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Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Sunday, Oct. 25, 2026. …and now for the rest of the stories…on today's daily304.com! #1 – From GAZETTE-MAIL – Stream restoration opens a unique kayaking adventure at The Jug Imagine paddling nearly four miles downstream and ending up just a short walk from where you started. No vehicle shuttle required. That's the unusual opportunity now available at The Jug Wildlife Management Area near Middlebourne in Tyler County. The Jug is a remarkable bend in Middle Island Creek. The waterway loops for nearly four miles before returning to within approximately 100 feet of itself. For generations, changes to the creek's flow and aging infrastructure limited access to this natural attraction. A restoration project involving the West Virginia Department of Transportation and Division of Natural Resources has improved water flow and access to the area. The work included a new low-water crossing and flood-control structure, helping restore recreational opportunities along the creek. Now, kayakers can launch near the crossing, follow the winding creek through scenic countryside and finish their trip close to their starting point. The Jug Wildlife Management Area also offers opportunities for fishing, hunting and wildlife observation. Middle Island Creek is known for species including muskellunge and smallmouth bass. Read more: https://www.wvgazettemail.com/outdoors/stream-repairs-make-shuttle-free-4-mile-kayak-trips-possible-at-the-jug-wma/article_479695ed-4f0c-4bb9-b53c-f3b4ac5ceb2f.html #2 – From WV EXPLORER – Mothman and Flatwoods Monster headline free Halloween celebration in Charleston Two of West Virginia's most famous legendary creatures are making a special appearance at the State Capitol Complex just in time for Halloween. The West Virginia Department of Tourism is hosting a free Halloween Bash on Thursday, October 29, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the West Virginia Culture Center in Charleston. Families can meet Mothman and the Flatwoods Monster, pose for photos and participate in Halloween activities celebrating the Mountain State's mysterious folklore. The event includes a cryptid scavenger hunt through the West Virginia State Museum, a Halloween-themed miniature golf course, crafts and storytelling. Children are encouraged to wear costumes, with prizes awarded in three age groups. The creatures have deep roots in West Virginia folklore. The Flatwoods Monster legend began with a reported encounter in Braxton County in 1952. Mothman became famous following reported sightings around Point Pleasant beginning in 1966. Today, both legends attract visitors to West Virginia through festivals, museums and other attractions. Admission and parking for the Halloween Bash are free, making it an opportunity for families to celebrate the season while discovering a little Mountain State history. Read more: https://wvexplorer.com/mothman-flatwoods-monster-west-virginia-halloween/ #3 – From WVEDA – WVEDA helps businesses become West Virginia success stories Every successful business starts with an idea. Turning that idea into a growing operation often requires access to financing, expertise and the right partnerships. The West Virginia Economic Development Authority helps businesses across the Mountain State secure resources to invest, expand and create jobs. Established under West Virginia law, the WVEDA provides financial assistance with an emphasis on manufacturing and industrial businesses. Its programs include direct lending, loan insurance, broadband loan insurance, industrial development bonds and foreign trade zones. The agency highlights companies that have used its resources to support growth in West Virginia. Among them is CMC Steel West Virginia, a Berkeley County micro mill producing steel from recycled materials. Mountaintop Beverage in Morgantown manufactures beverages ranging from dairy products to coffee. And Mister Bee, founded in Parkersburg in 1951, continues producing potato chips in a variety of flavors. These companies demonstrate the range of manufacturing businesses investing in the Mountain State. Businesses interested in WVEDA financing can contact the agency at 304-558-3651 to learn more about available programs and eligibility requirements. Read more: https://eda.wv.gov/learn-how-you-can-become-the-next-wveda-success-story/ Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty, and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo. That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Saturday, Oct. 24, 2026. …and now for the rest of the stories…on today's daily304.com! #1 – From NEW RIVER GORGE CVB – Five ways to experience fall foliage from above in the New River Gorge West Virginia's fall colors are spectacular from the ground. But imagine seeing them from hundreds of feet above the New River Gorge. The New River Gorge Convention and Visitors Bureau is highlighting five ways to take your leaf-peeping adventure to new heights. Start with a guided Bridge Walk beneath the New River Gorge Bridge, where visitors cross a narrow catwalk approximately 850 feet above the river. For a faster-paced adventure, zipline tours offer the chance to soar through colorful treetops and enjoy views of the surrounding mountains. Rock climbing provides another perspective, with guided experiences available for beginners and experienced climbers alike. Visitors can also take a scenic flight over the Gorge in a restored World War II-era biplane. The fifth experience is Bridge Day, the annual October celebration when visitors can walk across the New River Gorge Bridge and watch professional BASE jumpers leap into the Gorge. Whether you're looking for an adrenaline rush or a new perspective on autumn scenery, the New River Gorge offers plenty of opportunities to experience Almost Heaven from above. Read more: https://newrivergorgecvb.com/5-ways-to-take-in-the-fall-foliage-from-above-in-the-new-river-gorge/ #2 – From NUCOR – Nucor Technical Academy offers paid training and a path to a manufacturing career What if you could earn a college degree, receive hands-on technical training and get paid while preparing for your career? The Nucor Technical Academy offers that opportunity