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

Today is Thursday, Jan. 25 

WV Tourism looks to K-12 schools to help grow the industry workforce. Take a hike!...on 10 top-voted trails in Almost Heaven. And discover a culinary treat at Food & Friends in Lewisburg…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From METRO NEWS – The West Virginia Department of Tourism’s Workforce Committee met to discuss their plans to grow the tourism workforce in the state based on a number of initiatives created through a $5.1 million EDA grant.

The grant will help support each component of the tourism and hospitality industry workforce starting with K-12 students and on up to higher education programs and professional development opportunities for those already working in the industry.

Multiple sub-grants are being divided up between the West Virginia Department of Education, state community and technical colleges, and the Department of Economic Development for the development of various different initiatives all with the focus on growing the industry’s workforce.

Through the sub-grant, middle schools across the state would be encouraged to apply for funds to take students on field trips to these locations free of cost to them as a learning opportunity for the students.

Schools can request the field trip funding for this particular round which closes Feb. 1. 

Read more:

https://wvmetronews.com/2024/01/21/west-virginia-department-of-tourisms-new-workforce-committee-discussing-a-series-of-initiatives-to-continue-efforts-on-workforce-development-in-the-states-growing-tourism-industry/

#2 – From ALLTRAILS – Hiking is a year-round activity in Almost Heaven, so there’s no time like the present to hit the trails. Hike to stunning overlooks in the New River Gorge, Harpers Ferry and the Potomac Highlands region. 

AllTrails features hand-curated trail maps, along with reviews and photos from nature lovers like you. No matter what you're looking for, you can find a diverse range of the best hiking trails in West Virginia to suit your needs.

Explore one of 310 family-friendly hikes for a sunny weekend. Check out 49 wheelchair-friendly trails with helpful accessibility guidance. Plan your next outdoor adventure to one of 553 routes with waterfalls or scenic views.

Find your favorite hike at www.alltrails.com, then visit www.wvtourism.com to learn more about the area. 

Read more:

https://www.alltrails.com/us/west-virginia

#3 – From ONLY IN YOUR STATE – If you find yourself in Lewisburg (a town we’re proud to note was named “Best Small Town Food Scene” by USA Today in 2023), and you’re in need of a casual, tasty restaurant to try, look no further than Food & Friends. 

For decades, this top-rated restaurant in West Virginia has been delighting locals and visitors alike with its exceptional cuisine and warm ambiance. Food & Friends is renowned for its diverse and tantalizing menu that caters to all palates. A display case filled with tantalizing desserts greets you as you enter the inviting atmosphere.

The restaurant is one of several great dining options for visitors to the area, whether they’re fishing or biking along the Greenbrier River, catching a show at Carnegie Hall, or visiting The Greenbrier in nearby White Sulphur Springs. 

Read more:

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/west-virginia/small-town-restaurant-bucket-list-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 Wednesday, Jan. 24 

T-Mobile investments in the Mountain State make a striking impact. A $2.5M grant from NASA will expand a STEM program at Fairmont State. And check out the incentives for filming in #YesWV… on today’s daily304.

#1 – From T-MOBILE – During a recent press event, West Virginia Governor Jim Justice and T-Mobile executive Edwige Robinson, highlighted the impact of a $200 million investment from T-Mobile in the Mountain State.

The investment has had a striking impact on the citizens and businesses of West Virginia. One recent study showed a 66 percent increase in median download speeds in West Virginia from 2022 to 2023 alone. 

Through a merger with Sprint in 2020, T-Mobile has made a massive commitment to improve Internet connectivity and mobile service for rural and small-town America. In 2021, T-Mobile doubled down on its commitment to West Virginia when it finalized its acquisition of Shentel Wireless, one of the primary mobile service providers in West Virginia. 

Since then, the Un-carrier has invested an additional $200 million to upgrade 5G service via 377 new towers and upgrades to 121 existing towers.

