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

Today is Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025  

Small business owners who have been affected by declared disasters may be eligible for low-interest loans from the SBA…the West Virginia Theater Trail adds four more venues…and a new coffee shop in Fairmont offers a twist on the usual coffee you might find in the U.S.…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From SBA.GOV – The U.S. Small Business Administration offers low-interest disaster loans to help businesses and homeowners recover from declared disasters.

Those eligible include businesses of all sizes, homeowners, renters and private nonprofit organizations. You must be located in a declared disaster area and meet other eligibility criteria depending on the type of loan.

For more information and to find out if you qualify, visit the SBA online.

Learn more:

https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/disaster-assistance

 

#2 – From WV EXPLORER – Four theaters in West Virginia have been added to the state’s historic theater trail, established in 2010 to boost cultural and economic growth in Mountain State downtowns and rural areas.

The Elk Theater in Sutton, the Granada Theater in Bluefield, the Robinson Grand in Clarksburg and the Shepherdstown Opera House were added to the trail in 2025, according to Jamie Billman, preservation manager for the Preservation Alliance of West Virginia.

Billman said the trail, which is piloted by the alliance and the W.Va. State Historic Preservation Office, is helping attract and sustain the arts in theaters that are beyond the state’s strip commercial districts.

The initiative was designed to promote cultural tourism by showcasing the state’s theatrical heritage, supporting local economies by boosting traffic to local businesses, restaurants, and lodging accommodations, and revitalizing the theater buildings for years to come.

Read more:

https://wvexplorer.com/2025/01/09/west-virginia-theater-trail-boosting-economic-growth/

 

#3 – From WBOY-TV – The Yemen Coffee Hut in Fairmont could be exactly what you need if you’re getting bored of drinking the same old coffee every morning, or if you’re just looking to try something new.

Located in both Fairmont and Morgantown, Yemen Coffee Hut offers customers traditional Yemeni coffee made with various spices like cardamom which give it a distinct aroma and flavor.

Manager Abdel Almadrahi says coffee is deeply embedded in Yemeni culture, and enjoying it is seen as a social gathering and a time for friends and family to spend time with one another, something that is becoming increasingly important in an increasingly digital age.

Yemen Coffee Hut sources its coffee beans directly from Yemen, where they are typically grown without pesticides or man-made fertilizers. This organic approach is why some coffee fanatics see Yemeni coffee as among the best in the world.

Read more:

https://www.wboy.com/news/local/restaurant-road-trip/restaurant-road-trip-yemen-coffee-hut/

 

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. 15, 2025.

Learn all about the famous people, places and events that shaped West Virginia with videos from The History Project…a major investment will help add new turf fields at a Harrison County sports complex…and now you can carry your ID on your phone, thanks to the Mobile ID app offered through the West Virginia DMV…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From THE HISTORY PROJECT – Perfectly centered among the Eastern states, West Virginia is where the thresholds of the North, South and Midwest all converge with the Appalachian Mountains.

Major events like the Revolutionary and Civil wars, and famous people ranging from Daniel Boone to Katherine Johnson, mix with the rich heritage of Native Americans and men and women of all colors who reshaped the world and serve as guides through the American story. 

It’s all covered in The History Project -- the daily304’s presentation of famous people, places and events that shaped West Virginia. Tune in now for a fascinating look into our state’s past.

Watch the videos:

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

 

#2 – From WBOY-TV – A more than million dollar investment will help add new turf fields at The Bridge Sports Complex in Harrison County.

Former Gov. Jim Justice visited The Bridge last week to deliver $1.8 million in matching funds to the City of Bridgeport. The funding, which is half from Economic Enhancement Grant funds and half matching funds from the state, will help add new resources at the sports complex.

The new fields will be added by the fall of 2025 and support multiple sports, including baseball, soccer and lacrosse.

Read more:

https://www.wboy.com/news/harrison/new-turf-fields-at-the-bridge-sports-complex-will-continue-sports-tourism-in-harrison-county/

 

#3 – From WV DMV – Now you can carry your ID on your cell phone, thanks to the latest technology available from the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles. 

Mobile ID is a new form of digital identity that allows users to crea​te a contactless, highly secure, state-approved personal credential that resides on their smartphone and can be used as a valid form of ID both in-person and online. 

Visit the WV DMV online to download your Mobile App and learn how it works. 

Read more:

https://transportation.wv.gov/dmv/mid/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 Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2025.

