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

Today is Thursday, Jan. 9, 2025.

Pre-order your 2025 WV Vacation Guide today and start planning your perfect Almost Heaven getaway…and the aviation industry is booming in West Virginia with successful educational partnerships at the Wheeling airport and a major investment in Fairmont State’s aviation program…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From METRO NEWS – Get a head start on planning your Almost Heaven getaway with the 2025 West Virginia Vacation Guide, now available for pre-order. 

Produced by the West Virginia Department of Tourism, the guide highlights ways to explore the outdoors, experience mountain culture, and escape and unwind. Visitors can also view places to eat in Appalachia, find where the Almost Heaven swings are located, and learn how to experience West Virginia in all four of its seasons.

To pre-order the guide, visit the West Virginia Tourism website and fill out a form. Check the box at the bottom of the form that says, “I want to pre-order my 2025 Vacation Guide!

Read more:

https://wvmetronews.com/2024/12/26/wv-2025-vacation-guide-available-for-pre-order-now/

#2 – From LEDE NEWS – The West Liberty University-Marshall University aviation partnership is exceeding expectations, according to Kevin Price.

Price, the development director for the Wheeling-Ohio County Airport, helped initiate an educational partnership between Marshall and West Liberty to establish an aviation program at Ohio County’s hilltop university that would address a national shortage in aviation workers.

There are more students than expected, potential development has been introduced much more quickly than anticipated, and the success of last year’s “Wings Over Wheeling” event has raised a tremendous amount of awareness concerning the needs of the country’s aviation industry, Price said.

Read more:

https://ledenews.com/wlu-marshall-aviation-partnership-exceeds-expectations-in-2024/?fbclid=IwY2xjawHfuU1leHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHV8hRl_eVNewQ2C_klAWjy1bdVu_AvWqDQqAl0dIF6IHFJcO-dXutuVmgw_aem_Incr406ZzmAHCsMTa__dZg&es_id=8cc47bfbc9

#3 – From WTAP-TV – Fairmont State University has received a large check for their aviation program.

Gov. Jim Justice delivered a $2 million investment check to Fairmont State University’s Aviation Center of Excellence last week before the start of the school’s men’s basketball game.

The money will support the purchase of two new planes, a used Cessna, a new engine, engine rebuilds, and an increase in enrollment capacity to 100 students.

These upgrades will enable students and the university to fly safely, maintain a fully operational fleet, and expand enrollment -- creating long-term stability and a stronger aerospace workforce for the future.

Read more:

https://www.wtap.com/2025/01/02/fairmont-state-universitys-aviation-center-receives-2-million-investment/

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, Jan. 8, 2025.

Thrill seekers rejoice as Harpers Ferry prepares to open its first bungee jumping site…the WVDOT is seeking community groups to provide safety breaks at the I-64 Welcome Center near White Sulphur Springs…and Southern Living magazine recommends Harpers Ferry as one of the best train trips in the South…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From LOOTPRESS – Harpers Ferry will soon be home to a groundbreaking attraction as The Great Bungee Company prepares to open the first quarry-based bungee jumping site in the United States.

Set to debut in Spring 2025, this venue will also be the only bungee jumping site on the Eastern Seaboard.

The site, located in the historic Old Standard Quarry near the confluence of the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers, is adjacent to Harpers Ferry National Historical Park. It will feature a cutting-edge cantilevered jump tower, offering jumpers breathtaking views of a Civil War battlefield.

For an added thrill, participants will have the option to experience a water-dip jump, a unique feature in U.S. bungee jumping.

The venue is partnering with River Riders, a local rafting company.

Read more:

https://www.lootpress.com/americas-first-quarry-based-bungee-jump-to-open-in-west-virginia-next-year/

#2 – From WVDOT – District 9 of the West Virginia Department of Transportation is accepting applications for nonprofit organizations to provide Safety Breaks at its Interstate 64 Welcome Center near White Sulphur Springs.  

Qualifying groups will provide small pre-wrapped baked goods and coffee to promote safety during high-traffic holidays throughout the year. 

Groups must be nonprofit with identifiable safety programs targeting bicycle, automotive, pedestrian, ATV, or other transportation, or participate in the Adopt-A-Highway Program.  

The deadline for calendar year 2025 applications is March 31, 2025.

