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

Today is Sunday, Nov. 8, 2026.

#1 – From WV PUBLIC BROADCASTING - Marshall University lands $3 million to advance aerospace and defense workforce training

West Virginia's aerospace industry is getting a boost through a new partnership involving Marshall University and Huntington Tri-State Airport.

The U.S. Economic Development Administration has awarded more than $3 million to support the Aerospace, Resilience, Manufacturing and Operations for Readiness, or ARMOR, coalition. The initiative will help establish a national hub for aerospace and defense innovation through airport improvements, new equipment and specialized workforce training.

The funding will also support curriculum development to prepare workers for careers in advanced manufacturing and aerospace technology.

Federal officials say the investment will support nearly 600 jobs.

Marshall Vice President Brandon Dennison says the program will build on West Virginia's history of supplying parts and components for the nation's defense industry while helping local businesses modernize and compete. The goal is to strengthen the state's aerospace manufacturing capabilities and prepare West Virginians for the skilled jobs of tomorrow.

Read more: https://wvpublic.org/story/economy/armor-program-comes-to-marshall/

#2 – From WEIRTON DAILY TIMES - Discover Northern WV introduces new identity for Northern Panhandle tourism

There's a new name inviting visitors to explore the northernmost corner of Almost Heaven.

The former Top of West Virginia Convention and Visitors Bureau is now known as Discover Northern WV, reflecting a refreshed approach to promoting tourism in Brooke and Hancock counties and the city of Weirton.

While the name has changed, the organization's mission remains the same: attract visitors, promote local attractions and support businesses throughout the region. From the scenic trails of Tomlinson Run State Park to the colorful creations at Fiesta Tableware, the Northern Panhandle offers plenty to discover.

Visitors can also explore the historic communities of Wellsburg and New Cumberland, enjoy local festivals and experience the region's rich manufacturing heritage. Discover Northern WV operates a visitor center at 243 Three Springs Drive in Weirton, where travelers can find recommendations, brochures and information about local attractions.

Explore the region at northernwv.com.

Read more: https://www.weirtondailytimes.com/news/local-news/2026/10/new-name-same-mission-top-of-wv-cvb-now-known-as-discover-northern-wv/

#3 – From WV PUBLIC BROADCASTING - Laurel Fork Farm named one of America's top 100 small businesses

A family farm in the mountains of West Virginia is earning national recognition for its creativity and determination.

Laurel Fork Farm, located along the Tucker-Randolph county line, has been named one of the 2026 CO-100 Top 100 Small Businesses in America by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. The 400-acre farm, operated by Marsha Waybright and her family, was selected from more than 12,000 applicants and recognized in the Champions of Adaptability category.

What began as a traditional family farm has grown into a destination offering lodging, farm tours, educational workshops, dinners and locally made products. The transformation began when the family renovated an old farmhouse into a bed-and-breakfast and discovered that guests wanted to learn about their rural lifestyle.

Today, the farm also supports the nonprofit West Virginia School of Traditional Skills, offering opportunities to learn heritage crafts and practical skills. Waybright says diversifying the farm's activities helped preserve the family business.

It's a West Virginia success story built on entrepreneurship, tradition and a willingness to try something new.

Read more: https://wvpublic.org/story/economy/w-va-farm-named-one-of-top-100-small-businesses-in-u-s/

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 Saturday, Nov. 7, 2026.

#1 – From MU ADV MFG - Gestamp and Marshall launch apprenticeship pipeline for manufacturing careers

West Virginia students are getting a head start on manufacturing careers through a new partnership between global automotive supplier Gestamp and the Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center.

Gestamp is launching registered tool-and-die apprenticeships across six U.S. manufacturing facilities, including its South Charleston plant. The program will begin with 32 apprentices. Marshall's Apprenticeship Works program is helping develop the training, provide technical instruction and coordinate with the U.S. Department of Labor.

The partnership also creates opportunities for high school students.

Students from Ralph R. Willis Career and Technical Center in Logan County are participating in a pre-apprenticeship program at Gestamp's South Charleston facility.

