Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Wednesday, November 26, 2025.

#1 – From WV ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT - Data Centers help build West Virginia's future

West Virginia's robust energy capacity, reliable grid and strong infrastructure are helping position the state as a competitive destination for data centers. With abundant baseload power, large certified sites and business-friendly permitting, companies seeking speed and stability are taking a closer look at the Mountain State. Learn more: https://westvirginia.gov/industries/data-centers/

#2 – From WV NEWS - WV enjoys $9 billion winter sports boom

A new report highlights how winter sports have become a major economic engine for West Virginia, contributing more than $9 billion to the state's economy and supporting jobs, tourism and year-round recreation. Investments at resorts like Snowshoe, Canaan Valley and Timberline continue to attract visitors from across the region. Read more: https://www.wvnews.com/statejournal/9-billion-and-growing-winter-sports-fueling-west-virginias-economic-boom/article_45aa83e6-19a2-45d7-a79b-077b3c7727d6.html

#3 – From WV DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE - Agritourism expands rural opportunity

Agritourism in West Virginia is growing as farms open their gates for tours, events, tastings and hands-on experiences. The state's agritourism directory highlights destinations offering everything from farm stays and u-pick orchards to maple production and farm-to-table events, supporting rural economies and local growers.

Read more: https://agriculture.wv.gov/ag-business/agritourism/

Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty, and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.

That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.

Today is Tuesday, November 25, 2025.

#1 – From WV ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT - WV makes big energy investments

West Virginia continues to strengthen its position as a national energy leader with new and ongoing investment announcements across natural gas, advanced manufacturing and power-generation projects. These initiatives support job creation, grid reliability and long-term economic development.

Read more: https://westvirginia.gov/energy/announcements/

#2 – From WV STATE PARKS - Discover these favorite November hikes

West Virginia State Parks has released its list of favorite November hikes, featuring quiet trails, scenic overlooks and crisp late-fall adventure. From easy walks to challenging climbs, these hikes highlight the beauty of the Mountain State as autumn fades into winter. Plan your state park getaway today and discover the beauty of Almost Heaven.

Read more: https://wvstateparks.com/these-favorite-november-wv-state-park-hikes-will-soon-become-yours-%F0%9F%A5%BE/

#3 – From WV HUB - Help revive your community with Kickstart coaching

The West Virginia Community Development Hub has launched Kickstart, a new coaching program designed to help community members take ideas from concept to action. Participants receive structured guidance, mentorship and support to move small projects and local initiatives forward. Check it out and learn how you can make a difference in your community!

Read more: https://wvhub.org/kickstart/

Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304.

The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty, and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.

That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

When a young Mary Lou Retton of Fairmont saw Nadia Comaneci compete in the 1976 Olympics, she decided that gymnastics was for her. After local coaching and training from Comaneci's coach, she ascended to the same heights as her heroine and became a role model for later American gymnastic Olympians like Kerri Strug and Simone Biles.

It's time once again for another #MountainStateMusic throwback – looking at some of our favorite moments on the @FolkloreMusicExchange stage. Sit back and enjoy "Gregarious Game" by Friendly Fire! Want to hear more? Check out our website at https://daily304.wv.gov/programs/mountain-state-music/

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.

Today is Thursday, November 20, 2025.

#1 – From SMART529 - SMART529 "When I Grow Up" Contest Opens for Student Entries

West Virginia students from kindergarten through fifth grade can now enter the annual SMART529 "When I Grow Up"essay contest for a chance to win cash prizes and college savings. Students are invited to share their dreams for the future in short essays, with winners receiving contributions to a SMART529 savings plan — and their schools earning recognition, too. The contest, sponsored by the West Virginia State Treasurer's Office, encourages kids to start thinking about education and career goals early.

Learn more: smart529.com/content/smart529/en/resources/student-entry.html

#2 – From MORGANTOWN MAGAZINE - Vote Now for Best of Morgantown 2026

It's time to celebrate the places, businesses, and people that make Morgantown shine! Voting is officially open for Best of Morgantown 2026, featuring categories from dining and entertainment to health, retail, and local personalities. Presented by Morgantown Magazine, the awards spotlight the community's creativity and commitment to quality — and give residents a chance to show their hometown pride.

Read more: morgantownmag.com/best-of-morgantown-2026

#3 – From WV WATCH - New Program Encourages Farming in WV's Eastern Panhandle

A new initiative is helping aspiring farmers in the Eastern Panhandle turn their agricultural ambitions into thriving businesses. The school's Agricultural Small Business Incubator Program provides resources and training to connect new farmers with land, funding, and community networks. It's part of a broader effort to strengthen local food systems and promote sustainable agriculture in one of West Virginia's fastest-growing regions.

Read more: westvirginiawatch.com/new-program-aims-to-encourage-farming-in-west-virginias-eastern-panhandle

Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty, and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.

That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.

Today is Wednesday, November 19, 2025.

