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

Today is Saturday, Oct. 19, 2024 

Get a taste of farm fresh culinary offerings at Oglebay Resort…a live leaf map reflects where fall color is peaking in Almost Heaven…and the annual monster trout contest kicks off with fall trout stockings the week of Oct. 21…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WV LIVING – A shining gem of Wheeling, Oglebay Resort & Conference Center offers a beautiful getaway with plentiful opportunities for food and fun. Get a taste of fresh produce at one of many noteworthy restaurants and wash your worries away at the resort’s spa.

Nate Harlan, head grower at Oglebay’s long-standing greenhouses, seeks to leverage hydroponic advancements to cultivate safe and sustainable crops--everything from herbs and greens to tomatoes and strawberries--in collaboration with the culinary team.

Overlooking terraced garden beds thriving with winter greens, the Garden Bistro—2023 OpenTable Diners’ Choice Award winner—has become a beloved destination for locals seeking a casual yet novel dining experience. Harnessing the bounty of over 200 pounds of fresh greens and herbs cultivated in the greenhouses, the Garden Bistro promises to delight discerning palates from near and far.

As if that weren’t enough, Oglebay offers several other upscale and casual dining options as well as a spa offering luxury services. Visit https://oglebay.com to learn more and book your reservation today!

Read more:

https://wvliving.com/visit-oglebay/

#2 – From WV TOURISM – With fall finally here in West Virginia, you won’t want to miss the rolling hills of vibrant hues featured on the 2024 Live Leaf Map. 

As we head into the second half of October, the regions reaching peak will likely be the northern and eastern panhandles as well as parts of southern West Virginia.

Visit wvtourism.com/fall-map/ to get updates on fall color and suggested itineraries for leaf-peeping drives. 

As you travel through our mountains for your fall adventure, be sure to share your scenic foliage photos on social media using #AlmostHeaven. 

Read more:

https://wvtourism.com/fall-map/

#3 – From WV EXPLORER – West Virginia will begin fall trout stockings during the weeks of Oct. 21 and 28, along with its third annual Monster Trout Contest.

The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources will stock 35,000 pounds of trout weighing one to two pounds in 40 lakes and streams around the state and 6,500 pounds of monster trout weighing three to six pounds.

Gov. Jim Justice said the state will tag 100 monster trout with a bright pink tag, and anglers who catch one and submit a photo with the tag number online will be eligible to win a prize. 

Five recipients will be selected to win a grand prize, such as a weekend cabin stay at a West Virginia State Park or a Cabela's prize package. Entries must be submitted by Friday, November 22.

Read more:

https://wvexplorer.com/2024/10/10/wv-fall-trout-stocking-monster-contest/

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.

Colonial America was a cauldron of imperialism and territorial disputes, which set in motion Lord Dunmore’s War, one of the continent’s most significant skirmishes which would help to launch the American Revolution.  

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

Today is Friday, Oct. 18, 2024.

The former Parkersburg CVB building has been repurposed to support arts in the community…coworking spaces provide resources and meeting space for remote workers…and a proposed hiking trail in Mercer County was once used by Civil War troops…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From NEWS & SENTINEL – Artsbridge has purchased the former Convention and Visitors Bureau building to be its new headquarters.

“A new location still in downtown Parkersburg means Artsbridge continues its long partnership with other arts, entertainment and service organizations in the Mid-Ohio Valley,”  said Karen Waller, Artsbridge board member.

The new facility, located at 350 Seventh St., represents an investment not only in the organization but in the very fabric of the community. With this building, Artsbridge will have the capacity to enhance its programs, host more events and create a welcoming space for collaboration and support.

Meanwhile, the Greater Parkersburg Convention & Visitors Bureau has relocated its welcome center to 113 Ann Street.