They spend approximately 15 hours each week learning about manufacturing processes, technology and workplace operations while gaining experience that can count toward future apprenticeships. Marshall's pre-apprenticeship initiative now reaches schools in 13 West Virginia counties. It's a partnership connecting education with industry and helping young West Virginians build careers close to home.

Read more: https://www.mfg.marshall.edu/gestamp-launches-apprenticeship-pipeline-with-mamc/

#2 – From WV PRESS - Canaan Valley receives $1 million for snowmaking improvements

Winter recreation is getting a boost at Canaan Valley Resort State Park in Tucker County.

The resort will receive $1 million for snowmaking equipment improvements designed to increase the amount of snow that can be produced across its skiable terrain. The funding is part of approximately $19.7 million in statewide investments announced for West Virginia's state parks, forests and outdoor recreation areas.

Other improvements include $3 million for a new 34-site campground and electrical upgrades at Little Beaver State Park, $2.275 million for cabin and lodge improvements at Twin Falls, and $1 million for rehabilitation of the lower tram building at Hawks Nest.

Additional funding will support wastewater infrastructure, paving, cabin repairs and other improvements throughout the park system. The investments come as West Virginia's tourism industry continues to grow, with state officials reporting $9.4 billion in annual economic impact.

Read more: https://wvpress.org/breaking-news/canaan-valley-to-receive-1m-for-snow-making/

#3 – From WEST LIBERTY - West Liberty University opens two miles of improved campus hiking trails

Students and outdoor enthusiasts have a new place to explore at West Liberty University.

The university has completed improvements to two miles of hiking trails in its 169-acre Campus Woods, creating opportunities for recreation, wellness and outdoor education. A $25,000 grant from Expand Energy helped fund a new trailhead, directional signage, a bridge over North Fork Short Creek and equipment for trail maintenance.

Students also played an important role.

During a volunteer event supported by Volunteer West Virginia, students built benches and picnic tables, marked trails and removed debris and invasive plants. Visual Communication Design student Bre Boogaart even created the trail system's branding and signage.

University leaders say the trails will support academic research, hands-on learning and student engagement while giving students, employees and the surrounding community a place to enjoy nature.

Read more: https://westliberty.edu/news/west-liberty-university-completes-work-on-two-miles-of-campus-hiking-trails/

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 Thursday, Nov. 5, 2026.

…and now for the rest of the stories…on today's daily304.com!

#1 – From MU Advanced Manufacturing – Charleston technology company brings innovative product to life with Marshall's help

A Charleston technology company is turning a creative idea into a working product with help from the Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center.

KDE Technology is developing Synapse Digital, a tabletop device combining wireless phone charging, digital advertising and interactive features for restaurants, entertainment venues and other public spaces.

The center provided $5,000 in early-stage assistance, along with engineering expertise and advanced 3D-printing equipment.

Working with MAMC engineer Adam Eshem, KDE leaders Tony Brown and Lee Ayers refined the device's design, improved heat management and developed a durable enclosure.

The product features two high-speed wireless chargers and a digital display. Its cable-free charging design also aims to reduce security risks associated with public charging stations.

With the hardware completed, KDE is developing the software and advertising network needed to bring Synapse Digital to market.

It's an example of how West Virginia's manufacturing resources are helping entrepreneurs turn ideas into products.

Read more:

https://www.mfg.marshall.edu/innovations-bring-creation-to-life-with-assistance-from-mamc/

#2 – From WV SBDC – WV SBDC helps childcare entrepreneurs build businesses that support working families

Childcare is essential for working families, and the West Virginia Small Business Development Center is helping entrepreneurs build businesses that meet that need.

Through its Childcare West Virginia: Building the Business that Supports Business initiative, the WV SBDC provides resources for people interested in opening or expanding childcare operations.

Entrepreneurs can access regional startup guides for childcare centers, family childcare facilities and home-based businesses, along with one-on-one assistance from business coaches.

The initiative is supported by the Appalachian Regional Commission and developed in partnership with the West Virginia Workforce Resiliency Office and childcare development company Wonderschool.

Its pilot focuses on eight counties: Boone, Jackson, Kanawha, Lincoln, Mason, Putnam, Roane and Wirt.

