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

Today is Sunday, Feb. 4 

Take a peek at some of the West Virginia locations used in award-winning movies like “The Deer Hunter.” A partnership with the WVEDA helps an aluminum company hire more employees and double production capacity. And the aerospace industry in #YesWV takes off…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WV FILM OFFICE  – If you’re looking for the perfect location for your next film project, you’ll find it in Almost Heaven, West Virginia. The West Virginia Film Office can help secure your perfect location, find skilled workforce, and navigate film permitting.

Take a look at some of the West Virginia settings used in films like “The Deer Hunter” and “We Are Marshall” -- from small towns and cities to beautiful mountain settings to tourist attractions like the West Virginia Penitentiary. Then visit https://westvirginia.gov/wvfilm/ to learn more.

Watch the video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P-eOn8StAHE

 #2 – From WV COMMERCE – 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 their production capacity. 

See for yourself why the aluminum company says this West Virginia program is world class.

Watch the video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=24_QNJ_KBjY

#3 – From WV ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT – The aerospace industry is a dynamic, emerging economic sector in West Virginia. From up-and-coming high-tech innovators to established titans of the industry, the state’s growing cluster of aerospace companies is fueled by an array of advantages.

West Virginia is within a day’s drive of 34% of the top domestic purchasing sectors of aerospace products and national defense contractors, corporations and federal agencies. Additionally, the state is in close proximity to original equipment manufacturers based in the South, including Boeing, AirBus, Lockheed Martin and Gulfstream. 

Visit the West Virginia Department of Economic Development online to see why aerospace companies are saying #YesWV. 

Learn more:

https://westvirginia.gov/industries/aerospace/

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, Feb. 3 

As Latin America shows strong economic growth, learn more about exporting to this region. The automotive industry continues to thrive in #YesWV. And, speaking of automotive, Toyota WV’s president, shares why the company is leading the charge to innovation…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WV ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT – Exporters, are you looking to expand into a new market? When it comes to economic resurgence in post-COVID-19 world, West Virginia and Latin America have a lot in common. 

Like West Virginia, Latin America has shown signs of growth, with most economies regaining their pre-pandemic sizes by the end of 2022. This bounce-back highlights the region’s dynamic market potential. 

Because Latin America is made up of many diverse economies and cultures, successfully tapping into this growing market requires an understanding of the varied processes and regulations that govern commerce across its 33 countries.

Visit the West Virginia Department of Economic Development online to learn about import and export documentation, tariffs and customs duties, trade agreements and more.

Read more:

https://westvirginia.gov/navigating-trade-a-guide-to-processes-and-regulations-for-wv-companies-exporting-to-latin-america/

#2 – From WV ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT – Automotive component manufacturers from around the world have found the road to success leads to West Virginia. Businesses that supply and support the automotive industry find a ready workforce with the skills needed by today’s market.

Why does the automotive industry say #YesWV? In addition to its dedicated workforce, West Virginia provides easy access to suppliers of raw materials such as steel, aluminum and chemicals/polymers needed for the automotive industry.

Automotive manufacturers in the state can take advantage of research and technology resources like the non-profit Center for Alternative Fuels, Engines and Emissions, the National Alternative Fuels Training Consortium and the Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center.

Learn more:

https://westvirginia.gov/industries/automotive/

#3 – From INNOVATORS & ENTREPRENEURS –  David Rosier, President of Toyota Motor Manufacturing, West Virginia, shares why Toyota is known for leading the charge to innovation.

Some of those innovative ideas include installing solar flowers and using “lambscapers” -- sheep -- to maintain the grounds around the facility’s solar array.

“Those were all ideas that came from one of our environmental engineers. We empower them to come up with creative ideas to solve our issues and they never cease to amaze me,” Rosier said.

Innovators and Entrepreneurs is 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 the video on the daily304 channel on YouTube -- and don’t forget to hit like and subscribe!

Watch the video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aod-9i1MJuk

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. 2 

Looking for a good-paying and rewarding job? WV corrections facilities are hiring. Two WV chefs are semifinalists for the prestigious James Beard award. And WVU enters a new research partnership that may spark health innovation…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From JOBCASE – Explore a stable and rewarding career with the West Virginia Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation.

