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

Today is Friday, July 28 

The WV SBDC opens an office at Shepherd University…WV BusinessLink looks into capital accessibility…and take an Appalachian foodie journey with Crave WV--Yum!…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WV SBDC – The West Virginia Small Business Development Center has opened a new office in the Eastern Panhandle in partnership with Shepherd University’s business lab.

“I believe this partnership between Shepherd University, College of Business and the SBDC provides an important complement to the academic learning environment for our business students. Having SBDC on campus creates linking pins between SU-COB students and small businesses looking for assistance.” said Dr. Ben Martz, Dean of the College of Business at Shepherd University.

The business lab at Shepherd University’s main campus opened in January 2023. The WV SBDC also has an office in Martinsburg.

Read more:

https://wvsbdc.com/the-wv-sbdc-opens-satellite-office-in-shepherd-universitys-business-lab/

#2 – From WV BUSINESSLINK – Access to capital is a critical factor for the success of entrepreneurs, but traditional funding avenues have often presented challenges for many aspiring business owners, particularly those from marginalized communities. 

Fortunately, the Kauffman Foundation’s recent report, “Access to Capital: Removing Barriers for Entrepreneurs 2023,” offers insights into the current landscape of capital accessibility and proposes innovative solutions to address these obstacles. 

Visit WV Business Link online to view a few key highlights from the report.

Read more:

https://wvbusinesslink.com/2023/07/05/removing-barriers-enhancing-access-to-capital-for-entrepreneurs-in-2023/

#3 – From WV.GOV – West Virginians are known for their traditions, and that sings true for our food. No matter where you are in the state, there’s a restaurateur with a story to tell. That’s where Crave WV comes in! Follow us on a culinary journey across the Mountain State as we uncover these hidden gems and introduce you to the culinary masterminds behind the dishes you crave!

Subscribe to the daily304 YouTube channel and podcast so you don’t miss an episode!

Watch the videos:

https://www.wv.gov/daily304/cravewv/Pages/default.aspx

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, July 27 

Defluri’s Fine Chocolates owner shares how saying YesWV resulted in sweet success…Plan a stargazing adventure at West Virginia State Parks…and keep up with the latest school happenings via the WVPB Education Department newsletter…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WV.GOV – Martinsburg captivated Brenda Casabona with its unique blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities. After visiting the community multiple times, she was drawn to its friendly atmosphere and vibrant entrepreneurial spirit. Martinsburg provided an ideal environment for her business, Defluri’s Fine Chocolates, to thrive.

One of the key factors that Brenda highlights is the exceptional support she received from various governmental departments and agencies in West Virginia. She praises their proactive approach and helpfulness, which has made the business landscape conducive for both entrepreneurs and consumers. This positive approach sets West Virginia apart as a business-friendly destination.

For those inspired by Brenda’s success story and interested in starting or expanding their own businesses, West Virginia offers a range of resources to support entrepreneurs. The West Virginia Small Business Development Center provides valuable assistance, offering guidance and resources to navigate the entrepreneurial journey. Their website, www.wvsbdc.com, is a treasure trove of information for aspiring business owners.

Watch the video:

https://westvirginia.gov/defluris-fine-chocolate-a-sweet-success-story-in-yeswv/

 #2 – From WV TOURISM – Wide open spaces surrounded by rugged mountain beauty and far away from light pollution, West Virginia’s state parks and forests are home to some of the best stargazing spots on the east coast. From brilliant starry night skies to catching a glimpse of the Milky Way’s galactic core, stunning night sky views await in Almost Heaven.

Watoga State Park, Calvin Price State Forest and Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park have been designated official Dark Sky Parks by the International Dark-Sky Association, and Watoga offers Dark Sky programming and activities for all three areas. 

Other top star-gazing parks include Lost River, Blackwater Falls and Seneca State Forest. No matter which park you visit, stunning stargazing opportunities await. 

Visit www.wvstateparks.com to learn more and book your overnight stay, then reach for the stars!

Learn more:

https://wvstateparks.com/things-to-do/stargazing/

#3 – From WVPB – Do you have a child in the school or are you an educator? Or perhaps you’re just interested in what’s going on in West Virginia’s schools. 

Stay in the loop by signing up for the WVPB Education Department’s monthly newsletter. Get seasonal, ready-to-use educational resources for FREE! 

You can also find resources for grades Pre-K-12, adult education, PBS Learning Media and more. Sign up for a writer’s contest or nominate a teacher the the WVPB Above and Beyond Teacher Award.

Learn more:

https://wvpublic.org/wvpb-education/

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

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

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

When radio ruled the airwaves, West Virginia had one of America’s favorite shows.  “It’s Wheeling Steel” was broadcast by the eponymous company from the Capitol Music Hall in The Nail City each week, first starting locally but landing on NBC. Talent from the mills and offices populated its content, making it popular in the 1930s and 40s. 