Read more:

https://www.newsandsentinel.com/news/business/2024/10/artsbridge-buys-former-cvb-building-to-serve-as-new-headquarters/

#2 – From FIRST ASCENT – Before the rise of remote and hybrid work, young professionals were restricted to confining cubicles and old-school office environments. Even so, some remote workers yearn to be in a structured, professional environment away from productivity-draining distractions at home.

Enter local coworking spaces—shared office spaces where remote workers from different companies and industries can work alongside one another as if they are in the office for the day.

These spaces, with their modern, open floor plans, typically offer amenities that professionals crave, such as secure Wi-Fi, printing stations, and private rooms for meetings. Base Camp, First Ascent and Ascend WV's coworking space in Morgantown, for example, even offers standing desks for members to stretch their legs, and a kitchenette to prepare snacks and lunch. 

Are you a West Virginia grad who has a remote or hybrid position? First Ascent, the program specifically designed to help young professionals launch their careers in the mountains of West Virginia, offers coworking benefits through free access to its six Base Camp locations across the state. 

Learn more:

https://firstascentwv.com/blog/2024/10/09/are-coworking-spaces-the-new-workplace-norm

#3 – From BLUEFIELD DAILY TELEGRAPH –  A proposed hiking trail in Mercer County would give visitors and residents alike not only opportunities to enjoy the area’s scenic beauty, but also experience its history by taking a route Civil War troops used over a century ago as they marched into battle.

This hiking/bicycle trail would stretch from the vicinity of Camp Creek State Park to the Bluestone River on the former Bluestone Land & Lumber Company logging railroad along Camp Creek. 

A grant of over $360,000 from the West Virginia Division of Highways Recreational Trails Project with a 20% county match is funding the project, according to Mercer County Commission President Bill Archer. 

Civil War scholars say the trail is likely part of the path taken by officers and troops of the 23rd Ohio Volunteer Infantry to the Battle of Princeton in May 1862, he added.

Read more:

https://www.bdtonline.com/news/proposed-hiking-trail-once-used-by-civil-war-troops/article_ba77f6d0-8193-11ef-ba0a-bf7f04e4feae.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 Thursday, Oct. 17, 2024.

The new tech center at WVU Parkersburg will serve as a hub for small business and entrepreneurs…the Charleston Area Alliance recognizes 14 people and places with “We Love Our Community” awards…and a beloved taco eatery from Thomas is relocating to Charleston…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From NEWS & SENTINEL – Plans are coming together to provide a number of educational and entrepreneurial opportunities at the new WVU Parkersburg Innovation and Technology Center.

University President Torie Jackson highlighted some of the work being done to turn the former Ohio Valley University into the new technology center, which is expected to have its first phase open and operating in the fall of 2025.

There are plans for co-working spaces and large meeting areas that can accommodate large conferences. The former library will be turned into a daycare facility. The former gym will be converted into a manufacturing space and there will be shipping and receiving capabilities on site as well. Businesses located there will be able to do development and research work onsite.

They are looking to eventually bring in 25 businesses that will be housed at the facility, including new businesses and ways to expand existing businesses. It will be an opportunity for students to have employment and more, Jackson said. 

“You will be able to do it here,” she said. “It is an amazing opportunity for entrepreneurship.”

Read more:

https://www.newsandsentinel.com/news/business/2024/10/jackson-sees-bright-future-developing-at-west-virginia-university-at-parkersburg/

#2 – From CAA –  Fourteen awards were handed out this month at the Charleston Area Alliance’s annual “We Love Our Community Awards” event at the University of Charleston Downtown Innovation Hub. 

Sponsored by Spilman Thomas & Battle, with support from Family Care Health Centers, Pickering Associates and ZMM Architects & Engineers, these awards honor some of the people, projects, programs and organizations that make the Kanawha Valley community stronger and brighter.

“The annual We Love Our Community Awards is our chance to shine the spotlight on the people and places that make significant contributions to the community,” said Susie Salisbury, the Alliance’s Vice President for Community Development. “The artists, small business owners, visionaries and volunteers that we honor here today give of their time, talents, and dedication – and inspire us all to love our community.”