As a correctional officer, you'll play a pivotal role in ensuring public safety, upholding public trust and contributing to a higher purpose. You'll be making a real impact on your community. 

Higher salaries await you, starting at a minimum of $40,000 annually plus a retention bonus after one year and further salary increases after two years. You’ll also receive a great benefits package and paid leave. Additional perks include paid training and plenty of advancement opportunities.

What are you waiting for? Visit www.jobcase.com/ru/West-Virginia to find out who’s hiring!

Read more:

https://www.jobcase.com/articles/wv-dcr

#2 – From WCHS-TV – Two chefs from West Virginia have been recognized for culinary excellence with James Beard Award nominations.

Chef Paul Smith, of 1010 Bridge in Charleston, has been nominated for best chef of the southeast while Scott MacGregor, from Snowshoe’s Appalachian Kitchen, joins the semifinalist list.

“It's a huge deal,” said Smith, who was one of five finalists last year. “I wouldn't say it's a dream come true because it's beyond our wildest dreams. This is the Academy Awards for chefs, so just to be nominated you are an Academy Award-winning chef basically."

“It was shocking. It was definitely exciting,” MacGregor said. “It was an honor for me to think that I'm in there with people from huge food cities, like Memphis, Nashville, Charleston, South Carolina and all of these places that are kind these up-and-running food cities. I'm here in the middle of the mountains.”

Finalists will be announced in March.

Read more:

https://wchstv.com/news/local/two-wva-chefs-nominated-for-coveted-james-beard-awards-appalachian-kitchen-scott-macgregor-1010-bridge-paul-smith-snowshoe-charleston-culinary-west-virginia

#3 – From WVU TODAY – West Virginia University has been tapped to help accelerate commercialization of medical innovations by collaborating with a nationwide network within the National Institutes of Health.

WVU is one of just 127 entities to be named a spokesmember or partner for the Investor Catalyst Hub, a regional hub of the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health. The University is the only member from West Virginia.

ARPA-H’s overarching mission is to improve health outcomes through the following research focus areas: health science futures, proactive health, scalable solutions and resilient systems.

As a member of the hub, WVU will have access to potential funding and flexible contracting for faster award execution compared to traditional government contracts.

“We will be able to tap into a wealth of knowledge and expertise that is represented through the spokes and are excited for the possibilities that will emerge from the ARPA-H partnerships,” said Erienne Olesh, executive director of the Office of Student and Faculty Innovation in the WVU Research Office.  

Read more:

https://wvutoday.wvu.edu/stories/2024/01/29/wvu-selected-to-partner-with-federal-research-entity-to-spark-health-innovation

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. 1 

It’s big news for WV State as the university launches its first doctorate program starting in May. A nonprofit instrument manufacturer works to support Appalachians in need. And the Wing 2 Wing Foundation celebrates a year of successes in #YesWV…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WVU STATE –  West Virginia State University is launching its first doctorate degree program in May, a new Doctorate of Education in Leadership Studies.

The fully online, two-year program is the first doctorate degree in the history of WVSU and is designed for working professionals from a variety of fields such as education, the nonprofit sector and government.  The inaugural cohort will enroll in May 2024. The program emphasizes fairness, diversity, and social justice with threads related to these concepts embedded in the content coursework. 

“This is truly a historic moment in the 133-year history of our university,” said WVSU President Ericke S. Cage. “This Doctorate of Education in Leadership Studies program will serve a vital need for the workforce in West Virginia by providing executive level education that will allow organizational leaders to continue to grow in their professional careers.”

For more information about the Doctorate of Education in Leadership Studies visit the program website here, or contact Dr. Emily Waugh at (304) 766-5192 or [email protected].

Read more:

https://www.wvstateu.edu/campusnews/2024/january/west-virginia-state-university-launches-first-doct.aspx

#2 – From WV PUBCAST –  In the mountains of Eastern Kentucky, jobs are scarce, and an opioid crisis continues to inflict pain throughout this region of Appalachia, including West Virginia.

But where many see hopelessness, Doug Naselroad, a master luthier from Hindman, Kentucky, sees an opportunity to help those in need.

