very hard worker, bent over backwards to get the job done and went above and beyond . Shame on the administration.
Posted by: Barry on Jan 7, 2009 at 08:30 AM
I am not a union person but I dont think you should have new employees coming in and cut people with alot of years. Companies do it all the time. It is a form of age discrimination.
Posted by: Charlie on Jan 7, 2009 at 08:17 AM
The root of CHH problems and layoffs are greed. The last 10 years have been a financial boom, people have overspent, companies got greedy now it is coming home to roost. The shame is that the people that got greedy are the ones deciding who gets layed off....
Posted by: Mike on Jan 7, 2009 at 08:15 AM
I have been in the shoes of the layed off employee. I worked for a fortune 500 company for 18 years and got downsized due to a merger. Keep your head up and move on. To all the people that remain and defend the companies actions, you will be complaining also if you get the axe. Survivors guilt....
Posted by: Larry on Jan 7, 2009 at 08:12 AM
Hey Bob, Hang in there, I have been in your shoes. Things will get better and you may find that it was a turning point in your life for the better. Who needs a ho anyway ?
Posted by: Concerned Parent on Jan 7, 2009 at 08:12 AM
This is to Billy....Do you really think that patient care is going to suffer due to the fact that some supervisors and middle managers were let go? My answer is Yes, I think it could. My child is a patient at Cabell now and there was no nurse in her room yesterday for over 7 hrs to check on her. Yes, she was fine and didn't need a nurse but in my experience dealing with hospitals I thought a nurse was suppose to check on their patients every couple hours. I see lots of employees still standing around with coffee or running the hallways with coffee but the nurses seem to be overworked. The only people you see at cabell are the students and I understand everyone has to learn but it's ridiculous when over 20 students come into your room over the course of a couple hours and that's what happened to my child. How is a child or patient suppose to rest when they are constantly running in? I think that should be one of the questions patients are asked. Do you care for interns seeing you?
Posted by: to steve on Jan 7, 2009 at 08:06 AM
If you waited that long and it was because the dr didn't know you were there and it was on the Marshall Med Ctr side, call Linda Holmes with your complaints. Her number is 691-1712. She welcomes and tries to rectify all patient complaints at the Marshall Med ctr
Posted by: No Money Lost on Jan 7, 2009 at 08:05 AM
To Shana...no they were NOT given notice at all. The hospital still MADE money last year but just not enough....and they did affect patient care significantly. These men who cut the jobs only looked at numbers. It had NOTHING to do with patient care.
Posted by: MR CEO on Jan 7, 2009 at 07:22 AM
What happened to "Your Partners For Life"? Money talks, people walk... For those that think the work of these leaders can be replaced by the remaining employees, they are ignorant, and do not understand how lean a hospital runs to begin with. There may have been a few positions of fluff, but to fathom that VP's or others can directly operate departments without Directors and Managers is beyond ridiculous, and borderline negligent. Who is going to run these departments now? What is their training?
Posted by: Jean on Jan 7, 2009 at 07:18 AM
Whats the big deal. It was only 40 employees out of 2000. It could have been all 2000 employees. Why are you people acting like this is the first layoff in our area.
Posted by: Tim on Jan 7, 2009 at 06:57 AM
To Shana RN: I personally know 2 of the people that were let go....they had NO IDEA 6 months ago that they were being let go. Please get your facts straight.
Posted by: Billy on Jan 7, 2009 at 06:27 AM
All of this is amusing to me. It's 40 people for God's sake. Out of 2000. Do you really think that patient care is going to suffer due to the fact that some supervisors and middle managers were let go? Not hardly. I am a former employee of Cabell and the people that I know personally who were let go had no direct patient care responsibilities. Actually, when I was employed there, many of us wondered what their responsibilities actually were. So, in these tough economic times, you better be able to prove your worth or else you will be joining the millions of others in the unemployment line.
Posted by: CHH employee on Jan 7, 2009 at 06:14 AM
Well guess what James i bet you that your wrong because i know union that did get layed off.
Posted by: anon on Jan 7, 2009 at 06:06 AM
Experience is very important when it comes to health care. My biggest complaint about CHH has always been all the students that are in there. My hand was stitched up by some kid who acted as though he had never done it in his life. I want to be treated by people with experience. I will not return to CHH for any reason.
Posted by: Medic on Jan 7, 2009 at 05:38 AM
What a surprise, still a large number of nursing positions posted on their web page. So, what was the real reason for FIRING those dedicated employees? I'm sure they would have much rather taken another posted job or been given the chance at an early retirement. They were escorted to gather their belongings then they were escorted off of the property, how GROSS. Here’s a commercial for you CHH, I go into these hospitals around the area as a medic. For sometime now CHH has been losing ground/reputation as the “go to hospital”. KDMC amongst many unbiased professionals has become the where we want to be taken hospital. Nice CHH would go ahead and shoot themselves in the foot as they have! Sounds like the top crust of CHH are the ones that need scraped off!
Posted by: Kathy on Jan 7, 2009 at 05:30 AM
Well I don't work there & have no relatives working there, BUT I just want to say how sorry I am for these employees & their families. I hate to hear of anyone losing their jobs and I hope that all of them will be able to find new jobs soon. In this horrible economy that won't be easy I know but they're all in our thoughts & prayers Just horrible times everywhere
Posted by: carrie on Jan 7, 2009 at 02:17 AM
after getting dental implants for my job, today i was let go. i spent 10,000 dollars on my teeth and now i have no job, i cant take them back. what are people suppose to do?
Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 7, 2009 at 02:16 AM
Does affect patient care? How does laying off NURSE MANAGEMENT not affect patient care? I am a nurse and that is so not true..... CHH....bad place to go if you are sick. SMMC.....not much better.... bet they start cutting back.... just watch. Huntingon..... sad time ahead.
Posted by: bob on Jan 7, 2009 at 02:14 AM
Today i came home and gave the sad news to my wife and kids. an hour later my wife told me she was in love with another man.im now at my brothers, lost, lonely, devastated is a understatement.when it rains it pours and man is it flooding on me. now i have to pay support(with no job) find another woman, after 15 years with the same one. i dont think cabell knows how much they affect us when they "terminate"
Posted by: shana RN on Jan 7, 2009 at 02:09 AM
the employees were all givin a warning of this 6 months ago, to clear that one up.and they will be getting the max in unemployment.they also have great pension plans and 401k. people make it look much worse than it is.oh and im a former employee as of today and im not upset because we had been told this was going to happen months ago. im going to relax, play with my cat, watch tv and let my husband pay for my lifestyle for a while.lol hang in there everyone, its not that bad! could be worse!
Posted by: former mu student on Jan 7, 2009 at 01:37 AM
I'm really not understanding how this is happening. How is it that Cabell has to lay off workers when up here, United Hospital Center is hiring more and building a new 8 story hospital? Is our state really that split economy wise???
Posted by: james on Jan 7, 2009 at 01:28 AM
I BET NONE OF THE UNION people got the layoff, how much you wanna make a bet?my wife wont because shes a union woman, strong, proud, reluctant, working
Posted by: sam on Jan 7, 2009 at 12:09 AM
I'm in upper management at my company and I've worked long and hard to get there. Why do so many always assume that those at "the top" are the bad guys? Why is it so wrong to make good money for your position? Often it is those who have not pursued higher education/vocation who like to put the others down. These ramblings are ridiculous. CHH did not get to be the great hospital it is because of "stupid and greedy management". I know most of the upper management and they are smart, dedicated, hardworking, GOOD people. Just because they have a title, an assistant, a good salary...that does not mean they haven't EARNED it...quit pointing fingers at people who happen to be where they are because they've earned it. I'm sure they had a very difficult time making these decisions...they are in fact people too, and they do care. Quit assuming that because of their success that they are BAD people. And quit blaming them for having to make hard decisions. That's what they get paid to do.
Posted by: Sick of LIARS! on Jan 6, 2009 at 11:59 PM
if you want to be more "lean" with your money, you shouln't get be buying a Cadillac when your faithful Chevy is just fine. Your in the primetime of high patient census and you are laying off caregivers and trying to recruit. Who will carry out the orders that the new docs write? I know several caregivers that lost their jobs. I think somebody isn't telling the truth.
Posted by: John on Jan 6, 2009 at 11:48 PM
"As I read the comments I am amazed at the stupidity. I realize these folks were good people who worked hard. However, this is the real world and difficult times are upon us. In difficult times, companies must do what they need to do to stay healthy. Sometimes that means good folks lose. There is no easy way to do it. Do you people think the management should have given these people 30 days notice...there is no easy way to do it. When you remove a band-aid you can pull it off quick and have a moment of discomfort, or you can pull it off slow and suffer longer. These situations must be swift and quick. No one wants to see bad things happen to good people; but it has to be someone. No matter who is let go, you would still complain. There is no good choice. What does amaze me is how those left are "the bad guys" and how it's assumed those "at the top" have it easy and make the "big bucks" but don't deserve it. Well, you don't get to the top without HARD WORK-someone has to be there too.
Posted by: Facts straight on Jan 6, 2009 at 11:41 PM
First of all, there WAS a VP who lost their job today along with the others. Secondly, Cabell is a great place to work. The hospital pays the best wages and benefits around. The employees do not have to pay a premium for their healthcare if they work fulltime. Also, many of the nursing leaders will be brought back to the nursing floors as staff. Lastly, any employee that was laid off with more than 5 years of time at Cabell will have their pension safe and secure. So get your facts straight!
Posted by: bm on Jan 6, 2009 at 11:34 PM
I am a CHH hospital employee and am sad and disappointed in the actions taken today. Our hospital lost many outstanding professional employees who served 20-30 years caring for our community. It is sad that these actions were planned so poorly by our top management. Those who lost their jobs were not given any notice. Then they were escorted out of the building like criminals. Mr. Marsteller showed little sign of remorse in his WSAZ interview. The truth is CHH has always been poorly managed (which starts from the top). We have administrative secretaries that make more money then the nurse managers that got fired today. And just how many VP's does one hospital need?
Posted by: disappointed on Jan 6, 2009 at 11:31 PM
Is this really the cost of growth and expansion? This has been the cabell way for a long time.They have put a band-aid on something that needs a tourniquet. Mr Marstellar, we are so happy to see more physicians come into our community.Heaven knows we need specialists to keep up with the competition, my question is, who will take care of all of these new patients? Here's a suggestion, how about the overly paid administrative assistants aka glorified secretaries that make a lot more money than the managers that you let go today. Shame on top management for taking the easy way out. Sure it may not have been easy to let these people go, but come on, was it easy to to get our hometown hospital in this kind of shape? Did we need a new 20 million dollar computer system that is beyond slow? I suggest that our administrators at CHH take a week and work in the trenches with the true backbone of the hospital(nursing and ancillary dept)and when you need a manager, good luck finding one.