Read more:

https://transportation.wv.gov/communications/PressRelease/Pages/WVDOT_accepting_applications_to_provide_safety_breaks_at_I64_Welcome_Center_near_White_Sulphur_Springs.aspx

#3 – From SOUTHERN LIVING – With Amtrak routes that crisscross across the South, vacationing by train is easier, more affordable, and more accessible than ever. In West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle, Harpers Ferry is one of nine spectacular Southern cities that you won’t want to miss on your next stop.

Less than two hours from Washington, D.C. by train, the area known as Lower Town offers an array of traditional bed and breakfasts just a short walk downhill from the train station.

The town is home to Harpers Ferry National Historical Park and the Appalachian Trail Headquarters. Its downtown offers quirky shops, breweries, pubs and cafes that overlook the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers where Maryland and Virginia meet West Virginia. 

Read more:

https://www.southernliving.com/train-trips-in-south-8767706

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, Jan. 7, 2025.

Grab your skis or hiking boots and explore Pocahontas County’s snowy trails…Gov. Justice announces a $200,000 investment in upgrades to Chief Logan Rec Center…and a groundbreaking initiative aims to illuminate Huntington’s role in the Underground Railroad…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From POCAHONTAS COUNTY CVB – Located in the mountains of West Virginia, Pocahontas County is home to stunning vistas and untouched wilderness. As winter takes hold and blankets our trails with snow, the area transforms into a mesmerizing wonderland. This season offers the perfect window to explore the county’s natural beauty through hiking and snowshoeing. 

Visit pocahontascountywv.com to learn more about some of the best spots to experience the magic of Pocahontas County during the snowy months, including Cranberry Glades Botanical Area, the Greenbrier River Trail and Snowshoe Mountain Resort and more. 

Read more:

https://pocahontascountywv.com/exploring-pocahontas-countys-snowy-trails/

 #2 – From WOWK-TV – West Virginia Governor Jim Justice has announced a $200,000 investment to complete the Chief Logan Recreation Center project. This project includes two fully turfed ballfields, three indoor tennis courts and increased hiking trail access.

It’s all in an effort to enhance tourism and promote health and wellness, especially in the southern part of the state, according to Chad Akers, director of the Chief Logan Recreation Center.

Akers said with the expansion they’ll be able to host a lot of travel tournaments, which will bring more people to the area and tourism dollars to local restaurants, hotels and more.

Read more:

https://www.wowktv.com/news/west-virginia/logan-county-wv/chief-logan-recreation-center-gets-expansion-funding/

#3 – From BLACK BY GOD – Heritage tourism is one of the fastest-growing segments in the tourism industry and Appalachia offers a unique opportunity to celebrate cultural diversity while driving economic growth. A groundbreaking initiative, led by Huntington historian Cicero Fain III, aims to illuminate the region’s role in the Underground Railroad and highlight the resilience of those who fought for freedom.

This ambitious project is more than just an acknowledgment of the past — it’s a bold vision for the future. The Appalachian Heritage Freedom Initiative, backed by the Lawrence Economic Development Corporation, secured a $1.5 million grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission to launch this effort. The ultimate goal? To establish a Black Appalachian Cultural Center in Huntington as the cornerstone of this transformative movement. The center will explore African American history, particularly within the broader multicultural narratives of the region.

Read more:

https://blackbygod.org/articles/community-and-culture/black-appalachian-cultural-center-pioneering-heritage-tourism-in-appalachia/

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 Monday, Jan. 6, 2025.

Weirton’s Theo Yianni’s serves up bangin’ good Greek food…a new initiative aims to attract economic investment to historic buildings in rural communities…and Wheeling’s Streetscape beautifies the city and creates a foundation for future investments…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WV LIVING – Shawn Mihellis may tell you it was never his plan to own a popular Greek restaurant in Weirton, but the winding road that led him there seems to suggest otherwise.

One: His parents came to America by boat, making Mihellis the first in his family to be born in this country. Two: They eventually migrated to Weirton, a town in the Northern Panhandle with a large Greek population. Three: Back in his younger days, he ran an after-hours bar in his basement where he’d make and serve his own Greek gyros.

He went to college to pursue a teaching degree, but the restaurant business called him back. He went on to open Theo Yianni’s, a little Greek restaurant in the middle of town, 13 years ago—and that small spot quickly became a hit among the locals.