Naselroad founded a nonprofit instrument manufacturer, The Troublesome Creek Stringed Instrument Company, to train and employ people in recovery, helping them find purpose and belonging as they work their way through recovery.

The Troublesome Creek Stringed Instrument Company strives to make beautiful handcrafted instruments, including dulcimers, guitars and mandolins.

Interested in becoming part of the Troublesome Creek family of dealers? Visit www.troublesomecreekguitars.com

Watch the Folkways video:

https://wvpublic.org/troublesome-creek-building-instruments-as-a-form-of-recovery/

#3 – From BRAD D SMITH – Since its 2019 inception, the Wing 2 Wing Foundation has worked to level the playing field of opportunity in Appalachia. 

Acting on its three guiding pillars (education, entrepreneurship and environment), Wing 2 Wing has worked to support West Virginia’s dreamers and doers by prioritizing access to education, advancing entrepreneurial interests, and conserving and championing the region’s natural assets. 

In 2023, Wing 2 Wing celebrated the introduction of new ventures and programs created to further aid Appalachians. The organization’s work included supporting the First Annual Almost Heaven Classic golf tournament. Wing 2 Wing co-founder Alys Smith led the Inaugural Women Warriors Summit to empower women’s voices. 

The foundation also expanded on its popular Ascend WV remote worker program by launching a spinoff program named First Ascent that encourages recent graduates of Marshall University and West Virginia University to stay in the state after completing their studies.

Learn more:

https://braddsmith.com/blog/wing-2-wing-2023-recap/

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. 31 

Learn why information & technology is one of the fastest growing industries in WV. The WV Division of Forestry seeks nominations for the WV Agriculture & Forestry Hall of Fame. And the 2024 WV Vacation Guide is here--make your travel plans today!…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WV ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT – Did you know that Technology & Information Services is an emerging industry in West Virginia? This growing cluster of researchers and practitioners includes university research facilities, government agencies and commercial enterprises.

The concentration of Technology and Information Services, specifically our leading biometric organizations in north-central West Virginia, has been called the “Silicon Valley of America’s biometrics activity.

These strengths, combined with our state’s skilled workforce, low cost of doing business and high quality of life make West Virginia a great place to relocate, invest and expand. Visit the West Virginia Department of Economic Development to learn more about these companies that have said #YesWV.

Learn more:

https://westvirginia.gov/industries/information-technology/

#2 – From WOAY-TV – The West Virginia Division of Forestry is accepting nominations for the West Virginia Agriculture and Forestry Hall of Fame.

The Hall of Fame celebrates people, businesses, organizations, and others contributing to West Virginia’s agriculture, forestry, and family life.

The WVDOF will induct select nominees during a recognition dinner in July at Jackson’s Mill.

Nominations are due by February 16. To access a nomination form online, visit agriculture.wv.gov.

Learn more:

https://woay.com/the-west-virginia-division-of-forestry-accepting-nominations-for-west-virginia-agriculture-and-forestry-hall-of-fame/

#3 – From WV GOVERNOR – Gov. Jim Justice has unveiled the 2024 West Virginia Vacation Guide, the state’s official travel magazine. Travelers can view the 112-page guide online or get a free copy mailed to them directly. 

Last year, the West Virginia Department of Tourism distributed over a quarter of a million printed guides to travelers across the nation and around the world. 

This year’s cover depicts a magnificent starry sky surrounding the Hanging Rock Raptor Observatory in Monroe County. Using a special printing technique, the front cover is textured to give readers an earthy, sensory experience before even opening the guide.

To request your very own free copy of the 2024 West Virginia Vacation Guide, click here. To access a digital version of the guide, click here. 

You can also find copies in the Governor's Office, the State Museum, all rest areas, and welcome centers.

Read more:

https://governor.wv.gov/News/press-releases/2024/Pages/Gov.-Justice-unveils-2024-West-Virginia-Vacation-Guide.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. 30 

WVU-Tech enlists Chef Paul Smith to boost its culinary program. A grant from the Chemours Belle plant will fund STEM education for area students. And the mountain community of Helvetia prepares to usher out Old Man Winter…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WVNS-TV – The West Virginia University Institute of Technology has announced a partnership with Chef Paul Smith.

