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

Today is Wednesday, March 5, 2025.

Thomas provides the perfect getaway for lovers of nature and small-town charm…a State Fair official reveals the process of locating and booking top talent for the annual event…and Service Wire in Cabell County is hiring, so get your application in ASAP…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From ARLINGTON MAGAZINE – Seated on the North Fork of the Blackwater River with nature providing a spectacular backdrop, the tiny town of Thomas offers proximity to an abundance of outdoor adventures, from mountain biking, hiking, tubing and river rafting to rock climbing the imposing edifice of nearby Seneca Rocks.

Just a 3-hour drive from the D.C. area, this Tucker County destination is the ideal getaway for folks looking to get out of the city and experience nature paired with the relaxed small town charm of boutique shops, pubs and restaurants. It’s also just a short drive from two West Virginia state parks. 

Read more about this reporter’s visit to the town, then head over to wvtourism.com or wvstateparks.com for additional information in planning your travel itinerary in Almost Heaven, Thomas, West Virginia.

Read more:

https://www.arlingtonmagazine.com/thomas-west-virginia-seneca-rocks-canaan-valley-dolly-sods/

#2 – From THE REAL WV – What does it take to plan the State Fair of West Virginia’s concert series each year? Toughness and resolve. Just ask Kelly Tuckwiller Collins, the CEO of the State Fair.

RealWV sat down with Kelly to talk about the process she undergoes each year in selecting and signing artists, the day after she announced Zach Top was coming to town. The rising country star is sure to be a big draw for the 100th edition of the fair this summer.

Artists have to already be within a day’s drive (on their tour) and they have to be affordable enough to keep the ticket prices down for the fair attendees. Even with those stipulations, fair organizers have managed to book some big name acts over the years, including Garth Brooks, Dolly Parton, Britney Spears and more. 

Read more:

https://therealwv.com/2025/02/25/what-does-it-take-to-plan-the-state-fair-of-wv-concerts-each-year/

#3 – From SERVICEWIRE – Service Wire Company, a premier supplier of industrial and utility wire and cable, is currently seeking a plant manager in Culloden, West Virginia. If you are looking to join a great organization and an opportunity to become a part of our growing team, this may be the job for you!

This position is responsible for end-to-end activities – from procurement, manufacturing, warehouse, and order fulfillment – while maintaining safety, quality standards, inventory accuracy, cost and delivery objectives.

Additional positions may be available. Check out Servicewire.com to learn more and apply.

Read more:

https://www.servicewire.com/Careers.htm?gnk=job&gni=8a78879e94d8db240194f1eb96f96737&qToken=eyJ1aWQiOjI4MzIzLCJwcm92aWRlciI6ImxpbmtlZGluIiwidHlwZSI6InNoYXJlIn0.k9jFWHIpMLW5n86Dj5KHkI5wkEA

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, March 4, 2025

TEASER (also use for daily web post)

State foresters urge caution as West Virginia’s spring fire season begins…spend a memorable

vacation on a working farm B&B in scenic Tucker County…and, from the Mothman statue in Point

Pleasant to the world’s largest teapot in Chester, West Virginia’s weird and wonderful landmarks

attract visitors from near and far…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WV COMMERCE – West Virginia’s annual spring fire season began March 1, marking the

return of burning restrictions.

The West Virginia Division of Forestry reminds residents to confine their outdoor burning to the hours of

5 p.m. to 7 a.m. Fires set during that time must be put out before 7 a.m.

Statewide burning restrictions will remain in effect until the close of the spring fire season on May 31.

The Division of Forestry has issued burning guidelines on its website at wvforestry.com/fire-laws.

Read more:

https://commerce.wv.gov/wv-spring-fire-season-burning-restrictions-return-march-1-3/

#2 – From WV LIVING – Nestled in the heart of Jenningston in scenic Tucker County, the Laurel River

Club Bed & Breakfast offers an idyllic getaway for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking to

disconnect from modern life.

Set against the backdrop of a working farm and surrounded by vast expanses of forests and the Dry Fork

River, this B&B provides a unique blend of agritourism, comfortable lodging, and immersive experiences

that make it more than just a place to sleep.

What sets Laurel River Club apart is its integration with the surrounding farmland, where guests can

experience the workings of a sustainable farm. Whether helping to milk the cows, learning how to make

herbal salves and tinctures, assisting in canning the season’s bounty, or simply wandering the beautiful

landscape, the connection to nature and the farm’s rhythms makes this stay truly special.