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

Today is Wednesday, July 26 

Join us on our podcast as we find out What Makes You Wonderful, West Virginia?...Check out WV State Parks’ accessible accommodations and activities…and Davis & Elkins College teams up with Chef Dale Hawkins to manage restaurant and operations at Graceland…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WV.GOV –  You can find out all of the amazing places to go and interesting people to meet each week listening to the daily304’s “What Makes You Wonderful” podcast – we uncover wonders that make West Virginia truly ext​raordinary. Host Tiffney Lopez connects with other local leaders and experts to share fun events, take you to uniqu​e places to visit, and venture down literary roads of local reads.

Tune in to “What Makes You Wonderful” and let the magic of the Mountain State inspire you!

Listen and subscribe:

https://www.wv.gov/daily304/wmyw/Pages/default.aspx

#2 – From WV STATE PARKS  – We want everyone to be able to enjoy our beautiful state parks and forests. Visitors of all abilities can find accessible lodging, trails, scenic overlooks and outdoor activities here in Almost Heaven.

Lodge rooms and cabins throughout the park system have accessibility options. All you have to do is decide which part of the state you’d like to visit. All lodge parks have accessible rooms, including Chief Logan, Blackwater Falls Cacapon Resort. You’ll also find accessible cabins at parks like Lost River and Watoga.

If you’d like to get out in nature, the Spotted Salamander Trail at Kanawha State Forest features braille interpretive nature stations around the paved loop course. 

Anglers will want to check out the Class Q fishing areas at Camp Creek State Park and Forest and the accessible piers at Beech Fork and Tomlinson Run.

Read more:

https://wvstateparks.com/plan-your-almost-heaven-accessible-getaway-to-a-wv-state-park/

#3 – From WV EXPLORER –  Davis & Elkins College has announced plans to partner with regionally renowned chef Dale Hawkins and Fish Hawk Hospitality in the operation of Graceland to ensure the continuity of the landmark property.

The partnership will preserve the landmark structure's historical significance and its connection with Davis & Elkins College in Elkins for more than eight decades, according to college President Chris A. Wood.

"Knowing his commitment to showcasing the best of West Virginia, I am confident our partnership with Dale Hawkins and Fish Hawk Hospitality will ensure not only Graceland's reputation but also D&E for distinction and excellence for many years to come,” Wood said.

Fish Hawk Hospitality will manage restaurant and lodging operations at Graceland, which features 11 available rooms.

Read more:

https://wvexplorer.com/2023/07/12/davis-elkins-college-unveils-plans-to-partner-at-historic-graceland/

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.

Join What Makes You Wonderful as we dive into the glitz and glamour of the West Virginia Film Office's one-year anniversary, and oh, what a year it's been! We had the privilege of sitting down with the one and only Dave Lavender with the WV Film Office to find out about all the incredible behind-the-scenes action.

From notable film productions to heartwarming indie projects, we talk about how the WV Film Office is working to make West Virginia a true Hollywood of the East! But hold your horses – this episode isn't just about rubbing shoulders with A-list stars; it's about how you can become a part of this cinematic revolution.

We talk about various opportunities for budding filmmakers, aspiring actors, and even those who simply want to contribute their unique talents to the creative process.

You can also find more information here: www.westvirginia.gov/wvfilm

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

Today is Tuesday, July 25 

A new WV community college program “AIMs” to help students earn as they learn…the Wheeling National Heritage Area Foundation agrees to fun the Wheeling Gateway Project…and learn more about the Mountain State’s business climate--#YesWV…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WV BUSINESSLINK –  The Community and Technical College System of West Virginia’s Apprenticeships in Motion program prepares students and incumbent workers for middle- to high-skilled information technology occupations that are in increasingly high demand across the Mountain State. 

AIM partners with businesses and colleges to provide an “earn as you learn” experience for students and current employees. Through these connections, companies and organizations tap into a trusted talent pool, reduce the cost of on-boarding, cultivate dedicated employees, and address their present skills gap.

The AIM grant has worked with 200+ businesses to train over 850 IT professionals that include current employees and college students. AIM also provides training for Medical Records/Health Information Technicians and Architectural/Civil Drafters. 

Learn more about the program at www.wvctcs.org/aim.

Read more:

https://wvbusinesslink.com/2023/07/06/unlocking-it-workforce-potential-introducing-aim-west-virginias-solution-to-the-skills-gap/

#2 – From WHEELING HERITAGE – The Wheeling National Heritage Area Foundation has agreed to fund the development firm for the future Wheeling Gateway Project, a major investment aimed at creating a vibrant and welcoming entrance along the I-70 corridor approaching the city. 