Read more:

https://www.t-mobile.com/news/network/west-virginia-and-t-mobile-announce-200-million-in-network-upgrades

#2 – From METRO NEWS – Fairmont State University has received a $2.5 million grant over the next five years from NASA to fund the operations of the Education Resource Center.

This award was a renewal of the grant for the operation of the ERC. The ERC started 20 years ago with one worker. The program now includes four full-time employees, a college intern and four AmeriCorps members, Fairmont State Professor Dr. Deb Hemler said.

Over time, the program’s focus has shifted from teachers to the students, with an emphasis on First Lego League and VEX Robotics competitions. Hemler said the program plans to expand to drone competitions next.

The ERC also operates a loan-and-learn kit program for regional STEM classrooms.

Read more:

https://wvmetronews.com/2024/01/21/nasa-grant-to-fuel-education-resource-center-operations-at-fairmont-state-for-5-years/

#3 – From WV FILM OFFICE – Whether you’re looking for the perfect location for your next film project, or you’re a crew member ready to undertake your next project, the West Virginia Film Office is here for you.

The office’s knowledgeable employees can help you secure your perfect location, find skilled workforce, and navigate film permitting.

In #YesWV you will find an experienced crew, an established statewide network of governmental agencies, nation-leading fiscal incentives, local business leaders and community representatives that are unmatched in hospitality. 

Learn more:

https://westvirginia.gov/wvfilm/

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. 23

You’ve heard of Mothman, but did you know the Monongahela River also has its own cryptid legends? Check out some WV small towns perfect for outdoor lovers. And a Morgantown manufacturer gets a boost from the state to help create more jobs…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WV EXPLORER – Far from the city lights that shimmer about its mouth at the Golden Triangle at Pittsburgh, the Monongahela River rises more than 200 miles away in some of the most remote reaches in the Appalachian Mountains -- so it’s no surprise that these remote stretches have spurned legends of river monsters.

Historian Glenn Lough of Fairmont speculated that indigenous peoples first invented tales of monsters to frighten Europeans away from their camps, and settlers recycled these tales to impress new residents.

One of the oldest legends is the Ogua -- described in the late 1700s by a youth stationed at Fort Harmer in present-day Marietta, Ohio. The creature is said to be amphibious, lurking in the water by day but crawling out of the water at night to feast on deer

Legend has it the Monongy -- a half man, half fish creature -- has been lurking in the river since the French and Indian War.

The Rivesville Monster was discovered in 1983, when a coal miner fishing for channel catfish near the town spotted a large fin with a serpentine tail moving toward him.

If you’re brave enough to search for these monsters, you can learn more about them on the Marion County CVB website.

Read more:

https://wvexplorer.com/2024/01/18/monongahela-river-monsters-pittsburgh-fairmont-wv/

#2 – From WORLD ATLAS – West Virginia charms every visitor, especially outdoor enthusiasts, with sensational natural attractions well suited for hiking, biking, paddling, and other recreational activities.

Much of these natural enticements are welcome gifts for those who look beyond the cities and into the small towns of this charming state. From the lovely riverside towns of Barboursville to the unforgettable grandeur of mountain towns like Elkins, the outdoors are full of treats for enthusiasts. 

Visit www.wvtourism.com to learn more about other small towns, from White Sulphur Springs to Berkeley Springs, that are perfect for outdoor lovers.

Read more:

https://www.worldatlas.com/cities/8-best-small-towns-in-west-virginia-for-outdoor-enthusiasts.html

#3 – From WV COMMERCE – Safe UV, based out of Morgantown, is creating jobs and healthier spaces in its 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.

Watch the video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w34sE7nvjnU

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. 22 

WV commits to bringing a tech pipeline to rural communities via an Amazon Web Services program. The WV SBDC highlights small business success stories in #YesWV. Too cold outside for you? Have a blast with indoor with bowling, miniature golf and more…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From AWS.AMAZON – Last year, Amazon Web Services launched the AWS Skills to Jobs Tech Alliance to improve the employment gap by increasing tech skills globally. The initiative brings together a coalition of Fortune 500 companies and other employers, government agencies, workforce development organizations, and education leaders to better prepare learners for entry-level tech careers. 