The effort also explores ways employers can help workers manage childcare costs.

By helping childcare providers establish sustainable businesses, the program aims to expand childcare access and support workforce participation across West Virginia.

Read more:

https://wvsbdc.com/tools-and-resources/childcare-industry-resources/

#3 – From STV – Service Wire expansion reaches major construction milestone in Culloden

A West Virginia manufacturing company with roots dating back nearly 60 years is making progress on a major expansion.

Service Wire Company, a family-owned wire and cable manufacturer headquartered in Culloden, has reached an important milestone with the installation of the final structural steel at its expanding facility.

The completed framework marks the transition toward interior construction and equipment installation.

Engineering and construction management firm STV is overseeing project coordination, scheduling and collaboration among the construction teams.

To commemorate the milestone, employees signed two 24-inch steel beams before installation. The beams will remain visible inside the completed facility.

Founded in West Virginia in 1968, Service Wire manufactures American-made wire and cable for industrial, commercial and utility customers.

The expansion is designed to increase manufacturing capacity and support the company's next generation of growth. The project is expected to create approximately 60 new jobs.

It's another investment in West Virginia's manufacturing workforce and industrial future.

Read more:

https://stvinc.com/news/service-wire-factory-expansion-reaches-structural-steel-milestone-in-west-virginia/

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, Nov. 4, 2026.

…and now for the rest of the stories…on today's daily304.com!

#1 – From WV Commerce – Charlotte Lane reflects on 50 years of leadership and public service in West Virginia

After more than five decades practicing law and serving the public, Charlotte Lane continues to help shape West Virginia's future.

The chair of the West Virginia Public Service Commission graduated from law school in 1972, when just three women were in her graduating class. Throughout her career, Lane has worked in private practice, served in the West Virginia House of Delegates and spent eight years on the United States International Trade Commission.

Energy policy has been a constant focus.

Today, Lane says the state's energy resources, growing electricity demand, data center development and transmission infrastructure make the commission's work especially important. She also points to Governor Patrick Morrisey's 50 by 50 energy strategy as a significant part of the state's energy conversation. Beyond public policy, Lane takes pride in mentoring others, particularly women pursuing leadership positions.

Her message reflects a career dedicated to public service, navigating difficult decisions and helping make West Virginia a better place to live.

Watch the video:

https://youtu.be/wsE7KeLUPZM

#2 – From WV University – WVU awarded $1 million to prepare students for mining and critical minerals careers

West Virginia University is receiving a $1 million award from the U.S. Department of Energy to prepare students for careers in mining engineering and critical minerals.

The funding comes through the PROSPECT Planning Prize, an initiative focused on expanding education and strengthening America's domestic mineral supply chains. WVU will use the award to support student scholarships, improve classrooms and laboratories, and expand hands-on learning opportunities.

Students will develop skills in producing, processing, recovering and recycling critical minerals used in technologies ranging from energy systems to automobiles. The university also plans to strengthen partnerships with K-12 schools, community colleges, industry employers and national laboratories.

WVU's mining engineering program is one of just 14 ABET-accredited programs of its kind in the United States. University leaders say the investment will help prepare the next generation of engineers and scientists while supporting energy security and economic growth.

Read more:

https://wvutoday.wvu.edu/stories/2026/10/26/wvu-awarded-1m-prospect-planning-prize-to-prepare-students-for-mining-critical-minerals-jobs

#3 – From WV SBDC – WV SBDC helps childcare entrepreneurs build businesses that support working families

Starting or expanding a childcare business can be challenging, but the West Virginia Small Business Development Center is helping entrepreneurs navigate the process.

Through its Childcare Industry Resources initiative, the WV SBDC offers startup guides covering childcare centers, family childcare facilities and home-based childcare businesses. The guides are organized by geographic region and help entrepreneurs understand licensing requirements, business planning and other important steps.

Business owners can also connect with WV SBDC coaches for one-on-one assistance.

The resources complement the Childcare West Virginia: Building the Business that Supports Business initiative, developed with the West Virginia Workforce Resiliency Office and Wonderschool. The initiative focuses on helping new childcare businesses open, supporting existing providers and exploring ways employers can help workers afford childcare.