Head over to the Charleston Area Alliance website to view the winners!

Read more:

https://charlestonareaalliance.org/charleston-area-alliance-announces-2024-we-love-our-community-awards-recipients/?es_id=48d4b37c69

#3 – From WBOY-TV – A beloved taco restaurant is closing its doors in Thomas to make way for a “new partnership” that it says will help it expand “all over our beloved state of West Virginia.”

In a Facebook post, Picnic in Thomas, known for its tacos, margaritas and beer, will close after Saturday, Oct. 19. After that, the restaurant will relocate to the Charleston area as well as grow a fleet of mobile trucks and physical locations.

The restaurant is not completely leaving the mountains, though.

“We are not disappearing from these beautiful mountains. We are just building stronger foundations,” the post said.

Picnic is one of the 28 Chef Ambassador restaurants listed on the West Virginia Culinary Trail, which awards prizes for checking in at restaurants across the state.

Read more:

https://www.wboy.com/news/tucker/tucker-county-restaurant-moving-to-charleston-area/

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, Oct. 16, 2024.

Looking for a good-paying job with benefits and paid leave? Check the State of WV’s career site to find out who’s hiring…Thomas ranks as one of the Top 10 southern U.S. towns for a fall getaway…and meet the 2024 class of Wonder Women who are making a difference in their communities…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From GOVERNMENT JOBS – The State of West Virginia is hiring! 

Are you looking for a good-paying job with benefits, paid holiday and paid time off? West Virginia offers a wide variety of career opportunities and is seeking motivated individuals who want to make an impact in the lives of West Virginia residents.

If you enjoy serving the public and are looking for a challenging career, visit the state’s career site and create an account today.

Learn more:

https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/wv

#2 – From WV NEWS – The town of Thomas, West Virginia, has gained national recognition as one of Southern Living’s “10 Under-The-Radar Mountain Towns For A Fall Getaway.” 

Located in Tucker County, Thomas is known for its charming red-brick district along the North Fork Blackwater River. Visitors can explore local cafes, shops, and galleries. The town also supports a thriving arts and music scene.

Just a short drive away, Blackwater Falls State Park offers breathtaking views of waterfalls and a variety of hiking and mountain biking trails.

Check out wvtourism.com to learn more and start planning your Almost Heaven getaway to Thomas, West Virginia!

Read more:

https://www.wvnews.com/news/wvnews/thomas-wv-named-a-top-under-the-radar-fall-getaway-by-southern-living/article_463626c0-84c2-11ef-a24a-d378d4d2a969.html

#3 – From WV LIVING – Each fall, WV Living brings readers a new class of Wonder Women to celebrate. With that new class come new lessons, new words of wisdom, and new inspiration. Having faith, living boldly, staying persistent, and keeping family close–these are just a few of the things you’ll learn from the very women who are changing West Virginia for the better.

The one lesson that appears most commonly this year? Fostering community. The 2024 class of Wonder Women represents a wide range of careers, including healthcare, conservation, education, firefighting and more--and all of them are working to better their communities and enrich the lives of their neighbors. 

Check out this year’s class of Wonder Women in WV Living magazine!

Read more:

https://wvliving.com/category/wonder-women/2024-west-virginia-wonder-women/

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, Oct. 15, 2024 

Find manufacturing jobs and post job opportunities on a free platform courtesy of #YesWV…Marshall University is at the forefront of institutions tackling national security issues…and bring your dog along for a howling good time in Almost Heaven…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From JOBCASE – Consumers are in constant contact with products containing elements made in West Virginia. 

The Mountain State supports a diverse manufacturing sector that includes chemicals, biotech/pharmaceuticals, primary metals, automotive components, fabricated products, wood products and more. West Virginia’s workforce also ranks first in the U.S. for the lowest turnover rate in manufacturing-specific jobs. 

