In this episode of Innovators and Entrepreneurs, we talk to David Sibray, founder of West Virginia Explorer magazine. For decades, this publication has helped people learn about West Virginia’s natural and cultural landscape.

“When I became a journalist in the 80’s, I had immediately fallen into doing stories on the mystique of the outdoors. What ended up happening is I heard this thing coming along called the internet, and I realized this could give me the ability to reach more people than print had up until that time.”

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.

Links to more information:

www.wvexplorer.com

www.wvsbdc.com

www.wvbusinesslink.com

WestVirginia.gov/Entrepreneurship

Interested in starting or expanding your business? Connect with free resources with the West Virginia Small Business Development Center today!

Each year West Virginia harvests 2.7 million bushels of apples to be the 9th largest producer of the fruit in the nation. The varieties native to the state are among the most popular in the world and they and the growing industry are the special fruits of the man who many think is simply a legend, but was a real, live man whose influence set the course for the Mountain State’s apple growing industry.

What Makes You Wonderful talks to Mike Gwinn about the Wings & Wheels Festival at The Hinton Alderson Airport in Pence Springs Saturday, September 23 from 11-3pm. You can expect to see an assorment of airplanes, classic cars, eat local food, and music, too!

Whether you want to make plans or just wing it, you can find more info here: https://www.oncourseaviationllc.com/

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

Today is Thursday, Sept. 21 

The Film Futures Foundation wants to tell the story of Appalachians…and, speaking of film, find out how the WV Film Office can help with your next production…get your Mountain Stage tickets to see Steve Earle, Judy Collins and more…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From MOUNTAINEER MEDIA – Justin Williams and Ashley Stinnett are the founders of the Film Futures Foundation, a nonprofit connecting the movie industry to Appalachia.

Their mission is to unlock the huge economic and storytelling potential of film in the region, shaping a brighter future for West Virginia and the Appalachian region.

Their work provides access to filmmaking resources, education, and opportunities, fostering a vibrant and inclusive film community in an underserved region.

With the reestablishment of the West Virginia Film Tax Credit in 2022, the Mountain State is one of the most competitive states in the country for funding jobs. The foundation’s priorities are obtaining funding to put more gear into people's hands and fund their training programs, establishing a knowledge-based workforce ready for the film industry coming here.

Listen to the podcast:

https://www.mountaineermedia.org/podcast/episode-108-junior-walk-38j3n-479h5-pdzng-s5668-rnm2g-p2nx7-m9n6a-d8m3m-hm3aw-a6a7c-x8yxl-6kjlj-g88p6-lcg8r-bpfgs-mhxw2-9xn65-brtff-kx45m-bpwcx-s4dcn

#2 – From WV FILM OFFICE – 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.

Experienced staff will help secure your perfect location, find skilled workforce, and navigate film permitting.

The Film Office is ready to assist 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. 

Say #YesWV to filming in Almost Heaven!

Learn more:

https://westvirginia.gov/wvfilm/

#3 – From MOUNTAIN STAGE –  West Virginia Public Radio’s “Mountain Stage” radio show hits the road! This weekend’s show in Franklin, Tenn., features Steve Earle. Upcoming shows are set for Blacksburg, Va., and Morgantown before the show returns to its home turf at the State Capitol Complex in Charleston. 

Get your tickets now for the opportunity to see legendary bands and artists like Hot Tuna, Judy Collins and more! Visit www.mountainstage.org for ticketing information.

Read more:

https://mountainstage.org/upcoming-live-shows/

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, Sept. 20 

What’s that buzz we’re hearing? It’s the WV Honey Bee Trail!...the 2024 WV Wildlife Calendar is here -- order yours today…and you’ll be seeing stars at Watoga State Park’s Dark Sky party…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From CHARLESTON GAZETTE-MAIL – It’s the sweetest trail around! The West Virginia Honey Bee Trail is is an interactive way for locals and visitors to connect with the state’s beekeepers and honey distributors. 

The trail was created by the Visit Mountaineer Country Convention and Visitors Bureau in collaboration with the Monongalia County Beekeepers Association and the West Virginia Department of Agriculture. From historical sites to flower farms and local markets, each stop offers an experience that goes beyond honey tasting. 

“The honey industry is one piece of the toolkit that sets our destination apart from others,” said Maggie Parsons, agritourism and marketing specialist for the West Virginia Department of Agriculture. “Through this collaboration, we get to celebrate the wonders of local honey and give well-deserved recognition to the pollinators that sustain the industry.”

