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

Today is Saturday, July 6, 2024.

Crave WV pays a visit to The Grind coffee shop in Ripley…the CEO of Intermed Labs in Morgantown talks about building health innovations into companies…and, since 1949 Marble King has called West Virginia home, producing glass marbles for everything from toys and games to spray paint cans…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From DAILY304 – Crave WV visits The Grind in Ripley. The coffee shop offers a wide variety of delicious drinks and food to customers. They say that their warm community and sense of family keep people coming back for more! So...want to grab a coffee?

Watch the video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t4k7NbBVAb0

#2 – From WV COMMERCE – Intermed Labs is an award-winning startup venture studio in Morgantown that advances technological breakthroughs in health technology. 

CEO Tom McClellan, M.D., talks about how the business works with talented physicians, companies and health systems to conceive, launch and scale new businesses. 

Watch the video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?si=4Xu-OZjAUWcY8Xfm&v=teWcK9FMBWY&feature=youtu.be

#3 – From WV COMMERCE – Marble King proudly calls West Virginia home, citing the strategic location and the hardworking people as key factors in their success. The Paden City company’s deep roots in West Virginia have allowed it to thrive and continue its legacy of excellence.

CEO Beri Fox talks about the marble making process, the toy industry they supply, and the company’s work with the West Virginia Department of Economic Development in identifying opportunities.

Watch the video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?si=C_ynj_cJDipGtoix&v=_Py57rZbyQM&feature=youtu.be

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, July 5, 2024.

GreenPower delivers its first electric school bus to Kanawha County Schools…Embark on a camping adventure at Lost River State Park and discover views for days…and employers, learn how you can post your job openings for free on Jobcase.com…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WV PUBLIC– A factory in South Charleston continues to roll out electric school buses for West Virginia districts.

GreenPower recently delivered its first full-size BEAST model electric bus to Kanawha County Schools built in South Charleston. The model seats 90 passengers and has a range of 150 miles. Its aluminum body is made by Constellium, which has a plant in Jackson County.

The district has another three on order. All four are part of a total order of 37 statewide to replace diesel buses. They will be delivered by the end of the year, the company said.

Read more:

https://wvpublic.org/greenpower-drops-off-full-size-electric-bus-with-more-to-come/

#2 – From WV STATE PARKS – Embark on a camping adventure where you can truly get lost in nature. Set in the wooded mountains of Hardy County in West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle, Lost River State Park delivers stunning mountain views and a generous offering of recreational activities.

Lost River offers a camping experience like no other. Two primitive campsites and a ranger’s cabin can be reached only by a 1 or 2 mile hike. Or you can enjoy an overnight stay in one of the park’s 25 fully equipped cabins.

Spend your days hiking (Check out the stunning views from Cranny Crow overlook!), horseback riding, swimming, or hit the game courts with a friend. Meanwhile, regional attractions include the Spruce Knob-Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area, the Potomac Eagle scenic train, and Seneca and Smoke Hole Caverns. 

Visit www.wvstateparks.com and start planning your Almost Heaven getaway today!

Read more:

https://wvstateparks.com/plan-a-lost-river-state-park-camping-trip/

#3 – From JOBCASE –  Consumers are in constant contact with products containing elements made in West Virginia. The state fosters a diverse manufacturing sector and its workforce ranks first in the U.S. for the lowest turnover rate in manufacturing-specific jobs.

West Virginia boasts robust partnerships with employers, fostering a vibrant employment environment for job seekers. 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.

Learn more:

https://www.jobcase.com/articles/manufacturing-in-wv#manufacturing-companies-hiring-now-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.

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

Today is July 4, 2024.

This week You Gotta Regatta, and discover all there is to see and do in Charleston as well…Tour a working farm and sample homemade products on the Hampshire County Farm Crawl…and check out the WVDNR’s updated hunting regulations…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WV TOURISM – With the Charleston Sternwheel Regatta taking place in the Capital City this week, Charleston is the place to be. Check out all there is to see and experience here!

Get outside and take a walk on the historic Sunrise Carriage Trail. Attend a Charleston Dirty Birds baseball game or head over to Slack Plaza at City Center for a concert or afternoon yoga. Interested in the state’s history? Take a stroll through the State Capitol grounds and explore the State Museum of West Virginia located at the Culture Center.

When you need to head inside to escape the heat, there’s a great selection of local restaurants, breweries and shops downtown, from the award-winning 1010 Bridge to Bad Shepherd Brewing Company to Taylor Books. 

Check out the Regatta schedule for information on concerts, wiener dog and rubber duck races and more.

Read more:

https://wvtourism.com/a-summer-guide-to-charleston-west-virginia/

#2 – From COME TO HAMPSHIRE – The Hampshire County Farm Crawl takes place July 13-14, 2024.