Visit lrcbnb.com to learn more and book your stay.

Read more:https://wvliving.com/where-history-meets-hospitality/

#3 – From WORLD ATLAS – Hidden in the rugged Appalachian Mountains, West Virginia is steeped in

mystery, history, and folklore. From the eerie sightings of the Mothman in Point Pleasant to the ghostly

halls of the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum in Weston, the Mountain State is a mystery box of strange

and intriguing ingredients.

It’s a place where a massive roadside teapot in Chester can stand alongside the haunting remnants of

Nuttallburg’s coal-mining past and where the Flatwoods Monster has been immortalized in both legend

and local pride.

These odd and curious attractions are some of the strangest landmarks in West Virginia, making the state a destination for adventurers, Instagrammers, road-trippers, and fans of the out-and-out weird. Learn more about these unique landmarks at World Atlas, then head over to wvtourism.com for help planning your road trip itinerary.

Read more:

https://www.worldatlas.com/places/9-of-the-strangest-landmarks-in-west-virginia.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 Monday, March 3, 2025.

A massive trail project is transforming North Central WV into a premier destination for gravel biking…celebrate spring’s arrival with a visit to a West Virginia state park…and FestivALL returns to Charleston on May 28, featuring visual arts, theater, music and more…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WV NEWS – Visit Mountaineer Country Convention and Visitors Bureau has announced the launch of Mountaineer Gravel, a project aimed at transforming North Central West Virginia into a premier destination for gravel cycling and outdoor adventure.

Spearheaded by VMC in collaboration with experts such as David Landis, owner of Village-to-Village Trails, and West Virginia University’s Brad and Alys Smith Outdoor Economic Development Collaborative, the project consists of 28 existing world-class mixed-surface cycling routes spanning more than 1,000 miles of public property.

The trails, ranging from five to 75 miles, feature a variety of terrains and significant elevation. The routes are designed to offer a mixture of gravel roads, dirt trails and primitive roads, capturing the natural beauty of Appalachia while also creating new economic opportunities for local communities.

Seven regional hubs, including Morgantown, Rowlesburg and Grafton, serve as starting points, offering key services such as lodging, dining and local attractions.

Read more:

https://www.wvnews.com/news/visit-mountaineer-country-s-mountaineer-gravel-project-aims-to-boost-outdoor-tourism-in-north-central/article_94cbbc38-ea51-11ef-9d82-d351fc5094bf.html

#2 – From WV STATE PARKS – Beat the winter blues and start planning a spring trip to Almost Heaven! Home to fresh mountain air, jaw-dropping views and heart-pumping adventures, a visit to a West Virginia state park is sure to provide the serotonin you need. 

Known for its stunning scenic overlook, Hawks Nest State Park makes the perfect spot to witness the bliss of spring come to life. Spend your days hiking flora-lined trails, exploring rushing waterfalls or casting a line in the New River Gorge.

An oasis for a family-friendly adventure, Pipestem Resort State Park offers a multitude of energizing activities. From ziplining through the treetops and majestic horseback rides to championship golf and an adventure zone packed with fun, there’s no shortage of entertainment.

Head over to wvstateparks.com to check out other amazing parks to visit this spring and book your lodging online!

Learn more:

https://wvstateparks.com/dreaming-of-spring-these-4-parks-are-the-best-for-sunny-getaways/

#3 – From METRO NEWS – Charleston’s popular festival celebrating the arts is set to return to the Capital City again with a jam-packed five day schedule full of music, theater, dance and more.

FestivALL Charleston will now embark on its 21st year with a pared-back schedule of events starting on May 28 to June 1.

All of the flagship events that have been a part of FestivALL since its inception will continue to be a mainstay in this year’s multi-arts festival. Attendees can still look forward to events such as the Three Things speaker series, the two-day Capitol Street Art Fair and Children’s Art Fair, Art-for-ALL, the Carriage Trail Walk and more.

As one of the most popular events, the Capitol Street Art Fair features street performers, live music and other entertainment on stages along Capitol Street.

Visit festivallcharleston.com for schedule updates or information on how to become a sponsor.

Read more:

https://wvmetronews.com/2025/02/16/festivall-to-return-to-capital-city-with-pared-back-schedule-of-events/

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, March 2, 2025.