Through their partnership with Jobcase.com/WV/Post, #YesWV offers a free platform for local employers to post job opportunities, ensuring that positions reach the right candidates.

Check out Jobcase.com to learn more and find out who’s hiring!

Read more:

https://www.jobcase.com/articles/manufacturing-in-wv

#2 – From VERTX PARTNERS – National security is more than an academic concern at Marshall University – it’s a driving force that shapes the institution’s mission, impacting the state of West Virginia and the country as a whole. 

Marshall is at the forefront of academic institutions preparing the next generation to tackle the complexities of national security. 

Marshall’s programs in aviation, technology transfer, and cybersecurity are more than just academic offerings. Each is integral to the United States’ national security framework. Vertx Partners believes it’s vital to highlight and connect with academic institutions like Marshall to strengthen our nation’s security, says Vertx President and Retired Air Force Colonel Sean Frisbee. 

“Marshall has a broader mission, but it fits into Vertx’s,” adds Frisbee. “First of all, by educating students to be effective members of society that drive new technologies.

Read more:

https://vertxpartners.org/marshall-university-vertx-spotlight/

#3 – From BLUE RIDGE OUTDOORS – Bring Fido along for a dog-friendly weekend in West Virginia! In the Mountain State, festivals, restaurants and adventures give a whole new meaning to family-friendly, pups included.

In Charleston, enjoy events like FestivALL’s Woofstock & Wieners race, a goofy competition for  dachshunds. You can also enter your dog in sprints or show off his tricks and obedience skills.

In the New River Gorge, plan a stay at Hemlock Haven Cabins, which has fenced-in backyards for pet owners, then hit the trails with your leashed pal.

If your pooch is small enough to fit in a stroller, he can even join you for some ghost tours at Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum! Or, carry him in your arms as you stroll through this historic building.

Check out Blue Ridge Outdoors for more dog-friendly travel ideas, then visit wvtourism.com to start planning your Almost Heaven getaway today!

Read more:

https://www.blueridgeoutdoors.com/sponsored-content/9-wester-virginia-mountain-trips-dog-can-take-lead/

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, Oct. 14, 2024 

The BUILD WV Act aims to attract housing development projects to growing communities…West Virginia’s “Little Switzerland” attracts visitors to its charming mountain village…and WV artist and teacher Payton Brown releases her first children’s book…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WV DED – West Virginia is one of the fastest growing in-bound states, and the demand for new, residential properties has never been higher.

Passed in the 2022 Legislative Session, the BUILD WV Act aims to assist West Virginia’s growing communities in attracting much-needed housing development projects. The credit offers a state sales and use tax exemption for building materials and a 10-year property value adjustment refundable tax credit to offset building costs. 

The West Virginia Department of Economic Development oversees the program and reviews all applications. 

Learn more:

https://westvirginia.gov/build-wv-act/

#2 – From SWISS IMPACT USA – Nestled in the highlands of West Virginia is the small village of Helvetia -- a “Little Switzerland” in the heart of Appalachia.

Helvetia was settled in 1869 by Swiss and German immigrants, drawn to the hilly landscape that felt familiar and reminded them of their homeland.

While tourism in Helvetia is generally modest, visitor numbers are constantly rising thanks to various initiatives of the community and the village’s feature in the popular video game Fallout 76. The annual “Fasnacht” celebration, in particular, now attracts nearly 2,000 guests from near and far. 

Watch the video to learn more about this charming little mountain village.

Learn more:

https://swissimpactusa.com/helvetia-a-little-switzerland-in-west-virginia/

#3 – From THE REAL WV –  Payton Brown is prolific. She recently released a coloring book dedicated to the best of West Virginia. It was her fifth coloring book in total. 

She works three jobs teaching art, and her fourth job is producing her own artwork. You’d think she would get tired. You’d think she would need time in between projects. You’d be wrong. Because like I said…Payton Brown is prolific. 