West Virginia is the fourth state in the US to join the Tech Alliance, and the first to focus specifically on developing a tech pipeline to rural communities. West Virginia’s state government and universities are working collaboratively to grow nationally-recognized training in 21st century tech careers, particularly cybersecurity.

The Tech Alliance will work with a wide range of organizations in the public and private sector to create – and keep – good paying and high growth jobs in #YesWV. The West Virginia Tech Alliance will directly connect more than 750 learners to cloud employers throughout the 2024-2025 academic year.

Read more:

https://aws.amazon.com/blogs/publicsector/a-tech-pipeline-for-rural-communities-west-virginia-joins-aws-tech-alliance/

 #2 – From WV SBDC – The West Virginia Small Business Development Center highlights some incredible small businesses and owners across the state. From a roofing manufacturer in Wheeling to an iconic restaurant in Princeton, these are just some of the folks who have worked with WV SBDC business coaches to start or grow their businesses. 

Become a client today meet one-on-one with WV SBDC business coaches to receive confidential, no-cost technical assistance to help start and grow your business in West Virginia. The coaches will help you identify your goals, develop valuable skills and acquire the necessary resources to make your business a success.

Learn more:

https://wvsbdc.com/updates/success-stories/

#3 – From WV LIVING – It’s so cozy to bundle up indoors in the winter with a nice, warm drink. But if the cabin fever hits when it’s just too cold outside to be fun, head out for one of these indoor adventures.

Located inside The Lucky Dill Deli in Charleston, Axes and Ales gives guests a three-in-one experience: good eats, frothy brews, and invigorating axe throwing. 

Want to meet Bigfoot? You’ll see him and other iconic West Virginia creatures at Cryptid Mountain Miniature Golf in Morgantown.

Check out www.wvliving.com to find other venues throughout the Mountain State for indoor fun, like candle making, bowling, and even indoor bouldering.

Read more:

https://wvliving.com/cold-weather-fun-indoors/

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. 21 

Discover culture, history and outdoor recreation in Berkeley Springs. The Health Plan serves as a beacon of community support in #YesWV. And take a virtual tour of the Apple B&B in Martinsburg…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From BLUE RIDGE OUTDOORS – Make Berkeley Springs, WV the center of your outdoor adventure fun. The surrounding countryside is a historic playground with wooded mountains and ridges, two rivers and several lakes.

Berkeley Springs is a historic spa and art-filled town nestled in West Virginia mountains only 90 minutes from the Washington/Baltimore metro area. You’ll find warm mineral springs, world class dining, blocks of distinctive shops, full-service spas and more than 100 lodging choices from elegant B&B’s and historic inns to cabins and resorts.

Enjoy a variety of outdoor recreation and cozy lodging at Cacapon Resort State Park and Coolfont Resort. Plan a spa visit to historic Berkeley Springs State Park.

Learn more at www.berkeleysprings.com and start planning your Almost Heaven adventure today!

Read more:

https://www.blueridgeoutdoors.com/sponsored-content/your-adventures-start-in-berkeley-springs-wv/

#2 – From WV ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT –  A beacon of health and community support in Wheeling and throughout West Virginia, The Health Plan has been proudly saying #YesWV for over four decades. As one of the state’s largest locally managed care organizations, The Health Plan has carved a rich history of commitment to the well-being of its members and the communities it serves.

The health insurance provider offers Medicare, Medicaid, WV Chip, and employer, commercial, and self-funded plans. In addition to insurance, they serve members with a wealth of resources that allow them to take control of their health and wellness through self-management tools and a health library and health coaching.