WorkForce WV is sponsoring a series of statewide virtual job fairs--sign up now! WVU’s mine rescue team brings home another first place win and is officially the best in the world…and good things are happening in Southern West Virginia with help from the New River Gorge Development Authority and the WV Hive Network…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WORKFORCE WV – Are you looking to change or advance your career? Register now for the monthly Statewide Virtual Job Fairs!

Sponsored by WorkForce West Virginia, these virtual job fairs provide the opportunity to connect with multiple organizations that are hiring all across West Virginia. Participants can apply for positions, live chat, and interview through video with employers participating in the event. 

Learn more:

https://workforcewv.org/job-seeker/find-a-job/job-fairs/

#2 – From WVU TODAY – The West Virginia University Mine Rescue Team is officially the best in the world. 

As the winner of the 2025 Intercollegiate Mine Emergency Rescue Development competition held last month at the Colorado School of Mines in Golden, Colorado, the team now boasts three consecutive international victories along with four national wins. 

Nine teams from the United States, Canada and Germany competed in this year’s international competition. WVU’s team earned first place in four categories: the team mine rescue exercise, the smoke maze, the individual BG-4 bench and the individual 240-R bio bench. 

“We continue to prove that consistent practice and old-fashioned hard work produces results,” Team Advisor Josh Brady said. “The team works like an in-shape human body — each member has different responsibilities, and they have again demonstrated working together as one is unbeatable.” 

Read more:

https://wvutoday.wvu.edu/stories/2025/02/24/wvu-team-wins-third-consecutive-championship-at-international-mine-rescue-competition

#3 – From REGISTER-HERALD – Southern West Virginia is undergoing an economic transformation, and at the heart of this resurgence is the New River Gorge Regional Development Authority and its entrepreneurship program. the WV Hive Network.

Together, these organizations serve as a hub of activity for small business support, workforce development, and community-driven innovation, according to Judy Moore, executive director of the WV Hive and deputy director of NRGRDA.

A few examples of their efforts include PATTERN (Planning and Accelerating Textile Technology and Entrepreneurship Regional Network), an initiative dedicated to developing a textile sewing and manufacturing center in Southern West Virginia. 

NRGRDA and WV Hive also have served as key partners in supporting the Communities of Healing program, led by Fruits of Labor, which helps individuals in recovery re-enter the workforce through meaningful employment and entrepreneurship opportunities.

Meanwhile, WV Hive has partnered with ZingTrain, a nationally recognized training provider known for its innovative approach to service excellence, focusing on communication, problem-solving, and relationship-building.

For small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs NRGRDA and WV Hive are the go-to resources for support, training, and success. 

Read more:

https://www.register-herald.com/opinion/nrgrda-and-wv-hive-driving-small-business-growth-and-workforce-development-in-southern-w-va/article_909be704-ee30-11ef-b495-b78bf7b340c1.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 Saturday, March 1, 2025.

Weirton’s Form Factory 1 serves as a bold illustration of today’s manufacturing renaissance…there’s still time to get in that snow tubing adventure before spring arrives…and the Putnam Chamber’s Comeback Club is helping women who have taken career breaks reintegrate into the workforce…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From FORM ENERGY – Located in Weirton, West Virginia, Form Factory 1 is Form Energy’s first high-volume battery manufacturing facility — and a bold illustration of today’s American manufacturing renaissance. This 550,000-square-foot facility demonstrates that large-scale, advanced manufacturing can be achieved rapidly and at high volumes right here in the U.S.

Currently employing over 300 people, Form Factory 1 is spearheading a new era of energy manufacturing in the Rust Belt. By 2028, it will expand to around 850,000 square feet, support more than 750 employees, and have a production capacity of at least 500 megawatts of batteries per year.

Learn more:

https://formenergy.com/form-factory-1/

#2 – From WV TOURISM – With rolling hills galore and resorts that make them more accessible, Almost Heaven is a bonafide snow tubing destination. There is no better time to take a ride on a snow tube and blaze down a huge hill over and over again!

Even though spring is approaching, most resorts are open until mid-March. Treat your family to an adventure filled with powdery snow and speed on these legendary West Virginia hills.

 You’ll find amazing tubing adventures at Canaan Valley Resort State Park, Winterplace Ski Resort Snowshoe Mountain, and at West Virginia’s newest winter park, Snow Riders in Harpers Ferry.