Read more:

https://wvliving.com/bangin-good-food/

#2 – From WV EXPLORER – An initiative designed to attract economic investment to historic buildings and districts in rural communities is being introduced to Congress by senators Mark Warner of Virginia and Shelley Moore Capito of West Virginia.

The Rural Historic Tax Credit Improvement Act will significantly reduce financial burdens for rural homeowners and developers in historic districts and where buildings are otherwise listed on the national register.

Capito said the act will help rural communities that otherwise must compete with high-traffic development areas. As early as the 1940s, many towns across America began losing commerce to larger cities along major transportation routes.

Read more:

https://wvexplorer.com/2024/12/20/west-virginia-tax-credit-benefit-rural-commmunities/

#3 – From WV EXECUTIVE – In 2022, Governor Jim Justice approved the bid award of $31.9 million for the Wheeling Streetscape Project. 

This project, scheduled to be completed by summer 2025, will beautify downtown Wheeling by adding decorative traffic signals, plants and trees as well as brickwork along Main and Market streets and between 10th and 16th streets. ADA-compliant curb cuts and widened sidewalks are also part of the project.

Josh Jefferson, president and CEO of the Regional Economic Development Partnership, says the project has created a foundation for future investment and supports the city’s existing business community.

In recent years, Wheeling and its surrounding cities have seen new businesses arise, such as Form Energy, Newbridge Academy for Kids, Waterfront Hall and Bridge Tavern & Grill.

Read more:

https://wvexecutive.com/progress-in-the-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 Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025.

State officials celebrate the opening of the West Virginia Turnpike’s new Beckley Travel Plaza…the WVDNR launches a study of the state’s elusive snowshoe hare…and WV’s Mountaineer Heritage Season for deer, bear, and turkey will open on January 9…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WVVA– Gov. Jim Justice joined other local and state leaders last week to celebrate the opening of the new West Virginia Turnpike’s Beckley Travel Plaza.

Located off of exit 45 on I-77, the plaza closed last February to start demolition and construction.

The updated facility now includes a Wendy’s, Starbucks, Popeyes and Mountain State Market that features local and regional gourmet foods, a grab-and-go food bar, and much more.

The building also includes a Tamarack Artisan Shop that highlights work from West Virginia artists.

Along with this project the revamp effort included Mercer County’s Bluestone Travel Plaza that is still under construction.

Read more:

https://www.wvva.com/2024/12/31/beckley-travel-plaza-celebrates-opening/

#2 – From WVDNR – In the quiet, snowy forests of West Virginia, the elusive snowshoe hare can be found hopping across the landscape. Known for their white seasonal coat and oversized feet, this remarkable small game species plays an important role in our state’s high-elevation ecosystems. 

However, little is known about their population here. That’s why West Virginia Division of Natural Resources biologists and researchers at West Virginia University have teamed up to shine a light on this secretive species.

Population density studies are also essential because they show how animals use their habitat and how available resources meet their needs. This information helps wildlife managers create and improve young forest habitats, which benefit hares and other game species. Additionally, knowing where these animals live helps managers anticipate how they might react to future climate changes, ensuring better long-term conservation strategies.

Stay updated on WVDNR’s research efforts and consider supporting wildlife conservation initiatives through license purchases and donations. Visit WVdnr.gov to learn more, buy a license and get involved.

Read more:

https://wvdnr.gov/field-report-tracking-snowshoe-hares-in-west-virginia/

#3 – From WOAY-TV – The state’s four-day Mountaineer Heritage Season for deer, bear, and turkey will open on January 9. Hunters must purchase a 2025 license to participate in this season, which runs through January 12. 

The Mountaineer Heritage season is open in all 55 counties. During the season, hunters may harvest one deer, bear, and turkey. 

Visit wvhunt.com to see the full hunting regulations for the season or to buy a 2025 hunting license.

Read more:

https://woay.com/mountaineer-heritage-season-for-deer-bear-and-turkey-hunting-kicks-off-on-january-9/#google_vignette

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, Jan. 4, 2025.

Employers and job seekers, register now for a WorkForce WV Statewide Virtual Job Fair coming up on January 8…the remote and beautiful Seneca Rocks is a beacon for both nature lovers and technical rock climbers…and Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center is among a group of state organizations to receive EDA funding to support small business development across West Virginia…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From REGISTER-HERALD – WorkForce West Virginia invites employers and job seekers to participate in a Statewide Virtual Job Fair. The event takes place Wednesday, Jan. 8, from 1-3:30 p.m.