Posted by: tla on Jan 6, 2009 at 11:20 PM
I work at CHH. The feelings of shock, despair, and utter disbelief that reverberated throughout every unit in the hospital left everyone in a panic. These loyal employees, were not only given no warning, but were also not given the opportunity to collect their belongings or even say good-bye to the people that worked for them. Not only did patient care suffer today with the amount of chaos and confusion this event created, but it makes us all wonder about the "your partners for life" slogan we are expected to support. These people were escorted out of the building like criminals. Shame on you CHH. Your professionalism has sunk to a new low.
Posted by: Jeff on Jan 6, 2009 at 11:11 PM
Watching the report on the 11 pm news I couldnt help but laugh. Marstellar was lying through his teeth. ALL his body langauge said so. The frentic movements, the inability to look the reporter in the eye when he spoke, the forced relaxed posture with his leg crossed. It spoke loudly , "I AM LYING".
Posted by: EALA.. TO STEVE!!! on Jan 6, 2009 at 10:55 PM
More than likley Steve, your appoinment was not affilated with Cabell. Doctors offices, are located in the Marshall building, not affilated with Cabell's payroll.. So unless you had a Hemmoroid removed, you are slamming the wrong people.
Posted by: chh union employee on Jan 6, 2009 at 10:54 PM
First of all the 3 "union" jobs that were eliminated, were ones in which our union workers have a legal and binding contract which protects them from this happening to them with no recorse they have the ability to bump other least senior employees to secure a position in the hospital. This is very unfortunate for the nurses in mangement who were terminated with no contract or bumping rights. Perhaps they too should join the union for better protection and more job security. my heart goes out to all the employees who lost their job. some of them i have worked with for years, they will be greaty missed!
Posted by: What ever on Jan 6, 2009 at 10:46 PM
I was one of the ones who lost my job and u can believe I was not a supervisor, or management. I am embarrased by the way I was treated and the quick sweep out the door. "Your welcome for my service"
Posted by: anon on Jan 6, 2009 at 10:31 PM
here's an idea, lets cut out some of the bonuses that these supervisors are getting and save some jobs. i'm willing to bet that this is not over yet. and p.s. chh's union is terrible.
Posted by: To Larry on Jan 6, 2009 at 10:25 PM
You're an idiot who excused everyone from taking your post seriously when you tried to tie the problems at CHH with George Bush. Do some research on who is REALLY at the bottom of the housing crisis, Fannie mae and Freddie Mac, the Wall Street crisis, etc. Let me give you a hint, mainstream media is NOT the place to look for the answers. Another hint: start with your boy B. Clinton then move to Chris Dobbs and Barney Franks, everything else will come into focus. Or...you can remain a sheep, your choice.
Posted by: Registered Nurse on Jan 6, 2009 at 10:20 PM
Mr. Marsteller stated that one reason for the financial deficit at CHH is due to fianancial loss from providing trauma care. This is very true. Perhaps both CHH and SMMC would not have to carry this finacial burden alone if King's Daughter's Medical Center would accept and treat trauma patients rather that transporting them to WV for our tax dollars to pay for these expenses.
Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 6, 2009 at 10:18 PM
Within 2 years they will "remodel" another section or add on to the hospital, watch...
Posted by: False statement on Jan 6, 2009 at 10:16 PM
To answer the question directed to me, regarding whether the statement is words of WSAZ or the hospital: I don't know. I was just stating as others have posted after me - this is absolutely not true and should be corrected. Most of those terminated were in management, but non-management/non-union and union employees were too.
Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 6, 2009 at 10:09 PM
If this is indeed a plan for the hospital as the CEO stated could they not have given the fired employees some notice. And one weeks pay is hardly a severence package. It is riduculous that the people in charge of the hospital make such a large amount of money and think that the solution is to fire employees that have spent so many years working at Cabell. Who is really responsible. That CEO should have a hard time living with himself but I have a feeling he will sleep with no problem tonight.
Posted by: for steve on Jan 6, 2009 at 10:02 PM
hey steve, incase you didn't know, chh has nothing to do with how long you wait at the dr. the offices inside chh are mu-marshall university and we are seperate companies. next time you need to go to the hospital and you have no employees left to take of you, do you think you can take your own lab work, ekg, xray, etc. how about your own medication. and so what if they drink coffee, do you? i'm sure you take a break at work too. regardless of how anyone feels, these are real hard working people loosing jobs. before long you will be lucky to find a job anywhere. for all employees who lost their job, may god be with you.
Posted by: Disgusted on Jan 6, 2009 at 09:59 PM
I work at CHH and I feel terribly sad about the loss of these 40 plus employees. Yes the 3 union employees are lucky; they are eligible, because of their contract, to bump the least senior employees and will still have a job. Still, that's a tough thing to have to do to a co-worker. I work in the nursing department and I was shocked about the people in nursing who were let go. There were 20 nurse managers and directors of departments who lost their jobs and personally, I'm very concerned about what this will mean for our patients. True, they didn't cut any of the jobs of the bedside nurses(yet)but so many management positions have been cut that I'm not sure how those who are left will be able to keep things running smoothly. It's obvious that upper management does not value what the nurses do; it's just a business to them. We'll do what we can to give the patients the care they need and deserve. Now it's time for the business men who got us into this situation to go.
Posted by: J on Jan 6, 2009 at 09:52 PM
I have to admit, the hospitals around here waste so much money on advertising, commercials do not come cheap, then they add on like the have all the money in the world,if they didn't do all that stuff they could have kept those employees, and to a comment made earlier I work in this field also but a private practice, we have patients that complain if they have been in our waiting room for 10 min, I always want to say if you don't like it at our office go sit at a hospital for an hour
Posted by: still another employee on Jan 6, 2009 at 09:51 PM
I am also a long time employee of CHH. This just is so sad . The one's that they let go today were treated with no regard for their years of service. They were the foundation of CHH. They worked hard , were dedicated and achieved the positions they were in and were very deserving of those positions . Well folks it does indeed roll down hill. making the future of our jobs unstable . sure is hard to watch some of our CHH family be sent out of there in that manner . They did and still do matter to the ones left to carry on. Prayers are much need .
Posted by: CHH Employer on Jan 6, 2009 at 09:41 PM
Well not saying much but cabell is making a pediatric hospital in a hospital/ And thats not even started yet. And to Steve yea well the hospital is not over staffed. If that was the case some of us that come in and do are job wouldnt be doing 4 other ppls jobs at the same time because of how many call offs.Everywhere you look people are needing to do more because we dont have the coverage. And FYI Not all ppl that got layed off was supervisor or management. SOme was patient care assistance spots.
Posted by: pd on Jan 6, 2009 at 09:39 PM
Evil is what I saw today at CHH, it broke my heart. I agree if CHH is in financial difficulties cuts should be made. But cut those persons responsible: CHH President Brent Marsteller and VP Human Relations and Organization Development Barry Tourigny. It's their plan. They should be the ones paying the price. Do you hear Board of Directors? They are driving the RNs into forming a union. Today was shock and awe to frighten everyone. It was a temporary sucess. By the time night shift rolled around anger was the strongest emotion. We need those nursing leaders to guide our brand new RNs. We respect our Nurse Managers and their leadership. Not effect patient care -what a laugh. I just want to ask the pubic - Who would you rather be in charge of the nurses taking care of you someone with a Masters Degree in Nursing and watching over 20 RNs or someone with an associte degree watching over 120 RNs. As RNs, we don't have the insurance, the retirement, or the security of the union workers. UNION
Posted by: To Steve on Jan 6, 2009 at 09:29 PM
I am sorry that you had to wait so long for your appointment. However, was this at the Marshall University side? Do you realize that the cuts today are not related to that side. Now after you have waited that hour and 45 minutes, you will wait longer at the cabell due to the layoffs! I can speak only for myself but I will strive to do the best for the patient, just as I always have. I hope that everyone realizes that the remaining employees of Cabell value their job and will continue to provide the best medical care that they can. To us and the "40" patient care is first and foremost. It is just a shame what has happened. Perhaps the consulting firms should evaluate the pay for some of the vp's secretaries and other staff. Maybe I should have been a secretary instead of a health care worker and my job would be safe and lucrative!
Posted by: CHH employee on Jan 6, 2009 at 09:20 PM
It was a very sad somber day at CHH today. We lost many wonderful, talented, healthcare professionals today and it will be very hard to keep the morale above water. Everyone is stunned and shocked by the actions of our facility today. It will definately make it hard to sleep tonight. So sad these people have worked for years to make it a little further up that ladder and then after 35, 25, 20, etc. years they are gone in the blink of an eye. I do understand we need to cut costs, but this was a very very drastic measure to jump to. To my fellow co workers who are gone, my thoughts are with you and I am so terribly sorry for this loss in your life. Keep your heads up!!!!!
Posted by: unionworker on Jan 6, 2009 at 09:19 PM
TO THE PERSON SAYING IT DOESN'T MATTER IF YOU ARE UNION OR NOT...WELL, YOU AREN'T READING ABOUT 40 UNION WORKERS LOSING THEIR JOB, ARE YOU? NOPE....THAT IS WHY UNION IS BEST!
Posted by: Craveontruth on Jan 6, 2009 at 09:15 PM
The hospital is a biz and makes it's decisions just like any other biz.My opinion is a hospital should not be a biz.Pat,you crack me up.If we had socialized medicine then those people would still have their jobs.When are you people going to get it? NATIONALIZE HEALTHCARE NOW!You will not get the best healthcare if the people giving it are worried about how they will be paid and how much it cost them.This just makes sense.
Posted by: Mad as He** on Jan 6, 2009 at 09:09 PM
WSAZ, I have noticed that sometimes you will remove all the comments on a particularly "hot" topic, and close it to further comment. No matter what, I am asking that you do not do this for this story. It is all the TRUTH and it needs to stay out there. This is horrible.
Posted by: mr tom on Jan 6, 2009 at 09:08 PM
can u say"union". you see my friend, thats how me and my wifey keep our jobs, very good jobs, i may add. the union could have saved you, now its too late.i pray for the uneducated people who think union means" mafia. union means" job security" ...wouldnt have it any other way, wifey agrees
Posted by: curious on Jan 6, 2009 at 09:08 PM
Marstellar and those just below him should have kicked in some of their salary to prevent any lay offs. They make more money than most employees make in a life time. But they are not going to dig in their own pockets to save the jobs of faithful, hardworking employees because one the ones terminated were close to retirement. Two its a dog eat dog when it comes to money and Marstellar is not going to miss a pay check. There are to many VP's and excutive assistance's which is where the cuts should have come from first. But the good ole boy system is in play here and VP and Ex's are safe from job loss. Look at to the rest of the employee's because you are not valuable to Marstellar and his croonies. Your job may be next!! Marstellar isn't worth a grain of salt as a man if he doesn't reduce his own salary to save others jobs. Half a million a year to cut people's jobs who don't make 1oth of what he makes.
Posted by: Get Rid...... on Jan 6, 2009 at 09:07 PM
Employees should not be losing their jobs due to charity care. Others need to get a job and pay their own bill and not expect a free ride.
Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 6, 2009 at 09:04 PM
As a CHH employee I am very saddened and shocked by these dismissals. Many of these people were irreplaceable. I realize that these economic times sometimes cause companies to make hard decisions but I'm not sure I agree with the way CHH chose to deal with it. As for commercials, SMMC shows just as many as CHH. The two hospitals in Huntington are both very good facilities and it should not be viewed as a competition. As a nurse, I know that there is plenty of buisness to go around. Again, my thoughts and especially my prayers are with those employees who are no longer a part of our family.
Posted by: RN on Jan 6, 2009 at 09:04 PM
I have seen layoffs before. this was no lay off and was carried out very poorly from what I hear. Just like GM why doesnt the top take a cut? SOme of the nurses let go have many years of experience AND offered to take a staff nurse job instead of severance pak. But were not allowed to do this, even when there are openings posted every where in the hospital. CHH plans on hiring gns at entry level, even when these Rns have years and years of experience. How sad! CHH should be ashamed of how they treated these employees--I mean why were they escorted out like a criminal?? Pathetic.
Posted by: Cabell Employee on Jan 6, 2009 at 08:50 PM
This will eventually have an impact on patient care. How could it not?? This is so messed up. WSAZ lets interview some of the hard-working employees that were terminated.
Posted by: Timmy on Jan 6, 2009 at 08:49 PM
If I was one of folks who lost my job I would have to wonder why CHH feels like they need three different helicopter bases - Huntington, Portmouth, & now Prestonsburg. How much does each helicopter cost to operate and how much is generated? I feel very sure it is a money loser - but without it the TV ads wouldnt look near as cool. Just shutting down one base (or not taking over P'burg) would have save more than enough money to save ALL of those jobs.
Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 6, 2009 at 08:49 PM
Not everyone was supervisory a lot of receptionist pastors and more lost there jobs.
Posted by: lisa on Jan 6, 2009 at 08:42 PM
I feel sad for all.my sister came by and was very upset that she lost her job, now she plans on taking a job in a bad part of town doing things id never dreamed she would do. shes not the burger flippin kind and its sad that she has to resort to that because of the bad economy.
Posted by: OH MY on Jan 6, 2009 at 08:41 PM
When the drug dealers and users have a shoot out- where will they go? When the junkies are stealing and get injured- where will they go? When the honest hard working people get sick- where wil they go? When the CEO's get sick- where will they go? When the employees of CHH get sick-where will they go? When you get injured or sick- where will you go?
Posted by: gina hubby on Jan 6, 2009 at 08:31 PM
my wife was crying when i arrived home, eyes black from makeup, honestly i thought someone had passed away, or something horrible had happened. i ask her qiuckly what had happened she told me she had lost her job and wanted a divorce. to say the least im devastated.the layoffs effect people in ways you dont understand unless you have walked a mile in her shoes.i saw her earlier filling out a application for a bar . i broke down. this woman never would have did this if not for cabell causing her to feel so worthless.she feels she needs another with more money to survive now and ive lost my wife. please pray for me. thanks
Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 6, 2009 at 08:30 PM
People keep commenting about "charity care" Can someone explain to me exactly what this "charity care" is? When someone's child get sick and can't afford care for their own children?
Posted by: upset on Jan 6, 2009 at 08:30 PM
i am a former employee, and it sickens me to see any staff cut when top management continues to be hired, secretaries making 90,000 dollars a year plus, and no rhyme or reason to the eliminations. not based on job performance just random release. perhaps looking at the top would be a good start and evaluate if someone is really worth 500000 dollars.
Posted by: sad sad day on Jan 6, 2009 at 08:29 PM
What a horribly sad day, part of our CHH family has been taken away, without warning!!! How can Mr. Marstellar set there as smug as he does and pretend to care about the people he literally left out in the rain today, not feeling guilty I'm sure about the money he brings on his paycheck. WHAT A JOKE!!!I 'm sure he didn't even have the nerve to look the people he fired today in the eye. I worry about those people and their families tonight, what a difficult day for them and I am truly sad for them. CHH's explanations or their rationale makes no sense whatsoever, all the suits and their staff in still in tact ,while the wonderful employees who have been there for years and that have made CHH what it is today get escorted out like THEY were the ones who did something wrong. What pitiful judgement CHH displayed today. I'll say a prayer for our good people whose lives got turned upside down.
Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 6, 2009 at 08:28 PM
Shame on you Cabell Huntington Hospital!!! Maybe you should have looked at the real problem...building a multi-million dollar North Patient Tower and housing it with 90% welfare patients!! I know that these people need healthcare too, but limitations should be made for how many ER visits can be made per month. As well as how many "charity" cases are allowed. Huntington has an overwhelming drug population, most of whom receive a check each month as well as free healthcare from the government. And believe me, they abuse it. Perhaps if CHH cut back on allowed welfare cases, of which probably less than half the cost of their stay is reimbursed, then a lot of money and jobs could be saved.
Posted by: CHH worried on Jan 6, 2009 at 08:28 PM
DO THE OTHER HOSPITALS HAVE A UNION? A STRONG UNION COULD STILL WALK OUT AND SAVE THESE CUTS.
Posted by: jon on Jan 6, 2009 at 08:07 PM
to employee as well, what u wrote about cutting off the nose despite the face, its cutting off the nose to SPITE the face, gosh you sound so dumb saying that, read it and laugh people..lol
Posted by: Pat on Jan 6, 2009 at 08:03 PM
It's a shame when hardworking individuals lose their jobs due to providing "charity care." Guess we can expect more of this under socialized medicine.
Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 6, 2009 at 07:55 PM
As a CHH employee, I too am saddened by the loss of so many of my friends and coworkers. These people have dedicated their lives to CHH and were treated horribly upon their dismissal. The statement that these were all mgmt or supervisory positions is also false. There were a couple of bargaining unit positions that were cut. I have worked at CHH for many years-I have seen positions eliminated before, but I have never seen anything like this. No warnings were given. The first most employees heard of this was this AM. It is very hard watching people that you have worked with for years to leave like this. As far as the CHH vs. SMMC arguement goes, everyone has their own preference, but this is not about a fight between hospitals. This about the loss of good jobs in this community. My thoughts and prayers are with all involved-including the current employees who must figure out how to cope with out their friends and coworkers.
Posted by: Steve on Jan 6, 2009 at 07:42 PM
I think the hospital is over staffed anyways. You can visit any doctor or department and see many employees just walking around with their coffee cups and socializing. Last week, I waited one hour and 45 minutes for my appointment. When I got back to see the doctor and told him about my wait time, he said I was his first patient of the day and he thought I was late for my appointment since no one told him I was signed in.
Posted by: another chh employee on Jan 6, 2009 at 07:31 PM
Maybe the CEO and some VP's should have taken a pay cut, also the managers should have listened to the CEO during the meetings to help cut the cost.Besides how many VP's do we need to run hospital and tell the nursing staff on how to bandage a wound or start that IV medication? So where was the ball dropped? From my experience in past the ball is dropped at the top and it always rolls down hill. When will the next layoff, termination come? All employees at Cabell Huntington Hospital should be thinking long and hard about their future there. The union can only protect up to a certain point. Also, how many helicopters does Cabell have? Rumor has it that they just got another one for a KY base now. Also, rumor has it that Cabell Huntington Hospital just lost a $25 million lawsuit. So much more to write but not enough time.
Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 6, 2009 at 07:22 PM
Perhaps if they stopped wasting money with commercials and advertising they could have kept the 4o employees. Seriously, why does a hospital need to advertise?
Posted by: to false statement on Jan 6, 2009 at 07:21 PM
are these the words of WSAZ or of the hospital? " A release from the hospital says none of the affected employees are involved in direct patient care." the previous line "The jobs are supervisors and management personnel." does not indicate it was a release of the hospital....
Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 6, 2009 at 07:21 PM
THIS IS REALLY BAD WHEN A HOSPITAL HAS TO LAY OFF PEOPLE.
Posted by: sarah on Jan 6, 2009 at 07:16 PM
I think the news should interview some of the people who lost there job. Maybe we would know the whole story instead of what ceo wants the public to believe. May god bless you all
Posted by: think about it on Jan 6, 2009 at 07:15 PM
Think about this. The cuts WERE mainly administrative people and a few nursing staff. ONLY 3!! count them 3 UNION people!!! I get sick and tired of hearing about how union people get shafted. The fact is the majority of the cuts came from middle management to the top. GET YOUR FACTS STRAIGHT...there are too many people that work there that are lazy and expect others to do the work for them, while they hide behind the union, or others that carry them. Family you say?? There are so many people that stab each other in the back it makes me sick. There are a lot of good people that work there, but there are a lot of people that only care about themselves and not the patient. Trim the fat, get rid of the non productive people.. Take care of the patient or someone else will!! Then you wont have a job, and you have no one to blame but the "Family"
Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 6, 2009 at 07:12 PM
I wanna know what Lisa said....why did you take it off WSAZ?
Posted by: Be Truthful on Jan 6, 2009 at 07:07 PM
The positions that were eliminated....Were they really all supervisors and management? Or are the more to come?
Posted by: Bewildered on Jan 6, 2009 at 07:06 PM
Will this really help? Most of the people laid off were in nursing management I think. So, the positions were eliminated. Did you have to eliminate the people too? Some of them had been there for years and were the best of the best. That's why they held the positions they did. Do we really need any more VP's and people in the upper echelon? Were these "laid off" employees offered another job in the hospital? Maybe a return to the floor? So many were close to retirement. What a shame. Did executives offer to take a paycut? We are a family, remember? Alas, when it comes to money, dedication and service mean nothing. It's not just Cabell. It's the way all companies are anymore. A lifetime of service means nothing. I will miss seeing a great many of these people. I'm so sorry.
Posted by: Beth on Jan 6, 2009 at 07:04 PM
Maybe they didnt' check my glucose enough at $55 each time!!!
Posted by: Employee on Jan 6, 2009 at 07:03 PM
Maybe if Mr. Marstellar would forfeit some of his half a million plus salary, several of those jobs could be saved. I wonder how much the flat screen TVs cost the hospital that are in every room of the new North Tower?? This is a classic case of too many chiefs and not enough indians....very poor management, starting (and really ending too) at the TOP!!!
Posted by: TELL NAMES........... on Jan 6, 2009 at 07:02 PM
Who were the people "laid off"?
Posted by: Socialized Medicine on Jan 6, 2009 at 07:00 PM
Maybe if this country would wake up and join all of the other nations who have adopted socialized medical care (ex. France and England), it wouldn't be all about the bottom line and profit, just like any other business. You would be a government employee, and loss would be countered by guaranteed federal funding, and no one could take your job away from you, and blame it on lack of profits. Also, you wouldn't have the fat-cat administration pulling down salaries around $500,000 a year while you're in the umemployment line. When medical care is treated like any run of the mill business, everyone loses, especially the patients.
Posted by: BS on Jan 6, 2009 at 06:52 PM
The jobs cut were not only supervisors and management personnel. I work there and I saw it. Three union employees jobs were eliminated today as well. Supervisors and Management are not union. Why were those three individuals singled out? Getting rid of just one of the many VP's would have saved the jobs of all three of those union employees. And also, why weren't any of administrations secretary's or personal assistants cut today?
