By Daniel Lovering PITTSBURGH - The United Steelworkers union has asked more than 14,000 members at facilities run by ArcelorMittal, the world's largest steelmaker, to allow it to call a strike if ongoing contract negotiations fail.

WEIRTON - With a labor contract set to expire Sept. 1, the United Steelworkers union in Weirton is hoping it can soon reach an agreement with ArcelorMittal. Local 2911 President Mark Glyptis said talks have been going on for 13 weeks.

By Paul J. Nyden Staff writer ArcelorMittal, the world's largest steel company, announced Monday it has signed an agreement to buy the Mid Vol Coal Group, a company that operates mines in Southern West Virginia and southwestern Virginia.

Esmark, an integrated steel producer and distributor, has appointed Joel Mazur as the new president of Wheeling Corrugating Company. Mr Mazur will report to Thomas Modrowski, executive vice president of downstream operations.

By VICKI SMITH ArcelorMittal is launching a national marketing campaign to sell off more than 1,700 acres of land in and around its West Virginia steel operations, from quarter-acre residential parcels to large, wooded lots.