Its initial pilot focuses on eight counties, including Kanawha, Putnam, Jackson and Mason. The goal is to strengthen childcare businesses while helping more West Virginians participate in the workforce.

Read more:

https://wvsbdc.com/tools-and-resources/childcare-industry-resources/

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, Nov. 3, 2026.

…and now for the rest of the stories…on today's daily304.com!

#1 – From LinkedIn – Ascend WV newcomer discovers an instant community in Charleston

When Army veteran Giovanna Kiani decided to leave Tampa, Florida, she wasn't just looking for a new place to live. She wanted a community where she could build the life she imagined.

As a remote-working senior recruiting manager in the defense industry, Kiani had the freedom to choose where she lived. She discovered Ascend WV, a program that helps remote workers relocate to the Mountain State. She moved to Charleston in May and quickly became involved in outdoor adventures, community events and networking with other Ascend members.

Kiani compares the program to instant coffee. You show up, and suddenly you have a community. Ascend WV recently celebrated its first anniversary in Charleston, where the program has welcomed nearly 100 new West Virginians to the Kanawha Valley.

For Kiani, the experience has meant new friendships, more time outdoors and opportunities to participate in her community, including sharing her perspective at the West Virginia Municipal League Conference.

Her story highlights how Ascend WV is helping newcomers find more than a place to live. It's helping them find a place to belong.

Read more:

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/ascend-wv-like-instant-coffee-members-move-charleston-ascend-wv-2ksee

#2 – From WV Energy – West Virginia offers $88 million in home energy rebate programs

West Virginia homeowners and renters have new opportunities to make their homes more energy efficient.

The West Virginia Office of Energy has secured $88 million in federal funding to support home improvements that can reduce energy consumption, improve comfort and potentially lower utility bills. Two programs are available.

The HOMES Program supports whole-home energy improvements, including insulation, air sealing and heating and cooling upgrades. Rebates are based on the amount of energy saved.

The HEAR Program focuses on efficient appliances and related improvements for eligible low- and moderate-income households. These may include heat pump water heaters, electric stoves, clothes dryers and electrical upgrades.

Depending on eligibility, some improvements may be available with little or no out-of-pocket cost. Renters may also qualify with their landlord's approval.

Interested residents can visit the Office of Energy website to review eligibility requirements, find participating contractors and register through the application portal to join the waitlist.

Learn more:

https://energywv.org/programs-initiatives/home-energy-rebate-programs/

#3 – From Metro News – West Virginia launches one-stop permitting portal to support business growth

West Virginia is taking another step toward making it easier for businesses to invest and expand in the Mountain State.

Governor Patrick Morrisey recently announced the launch of the state's new One Stop Shop Permitting Portal, a digital system designed to simplify the permitting process. The portal allows businesses to manage applications, fees and permit tracking across multiple state agencies through a single online account.

It's part of the state's Speed to Build initiative, which aims to reduce delays and help businesses move projects forward more efficiently.

The system launched several months ahead of its statutory deadline. Accelerated processing options are scheduled to take effect at the beginning of 2027. Businesses can use the portal voluntarily during the transition period, with mandatory adoption planned for summer 2027.

Construction and industry representatives say faster permitting could help companies begin projects sooner, supporting investment and job creation. The goal is straightforward: less paperwork, faster decisions and a more competitive business environment.

Read more:

https://wvmetronews.com/2026/10/28/governor-announces-one-stop-shop-permitting-portal/

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 Saturday, Oct. 31, 2026.

…and now for the rest of the stories…on today's daily304.com!

#1 – From THE DAILY304 – The History Project is your window into West Virginia

Perfectly centered among the Eastern states, West Virginia is where the thresholds of the North, South and Midwest all converge with the Appalachian Mountains, to tell the history of our nation in microcosm. Major events like the Revolutionary and Civil wars, and famous people ranging from Daniel Boone to Katherine Johnson, mix with the rich heritage of Native Americans and men and women of all colors who reshaped the world and serve as guides through the American story.

Tune into The History Project podcast at daily304.com to learn more about the famous people, places and events that shaped West Virginia.