“Today is a very exciting day for the future of this important site in our National Heritage Area,” said Scott Schenerlein, executive director for Wheeling Heritage. “We are taking the first steps to bring about the long-awaited visitors center and heritage center which will provide a beautiful entrance to the City of Wheeling. Working with our partners at the Wheeling CVB and Regional Economic Development Partnership, we will be fulfilling a piece of Wheeling Heritage’s management plan, which seeks to improve the visitors experience, provide interpretation, and encourage resource preservation.”

The Wheeling National Heritage Area Corporation, the entity of Wheeling Heritage, works to conserve, interpret, and promote the Wheeling National Heritage Area, to achieve economic development in the historic downtown and riverfront area, and to promote the education and general welfare of the people as well as to acquire and preserve historically significant structures.

Read more:

https://wheelingheritage.org/wheeling-national-heritage-area-foundation-funds-development-firm-for-wheeling-gateway-project/

#3 – From BUSINESS FACILITIES – Thinking of starting or moving your business to West Virginia? The Business Facilities media group has put together some helpful information about the state’s business profile, including top projects, targeted growth sectors, higher education grants, and more.

“West Virginia’s pro-business climate, prime location, and world-class workforce provide businesses the necessary opportunities for success. We are always ready to share our state with those looking to expand or relocate, and we hope our businesses continue to say ‘Yes, West Virginia’ for many years to come,” said Mitch Carmichael, Secretary, West Virginia Department of Economic Development.

Stay up to date on the latest site selection and economic development news and information by subscribing to Business Facilities e-newsletter.

Read more:

https://businessfacilities.com/ssg/west-virginia-state-profile/

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, July 24 

Filmmaker Tijah Bumgarner shares her passion for telling WV’s stories…Export businesses, learn how you can adapt to the changes coming with the European Green Deal…and the WV SBDC opens a new office in Huntington…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From SHINE ON, WV –  Filmmaker Tijah Bumgarner has always been drawn to telling Appalachian stories in her documentary and narrative projects. She returned to West Virginia to continue making her films while teaching the next generation of West Virginia filmmakers at Marshall University, changing the game for indie film in Huntington.

Watch the interview on YouTube and subscribe to the Shine On, WV channel for more features on West Virginia artists.

Watch the video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MhGO2wANVmw

#2 – From WV ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT –  The European Union has been working on a new economic policy called the European Green Deal that will make Europe the first climate-neutral continent by 2050. This means that the EU wants to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by the mid-century. But what does that mean for businesses here in West Virginia?

Businesses need to be aware of the changes and make sure they are prepared to comply with new regulations if they hope to be well-positioned to succeed in the European market. 

We believe knowledge is key to being a successful exporter and that having an export plan reduces the likelihood of you making hasty or reactionary decisions. So, prepare for new regulations in Europe now by documenting your product’s components and researching their origins. 

You should also start conversations with your engineers and company leadership to find ways to improve product sustainability and recyclability, reduce your manufacturing carbon footprint and mitigate associated costs. 

Read more:

https://westvirginia.gov/european-green-deal-challenge-and-opportunity-for-wv-exporters/

#3 – From WV SBDC –  The West Virginia Small Business Development Center, a division of the West Virginia Department of Economic Development, opened a new office in the River Tower in downtown Huntington.

The downtown location will help entrepreneurs and business owners in the community by offering practical information to help grow local business, primarily covering Cabell, Mason Lincoln, and Wayne counties.

"The Huntington Regional Chamber of Commerce is excited to have the West Virginia Small Business Development Center as our new neighbor. The Chamber and SBDC have shared missions of cultivating a thriving business community that drives economic growth and innovation so I think it is a natural fit,” said Tricia Ball, President & CEO of the Huntington Chamber.

“It is my hope that being located in the same building will allow us to more closely partner on providing aspiring entrepreneurs and small businesses with the technical assistance, resources, and connections they need to succeed.”

Read more:

https://wvsbdc.com/wv-sbdcs-huntington-center-relocates/

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, July 23 

The WVDNR needs your help with a lightning bug survey…Hunters, now is the time to review changes to the 2023-24 WV Hunting and Trapping Regulations Summary…and find your dream job with the WV Community Development Hub…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WTRF-TV – Calling all lightning bug lovers! The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources is conducting a survey of lightning bugs, fireflies, and glowworms on state parks, state forests, and state rail trails.

Almost every West Virginian child remembers seeing the majestic flashing displays of fireflies growing up, but slowly their numbers are declining. Light pollution, habitat loss, and other factors are contributing to the loss of this mysterious insect.

The WVDNR seeks to learn more about firefly species biodiversity and their distribution at West Virginia State Parks. If you are staying overnight or visiting one this summer, you can enter data on their free online survey or by using the free Survey123 app any time you see fireflies displaying.