And now, she has released her first children’s book. 

“Buddies Rebuilding” is “a story about animals in the forest, inspired by West Virginia, that are experiencing deforestation,” she says. “They all work together to rebuild their forest.”

Read more:

https://therealwv.com/2024/10/01/wv-artist-releases-new-childrens-book-buddies-rebuilding/?es_id=9f099ad73a

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, Oct. 13, 2024 

A Huntington graphic designer and musician shares his vision and artistic path…the USDA’s state director talks about creating prosperity through rural development…and big investments in broadband mean more job opportunities for West Virginians…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From SHINE ON, WV – Heath Holley is a graphic designer and musician from Huntington, West Virginia. He has successfully done what many dream of doing: combined both of his artistic passions into one exciting freelance career. Whether he's writing music or designing his next album cover, Heath is never lacking in creativity! 

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

Watch now:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NRwjAFpXCS0

#2 – From INNOVATORS & ENTREPRENEURS – Ryan Thorn, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s state director for West Virginia, is creating prosperity through rural development and providing critical leadership to develop and support a productive, diverse and inclusive state workforce.

“At Rural Development, I always say we are advocates for, investors in, and partners to rural communities in the people, businesses, and organizations within those communities. In the last fiscal year alone, rural development and our lending partners – we invested more than $390 million in West Virginia through grants, loans, and loan guarantees,” Thorn says.

Check out the interview on Innovators and Entrepreneurs, a bi-weekly segment of the daily304 that features discussions and wisdom from West Virginians who have built their companies and launched new ideas here in the Mountain State.

Watch now:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kCq0LtCY0gU

#3 – From JOBCASE – Big investments in broadband infrastructure are occurring throughout West Virginia and workers have an opportunity to be part of one of the largest federally funded infrastructure investments in state history.

The West Virginia Department of Economic Development, Office of Broadband, is tasked with deploying local and federal broadband funds, including $1.2 billion in federal funding for broadband development in West Virginia. This historic investment in broadband infrastructure will support West Virginia’s vision to achieve universal broadband access.

Investment, however, can do little without the hard work of individuals. Now, there are new opportunities for workers to access broadband industry-specific training to secure a great job and contribute to connecting West Virginia. 

Learn more:

https://www.jobcase.com/articles/broadband-workforce-programs-wv

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

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

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

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

Today is Saturday, Oct. 12, 2024  WV BusinessLink connects entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources they need to thrive…learn how the WV Division on Natural Resources is safeguarding the state’s natural heritage…and the WV Economic Development Authority plays a big part in the success of a Clarksburg aluminum manufacturer…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WV SBDC – West Virginia BusinessLink is a platform that connects entrepreneurs and small business owners to a network of local, regional and statewide resource partners to foster innovation, growth and prosperity here in West Virginia created by the West Virginia Small Business Development Center.

The platform provides access to a network of more than 170 regional and statewide resources tailored specifically for entrepreneurs, startups, emerging companies and established businesses. These resources are all designed with the same goal in mind: helping small businesses succeed. 

Learn more:

https://wvsbdc.com/west-virginia-businesslink-a-service-of-the-wv-small-business-development-center/

#2 – From WVDNR – National Public Lands Day, celebrated on September 28 in 2024, is more than just a day on the calendar — it’s a call to action for all of us who cherish the beauty and bounty of our natural world. This year’s theme, “Together for Tomorrow,” serves as a powerful reminder that the choices we make today will shape the landscapes we pass on to future generations.

In West Virginia, the Division of Natural Resources is at the forefront of this effort, protecting and enhancing our public lands through innovative conservation, community-driven initiatives and a commitment to sustainability.

Through collaborative conservation initiatives, educational programs, volunteer-driven restoration projects and sustainable practices for future generations, the WVDNR is safeguarding West Virginia’s natural heritage for generations to come. 