Read more:

https://wvtourism.com/take-your-family-on-a-snow-tubing-adventure-in-west-virginia/?utm_campaign=ConsumerNewsletter2024&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--s_yM7pD5GECHe0g8eEwDoPAEfFOU78uMpUV8fcIVh5wdEIoMj9okKHR-XMuUxzsjJo1r3PhU3CxcGrJAFHHxDAduA9G5QyBOP9KCFiTDzLNeIUpU&_hsmi=348017731&utm_content=347823052&utm_source=hs_email

#3 – From PUTNAM COUNTY CHAMBER – The Comeback Club envisions a future where women who have taken career breaks can seamlessly reintegrate into the workforce. 

An initiative of the Putnam County Chamber of Commerce, the club offers a variety of resources for women, including career resilience workshops, mentorship programs, job placement assistance and community support through meetups and networking events.

To become a client or mentor, visit putnamchamber.org.

Learn more:

https://putnamchamber.org/comeback-club/

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, Feb. 28, 2025.

The WV State Veterans Home serves as a convenient and comfortable home for those who served our country…it’s never too late to learn to ski and WV ski resorts are still open for the season so what are you waiting for…and WV Emergency Management asks residents affected by recent flooding to fill out a damage survey…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From VETERANS ASSISTANCE – Set on a hill above the village of Barboursville, the West Virginia State Veterans Home opened its doors in 1981 to its first tenants. The 125-bed facility provides safe and affordable housing to the brave men and women who served our country honorably.

At this facility, the health of residents is a top priority. Mental well-being is equally important here.

Chris Atha arrived at the facility from the VA through their alcohol treatment program. He was also dealing with physical challenges as a result of a recent surgery. He’s grateful for the assistance he has received there, from ongoing access to health and educational resources to moral support offered by caring staff members.

Assistance with residency applications can be obtained through any of the West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance Benefits Offices, or you may contact the Veterans Home directly. The facility also welcomes donations.

Read more:

https://www.wvveteransblog.com/uncategorized/the-west-virginia-state-veterans-home-serving-those-who-served-our-country/

#2 – From WV TOURISM – If you love the snow and are always down for a thrill, you’ll love skiing in West Virginia. Almost Heaven is ideally suited for beginner skiing, so why not bundle up and try your hand (or foot) at conquering the slopes?

After your first try on the slopes, you’ll discover why West Virginia is the best place to learn how to ski.

One of the best parts about visiting West Virginia is its affordability, so taking the whole family along is easy on your checkbook. 

A beginner-level group lesson is only $35 per person at Winterplace Ski Resort, which has one of the best skiing programs in West Virginia. After you gain some confidence, you can opt for a day-lift pass – priced as low as $60 on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Day lift passes at Snowshoe Mountain Resort in Pocahontas County start as low as $85, and the deals get even sweeter if you opt for a multiple-day skiing adventure.

Read more:

https://wvtourism.com/heres-why-west-virginia-is-the-best-place-to-learn-to-ski/?utm_campaign=ConsumerNewsletter2024&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz--fTv7dDmhgMUSDTvcqtRA579ZqVUrjoxP0HuztpYE_rfosbrLNdvBKYjLBLvWwqjid7xP_DUHihR-sjZ1E1tH9XEeGp-OOgZ8wR9k_hxsL9CKw_-Q&_hsmi=348017731&utm_content=347823052&utm_source=hs_email

#3 – From WOAY-TV – Earlier this month, parts of southern West Virginia experienced major flooding. If you don’t have an active emergency but would like to report damages, you are encouraged to connect with West Virginia Emergency Management’s damage disaster survey. Information from the survey is used to work with state and federal governments to secure assistance where appropriate.

Whether you’re a business, homeowner, renter, government entity, private nonprofit or house of worship, there’s a different set of questions for every entity. There also are places on the survey where people can use their smartphone to take pictures of damage in and around their property.

Learn more:

https://woay.com/southern-west-virginia-flood-victims-can-apply-for-fema-assistance/#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 Thursday, Feb. 27, 2025.

Advantage Valley is hosting workshops for those interested in starting their own childcare businesses…Bridging Innovation Week is coming to Shepherdstown in April--register now for a great networking and learning opportunity…and check out the talented lineup coming to Mountain Stage on March 9…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From ADVANTAGE VALLEY – Are you interested in starting a childcare business or expanding your current facility? Advantage Valley’s FASTER WV childcare business workshops will provide you with the tools and resources to get started!