Read more:

https://westvirginia.gov/yeswv-the-health-plans-44-year-legacy-of-health-and-community/

#3 – From BERKELEY CO DEVELOPMENT – The Apple B&B was originally built in 1849 as a Greek Revival style home adorned with symmetrical gables and large pillared columns-a grand structure located in downtown Martinsburg.

In 2018, after working in the banking industry for many years, Denise Phelps and Mark Eisinger began looking for a property in Martinsburg’s Historic Downtown District that they could restore to its former beauty. They found The George Appleby MD Historic House and decided it was perfect for their project.

Although the couple first began looking for a home that they could use as their residence, they realized halfway through their renovations that the downtown area needed lodging for tourists in the area. Phelps and Eisinger decided to add and cultivate a unique space for tourists to stay while they are visiting the local shops and restaurants that the downtown offers. From this vision, The Apple B&B was established.

Watch the video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=euik3RaYCkw

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. 20 

What do tubing, caving and zip lining have in common? They’re all activities you can do in the winter in Almost Heaven! Fiesta releases its new color for 2024. Hint: If blue is your favorite color, you’ll love this. And unplug and relax in WV’s quiet zones…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WV TOURISM – Winter in West Virginia is a time to make treasured memories with the ones you love. 

Nothing says pure-hearted fun like racing down a frosty hillside on an inner tube. Adults and children alike are in for endless laughs and gorgeous views as you explore the snow-tubing landscapes at Snowshoe Mountain, Winterplace Ski Resort and Canaan Valley Resort. 

Explore new depths beneath the snow-covered trees at Lost World Caverns in Greenbrier County or Smoke Hole Caverns near the Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area.

Catch the breeze on a winter zipline ride through the New River Gorge at Adventures on the Gorge or  ACE Adventure Resort. In the Eastern Panhandle, River Riders will have you soaring over the Potomac River. 

Check out www.wvtourism.com for more winter recreation ideas and start planning your Almost Heaven getaway today!

Read more:

https://wvtourism.com/winter-adventures-for-the-whole-family/

#2 – From GAZETTE-MAIL – Fiesta fans, are you ready? The iconic Fiesta Tableware Company has revealed its new color for 2024, and it’s called Sky.

The pastel blue is a variation on robin-egg blue. The new dinnerware color is available in limited quantities at each of the Fiesta outlet stores and online at fiestafactorydirect.com.

Fiesta Tableware Company’s stores include the Flatwoods Everything Fiesta store in Sutton, Braxton County, and the Hartville Everything Fiesta store in Hartville, Ohio, in addition to the Factory Retail Outlet in Newell, Hancock County.

Read more:

https://www.wvgazettemail.com/news/new-2024-fiesta-dinnerware-color-announced-exclusive-items-to-be-sold-on-tuesday/article_0049c71e-86bc-5b8d-a02a-8e30b20d4c98.html

#3 – From WBOY-TV – If you’re looking for a place to unplug, West Virginia is one of the best places on the East Coast. 

Go off the grid in Green Bank, home of the Green Bank Observatory which sits in the National Radio Quiet Zone in the rolling hills of Pocahontas County. The facility offers guided tours to the public.

Head to the historic logging town of Cass and take a ride on the Cass Scenic Railroad. The Greenbrier River Trail runs through the area and offers opportunities for hiking, biking and fishing--all without the pesky interference of texts and phone calls.

Farther north, get “lost” at Lost River State Park. Rent a cabin or campsite and enjoy relaxing activities like hiking and horseback riding paired with stunning views amidst stunning views. 

Visit www.wvtourism.com to learn more about these places and other quiet spots in Almost Heaven.

Read more:

https://www.wboy.com/only-on-wboy-com/perfect-places-to-unplug-in-west-virginia-with-little-or-no-cell-service/

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. 19 

As WV’s elk program expands, the DNR plans a visitor’s center and observation tower for wildlife enthusiasts. The Health Plan has a 44 year legacy of serving West Virginians. And a Morgantown neurologist is working to slow the progression of Alzheimer’s…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WV EXPLORER – The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources will introduce 40 new elk to the Mountain State’s growing herd in 2024 and create a visitors center and observation tower in Logan County to help wildlife enthusiasts observe the animals in a natural setting.