Posted by: Anonymous on Jan 6, 2009 at 06:52 PM
I'M VERY SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT THESE LAY OFF'S BUT FOLK'S WE ALL SEEN THIS COMING ABOUT ALL THEY CAN DO IS GO GET FOOD STAMPS AND LINE UP IN THE SOUP LINES.IT'S ONLY GOING TO GET WORST.AND LOOKS LIKE IT TO LATE TO REVOTE THESE ARE HARD WORKING CAREING PEOPLE I PRAY SOMETHING GOOD WILL COME OUT OF THIS
Posted by: Anon on Jan 6, 2009 at 06:47 PM
As an employee at CHH for many years I know most of these people and they were hard working, DEDICATED employees. I have never felt comfortable about local businesses bringing in "outsiders" to run our businesses. These people in charge have no ties to this community. If they run this hospital into the ground they say adios and move to another state. I realize that reimbursement is a big issue, but if upper management had been doing the job they get the "big" and I mean "big" bucks for, perhaps this could have been avoided. To my 40 co-workers, I thank you for your years of loyalty and dedication to OUR hospital.
Posted by: chh employee on Jan 6, 2009 at 06:46 PM
CHH fired people today with no rhyme or reason and did not let them have a second notice that it was happening. Many wonderful nurses were let go that had alot of experience. AND cabell just hired and is starting new grad nurses this week so why not let your experienced ones take these position???
Posted by: Cowards on Jan 6, 2009 at 06:38 PM
Maybe instead of cutting jobs they shouldn't have hired another VP last month. I'm sure that costed a pretty penny. I work at CHH and i've noticed since we have hired the 2 new VP's have started CHH has takend a dramatic turn. I think its pretty dirty of Cabell to fire those employees that have had been here for over 20 years. Those people were what made Cabell.
Posted by: False statement on Jan 6, 2009 at 06:33 PM
I know for a fact that his statement is not true-"The jobs are supervisors and management personnel." That needs to be corrected or the hosptial should provide a list of all positions that were terminated to verify.
Posted by: Sad day on Jan 6, 2009 at 06:23 PM
I truley understand the sadness that these layoffs have brought. Steel Of West Virginia has just told 23 more employees they are also on the unemployment line as of 01/12/08.God Bless you all!!
Posted by: Jon on Jan 6, 2009 at 06:22 PM
If ANYONE believes having a "union" job makes you free from being a sacrificial lamb, you are horribly mistaken. If things continue for the hospital in this manner, be ready. The union doesn't guarantee you squat. If you need to be cut, you will be cut. Period.
Posted by: concerned employee on Jan 6, 2009 at 06:21 PM
I was at the hospital when the firing began. The people that I work with are my family and this was devastating. I am not in managment, so maybe I don't know, but it seems to me that if Marstellar and the other head people truely cared about their "family", they could have taken a paycut and saved several jobs. It really makes me wonder if money and not patient care is truely the bottom line. The employees that were released were some of the best people we had at the hospital. I don't know what the management expects us to do with no staff to run the departments. Maybe they could step in and fill your prescriptons, check your ventilator, take your blood, do your xray, serve your food, make sure the computer equiptment is working, secure the hosptial, keep the hosptial clean, etc... It is a sad day for me. Our thoughts and prayers are with our friends.
Posted by: NOT JEALOUS on Jan 6, 2009 at 06:15 PM
THE PERSON THAT STARTED ATTACKING ST MARY'S EMPLOYEES IS RIDICULOUS. IT IS UNFORTUNATE FOR THE CABELL EMPLOYEES AND I AM TRULY SORRY THAT THIS HAS HAPPENED TO THEM,BUT WE SHOULD NOT ATTACK PEOPLE WHO HAVE NOTHING TO DO WITH THIS SITUATION. I AM PROUD TO BE SMMC EMPLOYEE.
Posted by: Dianna on Jan 6, 2009 at 06:07 PM
The nurses (well, registered nurses) are not in a Union at Cabell. There is no Union for them. The aides/unit clerks are. The tree set up at Christmas time was done so by donations; Cabell MADE money off of that decoration.
Posted by: Cowards on Jan 6, 2009 at 06:01 PM
Maybe Adminsitration should have looked at the bad investments and poor decisions and been man enough to cut the real problems.....Upper Management
Posted by: CONCERNED........ on Jan 6, 2009 at 05:53 PM
We all these people that lost their jobs and worked with them in some capacity. I am truly heartbroken for these wonderful people involved. God Bless all of you.
Posted by: concerned on Jan 6, 2009 at 05:47 PM
CHH has many problems. Most hospitals are on a tight budget and rely on federal reimbursement. I am concerned about the press reporting that the jobs were not in patient care areas. I say that has to be a lie, you laid off nurses and now are removing nurses; sure they may be at a desk but they are the leaders of the hospital. We will suffer as a community, our health care will suffer. I hope the tri state citizens will boycott CHH. I will not take my family ever again. Huntington is nearly extinct and poor decisions are not the answer.
Posted by: employee as well on Jan 6, 2009 at 05:36 PM
i hate it that these people that have worked here longer than i've been alive are losing their jobs..but Lisa you must be wanting to lose your job also by saying go somewhere else ..aren't you cutting your nose off despite your face? Anyway, the letter each employee received after the fact, states " Cabell Huntington Hospital is experienceing outstanding growth in both revenues and patient volumes, but it is clear we need to take these difficult, proactive steps to reduce our expense structure and become a more efficient organization". Direct quote, and I find it amusing that we have to make cuts like this especially without a warning to these people so they could prepare. I'm sorry to all of those who lost their jobs!
Posted by: dd on Jan 6, 2009 at 05:30 PM
I also work at Cabell, it was a very somber day today. So, so sad. These employees were not givin any kind of warning whatsoever. Why, such good employees? Their expertise was not needed, I suppose. Nurse managers, pharmacists etc... I agree, the floors are already understaffed, but I suppose that is with every hospital. Cabell...we are in for a rude awakening and a heap of trouble to boot. I know we are fortunate that we still have our jobs, but we will be doing the work of 2 or 3 people. Due to the stress, is it worth ending up as a patient? So so so SAD.
Posted by: To Lisa: on Jan 6, 2009 at 05:27 PM
It is evident you are a St Mary's employee...jealousy runs amuck over there. If you are in your right mind you would not suggest the people who pay your bills be taken elsewhere. My wife works at Cabell, and while this is sad, it is proof that it is better to have a union job. All of the nurses at St marys trying to keep the Union out of their hospital. Well maybe if the nurses would have been in the union here this would have never happened.
Posted by: dan on Jan 6, 2009 at 05:23 PM
not to fear the pork will be back in middle management. we have been paying for the so called charity cases for years. nothing is free someone always makes up the differance. with most having a medical degree of some kind they surely can find jobs, with the demand being so high for nurses in our country.
Posted by: sambo on Jan 6, 2009 at 05:18 PM
If they hadn't bought and set up that gigantic poinsetta/ Christmas tree, maybe they could have saved 1 persons job.
Posted by: Have you looked at the economy? on Jan 6, 2009 at 05:11 PM
Lisa, your an idiot. Carry on.
Posted by: Larry on Jan 6, 2009 at 04:58 PM
These cuts are unfortunate, but just as everything else going on in our economy, lay-offs are happening, get used to them. Ultimately we can thank President Bush for "getting the ball rolling". I do agree that executive salaries are over-inflated and, but cutting 100k won't get you the 45 million lost. I wish the best for everyone involved and hope and pray you find a great job very soon!! Go to Cabell for your care, but don't go if you are not sick and don't intend on paying for your care.
Posted by: JENNIFER on Jan 6, 2009 at 04:58 PM
I think this is TERRIBLE!!! There are people that have been at Cabell for more than 30 years and have less than 2 years to retire. This is the thanks for the hardworking employees that have given their blood, sweat and tears!! DO NOT APPLY AT CABELL. YOUR HERE ONE MINUTE>>>THEN YOUR ESCORTED TO YOUR CAR!!!!
Posted by: CEO Pay on Jan 6, 2009 at 04:57 PM
I would say that CEO pay cuts would have saved most of these jobs!
Posted by: WOW on Jan 6, 2009 at 04:54 PM
I wonder how much all of those TV ads cost? THey run TV spots every 30 min or better.
Posted by: Sue on Jan 6, 2009 at 04:49 PM
What will happen to these peoples pensions or retirement plans?? Word around the hospital is that they will lose them.
Posted by: Steve on Jan 6, 2009 at 04:45 PM
I personnaly cannot believe they have even been able to keep the doors open, much less limit their lay-offs to 40 people. Afterall, every bill I've ever gotten from Cabell Huntington has been astronomically low. Why, they're practiclly GIVING medical care away. In all seriousness, I instructed my family that, unless I won't live long enough to make it to St. Mary's, I will NOT go Cabell EVER again! It is an extremely mismanaged facility whose ONLY concern is your wallet, and what kind of operation they can perform on it.
Posted by: Anon on Jan 6, 2009 at 04:28 PM
Let's build onto the hospital some more. Hello....
Posted by: bhjhkkk on Jan 6, 2009 at 04:27 PM
wow thatreallyhapend
Posted by: huntington on Jan 6, 2009 at 04:24 PM
shame on cabell huntington hospital maybe the biggest cut should have started at the very top.
Posted by: ought to be ashamed on Jan 6, 2009 at 04:21 PM
This is so disapointing. Some of these people have been in this hospital for 30yrs or more. I am so sorry to all the families affected. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
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The Yell: Comments for the Week of 6/28
  • Posted By: : Seems to me the more than one person has too much time on their hands. I don't understand why people get on here and bash each other's comments. Why don't you all get jobs. WOW, don't think I will return to this section of the webpage anymore.
  • Posted By: Big Earl: Hello working people of WV this is Big Earl and people there is nothing wrong with eating good wholesome foods like bacon sausage eggs lard flour and the like all these PETA types are ganging up on our good food like you cant go to a baseball game now and get a hotdog without a PETA nut bothering you boo hooing about the poor little pig that turned out as a hotdog. Now my favorite restaurant in the world Kentucky Fired Chicken has thrown in twith these nuts and is grilling chicken now. Chicken was never meant to be grilled only fried regular or extra crispy. So people I say get busy we have work to do they is two states in front of us we in WV have to reclaim our top spot as best fed in the whole country go down to the foodland or kroger and get a cube of regular mountain dew a sack of Lays chips and some good ball park big red smokeys with a big bowl of chili and have a grill out tomorrow to celebrate the fourth of July in style and may I say God bless the USA and coal miners too.
  • Posted By: food for thought: Yes I am a Christian. I do need to understand the book of Revelation more and the end time prophecy. Like most I have the concept of it. Just to make it short, government dependence(happening more than ever) and is almost being forced for the citizens of this country to rely on. Cap and trade?(sign of the mark of the beast?)I don't know. I am ready. You that believe in science is fine, I do too. I do not go as far as to believe every report they give out. I pose this question. if you are so worried about global warming that means you don't like heat or burning:correct? Hmmm, think on this of what in Revelation I do understand. The lake of fire is where the worm dieth not and the fire is never quenched. Eternity is forever, on this Earth we are just passing through.