Crave WV pays a visit to the iconic Hillbilly Hotdogs, home of the famous HomeWrecker dog…discover the rich history of Fiesta dinnerware, made right here in Almost Heaven…and Highline Warren establishes itself as a key play in the automotive aftermarket, thanks in part to the dedicated workforce in #YesWV…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From DAILY304 – Hillbilly Hotdogs in Lesage, West Virginia is a creative culinary destination that has captured national attention. Crave West Virginia talks to owner Sharie Knight about the inspiration behind her unique recipes and why she says her customers can be credited for the restaurant's success. 

From zany décor to mouthwatering hot dogs...you will not be disappointed by this one-of-a-kind roadside restaurant.

Watch the video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zv_hFlK25z8

 

#2 – From WV COMMERCE –  Located in Newell, West Virginia, Fiesta rebranded as The Fiesta Tableware Company in 2020, maintaining its commitment to producing quality, American-made china. Fiesta dinnerware, with its rich history and colorful designs, continues to be a leading brand in the casual tabletop market and remains highly sought after by collectors.

Watch the video to learn more about an American icon made in Almost Heaven, #YesWV.

Watch the video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MW8XDAB1NRg

 

#3 – From WVDED – Highline Warren has established itself as a key player in the automotive aftermarket industry, known as a leading distributor with integrated manufacturing and unmatched access to the market. 

By combining the strength of West Virginia’s workforce with a prime geographic location in the Northern Panhandle, Highline Warren continues to drive forward as a leader in the automotive aftermarket. As they grow and expand, West Virginia remains a key part of their success, proving that the state is not only a great place to do business but also a place where businesses can thrive.

Check out the video to learn more about this company and why they say #YesWV.

Watch the video:

https://westvirginia.gov/highline-warren-driving-success-in-yeswv/

 

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.

 

We are starting 2025 off with only the best... Food!

In this week's episode of What Makes You Wonderful, Executive Chef Matt Welsch joins us to dish out all the savory details about the Cellar to Table dinners hosted by West Virginia State Parks, in partnership with West Virginia Cooks. We talk about what these chefs do with their craft to make your experience like no other. 

For more information on tickets you can visiit the state parks website here: wvstateparks.com, or on a link below. 

     1/4/2025 Chef Marion Ohlinger Canaan Valley Resort State Park      2/1/2025 Chef Rocco Basil Stonewall Resort State Park      2/23/2025 Chef Libby Nolle Hawks Nest State Park      3/8/2025 Chef Duane Legg Chief Logan State Park      3/15/2025 Chef Melissa Rebholz Tygart Lake State Park      3/21/2025 Chef Donnie Orr Pipestem Resort State Park      3/29/2025 Chef Keyarna Frederick Twin Falls Resort State Park      4/5/2025 Chef Anne Hart North Bend State Park      4/9/2025 Chef Damian Heath Cacapon Resort State Park      4/16/2025 Chef Tim Urbanic Holly River State Park

 

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

Today is Monday, Jan. 13, 2025.

Winter weather means it’s ice skating season in WV--check out 3 outdoor rinks with beautiful views…plan the ultimate pepperoni roll road trip through Almost Heaven…and you don’t have to leave your couch to enjoy the next installment of Mountain State Music…on today’s daily304.

 

#1 – From WV LIVING – Hibernating is as natural for humans as it is for animals, but it seems the people who love winter are those who go outside. As the saying goes, “There is no such thing as bad weather—only unsuitable clothing.”

So grab a hat and a pair of mittens and pull on another sweater—it’s ice skating season in West Virginia. In Canaan Valley, White Sulphur Springs and Wheeling, these three outdoor ice rinks will give you both the adrenaline rush and some beautiful views.

Read more:

https://wvliving.com/adventures-on-ice/

 

#2 – From TASTE WV – The pepperoni roll is a beloved snack that originated in West Virginia, capturing the hearts (and taste buds) of locals and visitors alike. 

Created in the 1920s with influence from Italian immigrants who worked in coal mines, pepperoni rolls were a convenient, shelf-stable meal that could be eaten on the go. Typically, these rolls consist of soft bread filled with slices or sticks of pepperoni, which bake to release flavorful oils into the bread, creating a warm, savory treat. 

Today, pepperoni rolls are not just a regional delicacy but a symbol of West Virginia’s rich history. For the ultimate pepperoni roll road trip, check out the bakery recommendations in Taste WV.