Gov. Jim Justice said the introduction of elk has been a highlight of his administration.

The current elk population is 110, and the herd roams the Tomblin Wildlife Management Area, which includes more than 25,155 acres in Logan and Mingo counties in the state's southwestern mountains.

Since 2018, the division has offered guided elk tours in Logan County, where participants can learn more about the history of the species and get a chance to see elk in a natural setting. Tours are offered in September and October each year and usually sell out.

Read more:

https://wvexplorer.com/2024/01/12/west-virginia-to-introduce-more-elk-create-new-elk-visitor-center/

#2 – From WV ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT – A beacon of health and community support in Wheeling and throughout West Virginia, The Health Plan has been proudly saying #YesWV for over four decades. As one of the state’s largest locally managed care organizations, The Health Plan has carved a rich history of commitment to the well-being of its members and the communities it serves.

With offices strategically located in Wheeling, Charleston and Massillon, OH, The Health Plan manages and improves the health and well-being of its members with a comprehensive line of managed care products and services. 

In addition, the company’s dedication to community and charitable giving is evident in its sponsorship of local youth-focused asthma and diabetes camps, college scholarship programs, chamber of commerce events, and numerous community events throughout the region. This commitment goes beyond health care, emphasizing the importance of holistic well-being and community connection.

Read more:

https://westvirginia.gov/yeswv-the-health-plans-44-year-legacy-of-health-and-community/

#3 – From CBS NEWS – Anyone who has had experience with Alzheimer's disease knows the agony of watching someone fade away as it steals memory and at the end – a person's own identity. But a West Virginia doctor is experimenting with a way to beat back Alzheimer's. 

Dr. Ali Rezai is the executive director of the Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute in Morgantown. He is attempting to delay the progression of Alzheimer’s and its worst symptoms using ultrasound. 

Intravenously delivered drugs can break up the brain plaque that leads to Alzheimer’s but they can take 18 months or more to take effect, during which the disease continues to progress. Rezai uses ultrasound to help safely open the blood brain barrier enough to allow the drugs to rush in, thus treating the disease at a much faster rate.

If Rezai’s name sounds familiar, it’s probably because he’s a pioneer in Parkinson’s research. He was among the first to implant a pacemaker-type device in the brain which stopped uncontrollable movements suffered by Parkinson’s patients.

Read more:

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/neurosurgeon-works-to-slow-alzheimers-progression-treat-drug-addiction-60-minutes-transcript/?ftag=CNM-00-10aab7d&linkId=264047029

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

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

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

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

Today is Thursday, Jan. 18 

Discover Science on a Sphere--a unique tool for teaching weather patterns and forecasting. A Wheeling roofing company prides itself on serving WV residences. And enjoy a disco light show as you boogie down the hill at Snow Riders in Harpers Ferry…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WV TECH PARK – Teachers, are you looking for a unique educational tool? 

Science on a Sphere at the West Virginia Regional Technology Park in South Charleston brings weather science to life and fosters a love for learning and exploration among students.

SOS was developed by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The spherical display system uses multiple projectors to showcase dynamic visualizations of Earth, its atmosphere, and other planetary data.

The National Weather Service and Tech Park teams have developed a dynamic presentation that appeals to a wide variety of age groups. By incorporating real-time weather data and simulations, students explore the complexities of weather patterns, understand the science behind forecasting and witness the impact of extreme weather and climate change. 

After the SOS presentation concludes, students and visitors can apply what they've learned during a tour of the National Weather Service’s local forecast office.

To book an outing to Science on a Sphere and the National Weather Service Local Forecast Office, contact Jordan Ferrell, WVRTP Director of Communications and Park Programs at [email protected]. 