  • Posted By: to why: no ,hetrosexuals wont go to hell any slower than gays.adultry fornication,stealing lying murder etc,are all sins.every one sins,it just that you cant say you want to be a christian,and keep on with bad habits or not want to change and expect god to say thats all right.life is a struggle for all of us.we are expected to repent and try our hardest to do whats right.god respects that.you are not in any more danger than any other sinner.i know that homosexuality is a sin but so is adultry.would we tell an adulter that its all right to keep on hurting their marriage and spouse and thats alright,no.i would rather live beside an honest caring,productive gay person than a dishonest evil selfish nosy buissybody any day.we are only responsible for our own sins and actions.you sound stressed,lighten up.but homosexuality is a sin,like adultry and fornication,nobody gets a free pass.
  • Posted By: Patty: Good points, Htiek, but the status quo with coal mining, which is a dirty business, no matter how it is marketed, i.e., "clean coal" (coal is dirty, period), will remain till the resources are depleted, the land and environment of the coal fields are destroyed, which is pretty much the case at present.
  • Posted By: bonn: One more thing and I really will stop. Why does the weather cycle? I do not know everything-no one does. But everything has its purpose. Sometimes, more cold is called for. If we don't have hard winters snakes and mosquitoes thrive, for one. Mosquitoes are a large part of fish diet. And snakes keep rodents in check. But too much cold hurts other things that call for warmer temps. Quail is one thing that comes to mind that suffer in the frigid temps. We just don't understand all of the workings of these things. But it is all to keep a balance-many times in things we ourselves have killed off, such as bear and wolves. Even if we don't like some species, they all serve a purpose and nature helps keep that balance. Our world really was wonderfully made. With all the changes in temperature, we still have seasons. You can know it will be cold in winter and hot in summer. The excesses serve a purpose we sometimes can not see. Strive to learn of all of her wonders, not follow blindly.
  • Posted By: bonn: I would like to apologize if I have been short and critical. I really am sorry. It is no excuse, but I have a very sick child who may be dying and I get so upset at the state of our world. I do have to quit reading these comments. But I hope I have caused a few people at least to think with their own common sense instead of blindly following whatever. Some theories may be correct. But many ARE for monetary purposes. We each were given a mind to think with. Question everything before taking it as it appears. And be sure and thank a veteran for the freedom we celebrate this weekend. Too many have died to protect it to just give it up willingly. And whether or not you are religious, lets try to love one another. Love can fix so many things! Try to keep our world clean, But that doesn't have to bankrupt us. We can all do our part in whatever ways we can. The old saying "Give a hoot, don't pollute" should not have gone out of style. And use your wikipedia to read "Ice Age" to see cycling.
  • Posted By: Follow up on cap and rape: CNSNews.com) – The 1,400-page cap-and-trade legislation pushed through by House Democrats contains a new federal policy that residential, commercial, and government buildings be retrofitted to increase energy efficiency, leaving it up to the states to figure out exactly how to do that. This means that homeowners, for example, could be required to retrofit their homes to meet federal “green” guidelines in order to sell their homes, if the cap-and-trade bill becomes law. The bill, which now goes to the Senate, directs the administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to develop and implement a national policy for residential and commercial buildings. The purpose of such a strategy – known as the Retrofit for Energy and Environmental Performance (REEP) – would be to “facilitate” the retrofitting of existing buildings nationwide.In other words all your appliances-heating-stove -fridge-windows-would have to meet green standards before we sell SOCAILISM HAS ARRIVED YESWEDID
  • Posted By: ANOTHER YES WE CAN: First you paid to insure your car. Soon you may have to add health insurance premiums to that stack of monthly bills as well. In a revamped health care system envisioned by senators, people would be required to carry health insurance just like motorists must get auto coverage now. The government would provide subsidies for the poor and many middle-class families, but those who still refuse to sign up would face fines of more than $1,000. The details were unveiled Thursday in a health care overhaul bill supported by key Senate Democrats looking to fulfill President Barack Obama's top domestic priority.SOCAILISM IS HERE The Congressional Budget Office estimated the fines would raise around $36 billion over 10 years. Senate aides said the penalties would be modeled on the approach taken by Massachusetts, which now imposes a fine of about $1,000 a year on individuals who refuse to get coverage. Under the federal legislation, families would pay higher penalties than individuals
  • Posted By: bonn: Good grief! The brain washing has gone so far it will never get better. Some of this way of thinking makes me physically ill in my stomach. All of one mind! Mindless devotion to whatever is contrary to common sense and whatever theory is being passed around. Most families have both parents working, some two jobs, just to make it now. Soon you won't even be able to work enough to carry your family, the government and the ones who won't work. Then you will be disposable and they will start killing you off because you can't give them enough money. But you will blindly keep following. It is easy to see how Hitler took control and how it is being set up for the antichrist to take control. I quit. I will never read another comment. And Kris, did that nut not know the sky has always appeared blue? Hahaha Goodbye. I know you will reply, but I won't be reading it. Never again. Either you believe God or the scientists. I choose God. And freedom!
  • Posted By: cap and trade: world net daily has an informative article on home ownership and all buildings in u.s.it is about total government control of everyone.you will have to answer to the gov.or else.
  • Posted By: Jane Doe: To Pearl: Thanks for the comment. I try to be an adult and make the usual comments and complaints, But how would you feel if every time you wrote something, Someone would respond back with their own opinions and say that you are wrong! Just the other day I wrote how my child was injured at Camden Park! Of course RoaneCo. had to write something and attack me about my decision to get angry about the situation. Yes, I agree that I should just turn the other cheek but I was raised to stand up for myself!! Why I'm a target I'll never know but I think that I have a right just like everyone else on here and to say my opinion on things whether people agree or not.
  • Posted By: Why?: EVERYONE SINS! Why is being gay the worst sin that sends you "straight" to HELL? Heterosexuals can do all the "sining" they want and still go to heaven but LGBT can't.
  • Posted By: Justme: Coal mining has been around for years and years. I'm sick of all these nuts that are griping about mining. You nuts are always griping. Maybe you need to get a life. If your so against it.. Then turn your lights out. And stop using the power. Move on, and stop taking jobs away from our miner's.
  • Posted By: Htiek: What always amazes me about people in WV is their slavish devotion to coal mining even though it is killing the planet, costs more jobs than it creates, poisons the water, destroys the mountains, scars the land, kills the snail darter, and other horrible things. Things are all so backwards in this country why dont we switch over to something that lasts and is free like the sun and wind? Even if the president said that stuff and I doubt he did and even if he did you are misquoting him or taking him out of context he is right if there is one sure way to get people to stop turning their air conditioners down to 76 it is to raise the price, just like gasoline. People we can learn to ride bikes and walk again, just like they did in the old days, that will help give us exercise and decrease the obesity rate in WV. Food is another area, the slop that people eat like MacDonalds, trans fats, regular soft drinks, anybody with half a brain knows the intelligent thing to do is tax regular soda pop.
  • Posted By: Gandalf: A tea party? Oh my! I must relay this information to my friend Alice and the Mad Hatter. Door Mouse and Rabbit too. They will be thrilled! Oh my bad, must have picked out the wrong book today. Ta Ta!
  • Posted By: Pearl: Roane Co why dont you and Jane pursue your romance elsewhere the yell is for complaints.
  • Posted By: Kris: Just throwing this out there. I'm sitting on my couch wearing sweat pants and short sleeve shirt. I'm thinking about shuting my windows and turning on my heat. Shouldn't I be turning on the air conditioner instead? It's the 2nd of July. Not saying it's global warming but it doesn't seem right. Haven't heard of any heat warning anywhere is the US so far this summer. Great for us but doesn't feel right.
  • Posted By: Kris: Hi Bonn, it is true that these cycles do occur over time. Scientists have taken core samples from the earth and the ice to show these cycles. However, none of the samples show such a dramatic change in such a short period of time. I am a smoker and I will admit that my second hand smoke can and probably will effect the lungs of a non-smoker. The tons of carbon monoxide and other pollutants that we release into our atmosphere HAS TO have an effect on our atmosphere. True story: there was a scientist that day after day after day couldn't figure out why the sky was so blue and clear. Then it struck him, there hadn't been ANY planes in the air for three days. That was 911. What you put out, is what you get back. If you put love out, you will get love back. If you put out negativity, you will get negativity back. For every action, there is a reaction whether it's good or bad. It's in our hands to do our best not to cause an adverse impact to our planet. Peace to ALL!
  • Posted By: Big Earl: Hello again good working coal mining people of WV this is the coal miners friend Big Earl with news of yet another hippie plot to stick there big noses further into our business now some of these people in Congress has throwed in with the tree huggers they are trying to make it so you cannot sell your house without some nut from the hippie EPA coming in and inspecting it to make sure you are green enough to suit there tastes. This so called cap and trade bill that these busy body do gooders are pushing on us will destroy our jobs and run up the electric bills so that everybody will have to live like the Waltons with 27 people under one roof just to keep warm. Now the average hippie longhair don’t care noway because they would have us all living in mud huts riding mules wearing sandals and weaving baskets to load down with califlowers and arougalas tofu and alfalfa to take up on some worthless mountaintop as an offering to there windmill god instead of having nice homes, cars, a job and cool air in the summer and heat in the winter ALL THANKS TO THE COAL MINER. Anything to bother people attracts these hippies like flies to a cowpie.
  • Posted By: to hteik: hteik has 2 comment .the global warming one was hillarous.it was june 30.he must not have gotten the same public education i did,he was taught that we had satellites in colonial time.but then again he think algoe is really smart,he doesnt know al didn,t really invent the innernet.i think fox news and conservative talk radio would do him a world of good,he,d be shocked at what he doesn,t know.
  • Posted By: Amy: Hey Keith, I must have missed that interview because I was busy clinging to my guns and religion. No, really, I did see it. It's kind of strange how people become so shocked when this stuff is introduced in the House of Reps. Obama outlined every plan he intended to get pushed through and a lot of people just didn't listen. Next time I hope people vote for the best candidate not the best slogan. Yes we can....bankrupt the nation!
  • Posted By: Patriot1: Tea Party: There will be a tea party in Grayson, Ky on July 4th. It will be held at the City Park from 4:00-6:30PM
  • Posted By: Dave: The seat belt law is no law. Its nothing but a deliberate attempt to extort money off the American people,use communist law and control the populace. THE PEOPLE HAVE NEVER VOTED ON IT, BUT THEY ARE TRYING TO GET YOU BELIEVE THAT IT WILL SAVE LIVES. TELL THEM TO GIVE YOU THE FIGURES ON ACCIDENTAL OPERATIONS.And if that doesn't satisfy you then why are we allowing our young brave soldiers to be killed,and for whom? WHY AREN'T THESE NEWSPAPERS BRINGING THIS INFORMATION TO THE PEOPLE? Because the nations 96% are owned and controled by the WEALTHIEST.