through a two-year program combining classroom education with practical experience in the steel manufacturing industry. Participants pursue an associate degree in Electrical Technology at Shelton State Community College in Alabama while receiving paid training alongside experienced Nucor professionals. Nucor covers tuition, textbooks and program housing, allowing students to focus on developing technical skills and preparing for potential full-time employment with the company. The program emphasizes electrical systems, industrial technology and the technical knowledge needed to support modern steelmaking operations. Nucor Steel West Virginia, which is developing a major steel manufacturing facility in Mason County, is among the company divisions recruiting for the 2027 Technical Academy. Applications for the 2027 program are being accepted through December 31, 2026. For recent high school graduates interested in technology, engineering and hands-on work, the academy offers a potential pathway into advanced manufacturing. Read more: https://nucor.com/careers/#nucor_technical_academy #3 – From WV EXPLORER – White Grass offers a winter adventure in West Virginia's Canaan Valley When snow blankets the mountains of Tucker County, one of West Virginia's favorite winter destinations comes to life. White Grass Ski Touring Center, located in Canaan Valley, has welcomed cross-country skiers and outdoor enthusiasts for decades. The center features more than 50 kilometers of trails winding through mountain meadows, spruce forests and scenic ridgelines. Groomed routes offer opportunities for beginners and experienced skiers to explore the valley at their own pace. New to cross-country skiing? White Grass offers lessons and rental equipment, along with beginner-friendly trails near the lodge. More experienced visitors can explore longer routes and challenging terrain. The experience extends beyond skiing. White Grass is known for its welcoming atmosphere, homemade food and cozy lodge, where visitors can warm up after a day outdoors. Owner Chip Chase and his team have helped make White Grass a gathering place for people who enjoy winter recreation, conservation and the natural beauty of West Virginia's mountains. Read more: https://wvexplorer.com/white-grass-cross-country-skiing/ Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty, and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo. That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Thursday, Oct. 22, 2026. …and now for the rest of the stories…on today's daily304.com! #1 – From WV NEWS – Jackson Lodge reopens at WVU Jackson's Mill following major renovation A historic gathering place in Lewis County is welcoming visitors again, thanks to the generosity of a lifelong supporter of West Virginia 4-H. Jackson Lodge at WVU Jackson's Mill near Weston recently celebrated its grand reopening following several years of renovations. The project was funded through the estate of the late Mary Jane Glasscock, whose love of 4-H began when she attended camp in the 1920s and early 1930s. Glasscock remained involved with 4-H throughout her life. A music educator, she helped compile and edit the first official West Virginia 4-H songbook, West Virginia Sings, published in 1951. She was inducted into the West Virginia 4-H Hall of Fame in 2004. Her family says Glasscock recognized the need for improvements to Jackson Lodge after staying there during events in the 1990s and early 2000s. Her estate helped make the renovation possible. Jackson's Mill has been a gathering place for generations of West Virginians. In 1921, it became home to the nation's first state 4-H camp. Today, the renovated lodge continues that tradition of bringing people together. Read more: https://www.wvnews.com/news/wvnews/wvu-jackson-s-mill-reopens-jackson-lodge-after-major-renovation/article_e426225a-da8f-4cf7-b7bc-cda074f7e509.html #2 – From WV STATE PARKS – Discover 10 breathtaking overlooks in West Virginia State Parks Looking for a spectacular view of Almost Heaven? West Virginia State Parks has some suggestions for your next outdoor adventure. The state parks system is highlighting 10 scenic overlooks where visitors can experience mountain landscapes, river gorges and unforgettable views. Some are accessible by short walks, while others reward hikers willing to tackle a longer trail. At Hawks Nest State Park, visitors can look down on the New River from an overlook perched hundreds of feet above the water. At Blackwater Falls State Park, a short hike leads to Lindy Point, offering sweeping views of Blackwater Canyon. For a bigger challenge, Lost River State Park's White Oak Trail leads to Cranny Crow Overlook, where visitors can see across five counties in West Virginia and Virginia. And at Coopers Rock State Forest, the main overlook provides panoramic views of the Cheat River Gorge. Other featured destinations include Summersville Lake, Watoga, Carnifex Ferry Battlefield, Droop Mountain Battlefield, Seneca State Forest and Pipestem Resort. Whether you're planning a family outing, a photography trip or a fall hike, there's a West Virginia overlook waiting to be discovered. Read more: https://wvstateparks.com/10-stunning-state-park-overlooks-in-west-virginia/ #3 – From WVDNR – WVDNR shares tips for enjoying West Virginia wildlife safely From white-tailed deer and black bears to colorful songbirds and wild turkeys, West Virginia offers plenty of opportunities to observe wildlife in its natural habitat. The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources is helping residents and visitors make the most of those encounters with practical tips for wildlife watching. You don't need expensive equipment or specialized training to get started. Wildlife can be found in state parks, forests, nature preserves, wildlife management areas and even your own backyard. Binoculars, a field guide, comfortable shoes and a little patience can improve the experience. Timing matters, too. Many animals are most active around sunrise and sunset, making early morning and evening good times to explore. The WVDNR also reminds visitors to watch wildlife from a safe distance, avoid feeding wild animals and never approach young animals or get between a mother and her offspring. Fall visitors should