The partnership will be related to the school’s two-year culinary program that is hosted at the WVU Tech’s Beckley campus that opened in 2020, and is offered through Potomac State College.

Paul Smith was the first West Virginian to be a James Beard Foundation award finalist and he operates various restaurants in Charleston.

“The partnership with Chef Paul Smith will promote and facilitate our goals of improving culinary skills of students, diversifying our curriculum and fostering community involvement through enhanced hospitality opportunities in our state,” said Chef Devin Noor, program director and teaching assistant professor of culinary arts.

“Chef Paul not only brings enhanced culinary techniques but also creativity, dedication and passion that will greatly enhance student experience at WVU Tech.”

Read more:

https://www.wvnstv.com/top-stories/wvu-tech-culinary-program-announces-partnership-with-chef-paul-smith/

#2 – From CSR WIRE – The Chemours Company’s Belle plant recently awarded a nearly $99,000 Vibrant Community grant to Explore the New Manufacturing as part of the company’s commitment to invest $50 million in its communities to increase access to science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) skills, safety initiatives, and sustainable environment programs by 2030. 

The investment will directly benefit middle and high school students participating in educational learning programs designed to support STEM, technical careers, and development opportunities to fuel a high-potential, future workforce. The grant will benefit students in Explore’s Kanawha Valley and Mid-Ohio Valley hubs.

“As a chemistry company, we are passionate about inspiring the next generation of STEM professionals through early access to STEM education and mentoring,” said Nicholas Martino, Chemours Belle plant manager. “This is more important than ever with 800,000 expected job openings in STEM-related fields by 2031.”

Read more:

https://www.csrwire.com/press_releases/792986-chemours-belle-plant-invests-west-virginia-education-and-manufacturing

#3 – From GAZETTE-MAIL – Who needs a shadow-skittish groundhog prognosticator popping up every frigid February when a burning effigy might better hasten the arrival of spring? (It also might not, but at least there’s food, music, masks, and other amenities.)

All of that (minus the groundhog) will be observed next month when the Swiss mountain community of Helvetia hosts its 57th annual Fasnacht. The pre-Lenten celebration is referred to as “the feast before the fast” during which an effigy of Old Man Winter is set afire to beckon and welcome the arrival of spring.

The event takes place from 3 to 9 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 10, in the town square of the Randolph County community. Revelers can expect Appalachian and Swiss music, decadent foods, a parade illuminated by candle-powered lampions, and the opportunity to don colorful, homemade masks to scare away Old Man Winter (and compete for prizes).

Read more:

https://www.wvgazettemail.com/dailymailwv/daily_mail_features/fasnacht-to-bid-festive-fiery-farewell-to-winter-in-helvetia/article_5c598655-0e9e-5388-9de2-8817a44e6f9a.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, Jan. 29 

Learn about international business opportunities with a free luncheon seminar at the WV Tech Park. Four WV counties join efforts to promote economic development. And Wheeling Park is set to host the largest inclusive playground in the state…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WV TECH PARK – The West Virginia Regional Technology Park in South Charleston is partnering with the U.S. Commercial Service to provide information on international business opportunities at an upcoming lunch and learn.

The seminar takes place at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 13 at the Hendrickson Conference Center. The session is free and lunch is provided. 

Register now:

https://forms.monday.com/forms/86ed9efacb3fe18857f0b0a12bb28261?r=use1

#2 – From WOWK-TV – Four West Virginia counties that have seen big companies announce plans to move or expand there are now joining together in a shared economic development effort.

Nucor Steel got the ball rolling two years ago when it announced a new, big plant in Mason County. Berkshire Hathaway Energy then broke ground on expansive operations in Jackson County; Toyota is growing in Putnam County; Marshall University is building a huge cyber security lab in Cabell County.

With a lot of growth coming to all four counties, they have created REACT, which stands for “Regional Economic Alliance of Counties Together.” The collaborative effort will focus on common needs such as roads, water, sewer, housing, and more.

Commissioners say creating REACT is important and practical because so many people live in one of these counties but work or go to school in another one of the counties.

Read more:

https://www.wowktv.com/news/west-virginia/four-west-virginia-counties-to-work-together-on-economic-development/

#3 – From THE INTELLIGENCER – Swings, slides and monkey bars have been torn down to make way for upgrades that will turn the Wheeling Park playground into the largest and most inclusive ever built in the state.