  • Posted By: bonn: I was trying to make a point. Perhaps not in the best way. I get so discouraged seeing what is happening around us. One group of scientists call for us to spread soot on all the snow up north to absorb heat to counter the coming ice age. Another (more popular) group calls for painting our roofs white to reflect the heat that is melting our ice caps. Which group is right? Neither. Our earth is doing exactly as it has been doing all along. Cycling naturally. Did it plan it all on its own? Hardly. But no one wants to hear that. It reminds me of "chicken little" yelling "the sky is falling". Only this is not so funny-this is control. And what is even sadder is-people seem to WANT to be controlled. This earth will continue as always until one preplanned day it all comes to a screeching halt. Then a new earth will be created. I will not be caught off guard. I read The Book. I know where I will be. Do you? And do you really enjoy giving those schemers your money that much? I hope one day...
  • Posted By: Keith: A few questions for the Yell audience: Does anyone remember when Obama gave that interview in SanFran Cisco and said that he would not prevent the construction of a coal fired plant, but his policies would bankrupt anybody that tried to build one? That policy was cap and trade. I heard O say that energy prices, under his administration, would "necessairly skyrocket." Is this the hope and change you guys voted for? How will you afford your electric and gas service under this man who cares so much for the poor? Obama said once that he was not bothered that the price of gas had risen so high, just that it happened so fast. How does everyone feel about the gas price? Obama raked John Pablo McCain over the coals for suggesting health care benefits be taxed as income, now he is going to do the same thing to pay for "free" care to illegal aliens, deadbeats, etc...but union workers will be exempt from this tax. How does that make you feel if you work for a living and are not in a union? H&C
  • Posted By: Amy: Hteik, "all is well" because people like us! Give me a break. If all were well, we would not have the largest unemployment rate in 26 years. The stimulus package would prevent it from going above 8%, remember? How is Iran not our business but Honduras is? The people of Honduras have a Constitution very similar to ours and we should support the people not an extremist who is trying to take over their country. The 22nd Amendment does a great service for our nation. IF it would be reversed that would be O.K too. At the rate Obama is going W. could beat him in 2012. At least I would sleep better at night.
  • Posted By: Just Me: Wow Jane Doe, give it a rest. I really don't think God would be please with this going on and on and on...healthy banter is fine, but this is not healthy banter. Christians absolutely can and do get angry, it's what they do with that anger that counts. It doesn't matter where, when, or even IF you go to church...what matters is that you have accepted Christ into your heart and asked for forgiveness of your sins. God didn't save us to judge others, he saved us to lead others to him. I've said many times...what if the person you just yelled at, told off, or whatever showed up at your church on Sunday? Would you be proud of your behavior?
  • Posted By: Sophie: Roane County is a beautiful place. The country roads snake along past fields, farms and old homes we wish could talk. Looneyville is indeed named after the Looney family, so is Gandeeville. My father was from Roane Co. & graduated from Walton High School in the 40's. He told me tales of his school days, friends, boyish pranks, old cars and the fun they had at the 4-H camp. Spencer was a big place to them. Roane Co. gave us many war veterans and kept distant family & friends together with the annual "Roane County Reunion". I don't even know if they still have it, but we used to go. I remember seeing Sen. Robert Byrd play his fiddle there. The Black Walnut Festival in October(?) is a good time to visit Spencer. They usually have a parade, arts & crafts and a museum. You can enjoy a slice of Americana, along with a slice of homemade pie.
  • Posted By: Craveontruth: The great Dale Carnegie once said "You never win an argument".Most of you know he wrote" How to Win Friends and Influence People'.Some of you should put this on your Christmas List.I think I will dust it off and revisit this old classic.
  • Posted By: cap and trade: welcome to ''before tax and tax'bill going thru the powers that be.look at your electric bills this monthe there is an enviornmental tax at 2.2cents for every kilowatt you use.can we even imagine what our electric bill will be,not to mention every thing we consume,food water ,every necessity that cant be done without.we in easternky have good reps.in washington,every one in surrounding states should put your so called reps a lot of pressure to defeat this tax and tax bill that is being pushed by a few people to make them richer and control every aspects of productive peoples lives.look at your gasbill also,you will see only a very small portion for gas but the rest in fees and taxes.look at your phone bill you will see a 100percent markup in taxes and fees.its time to put pressure on politicans to protect the citizens and not the lobiest.
  • Posted By: justanotherfly: sounds like jane doe is looking for an easy way out ie a lawsuit
  • Posted By: to bonn: i couldn,t have said it better myself.some things have to be explained like you are talking to a 5year old.but like some 5year olds that are stubborn and spoiled rotten they dont listen.wait till the cost of every thing sky rockets and they will be the first to rant and rave that nobody told them.
  • Posted By: Jane Doe: To my biggest fan, RoaneCo: Ummm! It's sounds to me like you have a lot of anger. You have to pick on everyone's comments! I think I speak for everyone when I say (Get a Job)!! Cause you obviously have none! You have all this free time on your hands! Why don't you spend this free time helping others instead of puttin them down! You know..WSAZ has job postings...Maybe you could find one on there!!!!I'm not a negative person. Maybe I'm just like everyone else that has a job and three kids and a lot of things to do! I get stressed out, I know that goes way over your head,You don't get stressed. But because you go to church doesn't mean you can't get angry about stuff!!LOL My father-in-law is a Deacon at my church and even he has a temper!! Look out craveontruth! Looks like RoaneCo. has found someone else to pick on!Good Luck!! Have a perfect day ( I know you will)!!
  • Posted By: RoaneCo.: Yes Craveontruth, there is a place named Looneyville.(no Jane Doe that isn't where I live) It is on Rt.36, nothing there but the Looneyville Post Office, and I am not joking. There is also a Lefthand Post Office on Rt.36, always wondered why there wasn't a Righthand also. Our County seat is located in Spencer, (middle of nowhere) which for years was only known for its State Mental Institution. (no Jane Doe this isn't my Alma mater) It was closed years ago and now a Wal-Mart is on that location. I guess the only other thing to speak of would be the Black Walnut Festival which is held in Spencer every October.
  • Posted By: bonn, the simpleton: Don't we have a smart earth? She formed herself from a dust cloud, they say and planted herself just the right distance from the sun to support the life she would create. She also filled her insides with molten heat to maintain the right temps and if that builds too much she decides to blow some out holes (volcanoes) to keep from exploding. She makes her own rain, knowing whether she needs a gentle soaking rain for her plants, or a gully washer to cleanse the filth. It pours down the mountains, into the rivers and out into the ocean which she just happened to fill with salt (her natural sanitizer). And she knows if she doesn't have ice she will over heat, but too much and she will freeze, killing her life she so carefully made. So she melts some, then as it heats up, she freezes more. All just coincidental happenings? She is brilliant! But not so smart as the humans who are making a fortune controlling the other dumb humans by convincing them THEY are causing her to do these things!!!
  • Posted By: passing by the yell: I met someone from Looneyville once. It's named that after a person's last name from what I was told.
  • Posted By: Hteik: Well it is nice to see that the war in Iraq is ending under President Obama. Who would have thought, it seems the world is backwards right now, huh? Obama gets elected, the world understands our good will, and all is well. Just like history, Republicans start wars, Democrats finish them. Hate to say we told you so but we told you so, I just get fuzzy inside thinking about all the people that love us now that hated us because of that old Bush. Another thing too, leave this Iran thing alone, that is none of our business. I dont recall anybody from Iran coming over here to help us in 1776 so why should we stick our nose in their business? When you get a strong leader like in Honduras, a good strong leader with a military background, everybody goes nuts because the guy takes things over well I support him and Obama. In fact, some people are so needed we better start now to get rid of the 22nd Amendment, it was only put in by jealous radical extremist crazy Republicans to hurt FDR.
  • Posted By: Craveontruth: I don't think I have ever been to Roan County.Nothing against the good people of that neck of the woods.I did enjoy looking it up on wikipedia.Is there really a Looneyville there? If there is then I must visit!Who's with me?
  • Posted By: food for thought: 2-10 years for almost killing a child? Where are our priorities? I know they are nestled in the mountains or wait lying deep in the ocean waiting for anoother person to adopt them and claim rights to the next whale that is proclaimed Shammu or Willy. Get real people lets protest these laws that allow some cook to wanna kill his child and only have to pay his debt of 2 - 10 years. Oh and Kris your right our God won't kill a 1 yr old or a 100 yr old just do to it. He would do it for his glory and maybe take them from being around a half heartened sadistic person that would do this to a child. Oh i love the lights and the A/C and my car, but most of all I love my GOD "Jehovah God" whom i think first and foremost for all I have, then i thank a coal miner and an AEP worker and a so on and so on.
  • Posted By: Kimberly: Raising the WV Toll price? I see a lot of arguments coming from this. Where is all of this money going to? Mansion might be a good governer, but when it comes to things like this, it needs fixed. WV roads are awful and I know after all of these years, surely the toll money has added up to more than enough to fix these roads!!! What an awful awful idea!!
  • Posted By: RoaneCo.: Bonn, people like you are the very reason I have stated that I respect ones right of freedom of religion. Although I have different views, I have no issues with anyone going to church and trying to live according to their interpretation of the bible. I think that is wonderful. I also thank you Bonn for being open minded and seeing the point I was trying make. And for Anonymous on Jul 1, 2009 at 03:11 PM, no Craveontruth and I are not the same person. We do agree on some issues, and disagree on others. And when we do disagree (speaking for myself of course) we do it without anger. Also, for Bob... sorry, it isn't working. I have a two year old that comes up with better jabs than you. But I respect your right to try.
  • Posted By: Sophie: Just a few comments on current Yells: Big Earl - I just can't read you anymore because it's the same things over & over. Yeah, we're with you - there are a bunch on weed-o's coming around these days trying to shut us down for the sake of some owl...We get it. We all hate it. Roane Co/Jane -It appears Roane has been very hurt in their lifetime by family conflict involving belief. Many people get hurt because of superstition & misinterpretation and overzealousness. It has been this way since time began. I hope Roane can someday get past the hurt & retoric to work out his/her own salvation. Simple belief in Jesus Christ is where it starts, the rest as I put it, is just "gravy". Jane: I'm sorry your child was hurt. This indeed must be reported. I got hurt @ CP one time too on "The Whip". It beat me so hard against the side I had a major bruise on my hip. I strained my arms trying to keep from slamming into the side. A fun thing was not so fun. No rides for me, anymore. Not there.
  • Posted By: : I think RoaneCo. and Craveontruth is the exact same person? Who's with me?