Read more:

https://wvdnr.gov/4-unique-ways-the-wvdnr-protects-west-virginias-public-lands/

#3 – From WV EDA – Skana Aluminum’s re-rolling mill in Clarksburg is allowing the company to access customers all over the East Coast. 

The company has worked with the West Virginia Economic Development Authority from the very beginning and the partnership played a big part in keeping the facility open over the years. In fact, with equipment and facility upgrades through WVEDA financing, Skana Aluminum has gone from 35 to 64 employees and more than doubled its production capacity.

Chairman and CEO Tom Testwuide says that the WVEDA has been a large part of the company’s success over the years.

“When you buy a facility like this, especially coming from Wisconsin, to get financing would be very difficult,” Testwuide said. “It was amazing that West Virginia has this very smart program, which is lending money to local state businesses to help them retain the businesses and help them grow.”

Read more:

https://eda.wv.gov/skana-aluminum/

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, Oct. 11, 2024 

Explore the rugged beauty of West Virginia’s longest trail…Lewisburg’s culinary scene is again ranked No. 1 in the U.S. among small towns…and Newell manufacturer Marsh Bellofram embraces innovation and excellence in #YesWV …on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WOAY-TV – Do you want to enjoy everything Mother Nature has to offer in West Virginia? The 311-mile Allegheny Trail runs the length of West Virginia, passing through beautiful, rugged scenery in the Allegheny Mountains.

That means if you are a hiker, if you are a biker, if you like the canoe, if you like the kayak, if you want to learn a lot about West Virginia’s history, this trail offers everything for you today.

Soon, the trail will connect with Sweet Springs in Monroe County. They have about a half mile to go, but even so, right now, you can enjoy plenty of activities for the kids by just hopping off the Allegheny Trail and this sweet spot in West Virginia.

Arietta Dupre of Sweet Springs Resort Park says kids can pick up a scavenger hunt map and get a prize for completing the hunt. The resort is also working on an ADA trail and area with interactive activities including birdwatching.

Learn more at www.sweetspringsresortpark.org and www.hikethealleghenytrail.org.

Watch the video:

https://woay.com/one-tank-trip-hike-bike-run-or-walk-west-virginias-longest-trail/

#2 – From REGISTER-HERALD – If, as the saying goes, the kitchen is the heart of the home, then Lewisburg might very well be the strong, vibrantly beating heart of southern West Virginia.

This 242-year-old town in Greenbrier County retains its historic charm while also adapting to survive in the present.

In fact, many of the most historic structures in Lewisburg have been repurposed and are in use today, some as boutiques and small markets but many as unique restaurants and bistros that offer patrons a diverse range of culinary experiences.

In April, Lewisburg was ranked No. 1 on the USA Today 2024 Top 10 Best Small Town Food Scene list for the second year in a row, beating out small towns all over the United States for the top spot.

Visitors are treated to the culinary delights of  The French Goat, The Humble Tomato, the Livery Tavern and many more unique local eateries. Learn more about the local dining scene at greenbrierwv.com.

Read more:

https://www.register-herald.com/news/life/epicurean-titan-lewisburg-s-culinary-scene-proves-culinary-excellence/article_e12782de-29e9-11ef-bf75-bf8d58597dad.html

#3 – From WV DED –  Marsh Bellofram, headquartered in Newell, West Virginia, epitomizes a rich history of American manufacturing and a forward-thinking approach to modern industry needs. With a legacy stretching back to the mid-20th century, the company has evolved through strategic growth and a commitment to excellence. 

The company’s products serve a variety of applications, from weather stripping for the airline industry to seals for food and beverage, and gas regulators for residential, industrial, and commercial use.

Why does this global manufacturer say #YesWV?

West Virginia’s supportive business environment, combined with the state’s commitment to fostering innovation and industrial growth, aligns perfectly with Marsh Bellofram’s goals. 

Read more:

https://westvirginia.gov/marsh-bellofram-embracing-innovation-and-excellence-in-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.