It’s a fun-filled adventure where you’ll get to witness first-hand the rich history and modern innovations of our local farms. From farm tours to hands-on activities and delightful product tastings, there’s something for everyone. 

Come see the dedication and passion that goes into running these amazing farms!

Learn more:

https://cometohampshire.com/wvfarmcrawl/

#3 – From WCHS-TV – Updated hunting regulations in West Virginia include several charges to the dates of different seasons and transport regulations.

The updated summary released by the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources includes a major change which calls for a limit of two antlered deer bags, with the exception of West Virginia CWD Containment Areas where three antlered deer may be taken by Class XS license holders.

Visit wvdnr.gov to download a guide to hunting and trapping regulations and dates.

Read more:

https://wchstv.com/news/local/west-virginia-dnr-releases-updated-hunting-regulations-season-dates#

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.

In this episode of What Makes You Wonderful, we talk to Aaron Coleman, the innovative owner of The Greenbrier Goat. He offers a unique and therapeutic outdoor experience for adventurers in the Mountain State. His service, the only one of its kind in the state, features a pack-goat-powered basecamp tailored for groups of cyclists and day hikers. 

Coleman passionately believes in the therapeutic benefits of nature and animal companionship, providing a memorable and rejuvenating experience for all who visit. Whether you're cycling through scenic trails or embarking on a day hike, The Greenbrier Goat promises an adventure like no other.

For more information: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61554937328767

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

Today is Wednesday, July 3, 2024. 

You’ll be seeing stars at the new cabins at Coopers Rock State Forest…the new Multimodal Transit Center is taking shape in Martinsburg…and learn how you can earn a degree in advanced manufacturing AND graduate debt-free…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WBOY-TV – The new stargazing cabins at Coopers Rock State Forest will be open for reservations beginning Aug. 1.

The five cabins under construction are located along Coopers Rock’s main ridge between the main overlook and Ravens Rock. The cabins will be equipped with telescopes and specific places for the best stargazing. They are the first of their kind in West Virginia.

Seven more cabins are being built in addition to the five that are already at the site.

In addition to the cabins, Coopers Rock has also upgraded its camping options with 25 new modern RV sites, new laundry and firewood facilities and wastewater improvements.

For more information or to book your lodging, visit www.wvstateparks.com.

Read more:

https://www.wboy.com/news/local/monongalia-and-preston/coopers-rock-stargazing-cabins-opening-this-fall/

#2 – From MARTINSBURG JOURNAL – The once-only-dreamed-about Eastern Panhandle Multimodal Transit Center is becoming a reality, according to Eastern Panhandle Transit Authority Executive Director Elaine Bartoldson.

The project has been in the planning for approximately nine years, Bartoldson told a large crowd gathered recently for the groundbreaking ceremony in Martinsburg.

This new project will help address rising rider demand and will provide a modern, purpose-built, consolidated maintenance and storage facility, as well as a more centrally located and ADA-compliant transfer center and administrative offices to serve EPTA’s growing customer base.

Funding for the project came from three federal grants, including the Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) grant program.

Read more:

https://www.journal-news.net/journal-news/multimodal-transit-center-coming-to-fruition-after-nearly-a-decade-of-planning/article_8850155e-af76-570b-8507-086b1eb27b25.html

#3 – From PCDA – Would you like to earn a degree in advanced manufacturing AND graduate debt-free?

Programs like WV Invests and BridgeValley’s ASCEND programs allow students to graduate completely debt-free, including tuition, fees, books, and other associated educational expenses. Work three days a week and attend class two days a week. You’ll earn a real wage with the potential for periodic pay increases.

Graduates are eligible to continue their employment with their sponsoring manufacturer, moving into a full-time position with benefits.

Learn more:

https://pcda.org/fame-usa/

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, July 2, 2024.

“Go Wild” with your yard, save money AND help native wildlife; the WVDNR shows you how…discover the hidden world beneath a freshwater ecosystem with a snorkeling session at Seneca Rocks…and plan a kayaking adventure in North Central West Virginia…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WBOY-TV – The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources has a program that encourages residents to “go wild” with their yards.

The Wild Yards Program is part of the WVDNR’s Wildlife Diversity Program that recognizes backyard landscapers for creating and maintaining wildlife habitats. The program provides guidance and a sign you can put in your yard to signify that you are part of the statewide network.

Why should you do it? Wild yards need less maintenance. It saves money AND makes money by increasing your property value. 

By adding native plants and simple things like feeders, birdbaths, nest boxes, fruit trees or other sources of food, you can increase your daily wildlife encounters. Studies show that contact with nature can improve your mood, cognition and health.

To learn more and receive a Wild Yards manual, visit WVDNR online.