  • Posted By: Big Earl: Hello good people of WV this is Big Earl and I for one am sick and tired of all these out of state know it all nosey people bothering us if it is not these smelly hippies trying to run our jobs off or rename the WVU mascot now they are calling the good citizens of WV fat. Well people I am here to tell you that this bunch at the so called CSPI and no you hippies I don’t mean the TV show calling us fat should look in the mirror they look like something off night of the living dead pasty faced scarecrows and beanpoles and what is so great about that. WV has some of the best staple foods anywhere in the world I have eaten paotatoes beans meat flour and corn meal all my life cooked in lard and I am not one bit worse off for it and can mine coal with anybody. People all the good foods we eat are natural growed in the garden or on the farm so it should even make a tofu eating hippie type happy. I am more bothered that two states beat us out in the race for the top so I tip my hat to the people of the great states of Alabama home of the best country music band ever and Mississippi but people of WV get busy we have to reclaim our title to best fed in the USA I recommend the Kentucky Fried Chicken with gravy and biscuits as a good place to start our comeback.
  • Posted By: RoaneCo.: Actually Jane Doe, growing up I did attend church and read the bible. Being subjected to religion for many years I would not consider myself "confused" or uneducated. If one looks at organized religion with an open mind it isn't hard to see who is confused. For example, you have one bible yet there are numerous religious groups ( methodists, baptists etc...) that believe their interpretation is the only correct interpretation. This is understandable because the bible itself is very contradictive. In my opinion the the bible and organized religion is nothing more than a tool created to control the masses. Yet this tool has pitted man against man, brother against brother, state against state and country against country, not to mention the wars, death and destruction it has caused. I have witnessed in my lifetime many family fueds, broken marriages and busted churches at the hands of organized religion. I have heard the words of hate spoken by christians. I am not confused.
  • Posted By: To Fat Earl: You're losing! Ha,Ha!
  • Posted By: Kris: God does not control the weather!If so then he would be responsible for killing hundreds of innocent people every year in America alone! If that's your God, you can have it! My GOD is loving and compassionate. He would never take the life of a one year old nor a hundred year old just because he felt like creating a tornado that day or a hurricane the next. Get a brain and use it simpletons!
  • Posted By: bonn: To Jane Doe: I am afraid RoaneCo's common sense is more attractive than your comments. Read your last post at 8:58 and see if it shows the Light you are suppose to give. We are suppose to control our anger. Yes, we are forgiven, but it is not a license to keep repeating our faults. It is mercy so we can improve. Viciousness does not become a child of God. RoaneCo., may God forgive us for driving you and others away from Him with our failure to shine the Light of Love. And Jane Doe, I am the one you called ignorant just because I was showing compassion (another expectation of a Christian). It is scary about your child. But that person was not attacking your child, nor joking about it, only disapproving of your outburst. Not very attractive in anyone, especially one called to set an example for others to follow. If you must get angry, use it to accomplish something good. Christians are hated enough WITHOUT cause. Love is the answer.
  • Posted By: Bob: I think we might need to contact someone in state govt.about inspecting our amusement parks to many in the public simply dont care if kids get hurt this could have been something really really bad but I guess there is always a few who would crack jokes at anything even a child getting injured.
  • Posted By: cap and trade bill: you wont hear on liberal obama mania news reports whats in the cap and tax bill.only conservate talk radio and conservative news are telling the contents of this country destroying bill.liberal dont want you to be informed,it would be to dangerous for their so called news networks.did you know that,as i somewhat understand it,that every house in the country will have to be at gov.standards before it can be sold,they will be allowed to change therules in mid stream if they want.even if you dont like conservative news,remember only a well informed person can try to stop tyranny.look for facts,have you heard 1 liberal news tell you whats in this bill thats detrimental to this country and freedom.i challenge wsaz to look up whats in this bill and report accuratly whats in it.i dont think thats going to happen.
  • Posted By: food for thought: AMEN Bonn I could never have said it any better, being a Boone county coal miner and all. We do no get a very well reputation anyway.
  • Posted By: Craveontruth: RoaneCo.can hurt but often the truth does hurt.I support RoaneCo.To Jane Doe,I believe RoaneCo.does know quite a bit about Christianity and is not confused at all.
  • Posted By: Jane Doe: Thank you everyone for your support!!You know RoaneCo. Nobody is perfect, That goes for Christians too! Are we allowed to get mad??Yes! But are we forgiven everyday? Yes!Obviously you don't know much about Christianity! That's why you critize so much!!You're confused!! We are not perfect! I guess you are!!
  • Posted By: VOTE NO ON CAP AND TRADE: I know its a repost but i think its Worthy 'Liberty Or Tyranny?' House Passes Cap-And-Trade Republicans Warn Bill Gives Federal Government 'Virtual Control' Over 'Every Aspect Of The Lives Of The American People. Thank the Dumbocratic controled house as it will raise the average consumers power bill $175.00 This on top of the energy companies already asking for an inctrase will put such a burden on the American people that only the wealthy will survive.Please write or call our Senators they are the only life line we have left and ask them to VOTE NO on cap and trade. Republicans were overwhelmingly against the measure, arguing it would destroy jobs in the midst of a recession while burdening consumers with a new tax in the form of higher energy costs.And there was plenty to work on in a House-passed measure that pointed toward higher electricity bills for the middle class.Budget Office and the other from the Environmental Protection Agency — that suggested average increases would be $175.00 a year.
  • Posted By: cap and trade survey: against cap and tax,85percent.people who work and are productive.15percent for cap and tax,,,people who work for government or live off the fat of the land and dont mind other people being taxed into poverty....
  • Posted By: : If new drivers would slow down and actually pay attention to what they are doing, then maybe WV would'nt have these new laws for teenage drivers. Personally myself I believe that all states should have this law. It would make the roads a little safer to drive on.
  • Posted By: bonn: About global warming- our temperature is (and always has been) constantly changing. GOD controls it. Anyone who thinks we can are puffing themselves up bigger than we are.Are we suppose to believe we are responsible for the Ice Age thawing that is suppose to have happened way back when as well? How did that happen? Certainly not carbon emissions. Use some common sense and realize people are using this to line their pockets and gain support for their pet projects. I know- you don't want to hear this, but it is not realistic. Don't let America be controlled with this, PLEASE!! Let us remain free!
  • Posted By: Bob: Dont worry Jane Doe I have notice RoaneCOs posts are generally always on the rude side I am sorry to hear about your daughter.
  • Posted By: Just wondering: the 3 people that was killed on alt rt 10. 2 being st. joe's students. Did they ever release the cause of the accident?
  • Posted By: RoaneCo.: I do care about the safety of our children Anonymous on Jun 30, 2009 at 09:01 AM, no matter where they are or what they are doing. Our children are our future. What I don't care for is someone like Jane Doe on here week after week preaching her little sermons all the while calling people ignorant and showing her hostility toward others. It has always amazed me how most christians will belittle someone else but the minute you catch them being unchristian like they always come up with the old "we christians ain't perfect". Well I know they are not, but by golly they are the first to judge everyone else. These hyporcitical self proclaimed christians are one of the reasons I turned away from organized religion years ago. I just don't agree with these people shoving religion on everyone else. I respect Jane Does right to religion and I would even fight for her to keep that right, but she, like so many others need to keep their religion in their church and their home.
  • Posted By: Big Earl: Well hello again good working coal mining families in WV this is Big Earl and I for one am very disappointed that this cap and trade bill got passed into law the other day no thanks to our good representatives from WV. People all I can say is get a woodpile and a bunch of cow chips because your electric is going to get real expensive real quick. These hippies has run up to Washington DC and boo hooed to them tree huggers and longhairs in the EPA until they got even worse done to our jobs but then again what do you expect from a bunch that has a leaf from a dope plant on there sign like the EPA does if you don’t believe me look on this very website I seen a picture of it. Birds of a feather flock together that’s why the good working people were kept out and not allowed to talk at that hearing and the hippies let in. People these hippies has slandered our great state and coal miners first they bring in professor moonbeam from NASA to insult us then he tucks his tail and runs back to NASA and wont debate Mr. DB then they attack our state university mascot the WV mountaineer. Well people I Big Earl have a solution to this lets call WV the “Ivory Soap State,” make our mascot a bathtub that’s a sure fire way to get rid of these smelly hippies and longhairs and keep them out forever.
  • Posted By: ME: We christians are most always judged by our actions and that is to be expected since we are not perfect in any way. We all make mistakes every day,we get angry,we say things we shouldn't and act out our frustrations sometimes to those closest to us and our friends. We try to do better and ask forgiveness when we do stumble from our christian path. Actions speak louder than words at times, good or bad. Yes we adults act like children at times and children try to act like adults all too soon. We never know who we are influenceing with our actions and words so we need to always try to act,say and do what is right. As long as we are on this earth we will stumble but we should strive to be the best we can be and treat people with love and respect no matter how we are treated. I have turned the cheek many times and been slapped alot and will keep on doing it as long as I breath. My time will come soon enough to be judged as to the way I have lived and treated people.
  • Posted By: Jane Doe: I love people on the Yell!!! They give me a chance to laugh everyday. Thanks guys!!
  • Posted By: just looking: UMMMM do you people think that christians are perfect??? Do you think we dont get angry?? Only one person is perfect and that is Jesus Christ...And if a christian says they are perfect, then they arnt a very good christian. We all have faults. Alot of you people cant wait to get up and look at the faults of others and criticize what they believe in....
  • Posted By: Patriot1: Tea Party. There will be a "Tea Party" July 4th from 4:00-6:30 PM at the City Park in Grayson,Ky
  • Posted By: Donna: Please! enough of Michael Jackson. He died, now he will appear before God and face his punishment for his sins against children. He was a morally bankrupt person who the media has presented as an icon. It's no wonder children are so messed up today,too much TV and not enough parenting. You too, are responsible for making him appear as a person to be looked up to. He and others in entertainment and sports are not what the children need, they need moral examples to look up to, please stop the glorification of immoral and indecent individuals.
  • Posted By: food for thought: To those of you telling me to watch out for Fox news, please go back and read carefully what I said about the media and the government. I thank each of you for your information. I am not out to attack anyone whether acclaimed or the average joe. I just know what I have read from reports and from different sites. This information is what our scientists, meteorologists and so forth use in reference to report the records of weather and temperatures. Again thank each of you, and at last Fox news was the channel the fine people at our local (American made) dealership had channeled on the tube, personally I just watch WSAZ, at the local level.
  • Posted By: : Roane Co., why are you not concerned about the safety of small children at amusement parks?
  • Posted By: Htiek: Right on Kris you tell em about Fox News. Everyone that watches knows that the dependable networks are ABF, Anyone But Fox. I am just like everyone else in the know, they lie all the time but please dont press me to cite anything specific as I am having coffee right now. I am new to your side, so pardon me if I get something confused. Those photographs of the ice caps are proof positive as far as I am concerned, these flat earth types that dont believe global warming should compare them to the satellite picutres from the colonial period and over the years since for comparison purposes. I once heard the hottest year on record was in the 1930s but what does that prove. And before one of you know it alls talks about Al Gore riding everywhere in a private plane and having such a huge house and running a company that profits from selling carbon credits, some people in life earn their special privileges simply by showing up and enlightening the rest of us, so there.