This free workshop begins with a brief presentation featuring Advantage Valley, the West Virginia Small Business Development Center, Wonderschool, the local health department, childcare resource and referral agency, fire marshal, and more.

Following the presentations, attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and connect directly with experts for guidance and resources.

Workshops are scheduled in the coming months in Jackson, Putnam and Kanawha counties. Register today!

Learn more:

https://www.eventbrite.com/o/advantage-valley-55321568063?utm_source=Advantage+Valley&utm_campaign=54e96ff54f-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2025_02_18_05_58&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_-54e96ff54f-73365994&ct=t(EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2_19_2025_15_11)&mc_cid=54e96ff54f&mc_eid=60d91b5b34

#2 – From WV ESHIP ECOSYSTEM – Bridging Innovation Week is the state’s premier entrepreneurship event. The annual week advances entrepreneurship-led economic development by providing connection and education to business owners, current and prospective entrepreneurs, and entrepreneur-serving organizations throughout West Virginia.

This year’s Bridging Innovation Week takes place April 28 through May 2 in Shepherdstown. Whether you’re just starting or looking to scale, this is the place to explore entrepreneurship opportunities in the Mountain State.

Register today and secure your lodging. Rooms with special rates have been set aside at the historic Bavarian Inn in Shepherdstown. 

Learn more:

https://wveshipecosystem.org/#bridging-innovation

#3 – From MOUNTAIN STAGE – Be a part of the live audience as Mountain Stage records a fresh episode for NPR Music with Kathy Mattea!

Guest artists for the March 9 show at the West Virginia State Capitol’s Culture Center include the MC Taylor Goldsmith Show (Taylor Goldsmith of Dawes and MC Taylor of Hiss Golden Messenger), Jonny Fritz, Kat Edmonson, Scott Mulvahill, Ken Pomeroy.

Reserve your tickets today before they sell out!

Learn more:

https://mountainstage.org/event/the-mc-taylor-goldsmith-show-ken-pomeroy-and-more-on-mountain-stage/

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, Feb. 26, 2025. WVU-Parkersburg’s new Innovation and Technology Center prepares to begin operating this fall…a partnership between WVU Medicine and Pierpont Community and Technical College offers an accelerated path to an associate’s degree…and Generation WV’s fellowship program prepares young professionals to lead with confidence…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From NEWS & SENTINEL – It is all about the vision of what the new West Virginia University at Parkersburg Innovation and Technology Center can be in helping the area grow with new educational opportunities.

Renovation work is continuing on the Stott Administration Building on the former campus of Ohio Valley University to turn it into the new Innovation and Technology Center (ITC) The work is being done to create classrooms, conference rooms and office space as well as give the facility an updated look.

The first phase consists of moving Workforce and Economic Development and the college’s Computer Information Sciences Division to the ITC. A second phase, occurring simultaneously, will be setting up the new daycare facility in the former OVU Library space. 

The center is expected to have its first-phase open and operating in this fall.

Read more:

https://www.newsandsentinel.com/news/business/2025/02/mid-ohio-valley-foundations-education-west-virginia-university-at-parkersburg-works-on-new-innovation-and-technology-center/

#2 – From WV NEWS – Students with a professional skill set or certificate degree now have a fast track to an associate degree, thanks to a partnership between WVU Medicine and Pierpont Community and Technical College.

Students who have completed WVU Medicine J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital’s Surgical Technologist Academic Teaching Program, a six-month paid training program that prepares them for a career in surgical technology, can transfer the skills learned into credit hours toward an Associate of Applied Science in Health Sciences degree at Pierpont CTC. Students can earn up to 38 credit hours toward the 60-credit hour AAS program.

Registration for summer classes begins on March 20.

Read more:

https://www.wvnews.com/wvumedicine/partnership-between-wvu-medicine-and-pierpont-community-and-technical-college-offers-accelerated-path-to-associate/article_bc1a10a4-edfe-11ef-a978-f7abade4807e.html

#3 – From GENERATION WV – Are you a young professional interested in making a difference in West Virginia? The Generation WV Fellowship is a 9-month leadership development program that offers in-depth personal and professional development. 

The program’s goal is to train, educate, and build confidence in our next generation of leaders. Students will learn from industry leaders throughout the state, form lasting bonds with Fellows from other companies, and develop an appreciation for the rich history and beauty of West Virginia. 

Learn more:

https://generationwv.org/our-work/fellowship/

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, Feb. 25, 2025.