Read more:

https://tastewv.com/the-ultimate-list-of-the-best-pepperoni-rolls-you-have-to-try/

 

#3 – From DAILY304 – The daily304 and Folklore Music Exchange are proud to present Mountain State Music's 2024 showcase in Charleston. This week’s show features Woodbine, Nathan Bess, Annie Neeley Band, Makenna Hope, and Dalchord.

Tune into YouTube to enjoy a concert from your couch. Sit back, relax, and enjoy live music from Almost Heaven, West Virginia.

Watch the video:

https://www.youtube.com/live/3NOexyzgdmI

 

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. 12, 2025.

Take an exhilarating ride on the longest sled run on the East Coast--at Blackwater Falls State Park…WV elementary school students are invited to participate in an essay contest for the chance to win college savings money…and a popular Charleston gelataria is relocating and getting a new restaurant neighbor…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WV STATE PARKS – Experience the thrill of winter at Blackwater Falls State Park, home to the longest sled run on the East Coast. This family-friendly attraction is the perfect way to create cherished memories and enjoy wintertime fun. 

The sled run features a magic carpet lift for a smooth return to the top of the hill and illuminated trails for nighttime sledding. There’s also cozy warming hut featuring great views of the sled run, along with warm beverages, snacks and retail items

Tickets sell out fast, so it’s recommended that you purchase them online in advance.

Plan to stay a few days to enjoy the park and its scenery. Overnight accommodations include a full-service lodge and cozy cabins. To make a reservation, visit wvstateparks.com.

Read more:

https://wvstateparks.com/press-release/blackwater-falls-sled-run-tickets-going-quickly-for-2024-2025-season/?userID=a54cbab2-cf4c-417f-b5c2-b4a5c2f17eeb&campaign_name=wv_dept_of_commerce&campaign_medium=advocacy&campaign_source=everyonesocial&es_id=f0133b266e

 

#2 – From WVVA-TV– West Virginia elementary school students are invited to participate in the statewide 2025 SMART529 “When I Grow Up” student and teacher essay contest. 

The annual essay contest gives students the chance to win up to $5,000 in SMART529 savings for higher education, and teachers have the chance to win a $2,500 cash prize.

The contest is open to students in kindergarten through fifth grade. In 200 words or less, students need to talk about what they want to be when they grow up. Entries will be judged on originality, creativity and the importance of post-secondary education.

Entry forms for both students and teachers are available at www.SMART529.com. 

Read more:

https://www.wvva.com/2025/01/06/west-virginia-when-i-grow-up-essay-contest-announced/

 

#3 – From WV FOOD GUY – A popular Charleston gelateria has closed its doors, but fans of the café’s Italian-style pastries, coffees and gelatos won’t have to wait too long – or go too far – to enjoy them again.

Caffe Romeo on Bridge Road closed over the holidays and will be moving down the street to relocate in the space once housing Caldwell Insurance Agency on Walnut Road.

 

That new location, which will be next door to Chef Paul Smith’s new Paulie’s Italian restaurant opening in the old Bridge Road Bistro building, is expected to open this March.

 

Caffe Romeo is expected to open at the Walnut Road location sometime in March. Owner Mario Sommella says the new location will afford them the opportunity to upgrade their format to include new authentic Italian items.

Read more:

https://www.wvfoodguy.com/post/caffe-romeo-moving-new-southwest-bar-and-grill-coming

 

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. 11, 2025.

MHIRJ Academy graduate Jonah Lopez envisions a bright future in aviation…the retiring captain of the Sistersville Ferry shares his memories made in 12 years of crossing the Ohio River…and hike the 311-mile Allegheny Trail through wild and wonderful West Virginia…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WINGSPAN – When Jonah Lopez looks back on his journey, it’s clear that he’s not one to sit still. Now a graduate of MHIRJ Academy in Bridgeport, he proves that you don’t need experience in aviation to thrive—you just need the drive to learn and adapt. 

He joined the U.S. Army at 18 as part of the 459th Engineering Company, learning to build bridges and handling demolitions. After he transitioned to civilian life, aviation wasn’t even on his radar. But when a friend told him about the MHIRJ Academy, he saw an opportunity he couldn’t pass up: learning a hands-on trade while getting paid. The academy offered a career path with room to grow and new challenges every day.

Jonah’s leap from military service to aviation proves that big changes are worth the risk. His advice to anyone on the fence about their next step—especially fellow veterans—is simple: “Don’t stop. Run to the opportunity. Aviation offers challenges, growth, and a sense of accomplishment you won’t find everywhere.”