Visit www.wvstateparks.com to book your lodging today. 

Read more:

https://www.wtrf.com/top-stories/do-you-like-lightning-bugs-the-west-virginia-division-of-natural-resources-needs-your-help/?utm_medium=referral&utm_source=facebook.com&utm_campaign=socialflow&fbclid=IwAR3oQp_sDMx62jUGtIJEtA_EhcqsrU3uunv5UhAtyD6RnDldVIuXj24iTJA

#2 – From WV EXPLORER – Officials at the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources are reminding hunters to review several essential changes to hunting seasons for white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and black bear before their seasons open this autumn.

These changes are included in the 2023-24 West Virginia Hunting and Trapping Regulations Summary, now available online at WVDNR.gov/hunting-regulations. Hunters who wish to obtain a printed summary copy should contact their local hunting and fishing license agent or division district office.

Read more:

https://wvexplorer.com/2023/07/17/dnr-hunting-trapping-2023-2024-laws-changes/

#3 – From WV HUB – Looking for a rewarding career in Almost Heaven? The WV Community Development Hub’s Job Listings page connects talented people with organizations doing great things in West Virginia.

Current job openings include Chief Financial Officer at the Hub, Town of Marlinton Vista Recreation Economy Coordinator, United Way Central West Virginia Vista, AmeriCorps volunteer opportunities, and more!

Learn more:

https://wvhub.org/job-board/

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, July 22

He may not be old enough to drink, (Woof!) but your dog is welcome in many WV breweries…Plan a road trip to the Mon Forest Towns…and WV’s broadband expansion plan is getting ready to expand in a major way…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WBOY Clarksburg – When you take your dog on an outing to one of West Virginia’s state parks or indoor dog-friendly places, you’ll probably need to eat, and you might even want to unwind a little. If you’re traveling through north-central West Virginia, you will find many West Virginia breweries that will let you bring your dog inside.

Morgantown Brewing Company gets a “four paws up” from dog owners. Its menu even includes spent grain dog treats for $2, and for humans—deep fried pepperoni rolls, burgers with ghost pepper jack cheese, West Virginia hot dogs and more. 

High Ground Brewing in Terra Alta even made a Baby Doge IPA as a tribute to West Virginia’s “queen,” Babydog.

Other dog-friendly breweries include Short Story Brewing in Rivesville; Mountain State Brewing in Thomas, Bridgeport and Morgantown; and the Rambling Root in Fairmont.

Read more:

https://www.wboy.com/only-on-wboy-com/wboy-com-lists-and-rankings/dog-friendly-breweries-in-north-central-west-virginia/

#2 – From WV TOURISM – The Monongahela National Forest offers endless natural beauty as well as recreational opportunities like camping, fishing and mountain biking. If you’re planning a trip, be sure to visit one or more of the Mon Forest Towns that span the length of the forest. 

Near Blackwater Falls and Canaan Valley Resort state parks, the tiny towns of Thomas and Davis have a vibrant energy and are host to numerous restaurants, unique boutiques and art galleries. 

If you’re visiting Spruce Knob or Seneca Rocks, plan a stop in Franklin, home to unique attractions like Smoke Hole Caverns and NROCKS Outdoor Adventures. The historic railroad town of Durbin is home to the Durbin and Greenbrier Valley Railroad which offers scenic train rides through the mountains. 

Visit www.wvtourism.com to learn more about other Mon Forest towns, including Marlinton, Richwood and White Sulphur Springs. Then start planning your Almost Heaven road trip!

Read more:

https://wvtourism.com/the-magical-towns-of-the-monongahela-national-forest/

#3 – From WOWK-TV — In granting West Virginia $1.2 billion for broadband improvements, the Federal Communications Commission recently found more than 270,000 “dead” spots in West Virginia where there is no service.

The good news is that othere is now enough money to connect every home, school and business in the Mountain State that wants it.

“There would not be an opportunity to provide, to open up the doors to those types of companies without ubiquitous broadband service throughout West Virginia,” said Mitch Carmichael, West Virginia Economic Development Secretary.

West Virginia must deliver its initial broadband plan to the federal government in a month. If approved, the first 20% of the broadband expansion money should arrive in six months and work can get underway. It’s hoped every spot in the state will be connected within six years.

Read more:

https://www.wowktv.com/news/west-virginia/west-virginias-broadband-expansion-is-underway-expanding/

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.

Lured to West Virginia by its nascent salt industry, the brine made it possible for the chemical industry to flourish.  Though there were plants around the state, the industry mostly made their home in the Kanawha Valley, stretching from Belle to a town created just for chemical-making, Nitro. Highs and lows unique to the industry have altered production but it continues to thrive in the Mountain State.