Stay connected with the people who shape WV--check out our Innovators and Entrepreneurs podcast…the WV Tech Park fosters a vibrant community of innovation, science and technology…and artificial intelligence transforms the medical field…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From DAILY304 – The daily304’s Innovators and Entrepreneurs helps you stay connected with the people who shape West Virginia. Whether it’s a brand-new invention or an improvement to our community, there are so many talented innovators and entrepreneurs who have stories to tell. 

Tune in to hear about the amazing inventions, innovations, insightful messages and awe-inspiring testimonials happening right here in the Mountain State.

Learn more:

https://daily304.wv.gov/programs/innovators-and-entrepreneurs/

#2 – From WV TECH PARK – The West Virginia Regional Technology Park in South Charleston offers state-of-the-art facilities, a collaborative research environment, and a commitment to advancing STEM industries and education across the region. 

At the Tech Park, innovation knows no bounds. There are 29 businesses located at the park, employing 1,000 talented people. Over 30,000 patents have been developed at the park and many of those have been commercialized into the market. The park provides robust and reliable infrastructure to both global businesses and start-ups that are developing products for our collective future.  

Watch the video and explore how WVRTP is driving West Virginia’s future and fostering a vibrant community of innovation, science, and technology.

Learn more:

https://www.wvtechpark.com/post/discover-the-future-of-innovation-at-the-west-virginia-regional-technology-park

#3 – From WV EXECUTIVE – Artificial intelligence is transforming the landscape of healthcare. In an industry that is always looking for new ways to overcome inefficiency and human error, the integration of AI in the medical field means an increase in efficiency and accuracy, creating the opportunity for providers to better serve patients and improve outcomes.

The dynamic capabilities of AI have a revolutionary impact on streamlining tasks and productivity. AI can support caregivers in making decisions such as helping clinicians make earlier diagnoses. In terms of administrative support, AI is assisting with documentation and simplifying daily hospital operations, enhancing efficiency and giving providers more time to focus on patient care.

As AI is quickly becoming an important tool in early disease detection, Marshall Health is at the forefront of integrating new technologies to help its patients. In fact, one innovative technology they are using is LumineticsCore, an AI system designed to help prevent vision loss in patients with diabetes.

Read more:

https://wvexecutive.com/artificial-intelligence-in-health-care/

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, Feb. 24, 2025 

The WV One Stop Business Center has all the tools you need to start or manage your business…giant salamanders--otherwise known as hellbenders--serve as indicators of water quality…and an Eastern Panhandle craft house expands with help from the WV Small Business Development Center…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WV SECRETARY OF STATE – In 2018, the WV One Stop Business Center became the first four-agency single-location business center in the nation.

Now, eight years later, doing business in West Virginia has never been easier! Learn more about the WV One Stop initiative and the emphasis placed on customer service by the WV Secretary of State’s Office.

Watch the video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Tn1aGGQcxs

#2 – From WV EXPLORER – Beneath the surface of clean-flowing streams in West Virginia, a multitude of strange creatures lurk, but none is perhaps more shocking to encounter than the hellbender.

Also known as the devil dog, the mud devil, and the Allegheny alligator, its names testify to the strangeness of what turns out to be an giant aquatic salamander that is at once both repulsive and magical, depending on who you’re discussing them with.

The slimy brown monsters are the largest salamanders in North America and thrive in only the most healthy streams. They are thus indicators of poor water quality, a concern in parts of West Virginia where the hellbender lives.

Due to the impact of disease and habitat loss, the animals are listed as a vulnerable species though groups like the New River Conservancy are working to reverse the condition.

Read more:

https://wvexplorer.com/2025/01/07/monster-hellbenders-hiding-west-virginia-streams/

#3 – From WV SBDC – Set in the Eastern Panhandle, Boxer Craft House was born out of necessity. Back in 2017, founder and owner Marie Bressler decided to launch a website for her machine embroidery projects, but had difficulty finding good quality supplies. That’s when she began to source her own craft supplies.

As she grew her online business and social media following, she decided it was time to expand to a brick-and-mortar shop. In 2023, she and her husband, Wayne Bressler, opened Boxer Craft House on South Mildred Street in Ranson.

The family-owned store, recently voted No. 1 quilt shop in West Virginia, became a reality with help from the West Virginia Small Business Development Center.

Read more:

https://wvsbdc.com/boxer-craft-house-expanding-an-online-business-into-a-physical-store/

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.