Download the Visit Mountaineer Country Trip Planner App -- available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store -- then go to “Day Trips” to find the Honey Trail map and begin planning your journey.

Read more:

https://www.wvgazettemail.com/news/learn-how-honey-gets-from-the-hive-to-your-table-on-the-wv-honey-bee/article_c04124e3-4e30-5770-b67a-ddf7552c2c72.html

#2 – From WVDNR –  Good news! The 2024 West Virginia Wildlife Calendar is now available to purchase online at WVstateparks.com.

“If you’re a hunter, angler, outdoor enthusiast or someone who just loves the natural beauty and goodness of West Virginia, our award-winning wildlife calendar is the best calendar you can buy,” said Brett McMillion, director of the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources. “Our staff has been working hard all year to make this year’s calendar extra special and we can’t wait for folks to get their hands on a copy.”

The popular calendar features beautiful paintings of state animals, important hunting and fishing dates, peak wildlife activity times and articles that will help people get the most out of their outdoor adventures in 2024.

To order your calendar, visit www.wvstateparks.com and click on “Merchandise” in the top right corner. The calendars are also available for purchase at select state parks and various local businesses.

Read more:

https://wvdnr.gov/2024-west-virginia-wildlife-calendar-now-available-to-purchase/

#3 – From WOAY-TV – It’s time to turn out the lights -- the second annual dark sky party is returning to Watoga State Park.

The event takes place Sept. 22, with Sept. 24 scheduled as the make-up date. There will be several telescopes available, as well as activities for kids.

Watoga State Park is one of three certified dark sky paths in the state, and Pocahontas County has the darkest skies out of all of the mid-Atlantic states.

“Light pollution affects humans and animals as well as plant life,” said Louanne Fatora, vice-president of the Watoga State Park Foundation. “Even the wondrous synchronous fireflies that exist at Watoga are a protected species and having dark skies is vital for their continued survival.”

To learn more about Watoga or book a cabin or campsite, visit www.wvstateparks.com.

Read more:

https://woay.com/watoga-state-park-to-hold-dark-sky-party/

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, Sept. 19 

Plan a visit to the tasting room at Hawk Knob cidery-- Cheers! *clinks glasses*…Get an adrenaline rush with a guided adventure in Almost Heaven…and Moundsville’s Palace of Gold is named on the the 40 most beautiful places in the United States...on today’s daily304.

#1 – From ROVOLOGY – Birdsong and bluegrass music provided the soundscape for an entertaining and informative afternoon recently at Hawk Knob Appalachian Hard Cider near Lewisburg. Against a backdrop of  picturesque mountain views, CEO/Founder Josh Bennett poured out generous cider samples for guests.

Bennett took a number of detours on his way to producing cider commercially. From working on a Montana cattle ranch to training horses in Florida, and from driving a tractor trailer, to starting a business in disaster relief, Bennett developed skills that would serve him well later. After three years in Germany with the U.S. Navy, he took advantage of the GI Bill and studied agriculture and agronomy at West Virginia University.

Ending up a few counties from where he grew up, Bennett found his calling. In 2014, Hawk Knob, named after a nearby mountain, opened its hard cider operation. Hawk Knob’s tasting room opened in 2015 and the fledgling business took flight.

Today, Hawk Knob Appalachian Hard Cider is a small, hands-on operation with a big reputation for producing dry, complex beverages full of character and flavor. Bennett and his team still hand-sort their heirloom and modern apples, then press, age, and blend them.

To learn more or plan a visit, check out www.hawkknob.com.

Read more:

https://rovology.com/united-states/west-virginia/hard-cider-makes-for-easy-sipping-at-hawk-knob-appalachian-hard-cider/

#2 – From WBOY Clarksburg – West Virginia is known for its outdoor recreation and adventure opportunities. If you’re visiting or even live in the Mountain State and want to dabble in some thrill-seeking activities, a guided adventure will help you check off items on your bucket list but with an expert there to ease your nerves and keep you on track.

There are lots of places to raft with a guide in West Virginia. Right now it’s Gauley Season but you can also opt for beginner-friendly trips on the Upper New. Guides also operate on the Cheat River and Shenandoah and Potomac rivers farther north.

Wanted to try rock climbing? NROCKS Via Ferrata in Circleville offers a climbing experience with rungs and cables that are fully guided and will allow you to have all the adrenaline and views of climbing without the technical skill of the true rock climber. 

Other guided trip options include horseback riding, caving, off-roading, zip lining and more. Check out www.wvtourism.com to start planning your Almost Heaven adventure!