Read more:

https://wingspan.mhirj.com/Jonah_Lopez

 

#2 – From WJCT-TV – The city of Sistersville, West Virginia, is home to the last ferry crossing in the Mountain State. The Sistersville Ferry has been serving this tiny community for more than 200 years. 

For the past 12, Captain Bo Hause has been at the helm. He took this job after driving boats for the U.S. Coast Guard for 30 years. It’s the only ferry in West Virginia and one of only six ferry crossings left on the entire Ohio River. 

Now he's retiring. Reporter Zack Harold with West Virginia Public Broadcasting took a ride with him.

 

Hause says he's ready for some longer journeys, beyond the back and forth of the Ohio River. And when the ferry season restarts in the spring, this 200-year-old tradition will be kept alive by a new captain who will pilot the only ferry in West Virginia. 

Read more:

https://news.wjct.org/national-news/2025-01-05/longtime-captains-retirement-begins-a-new-chapter-for-a-west-virginia-ferry-ride

 

#3 – From THE TREK – The 311-mile Allegheny Trail reigns as the longest trail within the Mountain State, stretching from the Mason-Dixon Line at the Pennsylvania border to Peters Mountain at the Virginia border. 

The trail passes through a variety of landscapes along the way, including rural countryside, riversides, and the crests of mountain ridgelines. The heart of the trail runs through the Monongahela National Forest and includes a mix of state parks, state forests, and private land.

In the days leading up to the trail’s 50th anniversary last year, the West Virginia Scenic Trails Association made a real push to improve the trail, clearing overgrown sections, reworking tread, repairing old shelters, and even building new ones. 

The ALT gives you the opportunity to hike a trail that has yet to be discovered, and it’s in great condition right now. To learn more and plan your hike, visit www.hikethealleghenytrail.org.

Read more:

https://thetrek.co/the-allegheny-trail-311-miles-through-wild-and-wonderful-west-west-virginia/

 

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

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

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

 

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

Today is Friday, Jan. 10, 2025.

A national study ranks West Virginia as the state with the highest inbound migration in 2024…a local businesswoman earns a mini-MBA through a crash course offered through a Goldman-Sachs WV cohort…and discover why the Canaan Valley region is referred to as the snow bowl…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From YAHOO – If you’re thinking about moving to West Virginia, you’d be in good company.

According to the 48th Annual National Movers Study, West Virginia was the state with the highest percentage of inbound migration (66%) last year among states experiencing more than 250 moves with United Van Lines.

The Mountain State jumped nine spots on this year’s inbound list, compared to the 2023 National Movers Study. The top motivations for moves to the state included wanting to be closer to family (35%) and a new job/company transfer (31%).

Located in the Appalachian region, West Virginia is known for its range of outdoor activities, affordable housing and lower cost of living compared to the national average.

Read more:

https://www.yahoo.com/news/top-states-where-americans-moved-222125614.html

 

#2 – From WVDN – Marsha Waybright has earned a mini-MBA through a 12-week crash course offered by the very first West Virginia cohort by Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses education program. 

Waybright manages three businesses in Jenningston, West Virginia: Laurel River Club Bed & Breakfast, West Virginia School of Traditional Skills and Mama Bear Protection. 

She is one of 26 business owners who recently completed the program, designed to strengthen her business skills. BridgeValley Community & Technical College ran the program’s with modules on themes including marketing, accounting and operations. 

Over 111,000 small business owners like Waybright account for 98.8% of the state’s businesses and employ nearly half of the state’s workforce. 

Read more:

https://wvdn.com/150933/?es_id=0798aeaeac

 

#3 – From WV EXPLORER – High in the Allegheny Mountains in eastern West Virginia lies a scenic valley with a Canadian-like climate in which it can snow 10 months out of the year.

Though only two hours from the Washington beltway, the Canaan Valley receives more snow than the snowiest reporting station in Maine and a shorter growing season than Fairbanks, Alaska.

What circumstances lead to this strange phenomenon? According to scientists, the reasons are as complex as they are simple.

Christoph Vogel and Robert Leffler determined in a study of the region that elevation, position, and orientation were all contributing elements that notably support the valley’s three ski areas, including two alpine resorts and a Nordic ski center.

More specifically, they point out that the cold temperatures, increased precipitation, and the valley’s similarity to a “huge bathtub” conspire to create its remarkably wintry conditions, which includes an average snowfall of 134 inches.

Read more:

https://wvexplorer.com/2025/01/03/strange-phenomena-canaan-valley-wv-west-virginia/

 

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

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

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

 

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

Today is 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.