Read more:

https://www.wboy.com/wv-outdoors/4-reasons-why-the-wvdnr-says-you-should-let-your-yard-go-wild/

#2 – From LOOT PRESS – Discover the hidden world beneath the surface of a freshwater ecosystem and gain a new appreciation for the Chesapeake Bay watershed.

Join the Seneca Rocks Discovery Center staff at Monongahela National Forest for exciting river snorkeling programs every Tuesday and Thursday until September 5, 2024.

“Don’t let the idea of snorkeling in the North Fork of the South Branch of the Potomac River surprise you. You’re invited to join us in uncovering the unseen world of this vibrant ecosystem,” said Mandy Harmon, Assistant Discovery Center Director.

Space is limited, so pre-registration is necessary. To register and find out more, contact Justin Lee at [email protected] or call the Discovery Center at 304-567-2627.

Read more:

https://www.lootpress.com/explore-snorkeling-at-seneca-rocks-discovery-center/

#3 – From WV NEWS – North Central West Virginia is emerging as a premier destination for kayaking enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of experiences amid its rolling hills, dense forests, and winding rivers. The region’s natural beauty and varied waterways cater to kayakers of all skill levels. 

Whether you prefer thrilling whitewater adventures or serene paddles on calm lakes, you’ll find some great places to get in the water here. Check out some of the top kayaking spots in the region, including the Cheat River, Tygart Valley River, Stonewall Jackson Lake and more.

Visit www.wvtourism.com for additional information on kayaking destinations in Almost Heaven.

Read more:

https://www.wvnews.com/north-central-west-virginia-a-kayakers-paradise/article_a9f303e2-2ef3-11ef-88f5-33b68604549d.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 July 1, 2024.

The WV National Guard gets funding to establish a food production hub in Charleston…Allegheny Trail stewards celebrate 50 years with group hikes, trail work and more…and you’ll be seeing stars at these dark sky locations in Almost Heaven…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WV NEWS – A business center planned for Charleston aims to provide new resources to entrepreneurs in the culinary sector.

The United States Small Business Administration is granting the West Virginia National Guard $595,000 to establish a small business hub with a specific emphasis on food production and innovation.

The new center will have office areas, recipe design spaces and a test kitchen.

Adjutant General for the State of West Virginia William Crane said the new funding will allow the National Guard to expand current entrepreneurial resources within the state’s veteran community and beyond.

The hub will find good company in Charleston, a city already home to multiple other small business incubators — like the University of Charleston Downtown Innovation Hub and the West Virginia Small Business Development Center.

Read more:

https://www.wvnews.com/news/wvnews/new-food-entrepreneurship-hub-slated-for-charleston-west-virginia/article_55dcfb24-3096-11ef-9a31-7f2bffa18897.html

#2 – From BACKPACKER – The 311 mile Allegheny Trail might be one of the most breathtaking long trails in the United States. The scenic footpath stretches from the Pennsylvania border to the Virginia border, connecting to the Appalachian Trail at Peter’s Mountain in Monroe County.

It’s a great trek any year, but 2024 is special. That’s because in September, the trail’s primary stewardship organization, the West Virginia Scenic Trail Association, is turning 50, and the nonprofit is going all out to celebrate. Hikers who hit the trail this year will have their pick of events, group hikes, fitness challenges, and community trail-work days to choose from.

Fall is the best time to visit, says trail hikers. Not only do you have beautiful fall foliage, it’s also peak time for migrating raptors. Check out the story at Backpacker.com to learn more about Allegheny Trail events, including the 50th Anniversary Bash.

Read more:

https://www.backpacker.com/trips/trips-by-state/west-virginia-trails/why-this-is-the-year-to-hike-west-virginias-allegheny-trail/

#3 – From WV EXPLORER – Located entirely within the Appalachian Mountains, West Virginia includes some of the darkest regions of the night sky in the eastern U.S.

Based on dark-sky data, the most significant areas of dark skies in West Virginia occur where populations are lowest or are least concentrated and where mountain walls shut out light from cities and light sources such as surface mines and gas wells.

You’ll find some great stargazing places at Calhoun County Park in Calhoun County, in the Monongahela National Forest in Pocahontas, Randolph and Pendleton counties, and in the Eastern Panhandle west of Cacapon Mountain.

Check out Dark Sky Adventures at wvtourism.com to learn more and plan your stargazing adventure. 

Read more:

https://wvexplorer.com/2024/06/16/where-are-darkest-night-skies-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.

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

Today is Sunday, June 30, 2024. 

Download your summer bucket list, check off your adventures in Almost Heaven and you might win a fall getaway from WV Tourism...Sprouse Building Products delivers quality vinyl windows in #YesWV…and escape the heat with a hike on a shaded trail or near water where you can take a cooling dip…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WV TOURISM – Summer is the perfect time to meet all of your adventure goals. Check off our summer bucket list for the chance to win a fall getaway in Almost Heaven. You’ll never run out of fun things to do in West Virginia. Take a road trip. Visit a natural wonder. Plan a water excursion. Dine at a local restaurant. 