Read more:

https://www.wboy.com/wv-outdoors/guided-trips-for-first-time-adventurers-in-west-virginia/

#3 – From THE WHEELING INTELLIGENCER – West Virginia’s own Palace of Gold has been named one of the “40 Most Beautiful Places in the United States” by Business Insider magazine.

The palace in Moundsville was founded by followers of Hare Krishna in the 1960s. Because of its high ornamentation it is sometimes referred to as “America’s Taj Mahal.”

The palace is the site of the annual Festival of Colors during which participants throw powdered colors into the air to celebrate the arrival of spring and passing of winter.

Visitors are welcome to tour the palace and grounds, which include a rose garden and pond. Visit www.palaceofgold.com to learn more. View the Top 40 list at Insider.com.

Read more:

https://www.theintelligencer.net/news/community/2023/09/palace-of-gold-in-marshall-county-listed-among-most-beautiful-places-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 Monday, Sept. 18 

Timberrrrrrr is big business in West Virginia; learn why the forest products industry says #YesWV…Get ready for North Central WV Girls in Aviation Day coming to Bridgeport…and Marshall Health launches a free virtual training series for those interested in starting their own small business…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WV EXECUTIVE – Timber and wood are big business in West Virginia. The timber industry generates around $3.2 billion each year for the state and provides more than 30,000 jobs with 12 million acres of forestland and 75 billion board feet of timber inventory. 

West Virginia is the second-leading hardwood state in the U.S., and each of its 55 counties have some segment of the wood industry as an employer. Forest product businesses in the state include logging, sawmills, dry kilns, rustic fence producers, veneer plants, furniture parts producers, kitchen cabinet constructors and other wooden furniture craftsmen. 

Interested in learning more? Using information from the West Virginia Department of Economic Development and the West Virginia Forestry Association, West Virginia Executive has created a map to showcase how the timber industry is a large part of the state’s economy. Check it out!

Learn more:

https://wvexecutive.com/west-virginias-timber-industry/

#2 – From WV NEWS – Aerospace partners from across the region are coming together to host the second annual North Central West Virginia Girls in Aviation Day event Sept. 23 at the Robert C. Byrd National Aerospace Education Center in Bridgeport.

The event is geared toward middle and high school age girls but all ages and genders are welcome. Attendees under age 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

There will be a variety of hands-on activities available, as well as opportunities to meet people representing some of the many different careers in the aviation industry. Activities include flight simulators, static display of aircraft, a dress-up aviation photo booth, drones, and more.

For more information, visit the event’s Facebook page, “NCWV 2nd annual Girls in Aviation Day.”

Read more:

https://www.wvnews.com/news/wvnews/north-central-west-virginia-girls-in-aviation-day-set-for-sept-23/article_b3407682-4f01-11ee-b8d4-4b299a1c754e.html#tncms-source=block-contextual

#3 – From THE IRONTON TRIBUNE – Marshall Health is launching a free virtual training series for individuals interested in learning more about small business ownership and entrepreneurship.  

As part of Marshall Health’s Career Opportunities for Appalachian Legacy initiative, training participants will learn firsthand from other small business owners how to start and operate a small business or social enterprise, which are businesses that sell or provide a service to support a cause.

The first one-hour session, co-sponsored by Right to Start, takes place at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 20. The session will feature Liz Modern, owner of a Huntington-based small business focused on painting and refinishing. Modern will share her story and how she has navigated starting and growing her business using a grassroots approach.  

This session is the first of the four-part series. Additional session topics will focus on Low-Start Costs Businesses, Making Your Skill Your Side Hustle and Social Enterprises. Click here to register. 

Read more:

https://www.irontontribune.com/2023/09/10/marshall-health-to-launch-west-virginia-entrepreneurs-virtual-series/

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, Sept. 17 

Are you guilty of procrastinating? Learn how you can overcome the foot dragging and make significant strides toward your goals…an international student at WVU reveals what drew him to the school and why he’s so pleased with the support he’s gotten…and check out some draw-dropping views this fall in Almost Heaven…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From 3 STEPS 2 STARTUP – “I’ll do it later!” -- How often have you uttered those words?

Procrastination is a common struggle that many individuals face when confronted with challenging or uncertain tasks. The tendency to put off important responsibilities can hinder productivity and lead to increased stress levels. 

3 Steps 2 Startup offers some practical tips to help you overcome procrastination and make significant strides toward your goals.