The Virtual Statewide Job Fair portal features a Job Seeker Training video, a list of participating employers and channels for attendees to register and log in.

Registration is required. For more information, visit www.workforce wv.org or contact [email protected].

Read more:

https://www.register-herald.com/news/state_region/workforce-west-virginia-announces-jan-8-statewide-virtual-job-fair/article_cc9319d8-c46b-11ef-a50d-0f1da854dd45.html

#2 – From BAY JOURNAL – In a state full of natural wonders, Seneca Rocks is one of West Virginia’s most recognizable landmarks. The spectacular, freestanding crag is a beacon for both nature lovers and for technical rock climbers who want to scale one of the best spots on the East Coast.

It’s also an anchor for the Spruce Knob-Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area that includes such popular destinations as the Dolly Sods Wilderness Area, Canaan Valley, Blackwater Falls, caverns, trout fishing, the Cass Scenic Railroad and Spruce Knob, the state’s highest elevation. 

Located in a remote, sparsely populated area, Seneca Rocks was little known to the public until World War II. That’s when more than 2 million acres of national forest and private lands in the area were designated for training and up to 100,000 U.S. Army troops descended to prep for action overseas. 

Today, the area where the 10th Mountain Division trained is a popular getaway for outdoor enthusiasts.

Read more:

https://www.bayjournal.com/travel/west-virginias-seneca-rocks-is-one-eyeful-of-a-crag/article_367aa77e-9c5a-11ef-8a45-cf644ad338b9.html

#3 – From MFG.MARSHALL – A group of state organizations that includes the Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center has been awarded nearly $850,000 by the U.S. Economic Development Administration to support small business development and entrepreneurial growth across West Virginia.

Led by the High Technology Foundation, the organizations, which also include TechConnect WV, the Chemical Alliance Zone and the U.S. Research Impact Alliance, will provide comprehensive technical assistance, coaching and advising, business development services as well as matchmaking to connect technology-based businesses to investors.

To learn more about MAMC’s Early Stage initiative and apply for assistance, visit www.mfg.marshall.edu/esfo.

Read more:

https://www.mfg.marshall.edu/eda-award-to-fund-expansion-of-mamcs-early-stage-funding-initiative/?es_id=aa7edcaa29

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 Friday, Jan. 3, 2025.

Check out eight amazing destinations in Almost Heaven where you can experience an unforgettable winter getaway…Did you make a New Year’s resolution to start your own business in 2025? Learn how the WV SBDC can help you achieve your dream…and anglers, it’s time to read up on West Virginia’s updated fishing regulations…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WORLD ATLAS – West Virginia’s scenic beauty, historic charm, and outdoor adventures make it an ideal state for a magical winter getaway. From the quaint streets of Lewisburg to the rugged outdoor adventures in Fayetteville and the snow-covered slopes of Snowshoe, the Mountain State promises an unforgettable winter experience. 

Nicknamed “Almost Heaven” for its breathtaking landscapes, towering peaks, and crisp mountain air, West Virginia invites visitors to enjoy a truly serene winter escape. Check out the story in World Atlas highlighting eight destinations in West Virginia that offer endless opportunities for a memorable winter vacation -- from skiing down the Appalachian Mountains to savoring local cuisine.

Read more:

https://www.worldatlas.com/destination/8-best-destinations-for-a-winter-vacation-in-west-virginia.html

#2 – From WV SBDC – Since 1983 the West Virginia Small Business Development Center and its network of partners has helped construct a statewide ecosystem to foster the spirit, support, and success of thousands of entrepreneurs and innovators.

The WV SBDC provides tools, training and connections for successfully starting and growing a small business. 

Are you interested in starting a small business or growing your existing small business in #YesWV? Contact the WV SBDC to learn how they can assist you in achieving your dream. Just visit wvsbdc.com and click on “Become a client.”

Learn more:

https://wvsbdc.com/about-wv-sbdc/

#3 – From WVDNR – Every year, the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources releases an update to the state’s fishing regulations. While most regulations remain consistent from year to year, occasional changes are implemented to better maintain the health of our state’s fisheries, protect game fish species and their habitats, and enhance the angling experience. 