Listen now:

https://daily304.wv.gov/programs/the-history-project/

#2 – From WV EXPLORER – Abandoned towns in the New River Gorge are settings for ghost stories and legends

The New River Gorge region in West Virginia is steeped in folklore stemming from its abandoned boomtowns and industrial history.

Among its most prominent tales is the Haunted House of Red Star, where the spirits of an organized labor miner, his murdered wife, and their wailing baby supposedly haunted a company home until it was finally demolished. Other local legends include a romantic ghost lingering in a Prince railroad tunnel, a rock formation believed to have foretold President McKinley's assassination, and a phantom river light connected to a Civil War-era killing.

Historians and storytellers such as Jodi French-Burr emphasize that these tales endure largely through Appalachia's strong oral traditions. The gorge's rugged terrain, abandoned ruins, and ambient wilderness create an evocative atmosphere where real-world sights and sounds easily merge with eerie narratives.

Ultimately, the ghost stories serve as an engaging medium for keeping the human history and industrial heritage of the New River Gorge alive for modern audiences.

Read more:

https://wvexplorer.com/new-river-gorge-ghost-stories/

#3 – From WV FILM OFFICE – The West Virginia Film Office offers resources for your production

Whether you're looking for the perfect location for your next film project, or you're a crew member ready to undertake your next project, the West Virginia Film Office is here for you.

They can help you secure your perfect location, find skilled workforce, and navigate film permitting.

They're ready to help with an experienced crew, an established statewide network of governmental agencies, nation-leading fiscal incentives, local business leaders and community representatives that are unmatched in hospitality. We look forward to working with you soon in – Yes, West Virginia!

Learn more:

https://westvirginia.gov/wvfilm/

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 Thursday, Oct. 29, 2026.

…and now for the rest of the stories…on today's daily304.com!

#1 – From SOUTHERN LIVING – Southern Living showcases the waterfalls and mountain towns of Tucker County

Towering waterfalls, colorful mountain landscapes and charming small towns are earning national attention for one of West Virginia's most beautiful destinations.

Southern Living recently updated its guide to the best things to do around Blackwater Falls State Park, highlighting outdoor adventures in Tucker County.

The park's centerpiece is Blackwater Falls, a nearly 60-foot waterfall known for its amber-colored water. Visitors can also explore Elakala Falls, hike to Lindy Point for sweeping canyon views or venture to nearby Douglas Falls.

The magazine recommends exploring the Blackwater Canyon Trail, enjoying scenic drives through the Allegheny Mountains and taking a chairlift ride at Canaan Valley Resort.

And there's plenty to discover beyond the trails. The nearby towns of Davis and Thomas offer locally owned restaurants, shops, art galleries and live music at the Purple Fiddle.

Waterfalls, mountain adventures and welcoming small towns. It's a combination that keeps visitors coming back to Almost Heaven.

Read more:

https://www.southernliving.com/blackwater-falls-state-park-6532522

#2 – From GAZETTE-MAIL – Meet the Gauley Lama, a rafting legend approaching 50 years on the river

Nearly half a century ago, a college student spotted a poster advertising whitewater rafting trips in West Virginia. That chance encounter changed his life.

Today, Glenn Goodrich, better known as the "Gauley Lama," is one of the most experienced whitewater rafting guides in the world.

Goodrich first visited the New River Gorge in 1976 while studying computer science at Ohio State University. He loved the experience so much that he returned, completed guide training and began his professional rafting career in 1978.

Now 72, Goodrich is completing his 49th year as a guide. He's paddled nearly 80,000 miles across 48 countries and 49 states.

His experience includes more than 1,200 guided trips on the Gauley River, where he's earned a reputation for his knowledge, dedication and commitment to safety.

Despite his remarkable career, Goodrich says his favorite part of the job remains meeting people and helping them appreciate whitewater. And after all these years, he has no plans to stop.

Read more:

https://www.wvgazettemail.com/outdoors/nearing-half-century-mark-as-raft-guide-gauley-lama-plans-to-keep-going-with-flow/article_48217415-0178-4bda-9612-934fe80e5be6.html

#3 – From WV NEWS – North-central West Virginia transforms aging buildings into new opportunities

Old buildings are finding new purpose across north-central West Virginia, creating opportunities for businesses while preserving important pieces of community history.