Discover strategies to conquer procrastination and enhance productivity. Explore effective task management techniques. Learn mindset shifts to combat procrastination, and more.

Don’t do it later … Read the blog post now!

Read more:

https://3steps2startup.com/2023/09/01/fight-procrastination-day-practical-tips-for-tackling-critical-yet-difficult-tasks/

 #2 – From WVU – The power of the Internet cannot be overstated. It’s how, from Nigeria – 6,000 miles across the Atlantic Ocean — Nathaniel Godwin stumbled upon West Virginia University.

Godwin discovered WVU’s website during a search for graduate programs. The hook? It was simply how everyone at the college interacted with him. 

“They were so warm and ready to assist me, even with the fact that I was an international student,” he said. “WVU’s learning infrastructure is advanced, but in no time, I adjusted to it all. My grades reflect this, too.The professors have been so supportive, and they want students to succeed.”

In his second year as a journalism master’s student at the Reed College of Media, Godwin says he was attracted to the field because journalism to him is about solving problems in communities and making humanity better.

“We now have what is called Public Interest Communication and Solutions Journalism. WVU’s land-grant mission has given me the opportunity to pursue this passion. My overarching research pursuit with the PIC lab is focused on helping communities build resilience towards public health emergencies and bolstering pandemic preparedness through strategic communication and combating of disinformation and misinformation.”

Read more:

https://magazine.wvu.edu/stories/2023/07/24/the-last-word-the-international-mountaineer

#3 – From WV TOURISM – Almost Heaven is home to an abundance of unbelievable views, natural wonders and incredible vantage points. Longing for an incredible escape or out-of-this-world oasis? Just come visit some of these views that you won’t believe are in West Virginia.

Take in spectacular views like the Cranny Crow Overlook at Lost River State Park. The 2-mile climb pays off with spanning views at nearly 3,000 feet above sea level. 

In the New River National Park and Preserve, the Long Point Trail leads to a rock outcrop of the most unique vantage point of the iconic New River Gorge Bridge in the distance.

Hike to The Point in Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, a view that oversees the dividing lines of West Virginia, Maryland and Virginia and the scenic spot where the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers meet.

Discover more stunning views at www.wvtourism.com and start planning your Almost Heaven getaway today!

Read more:

https://wvtourism-com.cdn.ampproject.org/c/s/wvtourism.com/10-views-you-wont-believe-are-in-west-virginia/amp/

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 Sept. 16 

TEASER (also use for daily recorded teaser for 10am social)
It may be called at Hill Billy Tini, but this sophisticated drink is one of many handcrafted cocktails you can enjoy while soaking in the retro charm of The Billy Motel…a USDA grant will help finance a business incubation and retail space in Beckley…and, it’s fall festival season! Check out some of the exciting autumnal celebrations coming up in Almost Heaven…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From FORBES – If you’ve traveled far and wide in search of a great drink, look no further than Davis, West Virginia, home of The Billy Motel. This hidden gem boasts a full bar and a mid-century lounge serving up some of the best cocktails you’ll find

Owner Joy Malinowski has created a cozy, charming hub for travelers where they can enjoy a craft cocktail and global cuisine at the Ish Kitchen (the name refers to the many different cuisines represented by the small plates on the menu).

The drinks on the menu include the classics, rounded out by seasonal specials like the Hill Billy Tini, a unique take on a classic dirty martini with house-stuffed blue cheese olives. Then there’s the Electric Pink, a gin and tonic with a house-made beet-basil shrub that gives it its hot pink color.

Best of all The Billy Motel & Bar is a laid back, friendly place where you can relax, make new friends and take in the stunning mountains and scenery. You might want to stay awhile: Area attractions include Blackwater Falls and Canaan Valley Resort state parks, Timberline Ski Resort, the Monongahela National Forest, and a host of charming local shops and restaurants.

Read more:

https://www.forbes.com/sites/ronniekoenig/2023/09/06/the-drinks-are-hillbilly-fabulous-at-the-billy-motel--bar/?sh=2da5de672312

#2 – From LOOTPRESS – The West Virginia Hive, the entrepreneurial arm of the New River Gorge Regional Development Authority, secured a $99,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture  Rural Development program that will finance phase one renovations to 111 Main Street in Beckley for additional business incubation and retail space. 

Judy Moore, executive director of the WV Hive and deputy director of NRGRDA, said once all phases of the project have been completed, more than 11,000 square feet of space on Main Street will be available to entrepreneurs participating in the WV Hive’s Accelerator Expansion initiative.