Read more:

https://www.wvtechpark.com/post/science-on-a-sphere-a-unique-educational-experience

#2 – From WV ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT – Kalkreuth Roofing and Sheet Metal has become synonymous with excellence, dedication, and a commitment to shaping skylines. Since its inception in 1984 in Wheeling, the company has grown from a small team of passionate individuals to a powerhouse of over 500 professionals, leaving an indelible mark on the roofing and sheet metal industry.

While Kalkreuth is renowned for its commercial projects, it proudly extends its services to West Virginia’s residential sector. From historic homes to modern residences, the company’s commitment to excellence and craftsmanship remains unwavering. 

What sets Kalkreuth apart is its comprehensive approach to exterior envelope applications. Specializing not only in roofing but also in wall cladding, the company offers a one-stop solution for clients in diverse sectors such as automotive, chemical, government, education, and healthcare. 

Visit www.krsm.net to learn more about this company and its projects.

Read more:

https://westvirginia.gov/building-a-bright-future-with-kalkreuth-roofing-and-sheet-metal-why-yeswv-is-the-way-to-go/

#3 – From WV LIVING – The Eastern Panhandle is a great destination any time of year—but winter visitors got a snowy new playground when Snow Riders in Harpers Ferry opened its tubing hill in February 2023.

The latest offering from family adventure resort River Riders, Snow Riders gives an exhilarating downhill run that’s three football fields long—nearly a sixth of a mile. Tubers enjoy up to 12 machine-groomed lanes, depending on conditions, and a Magic Carpet conveyor lift makes for a quick and easy ride to the next run. Snowmaking means the downhill fun can go on even when the weather is only marginally wintry.

One fun feature of the tubing park is its Downhill Disco laser light show, a nighttime LED colored light show timed to change to the beat of the music. And that lends itself to fun themed nights—already planned for 2024 are an ’80s Night, with all of the happy nostalgia of that decade’s music, and a First Responders’ Night, with a customized red and blue light show.

Snow Riders is open every day in January and February, conditions permitting. Tickets must be purchased in advance online and include lift tickets, tubes, and, on request, helmets. Follow Snow Riders on Facebook for the latest on conditions and events and smile inducing videos.

Read more:

https://wvliving.com/tubing-comes-to-the-wv-eastern-panhandle-at-snow-riders/

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. 18 

Cure your winter blues with a cozy stay at a WV state park lodge. The new Clorox plant wins Large Business of the Year in Berkeley County. And WV Corrections is hiring! Get great pay, benefits, and opportunities for advancement...apply now! … on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WV STATE PARKS – Embark on a winter escape at West Virginia State Parks by reserving a cozy lodge stay that promises an ideal mix of adventure and relaxation. 

After a day of chilly adventures, find solace beside enchanting fireplaces or retreat to comfortable rooms equipped with all of the essentials. All park lodges include full-service restaurants, banquet facilities, gift shops, meeting rooms and cozy lobbies. Some even feature indoor pools, fitness rooms and spas.

If your idea of fun involves winter sports, plan a stay at Blackwater Falls where you can experience the longest sled run on the East Coast, or Canaan Valley Resort, where you can enjoy everything from skiing and tubing to ice skating.

If relaxation is your No. 1 goal, warm up with a rejuvenating massage at Stonewall, Canaan, Pipestem and Cacapon Resort, which all feature full-service spas. Visit www.wvstateparks.com to book your winter lodge stay today!

Read more:

https://wvstateparks.com/you-have-to-plan-a-snowy-stay-at-these-west-virginia-state-park-lodges/

#2 – From BERKELEY CO DEVELOPMENT –  Congratulations to Clorox for winning Large Business of the Year at The Martinsburg-Berkeley County Chamber of Commerce 97th Annual Dinner Meeting. 

Located at Berkeley County Business Park, the plant produces the company’s Fresh Step and Scoop Away products.

“Eighty seven percent of the staff today is from West Virginia, so we’re hiring locally and creating job opportunities,” process engineer John Wood said.

