- According to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, officials at the John Cochran VA Medical Center in St. Louis say that despite recent sterilization problems, the hospital is safe. Officials say the biggest problem now is a crisis in confidence. Last June, the hospital sent letters to more than 1,800 veterans who were potentially exposed to HIV and hepatitis due to faulty sterilization in its dental clinic. And on Feb. 2, another sterilization concern forced the hospital to suspend the surgeries, which remain on hold. Officials say up to 70 patients have had operations canceled since stains were found on surgical trays and tools this month. About one-third of those veterans have received operations at other hospitals, at the VA's expense. Officials hope the surgical units will be opened by early next week.
- Missouri Senator Claire McCaskill is raising concerns about plans to demolish a St. Louis County plant where Chrysler vehicles were made. At issue is the North Plant, one of two side-by-side plants that operated for many years in Fenton. McCaskill said Wednesday that she sent a letter to the assistant Treasury secretary to express concerns over a contract to demolish the North Plant. McCaskill says the plant along Interstate 44 has the potential as a site for new manufacturing jobs. She says there has been interest from several potential buyers. The Capstone Group LLC was appointed by a bankruptcy court to oversee disposal of the Chrysler plant.
- Albert Pujols has arrived in Jupiter, Fl. for spring training. In a statement released late last night, Pujols says he hopes to reopen talks with the team once the season is over. Pujols, who can become a free agent after the season, said the path the negotiations have taken will not have an effect on his relationship with Cardinals management. Pujols has said that he wants to remain with the Cardinals for the rest of his career.
Morning headlines: Cochran officials say hospital is safe, McCaskill raises concerns about Chrysler North Plant demolition, Pujols arrives at spring training