  • Posted By: polar ice caps: the weather is always changing.sometime it freezes sometimes it melts,thats gods doings,not mans.wasnt it the great mind of ted danson many years ago that explaind that in 15 or 20 years that the oceans were going to raise so many feet that it would destroy and overflo inward to apolipicate level.i guess the people that live on these coast lines dont know they are under water.we americans are so silly.let me explain what a great creator said,it rains but the oceans are never full.ice melts but the oceans never overflo.i think i,ll believe him instead of a.gore or ted danzen.p.b.s last week on a travel show,,i think,,,,the guide said the glacier there had been melting 150years.that was certainly before the industrial revolution.as for fox,world net daily,newsmax,etc.the liberal press has lost it monolopy on liberal so called news.
  • Posted By: RoaneCo.: After you finish showing your true colors, go back and read my post again Jane Doe. Better yet let me cut and paste it for you. "I do hope your little girl is ok. I have children of my own, I know how precious they are." And just for the record, I would never "make fun" of a child, but don't think for one second that I won't point out an adult being hypocritical. Are you not the same Jane Doe that three weeks ago was preaching about God, then in the same breath calling someone "IGNORANT"? So let me say it one more time, I hope your little girl is ok. As for you, thank you for proving once again how kind, loving, patient and understanding some of you fine christians can be.
  • Posted By: Kris: This respectfully goes out to "food for thought" for what they said about fox news and global warming.FOX has great movies and tv shows but their view when it comes to the "news" is so far on the "right" way of thinking that it totally obscures reality in their opions of the subject at hand. They'll twist their views to make sure that it is opposite of "liberals" or people on the "left" and how they feel about the subject.Asf or global warming, we have actual time lapsed pictures of the polar caps melting at an alarming rate. You can actually see it happening. If things are cooling down, then why are the polar caps and icebergs melting at an alarming rate? The evidence is right in front of our faces. I sure do hope you're right because if I am, our planet is doomed. Sincerely, Kris
  • Posted By: Jethro: WHATS WRONG WITH YOU ALL UPDATE THE YELL!!!!!!!!!!WAKE UP!!!!!!
  • Posted By: Keith: Never thought I'd sit around and miss Bush...well the wrecking ball has appointed a racist to the supreme court, one that is inept and incompetent too. Did you notice her latest ruling was overturned today? The economy is not getting better, those of you out of work have my sympathy because this clown is not doing anything to make it better. He never held a real job, never ran a business, just a rabble rouser and agitator. How do you feel about cap and trade energy tax? All over a phony problem that doesnt even exist; WV will wither away to nothing but hey we can all get jobs in the windmill factory, cant we? How do you feel about having your health benefits taxed to pay for Obamacare? How's the hope and change working out for everyone? What do you think card check is going to do the economy? Check out an article about Obama the African Colonialist on the American Thinker Website, dated June 25th. It explains him to a "T." Obama is a wrecking ball, and he's gonna roll over everyone.
  • Posted By: Big Earl: Well hello again good working coal miners of WV this is Big Earl and people I have come to the conclusion that we need some friends in Washington DC that has got some clout. Some people up there has got big names but nobody apparently listens to, that is if they show up at all in court to help you out, those who are sick are excepted. Then there are some people in Charleston who should be in Washington who shall remain unnamed because nobody in Gov. Joes office asked me to say that. But remember who had that bunch from FEMA down here handing out checks before two weeks after the flood water hit and figure out who has clout. You people that went up for the hearing last week should be thanked but the good people never got to say a word but these hippies did, they are apparently now running around the creek with microscopes looking for fish that cant be seen with the eye, something called a microbe, now they are blaming the coal miner for killing off this worthless animal and I sincerely hope Captain D or old Long John will never put some slop like that on my plate when I want good seafood. If you dont see it it cant be of no good use anyway, sort of like a certain US senator with a big rich name who was nowhere to be seen last week.
  • Posted By: Jane Doe: To RoaneCo. How dare you critize my comment. This isn't just some fun arguement!! My child is hurt! Do you think that's funny? Do me a favor, Next time I write about my kids, Don't comment! I hope you don't have any kids because you don't see the harm and worry in my comment, You just want to fight and make fun of someone!! This is really serious!! I don't see the humor!!!
  • Posted By: Big Earl: Did any of you people see those PETA nuts on the TV 3 news last night boo hooing about having to tie there dogs up hello again working people of WV this is Big Earl and I don’t know about you but I always thought it was rude and inconsiderate and just being a bad neighbor to let your dogs run wild all over the neighborhood digging up peoples backyards rooting around in garbage cans and doing there business all over the place. Have any of you people in Huntington ever lost a chicken to a wild dog. Even these back to nature types and hippies up here in Boone County tie up there dog to guard there dope patches but they don’t have no sense anyway if they aint going to Washington DC to try and rook us out of our jobs by carrying signs and yelling about some invisible fish that is no good to anybody they are screaming about the coal miner killing polar bears and other animals that don’t even live here. Apparently this bunch had the bright idea to go down to the park on Sunday down in Huntington when people was out with there families trying to walk around and enjoy things and they chained themselves to trees with real dog chains trying to get people to sign a protest petition to of all people a mayor named Wolf now I don’t know about you but that mayor better forget the beware of dog sign he needs to put a beware of the PETA nut sign up in that park.
  • Posted By: The Seeker: @food for thought: It is indeed important to check facts, and it heartens me to see that you're of the type that actively seeks them (even thought I fall on the side of the debate that believes in climate change, as it has solid science behind it). However, I caution you on taking anything from FOX news at face value. This is an organization that in 2000 won a case in Florida appeals court in which the court ruled that FOX has no obligation to tell the truth to it's viewers, and can misinform the public under the first amendment. This is also an organization that has been proven to have an agenda, and frames every bit of it's coverage to favor one political party over the other. My advice is to seek out less obviously biased news sources, especially in cases such as global warming, which is an issue that transcends political parties and affects every being on the planet.
  • Posted By: Hugh: Hey WVa. Checkin out the YELL. Kind of quiet today. Enjoyed my visit there. Met John Henry at the Big Ben Tunnel,saw the big bridge. Stood at Hawk's Nest and viewed the scenery. If I wasn't so old and crippled, I'd bungee jump from the New River Gorge Bridge. Have folks who live in the Talcott area and some around Hinton. Well won't take much of your time today. Just wanted to check in.
  • Posted By: what is foor for thought?: foor?? for thought, you do know Bush made those he commissioned to study it alter their reports when he found out it supported global warming, don't you? Anyone who just sees pictures of the ice caps 30 years ago and now would have to be mentally handicapped not to know there's global warming, the only thing that's possible to debate is the cause of it. Wonder why Fox didn't mention the Bush fiasco? Well I don't really wonder.
  • Posted By: more p.c at wsaz: gays in usa sounds like it was written by a gay person,so it was printed.it was,nt written by a gay person.it was a second thought,after i commented on other sins,such as adultry,but plainly written by a heterosexual person.it was not printed because im straight and not gay.so goes our country and freedom.
  • Posted By: Lou Ann: Ive had a similar bad experience at camden park several years ago. Havent went back since. The pricing is just another deterrent to doing business locally. I love this area but am very discouraged by the lack of pride in our appearance in several of our towns, the prices of doing business, the attitude towards the customer , the lack of merchandise. I could go on. We definately are not tourist friendly in the great ohio valley area.
  • Posted By: foor for thought: Looks like my comment on June 24th may be right. I have done some reading about this Global warming fad the government is putting on. I was sitting in a local car dealership and FOX news was reporting on the government sitting or "burying" studies by two of the highest ranking EPA officials contradicting this myth. Some of the comments from their studies proves the Global temperature if anything has decreased. Although, you should be skeptical about anything the media reports especially when it involves the government these are facts that have been recorded over time. I ask how come when these bozos as Dr. Hansen whom is from NASA(which has done innumerable amounts of damage to our air with their testing) never mention facts as these when trying to prove things they are claiming is a fact. People we in America have became lazy in seeking the truth, I am not disputing anything these scientists and the government tells us, but as we learned in elementary school check facts of both sides.
  • Posted By: gays in u.s.a.: another reflection on gays.if you think god doesn,t care about you because you,re gay ,he must love you more than you can comprehend,if not you could have been born ina muslim country.islam has no homosexuals ,they are not rehabilitate,just beheaded.as a loving and compassionate god says"GO AND SIN NO MORE".that doesnt mean just you it means all of us.yes god allows you to choose,he must really care.
  • Posted By: City of Milton: I'm glad that the City of Milton has so much money to spend and that they spend it wisely. Every time I drive through town on a nice day it never fails that someone is washing their personal vehicle at the VFD. Good to see that they budget personal car washes into the city budget. I think I'll stop in there today and see if I can wash my car as well...should be a nice day!
  • Posted By: Valorie: About four weeks ago, I sent a letter to Camden Park with a friendly suggestion to open the park to the casual visitor again. As of today, I still haven't had a response from them. There used to be a small fee for admission to anyone who just wanted to visit. Once inside the park, a visitor could buy a corn dog or pay to play a few games or ride a few rides. Now people have to pay a full admission price for all day rides, even when they don't plan to stay all day. A lot of people are grandparents who just want to watch their grandchildren ride for an hour or two. Some are young parents with small children who tire easily. As empty nesters, my husband and I would like to drop by to get a bite to eat, play some games or just walk around. Everyone I have spoken to said they would visit Camden Park a whole lot more if they didn't have to pay the full admission price. I challenge everyone to contact Camden Park and ask them to give the people a choice!
  • Posted By: to gay question: god is not a cruel and unfair god.we all have our faults.is homosuxality a bigger sin than adultry,pornography,lying,stealing, and the list goes on.the clue to these behaviors is wanting to make our lives better.we cant blame anyone but ourselves for what we do.if anyone doesnt change its what they want to do.but as long as it doesnt affect me thats between you and god.but it is wrong,just as cheating on your spouse is sin.would we tell the adulterer that its not sin and not to try being a better person,i think not.celibacy would be better than the same old behavior.these have been struggle since creation.
  • Posted By: RoaneCo.: Losing your religion Jane Doe? What happened to "turn the other cheek"? I do hope your little girl is ok. I have children of my own, I know how precious they are. But next time you read of someone else being "furious" or commenting on their personal issues, maybe you should keep your bible quotes to yourself.
  • Posted By: Jane Doe: I recently went with my church and my family to Camden Park this past weekend. Me and my 6 year old daughter rode the Spider, We thought it was going to be lots of fun, we were wrong! It was a nightmare! It went on for 10 minutes and was going way too fast! My daughter was terrified and was screaming! I was furious when the man that helped us off asked if she was okay and I said what do you think and he laughed!! I have rode this ride for many years and loved it, But this time I could tell it was different! But then it gets worse, A friend of mine that stayed at the park longer than us informed me that after we left, The spider closed down and said they had crossed wires and the ride was malfunctioning!!! My daughter can't hardly walk today and has a four inch bruise down her back! I'm taking her to the doctor in the morning. If there is something seriously wrong, I will be speaking to the owner and this situation will be takin care of!!!!!
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