#1 – From WV STATE PARKS - Thanksgiving Dinners at State Parks Across WV

As the holiday season approaches, West Virginia State Parks are rolling out special Thanksgiving-buffet events—seatings, traditional menus and scenic surroundings included. Whether at Cacapon, North Bend or other lodge restaurants, families can book a holiday dining experience amidst nature rather than just stay home in the kitchen. It's another compelling reason to pair West Virginia's natural beauty with memorable holiday celebrations.

📰 Read more: wvstateparks.com/thanksgiving-dinners

#2 – From WV LIVING - Ron Sowell's new solo album reflects life and music

Mountain Stage musical director Ron Sowell has released his fourth solo album titled Dance Till the Music Stops. The project draws on his barbershop-quartet roots, high-school choir memories and a powerful message: aging is inevitable, but getting old is optional. Read more: https://www.wvliving.com/dancing-till-the-music-stops/

#3 – From NRGDA - Regional business hub opens in Summersville

The New River Gorge Regional Development Authority (NRGRDA) has opened a new office in Summersville, designed to serve as a central hub for entrepreneurs, business expansion and the WV Hive network across the region. The location gives access to advising, site development and funding services for local businesses. Read more: https://nrgrda.org/new-river-gorge-regional-development-authority-nrgrda-opening-summersville-office-on-november-5/ nrgrda.org+1

Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty, and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.

That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.

Today is Tuesday, November 18, 2025.

#1 – From TAMARACK FOUNDATION - '55 Gifts from 55 Counties' Showcases WV Artisans

The Tamarack Foundation for the Arts has launched its annual "55 Gifts from 55 Counties" guide, a curated collection featuring one unique artisan-made product from each county across the Mountain State. From hand-thrown pottery and regional foods to jewelry and fine art, the guide encourages residents and visitors alike to shop local this holiday season. Read more: tamarackfoundation.org/2024-55-gifts-guide-from-wv

#2 – From PRESTON COUNTY EDA - Bionic Tire Recycling Turns Waste into Opportunity in Preston County

In Masontown, Bionic Tire Recycling LLC is transforming scrap tires into reusable materials and local employment. The facility recycles tires into crumb rubber and reclaimed steel — achieving a near-99% reuse rate while expanding from just a few employees to more than 20. This sustainable operation shows how innovation and industry can align to create new economic energy in rural West Virginia.

Read more: prestonwv.com/news/bionic-tire-recycling-turning-waste-into-opportunity-in-preston-county

#3 – From WV EXPLORER - Pet-Friendly Parks Invite Furry Friends to Explore WV

West Virginia's outdoor experiences are now even more inclusive, with many parks and forests, from Blackwater Falls to Babcock, expanding pet-friendly lodging and trail access. Visitors can book pet-friendly cabins or cottages and enjoy scenic hikes together with their furry friends. It's another reason why West Virginia is the perfect destination for adventure lovers who travel on two legs — or four.

Read more: wvexplorer.com/west-furginia-pet-friendly-parks

Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty, and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.

That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

Every West Virginian knows that "Mountaineers Are Always Free" but what many may not know is that our state motto was a quick addition to our state seal by its designer. A Frenchman came to the mountains and blended the imagery of his old and new homes to give West Virginia its symbolism.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lps8fSbGJUc

It's time once again for another #MountainStateMusic throwback – looking at some of our favorite moments on the @FolkloreMusicExchange stage. Sit back and enjoy "Carolina Voodoo" by Alexander Nicole! Want to hear more? Check out our website at https://daily304.wv.gov/programs/mountain-state-music/

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.

Today is Thursday, November 13, 2025.

#1 – From WV TOURISM - Paranormal Trail Connects Ghostly Sites Across WV

Halloween may be over, but it's not too late to experience a little spooky fun. West Virginia's Paranormal Trail guides visitors to more than 20 haunted and mysterious destinations statewide, from old asylums to mine shafts and haunted hotels. All you have to do is register for a digital passport, check in at each location, and unlock prizes—from stickers and keyrings to a limited-edition lantern. Sign up now! Learn more: wvtourism.com/west-virginia-paranormal-trail

#2 – From MU ADV MFG - Blenko Glass Infuses Craft with Smart Manufacturing in Milton

In Milton, Blenko Glass Company is merging its century-old tradition of hand-blown glass with advanced manufacturing techniques—such as CNC machining and hybrid production—to remain competitive. With support from the Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center, the company trained staff on new equipment while preserving the artistry of glass blowing. Read more: mfg.marshall.edu/blenko-infuses-glassmaking-with-advanced-manufacturing-techniques

#3 – From WV STATE PARKS - Pet-Friendly Parks & Trails Expand Access Across WV

West Virginia's outdoor offerings aren't just for humans—many state parks and forest trails now welcome leashed dogs, offering pet-friendly cabins, cottages and hiking access. With the trend toward dog-inclusive travel, parks like Blackwater Falls State Park, Babcock State Park and others have expanded amenities for animals and owners alike. Visit West Virginia State Parks online and book your pet friendly stay today! Learn more: wvstateparks.com/pet-friendly-vacation

Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty, and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.

That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.