“This small business accelerator center will not only offer space for entrepreneurs but will also create jobs and attract more people to downtown Beckley,” Beckley Mayor Rob Rappold said. “This is a wise investment for the city and beneficial to the region. We knew the donation of this building to the City would help spark new life into our downtown.” 

Moore said as soon as phase one renovations are complete 2,500 square feet of Main Street storefront space will be available for four business offices and 12 retailers. 

Read more:

https://www.lootpress.com/west-virginia-hive-secures-u-s-department-of-agriculture-grant-paving-way-for-beckley-main-street-small-business-retail-and-incubator-space/

#3 – From ONLY IN YOUR STATE – Nothing puts us in the mood for fall like a fall festival! Thankfully, here in West Virginia we’ve got lots and lots of amazing options to choose from when September and October roll around. 

Mark your calendars with some of the best, especially festive 2023 fall festivals in West Virginia!

You don’t want to miss celebrations like the Leaf Peeper’s Festival in Davis or the West Virginia Roadkill Cook-off  and Autumn Harvest Festival in Marlinton (Don’t worry; it’s not real roadkill -- just wild game). Get the scoop at the link below. You can also find fun fall events and activities listed at www.wvtourism.com and www.wvstateparks.com.

Read more:

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/west-virginia/best-fall-festivals-in-wv/

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, Sept. 15 

Dine with a view at The Forks Restaurant in Elkins…Take a hike! On some of the most beautiful trails in Almost Heaven…and the city of Wellsburg plans a celebration to follow the ribbon cutting of the new bridge…on today’s daily304. 

#1 – From WV EXECUTIVE – Since its opening in December 2012, the owners of The Forks Restaurant and Inn have strived to create a space that West Virginians can be proud of.

“We wanted to create something that could be compared with top restaurants in major cities while in a setting that shows off the immense beauty of our state,” says co-owner Trevor Stalnaker.

The Elkins restaurant is known for its six-course meal option featuring dishes that combine French and Appalachian American cuisine. The Forks Restaurant and Inn also features a cocktail bar with an extensive collection of spirits. 

To make sure every ingredient that goes into each dish is top quality, the Stalnakers -- Trevor, along with co-owners Drew Stalnaker and Chef Eric Stalnaker -- grow most of their own herbs and smoke a variety of meats on-site. The menu is updated seasonally and the produce that is readily available sets the tone each time.

Guests also have the option to stay at one of the five guest rooms at the inn that are located directly above the restaurant. The highlight of each room is the private balcony that overlooks beautiful mountains.

“Our scenic view is one of the most spectacular in the state, and when you stay with us, you get your own private viewing space,” Trevor Stalnaker said.

Read more:

https://wvexecutive.com/in-the-chefs-corner-the-forks-restaurant-and-inn/

#2 – From WV TOURISM – Every turn you make in Almost Heaven reveals an unmatched experience that you must see to believe. Whether you’re on the quest for a quick trek or a multi-mile adventure, plenty of trails in the rolling hills compliment your desired pace.

Let these 10 country trails take you to new heights before the summer days start to fall, starting with Raven Rock Trail at Coopers Rock State Forest. The trail boasts stunning views and it’s even more beautiful on a sunset hike.

Want to hike somewhere that’s not too far from the city? Sunrise Carriage Trail provides great views of Charleston as you work your way up the trail. 

Cranberry Bog Boardwalk near Hillsboro is a great place for visitors looking for an easy hike. The boardwalk loop features educational signage to learn more about the unique ecosystem of the bog. 

Visit www.wvtourism.com for more hiking suggestions. Wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and have your camera phone ready for some stunning Instagrammable shots of Almost Heaven!

Read more:

https://wvtourism.com/10-almost-heaven-trails-to-trek-before-summer-ends/

#3 – From WTOV9 – Gov. Jim Justice will cut the ribbon on the massive bridge connecting the communities of Wellsburg, W.Va. with Brilliant, Ohio during a ceremony at noon Wednesday, Sept. 20.

A festival on the bridge will follow, featuring a car show, food trucks, a disc jockey, and high school bands and choral groups. 

The Wellsburg Bridge will drastically reduce travel time between the two communities, spur economic development in the area, provide a new river crossing for commerce, and provide another way across the river if work needs to be done on neighboring spans.

Gov. Justice’s $2.8 billion Roads to Prosperity bridge and highway maintenance and construction program freed up money to complete the massive bridge project.

Read more:

https://wtov9.com/news/local/breaking-grand-opening-of-wellsburg-bridge-on-wednesday-sept-20#

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.