Features of the new playground focused on accessibility include a sensory wave ramp, interactive educational panels, shaded gathering spaces, quiet decompression areas, braille panels, rock climbers and musical instruments.

The updated space will be a National Demonstration Site for Inclusion, as granted by commercial playground equipment manufacturer GameTime. Wheeling Park has become one of the company’s premier playgrounds. As part of the distinction, a series of surveys will be performed by the company to determine how guests use and respond to new activities at the site.

The other main goal of the updates is to incorporate nature into the play space. The maintenance and landscaping of the area will be given attention to “ensure a well-maintained and visually appealing playground for everyone to enjoy,” said Marketing Director Wendy Hodorowski.

Read more:

https://www.theintelligencer.net/news/top-headlines/2024/01/wheeling-park-playground-to-become-largest-most-inclusive-in-w-va/?fbclid=IwAR22LHT-ShNf9mJ6-JGBSOytm2USme5ULwk6_Axdw69BueL3LJ5qxF52Pag

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. 28 

Learn about the centenarian citizen who gave the town of Hundred its name. Discover wonders of space at Green Bank Observatory. And Wheeling’s annual Restaurant Week begins Feb. 23 … on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WV EXPLORER – There was a time soon after the completion of the B&O Railroad when passengers would clamber to the car windows to catch a glimpse of “Old Hundred.” He was a marvel of a man who, even after his hundredth birthday, labored in his fields to the delight of passersby.

The town of Hundred (population 299 as of 2010) was named for that man, Henry Church.

Church, as he was known for the first 99 years of his life, was born in Suffolk, England, in 1750. He was among several young men sent to the colonies to serve under Lord Charles, Earl Cornwallis, in the 63rd British Light Infantry.

After the Revolutionary War, he remained in America, married, raised eight children, and eventually settled in present-day Wetzel County. A patriotic old gentleman, he served in the War of 1812.

He died September 14, 1860. According to his tombstone, located on the hill above the town in the Hundred Cemetery, he was 109 years, nine months, and one day old when he passed.

Read more:

https://wvexplorer.com/2024/01/22/old-hundred-west-virginia-henry-church-wetzel-county/

#2 – From WVNS-TV – Out of the many wild and wonderful places in West Virginia, there is one truly interstellar place to go, especially for astronomy lovers.

The Green Bank Observatory, established in 2016, is located in the Green Bank area of Pocahontas County, and is home to the largest fully-steerable telescope in the world.

The Robert C. Byrd Green Bank Telescope -- also known as the GBT -- measures 300 feet in diameter and operates from 0.1GHz to 116 GHz, making it the top telescope that operates on those wavelengths.

Many scientific discoveries have been made at the Green Bank Observatory, with one of the most recent being the accidental discovery of a Dark Primordial Galaxy due to the GBT being turned in the wrong direction. 

Guided tours are offered at the facility. Visit www.greenbankobservatory.org to learn more.

Read more:

https://www.wvnstv.com/news/west-virginia-news/mountain-state-destinations-green-bank-observatory/

#3 – From WTRF-TV – Wheeling officials are set for the return of its Restaurant Week, which will take place Friday, February 23, to Saturday, March 2.

This year, the event will be extended to include Leap Day, allowing an additional day for diners to enjoy and experience Wheeling’s local flavors by featuring specials from the area’s favorite dining establishments.

The initiative aims to support local businesses and boost restaurant traffic during ongoing downtown construction.

Participation in Wheeling Restaurant Week is open to any locally-owned, non-franchise, and non-corporately owned restaurant within the City of Wheeling.

Visit Wheeling, WV, will host a landing page on their website featuring a submission form for interested restaurants. Visit www.wheelingcvb.com to learn more.

Read more:

https://www.wtrf.com/news/restaurant-week-is-returning-to-the-ohio-valley/

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. 27 

Discover the eerie history of Lake Shawnee Amusement Park. Settle in for a Mountain State Music Concert, from Folklore Music Exchange to your home. And the WVDNR announces winners of the Big Buck photo contest…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WBOY-TV – The Mountain State is full of eerie places and legends. Near Princeton, Lake Shawnee Amusement Park has been ranked by the Travel Channel as one of the “Most Terrifying Places in America.”