Check out the Development Authority of Berkeley County on YouTube to hear what staff members have to say about working for Clorox in Berkeley County!

Watch the video:

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

#3 – From JOBCASE – Explore a stable and rewarding career with the West Virginia Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation. New opportunities and incentives are available!

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 get a starting annual salary of $40,000, paid training, great benefits, and opportunities for advancement. 

Sound good? Visit Jobcase to find out who’s hiring!

Learn more:

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

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. 16 

Country Roads Angel Network looks forward to its new leadership. Recent college grads: Stay in WV and find remote work through First Ascent WV. And Berkeley County’s Cider Press Restaurant brings farm-fresh food to the table…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From WV BUSINESSLINK – The start-up business picture in West Virginia became even brighter  with the announcement from Country Roads Angel Network that it was naming Morgantown businessman Frank Vitale as its president.

Vitale has more than two decades of experience in banking, entrepreneurship and government service. He currently leads Forge Business Solutions as president and CEO and will continue in that role in addition to serving as president of CRAN. 

Recognized as the Mountain State’s first accredited angel network, CRAN was launched in late 2019, and now will have Vitale at the helm with a focus on doubling CRAN’s current investor roster over the next two years and generating millions of dollars of investments for WV start-up businesses.

“West Virginia is poised for tremendous investment and growth in the start-up and early stage space. Rest assured that CRAN will be a lightning rod for this,” he said.

Over a three-year period beginning in December 2020, CRAN has made direct investments of $1.2 million in entrepreneurs and those angel funds have been complemented by matching capital dollars approaching $10 million.

Read more:

https://wvbusinesslink.com/2024/01/10/morgantown-businessman-frank-vitale-named-president-of-country-roads-angel-network/

#2 – From FIRST ASCENT WV – Hybrid and remote work are more than just buzzwords-they’re practical options which can bring more agility to a company and allow diverse workers to maximize their potential. Brought to the forefront of the public’s awareness during the pandemic, these types of employment have been building for decades and are predicted to maintain momentum for the future. 

As noted by Global Workplace Analytics and Fortune, letting employees work remotely even just 2-3 days per week can save companies nearly $11,000 per employee by reducing expenses associated overhead costs like office space and utilities.

Along with money, time and energy can be saved with hybrid and remote work, bringing us to another positive factor for the bottom line: increased productivity. Hybrid and remote workers can choose interruption-free spaces, including home offices and co-working spaces, to enhance concentration and focus, allowing them to complete tasks more efficiently.

Through the power of community, purpose, and the outdoors, First Ascent is transforming the professional landscape of West Virginia by cultivating a hub for remote and hybrid workers to thrive. If you’re a recent or prospective graduate of Marshall University or West Virginia University, check out what First Ascent has to offer. 

Read more:

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/hybrid-remote-work-beyond-traditional-workspaces-first-ascent-wv-n4swe/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_ios&utm_campaign=share_via

#3 – From BERKELEY CO DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY – The Cider Press Restaurant, located inside Taylor’s Farm Market in Inwood, is co-owned by Ryan and Robert Taylor, a father-son duo that are lifelong residents of the area. They have a mission to bring farm fresh food straight to the table for the residents of Berkeley County. 

Taylor Farms was founded in the 1970s by Robert Taylor and has now expanded to house 2,500 acres of crops. In 2016, with a significant amount of extra space and a successful Farmer’s Market, the Taylor family opted to open a restaurant that would source as many local, seasonal items as possible, including their own harvests from Taylor Farms. 

Ryan Taylor believes one of the greatest benefits of doing business in Berkeley County is the direct access to major roadways, recognizing the impact of the continuous travelers on I-81 and nearby I-70.

He is grateful to the local community as well for their encouragement and reliability and his staff for their constant efforts stating,

“I have a great team of people-if it wasn’t for them, we couldn’t do what we do.”

Read more:

https://www.developmentauthority.com/2023/05/17/cider-press-restaurant-taylors-farm-market/

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.