Marshall to host forums on W.Va. higher ed funding

HUNTINGTON, W.Va. (AP) — State higher education funding and expected budget cuts will be discussed during a series of forums hosted by Marshall University.

The first forum is set for Monday at Marshall’s Mid-Ohio Valley Center in Point Pleasant.

Other forums are scheduled Tuesday at the John Deaver Drinko Library in Huntington and Thursday at Marshall’s South Charleston campus library.

Each forum will begin at 6 p.m.

Marshall president Stephen J. Kopp says funding of public higher education is increasingly being shifted to students and their families.

 

Ohio upgrades marina at Shawnee State Park

PORTSMOUTH (AP) — State officials say a newly reconstructed marina along the Ohio River at Shawnee State Park is open for service in time for the winter lease season.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources says the recently completed project features 72 boat slips at lengths of 28 feet, 36 feet and 50 feet. They feature galvanized steel frames and wood decks.

The 50-foot and 36-foot slips come with water and electric services.

New restrooms and parking were also part of the renovation and a courtesy dock was included that’s accessible to those with disabilities.

The marina sits adjacent to an 18-hole golf course and within the 1,095-acre Shawnee State Park.

 

Cabell Huntington workers reject proposed contract

HUNTINGTON, W.Va. (AP) — Union employees at Cabell Huntington Hospital have rejected a proposed contract.

The Service Employees International Union District 1199 told a media outlet that it will issue a 10-day strike notice following Saturday’s vote. If an agreement can’t be reached, a strike would begin Nov. 14.

The union says retirees would have lost their health insurance under the proposal. Current workers would have had to pay higher deductibles, co-pays and prescription costs.

The union says the proposal also didn’t include any wage increases.

Cabell Huntington spokesman Charles Shumaker says hospital officials believe the proposal was fair and generous. He says the hospital will continue to negotiate in good faith.

Both sides say they hope to reach an agreement.