Visit wvtourism.com to download your bucket list and build your own unique itinerary. Everyone who completes a bucket list will be entered into Tourism’s fall getaway sweepstakes. 

Learn more:

https://wvtourism.com/summer-bucket-list/

#2 – From WV COMMERCE – Since 1991, Sprouse Building Products has quietly manufactured and delivered quality vinyl windows to more than 10 states from the small town of Paden City, West Virginia. The company traces its roots to Sprouse Aluminum Products founded by Norman and Beverly Sprouse in 1972 and Omega Window Systems founded by Jeff and Cecelia Sprouse in 1985.

Learn more about why Sprouse Windows and Doors says #YesWV.

Watch the video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fYVe3NKUcMY

#3 – From WBOY-TV – Want to take advantage of the outdoors but worried about the heat? Check out a  few of the hiking trails in West Virginia that offer a little bit of a break from the high temperatures West Virginia has been stuck in for the past week.

Head to Audra State Park for a shaded hike and a cooling dip in the Middle Fork River. The Alum Creek and Cave Trail has both water access and cave-like overhangs to keep it cool. 

One of the best ways to beat the heat is to go to West Virginia’s higher elevations. Snowshoe Mountain has lots of trails to take advantage of, but the lake trail also has water access, which can also help keep you cool.

Visit wvtourism.com or wvstateparks.com to learn more about hiking trails in Almost Heaven. 

Read more:

https://www.wboy.com/wv-outdoors/west-virginia-hiking-trails-that-are-bearable-when-its-really-hot/

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, June 29, 2024.

The Charleston Sternwheel Regatta returns next week, bringing great music, food and fun…Enjoy a concert from your couch with Mountain State Music…and Hillbilly Hotdogs’ owner shares the secret to her success…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From CHARLESTON REGATTA – Save the date! The Charleston Sternwheel Regatta returns to the Capital City July 3-7. The event kicks off with the Wheelwash Beer Festival. Enjoy carnival games and rides, great food, live music and more. Check out charlestonregatta.com for updates. 

Learn more:

https://charlestonregatta.com/

#2 – From MOUNTAIN STATE MUSIC – The daily304 and Folklore Music Exchange are proud to present Mountain State Music Concert from the Folklore Stage in Charleston, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. This week’s guests include Kindred Valley and Noah Freeman! 

Check it out on YouTube. It’s a concert from your couch! Sit back, relax, and enjoy LIVE music from West Virginia.

Watch the video:

https://www.youtube.com/live/xcKq4ZQHmOY?si=ofD5zEZv5zeQ69--

#3 – 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 hotdogs...you will not be disappointed by this one-of-a-kind roadside restaurant. Check out the video and visit Hillbillyhotdogs.com to learn more about these delicious dogs. 

Watch the video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?si=UuSd2dWImw49-C7M&v=Zv_hFlK25z8&feature=youtu.be

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, June 28, 2024.

The History Project explores the life of Francis H. Pierpont, West Virginia’s founding father…Morgantown’s Safe UV creates jobs and healthier spaces in their community with assistance from the WV EDA…and WV’s thriving elk population continues to grow…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From THE HISTORY PROJECT – Considered the “Father of West Virginia,” Francis H. Pierpont was the man needed for the difficult task of gaining the state’s independence from Virginia and entrusted by Lincoln to restore that state to order after the Civil War; the West Virginian who would be Governor of Virginia.

Tune into “The History Project” to learn more about West Virginia’s founding father who shaped the destiny of the Mountain State and the Old Dominion.

Watch the video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fc46gDH8jKs

#2 – From EDA.GOV– Safe UV, based out of Morgantown, are creating jobs and healthier spaces in their community. Made up of WVU alumni, the company manufactures germicidal, ultra-violet lamps – a new product to a relatively new industry. 

It’s not easy, however, to secure funding for the physical capital necessary for UV lamp manufacturing. With help from the West Virginia Economic Development Authority, Safe UV can create more and more manufacturing and technology jobs for their community.

Learn more:

https://eda.wv.gov/this-manufacturer-saw-the-need-for-disinfection-technology-and-got-to-work-with-help-from-wveda/

#3 – From WV COMMERCE – West Virginia's elk herd is thriving thanks to sound management practices, native births and a series of elk transports and releases, which has brought the state's elk population to more than 140.

In the fall, you’ll have a chance to see these majestic animals in their natural habitat with the WVDNR’s elk management tours starting at Chief Logan Lodge. 

Watch the video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?si=I5wrEp7etGgvENwA&v=JXGDexT1qto&feature=youtu.be

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.