The land’s violent history dates back to the 18th century with skirmishes between Native Americans from the Shawnee tribe and a white settler, leaving multiple people dead.

In 1926, Conley Snidow purchased the land to establish rides and attractions. Unfortunately, after several accidental deaths, the park was eventually shut down, leaving behind haunting memories and rusting rides to be taken over by nature.

Fast forward to the 1980s, when the new owner halted construction after crews unearthed skeletons. It was believed the park had been built atop an ancient burial ground. With that, development of the property was abandoned.

Today, visitors can take guided tours of the creepy abandoned amusement park and many have reported strange happenings. A Dark Carnival takes place each October, featuring guided tours, a haunted trail and corn maze.

Are you brave enough to venture there? Visit www.wvlakeshawnee.com to learn more.

Read more:

https://www.wboy.com/news/west-virginia/the-eerie-history-surrounding-west-virginias-lake-shawnee-amusement-park/

#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 Ginger Wixx and Roy F. Bush. It’s a concert from your couch… Sit back, relax, and enjoy LIVE music from West Virginia. And don’t forget to hit like and subscribe for more great content!

Watch the video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-7Xvzsdmy5I

#3 – From WVDNR – The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources announced the winners of the state’s third annual Big Buck Photo Contest during the opening ceremony of the West Virginia Hunting and Fishing Show in Charleston.

The 19 winners will receive a lifetime license, state forest cabin stay or prize package. 

“West Virginia’s hunting traditions are a big part of what makes our state so special and the Big Buck Photo Contest is just one of the ways we celebrate that heritage,” WVDNR Director Brett McMillion said. “I want to thank everyone who participated in the contest because your contributions not only help us showcase the excellent hunting opportunities in our state but will help us keep our outdoor tradition alive for generations to come.”

For more information about hunting and fishing in West Virginia and to purchase a license, visit WVdnr.gov.

Read more:

https://wvdnr.gov/2023-big-buck-photo-contest-winners/

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. 26 

Plan a weekend getaway in Almost Heaven with your guide to the perfect 48 hours at North Bend. Apply now to participate in the WVHub’s Cultivate WV community improvement program. And learn how WV SBDC business coaches can help you meet your goals…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WV STATE PARKS – Need a cure for the winter blues? Work or school got you down? Head to North Bend State Park for a rejuvenating weekend in the beautiful hills of the Mid-Ohio Valley.

Located about 40 minutes east of Parkersburg, North Bend offers a secluded retreat in the woods surrounded by rolling hills, lakes and streams. Plan a fishing expedition or spend the day exploring 26 miles of hiking trails. Go for a leisurely bike ride on the adjacent North Bend Rail Trail. 

When you’re ready for a break, enjoy a hearty meal at the lodge restaurant or relax by the crackling fire in your cabin. Visit www.wvstateparks.com to book your accommodations now!

Read more:

https://wvstateparks.com/our-guide-to-the-perfect-48-hours-at-north-bend-state-park/

#2 – From WV HUB – Are you itching to make a difference in your community? Applications are open for Cultivate WV.

Cultivate WV is an entry-level engagement program that supports community capacity building through leadership and team development, and small and large scale community projects. It helps communities create long-term engagement from residents and new opportunities for local leadership, all while building positive momentum for your area.

Participating communities will commit to a year-long engagement process where they participate in monthly workshops focused on different topics. Communities will also learn to apply for and leverage mini-grants in local development projects. 

The application deadline is March 1. Apply now!

Learn more:

https://mailchi.mp/wvhub/hubbub-7510798?e=c67a4c829a

#3 – From WV SBDC – Are you an entrepreneur looking to start or grow your own business? The West Virginia Small Business Development Center can help!

The WV SBDC provides no-cost business coaching and low-cost training to new and existing businesses and plays a critical role in helping small businesses start, grow and thrive. Most of the staff have direct small business experience, whether they were raised in family businesses, worked for small businesses in the past or own their own small businesses. They understand the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship.

Watch www.wvsbdc.com to learn more.

Watch the video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yA-3XveiB3E

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

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