At the recent NCWV Business Summit in Fairmont, redevelopment leaders shared how they're transforming vacant and aging properties.

In Morgantown, the former Mylan pharmaceutical manufacturing facility has become the WVU Innovation Corporation, now home to approximately 35 organizations. The site is about half occupied, with more than $100 million in construction projects underway.

In Fairmont, entrepreneur Evan-Nicole Chapman transformed a century-old former printing building into the home of Loving WV. The business now sells products in more than 200 West Virginia stores and employs six full-time workers.

And in Preston County, Arthurdale Heritage has restored 13 major structures, preserving New Deal history while creating spaces for weddings, gatherings and community activities.

The projects demonstrate how investment, partnerships and creative thinking can bring new economic activity to buildings that once seemed past their prime.

Read more:

https://www.wvnews.com/news/wvnews/redevelopment-brings-new-life-opportunities-to-aging-buildings-in-north-central-west-virginia/article_7be1431f-5c13-4f83-8b81-3e278392bdf1.html

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, Oct. 28, 2026.

#1 – From GKV FOUNDATION - Greater Kanawha Valley initiative helps West Virginians tell their own stories

Who gets to tell West Virginia's story? The Greater Kanawha Valley Foundation believes the people who live here should help lead that conversation.

Launched in 2024, the foundation's Narrative Change Collaborative brings together residents, young people, journalists, artists and community organizations to share a fuller picture of life in the Mountain State.

The initiative focuses on storytelling that recognizes challenges while celebrating the creativity, resilience and opportunities found in West Virginia communities.

More than 300 participants have joined the effort across Boone, Clay, Fayette, Kanawha, Lincoln and Putnam counties.

The foundation also supports community storytelling through grants, partnerships and publications, including Our Turn, a toolkit designed to help young people tell their stories.

The goal is to build stronger connections, encourage civic participation and give residents a greater voice in shaping their communities' futures. Learn more: https://tgkvf.org/special-initiatives/narrative-change-collaborative/

#2 – From WV NEWS - Morgantown's Emily Calandrelli brings science to Marvel's superhero universe

Science really IS a superpower, and Morgantown native Emily Calandrelli is helping introduce that idea to a new generation.

The engineer, television host and science communicator is voicing Astronaut Amy in Marvel and Disney Jr.'s Iron Man and His Awesome Friends.

Her character uses knowledge of science and space to help Iron Man and his friends solve problems, showing young viewers that learning can be just as powerful as a superhero's abilities.

Calandrelli studied mechanical and aerospace engineering at West Virginia University before earning two master's degrees from MIT. She later hosted science television programs and became the 100th woman to travel to space.

She credits her West Virginia upbringing and the encouragement of WVU professors with helping launch her career.

Now she's using a Marvel character to encourage children to explore science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

From Morgantown to outer space to the Marvel universe, Calandrelli continues to inspire the next generation of scientists and dreamers. Read more: https://www.wvnews.com/news/wvnews/morgantown-native-emily-calandrelli-brings-science-to-marvels-iron-man-and-his-awesome-friends/article_09171996-bfc4-431e-99fa-94a885bbada4.html

#3 – From HERALD-DISPATCH - Find your outdoor escape on West Virginia's scenic rail trails

Looking for a little fresh air, beautiful scenery and a chance to get moving? West Virginia's rail trails offer an easy way to enjoy the outdoors.

Built along former railroad corridors, these trails provide opportunities for walking, running and bicycling through some of the Mountain State's most scenic landscapes.

From riverside paths to wooded mountain routes, rail trails connect visitors with nature, historic communities and places they might otherwise miss.

Popular destinations include the Greenbrier River Trail, the North Bend Rail Trail and the Mon River Rail-Trail system.

Many feature relatively gentle grades, making them appealing to families, casual cyclists and anyone looking for an outdoor adventure without a strenuous mountain climb.

Whether you're planning a weekend bicycle ride or a peaceful afternoon walk, West Virginia's rail trails offer plenty of ways to explore Almost Heaven.