On their website, the WVDNR will walk you through updates to the 2025 Fishing Regulations Summary, show you how to navigate them easily, and explain how to use them to plan your next fishing adventure.

Read more:

https://wvdnr.gov/2025-fishing-regulations-guide/

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 Jan. 2, 2025.

The WV DNR offers helpful tips for new enthusiasts interested in hunting or fishing…Salute to Service honors West Virginia veterans by sharing their stories…and, newly opened in Charleston, Miss Ruby’s Corner Market highlights West Virginia’s Black agricultural renaissance…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WVDNR – If you’ve ever wanted to hunt or fish but didn’t grow up with those traditions, 2025 is a perfect time to get started. Learning the rules, gathering the right gear, and figuring out how to safely enjoy the outdoors can seem like a lot at first, but starting your journey doesn’t have to be overwhelming. 

The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources offers tips for getting you started, beginning with a free  hunter education course. Also, connecting with a local hunting or fishing group or joining an online community is a great way to find mentors and friends, get advice, share gear or plan trips.

Once you’re ready to begin your journey, you can purchase your 2025 license online from the WV DNR.

Read more:

https://wvdnr.gov/hunting-fishing-starter-guide/

#2 – From VETERANS.WV.GOV – Salute to Service honors the late Phill Gene McDonald of McDowell County, who served as his platoon’s team leader while on a mission in Vietnam.

McDonald was assigned to Company A, 1st Battalion, 14th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Division, where he was known as “Preacher” due to his strong faith and dedication to prayer and reading from the Bible. His courageous actions during the war earned him the Medal of Honor.

Salute to Service is a series where the West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance shares the untold stories of veterans from the Mountain State. It is never too late to honor the sacrifice that Veterans have made for America, our way of life and our allies.

Read more:

https://www.wvveteransblog.com/uncategorized/salute-to-service-west-virginia-veterans-hall-of-fame-inductee-phil-mcdonald/

#3 – From BLACK BY GOD – On Charleston’s West Side, Miss Ruby’s Corner Market is a social enterprise of Keep Your Faith Corporation, a nonprofit community organization.

Dural Miller, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of KYFC, Inc. named the market after his grandmother, Ruby Mae Pearl Miller. 

Opened just last month, the market is but one example of West Virginia’s Black agricultural renaissance, a movement reclaiming the land, food systems, and community spaces that have been historically overlooked.

Miss Ruby’s Corner Market represents more than access to fresh fruits and vegetables—it embodies community renewal and the reclamation of Black agricultural roots. By sourcing from local farms, the market will create economic opportunities while fostering connections between urban and rural spaces.

Read more:

https://blackbygod.org/articles/black-business-and-financial-literacy/miss-rubys-corner-market-a-symbol-of-renewal-in-west-virginias-black-agricultural-renaissance/?vgo_ee=bQKWs3uAd6yBkiMnMGR4I4U05UF2IdZyY1O8QqtjI%2B4%2BlvSyYWPE%2Bw%3D%3D%3ANFQENXJyM3ZAXRQvgDb7i%2FdLLLD%2F6ryF

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, Jan. 1, 2024.

The news just keeps getting better in Mason County as the state announces an $800 million expansion at the Nucor plant, creating 100 more jobs…the governor and first lady welcome their 45th and final therapy dog to West Virginia schools…and discarded Christmas trees find new life as fish habitats…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WSAZ-TV – Nucor will expand its West Virginia operation before it even opens in Mason County.

Gov. Jim Justice and the state’s Economic Development Authority agreed to invest $75 million in taxpayer funds to attract an $800 million expansion from Nucor. 

That $800 million will be invested along state Route 2 in Mason County and at Nucor’s docks in Wheeling. Justice says the new investment will produce 100 additional jobs.

Nucor already has 300 employees working in Mason County, and that doesn’t count all of the construction workers building the steel mill.

The company says the Apple Grove facility will begin operations in mid- to late 2026.

Read more:

https://www.wsaz.com/2024/12/19/wva-announces-800m-nucor-expansion/

#2 – From WOWK-TV – Governor Jim Justice and First Lady Cathy Justice welcomed their 45th and final therapy dog to a school late last month, marking the bittersweet end of a beloved West Virginia program.

Bear, a 10-month-old golden retriever, is Huntington East Middle School’s new therapy dog, making him the final therapy dog of the Friends with Paws program.