Read more: https://www.herald-dispatch.com/special/visitors_guide/need-outdoor-therapy-explore-west-virginia-s-rail-trails/article_b42633ba-a137-4f68-8169-73ebde3f3fec.html

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, Oct. 27, 2026.

…and now for the rest of the stories…on today's daily304.com!

#1 – From WVU TODAY – WVU student charts course toward music industry career

Audrey Hasley, a West Virginia University junior from Morgantown, always loved music but knew her passion lay behind the scenes rather than in teaching or performing. Raised by parents who served as her middle school choir and band directors, her path came into focus during her senior year of high school.

Through a mentorship class shadowing Joshua Swiger, director of WVU's music business and industry program, she discovered a supportive academic environment dedicated to preparing students for the business side of the industry.

Through WVU's program, Hasley has gained valuable hands-on experience, including a spring 2026 internship at the Country Radio Seminar in Nashville alongside two fellow majors. The experience reinforced key industry lessons about the importance of networking backed by genuine skill, as well as the rising need for trained professionals to help navigate social media influencers through the complexities of the music business.

Read more:

https://wvutoday.wvu.edu/resources/wvu-student-charts-course-toward-music-industry-career?fbclid=IwdGRleAVDMs5leHRuA2FlbQIxMQBwZG9mBWZkaWQWUQl2tDWLI2qQBc8ZCmPX10XNGKkYMHNydGMGYXBwX2lkCjY2Mjg1NjgzNzkAAR4mlHJfUJEsQSEYi5s6DK3G5ADNfP8BL64XER2mZIimxDj8H_FFrBj2kaZJYA_aem_7J-6CrCJ5raEW9Fy-vlvrw

#2 – From WV PRESS ASSOCIATION – WV Farmers Market Association receives $25,000 grant to strengthen organizational capacity

The West Virginia Farmers Market Association has secured a $25,000 grant through the Appalachian Regional Commission's READY Nonprofits program. To qualify for the funding, WVFMA Executive Director Holly Morgan and Vice President Kacey Gantzer completed a 10-week virtual training program alongside other Appalachian nonprofits, focusing on board development, strategic planning, human resources, and operations.

The association will use the grant to build a formal asset management and governance framework for its statewide shared agricultural infrastructure. This includes setting up standardized systems for tracking, maintaining, and scheduling shared equipment, ranging from poultry processing trailers to honey extractors, to streamline rental and free-use access for local producers.

By enhancing internal recordkeeping and operational stewardship, WVFMA aims to strengthen its organizational capacity and board oversight. Ultimately, this ARC-funded project supports WVFMA's broader mission to empower local farmers markets and agricultural producers, driving economic development and improving access to healthy, locally grown food across West Virginia.

Read more:

https://wvpress.org/wvpa-sharing/west-virginia-farmers-market-association-receives-25000-from-appalachian-regional-commission-to-strengthen-organizational-capacity/

#3 – From WV EXPLORER – 'American Pickers' returning to West Virginia in search of historic treasures

Producers of the History Channel's popular television series "American Pickers" are heading to West Virginia in November to hunt for rare antiques and unique private collections. According to West Virginia Film Office Executive Director David Lavender, the show is drawn to the state's rich industrial history, do-it-yourself culture, and resourceful residents who have preserved historically significant pieces in barns and outbuildings across the Mountain State.

The production team is specifically seeking large, privately held collections containing unusual objects with interesting backstories whose owners are ready to sell. To maintain the show's signature treasure-hunting style, the show strictly excludes commercial venues such as antique malls, flea markets, museums, and auction houses, relying instead on submissions directly from collectors, their families, or neighbors.

The upcoming visit builds on a long history of West Virginia features on the show, which have previously highlighted sites like the Heritage Farm Museum and Village, the former Marx Toy Museum, and historic homesteads. Lavender emphasized that these media appearances provide long-lasting benefits for the state, serving as "evergreen tourism postcards" that continuously draw curious visitors to explore local communities and attractions.

Read more:

https://wvexplorer.com/american-pickers-returning-west-virginia-2026/

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

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