Cathy Justice began the program as a way of raising student morale, boosting attendance and raising test scores.

She said the program took inspiration from a pair of Cabell County elementary schools four years ago. Haven, a labradoodle, shares time at Spring Hill and Salt Rock Elementary schools. 

“We wanted a dog in the schools because we thought you want your schools to be like family. What makes a home a family? A dog,” Salt Rock Elementary Principal Becky Ferguson said. 

Read more:

https://www.wowktv.com/news/west-virginia/friends-with-paws-program-ends-after-delivering-45-therapy-dogs-to-schools-across-west-virginia/

#3 – From WVDNR – Some of the most popular game fish in West Virginia like swimming in waters with ample woody cover from downed trees and other vegetation. And when fish are happy anglers are happy. That’s why the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources is always looking for creative ways to improve fish habitat and the angling experience.

One method is taking discarded live Christmas trees and using them to improve habitat at popular fishing locations, such as Beech Fork and East Lynn lakes.

The trees are anchored so that they sink to the bottom and stand upright. By doing it this way, the trees stay in place and create ample cover. This gives small, young fish an opportunity to grow, which increases the overall fish population. The trees also provide ambush spots for larger fish and serve as attractors experienced anglers can use to their advantage.

This holiday season, the DNR is accepting your discarded Christmas trees at the following locations:

• Ices Ferry in Morgantown --  through January 10

• Claudia Workman Wildlife Education Center at the Forks of Coal State Natural Area -- through January 6 (This location will have signs directing people to the tree donation pile.)

Only whole, real trees will be accepted. All lights and decorations must be removed prior to donation. Check the DNR social media pages for more information. 

Read more:

https://wvdnr.gov/that-dead-christmas-tree-you-threw-away-can-breathe-new-life-into-your-favorite-fishing-lake/

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, Dec. 31, 2024.

Ariana Shives of the WV Digital Identity Hub shares her knowledge about securing our future…Sprouse Windows and Doors continues to serve #YesWV with top-notch products…and discover Elkins, an eclectic gem that calls to travelers seeking outdoor adventures…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From THE DAILY304 – In this episode of Innovators and Entrepreneurs, we talk to Ariana Shives with the West Virginia Digital Identity Tech Hub about how her organization is leading the charge with protecting your personal information.

“We’re extremely lucky. We have some really incredible technology that exists in and around digital identity, biosecurity, authentication – all around West Virginia,” she says.

Innovators and Entrepreneurs is a bi-weekly segment of the daily304 that features discussions and wisdom from West Virginians who have built their companies and launched new ideas here in the Mountain State. Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel so you won’t miss out!

Watch now:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?si=ccE99k6M9CKuwSnR&v=EbUTdfj4K3w&feature=youtu.be

#2 – From WVDED – To get to where you’re going, you have to know where you’ve been. For Sprouse Windows and Doors, that journey began in 1991 in the quiet town of Paden City, West Virginia. 

Initially focused on fabricating vinyl windows for their other ventures, Sprouse Windows and Doors quickly recognized a broader market need. They saw an opportunity to deliver high-quality, competitively priced windows consistently and promptly. 

The company took a big step forward when it relocated its corporate operations to a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in New Martinsville. This move underscores their commitment to growth, efficiency, and continuing to serve their customers with top-notch products.

Read more:

https://westvirginia.gov/sprouse-windows-and-doors-a-legacy-of-quality-and-innovation/

#3 – From ISLANDS.COM – Between West Virginia’s oldest town and the Snowshoe Mountain ski resort, an unassuming eclectic gem calls to travelers seeking outdoorsy adventures. Home to fewer than 7,000 residents, this charming and quiet town is known as Elkins.

Surrounded by mountains and located near the Tygart Valley River and Monongahela National Forest, Elkins is the perfect base camp for active travelers who want to kayak, hike, climb, or camp. Elkins also offers unique and cozy lodging options for visitors who want to explore outdoors during the day but rest under a roof at night.

Once you've recharged, jump head first into Elkins' other fascinating attractions. Nearby points of interest like a scenic railroad, historical sites, museums, markets, and more promise sightseers hours of fun.

Read more:

https://www.islands.com/1734906/elkins-west-virginia-town-hidden-mountains-quiet-eclectic-cozy-lodging-outdoor-thrills/?zsource=msnsyndicated

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.