also be aware of hunting seasons and follow appropriate safety precautions when exploring public lands. Whether you're introducing children to nature or looking for a peaceful outdoor adventure, wildlife watching is an easy way to appreciate West Virginia's natural resources. Read more: https://wvdnr.gov/tips-for-observing-west-virginia-wildlife/ Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty, and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo. That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2026. …and now for the rest of the stories…on today's daily304.com! #1 – From GAZETTE-MAIL – Marshall University's flight school announces partnership with electric aircraft developer The era of electric aviation arrived in Charleston with the landing of BETA Technologies' Alia CX300 at West Virginia International Yeager Airport recently. The battery-powered, single-engine aircraft landed near Marshall University's Bill Noe Flight School, where it taxied quietly to a newly installed $327,500 charging station. Flight operations chief Chris Caputo said this specific aircraft is the company's first serial model, which has logged 750 flight hours and traveled coast-to-coast since its debut in late 2024. The installation establishes Yeager Airport as part of a growing national network of over 65 airport charging stations capable of recharging the aircraft's lithium-ion batteries in roughly 35 minutes. BETA Technologies currently operates five Alia CX300 models to transport cargo and medical supplies, leveraging the aircraft's 1,250-pound payload capacity and cruising speeds up to 155 mph. Additionally, the company is expanding its fleet and developing the Alia A250, a specialized vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) variant designed for shorter missions in locations without traditional runways. Read more: https://www.wvgazettemail.com/news/education/future-of-aviation-mu-flight-school-electric-aircraft-developer-announce-partnership/article_be21df58-dca2-4407-bb04-a9be3c6c7680.html #2 – From daily304 – Mountain State Music showcases local talent There are so many talented musicians in West Virginia, and the daily304 wants to shine a spotlight on each and every one of them. Every month, we introduce you to creative West Virginia artists and their original songs. It's a concert from your couch, and you don't even have to pay a cover charge. Sit back, relax and enjoy live music from the Folklore Stage. Listen now: https://daily304.wv.gov/programs/mountain-state-music/ #3 – From WV EDA – Learn how your business can become the WVEDA's latest success story The West Virginia Economic Development Authority supports state business growth and economic welfare through financial assistance, including loans and leases, to promote and keep commercial and industrial development in Almost Heaven. Check out some of the WVEDA's latest success stories, from a mushroom farm to a woodworking mill, and learn how your business can become the next success story in #YesWV. Read more: https://eda.wv.gov/success-stories/ Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty, and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo. That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2026. …and now for the rest of the stories…on today's daily304.com! #1 – From WV FORESTRY – West Virginia Dozer Academy prepares operators for wildfire response When wildfires threaten West Virginia's forests and communities, skilled equipment operators can make a critical difference. The West Virginia Division of Forestry's Dozer Academy gives operators hands-on training to safely maneuver bulldozers across challenging terrain. Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Fire Compact, the academy brings together participants from multiple states to strengthen wildfire preparedness and response. Training includes an obstacle course with steep hills, switchbacks and a barrel-pushing exercise. Operators must carefully maneuver their equipment while avoiding unnecessary damage to the ground. These exercises build the precision and confidence needed when working in difficult conditions. The academy also creates opportunities for firefighters and equipment operators to share experience and build relationships. Participants from several states have previously worked together on wildfire assignments, including deployments to Minnesota this summer. Read more: https://wvforestry.com/wv-dozer-academy-provides-hands-on-training-for-wildfire-response/ #2 – From WV FILM – West Virginia Film Office helps bring productions to Almost Heaven From mountain landscapes and winding rivers to historic small towns and vibrant cities, West Virginia offers filmmakers a wide range of locations for their next production. The West Virginia Film Office, part of the West Virginia Division of Economic Development, helps production companies find filming locations, connect with experienced crews and support services, and navigate permitting requirements. The office maintains a searchable Locations Library featuring properties and landscapes across the state. Its Crew and Support Services Directory helps producers find West Virginia professionals, while residents and property owners can register their skills or locations for consideration in future projects. West Virginia also offers a film production tax credit of up to 31% of qualified in-state expenditures. The program supports feature films, television productions, music videos, commercial photography and other eligible projects. Whether you're a filmmaker searching for the perfect location, a crew member looking for opportunities or a property owner interested in hosting a production, the Film Office provides resources to help you get started. Learn more: https://westvirginia.gov/wvfilm/ #3 – From WORKFORCE WV – WorkForce West Virginia connects employers with their next great hire Finding the right employees is essential for a growing business. WorkForce West Virginia is helping employers connect with qualified candidates through job fairs and recruitment events across the Mountain State. The agency hosts monthly Statewide Virtual Job Fairs, giving businesses an opportunity to meet, chat with and interview job seekers without leaving their offices. The next monthly Statewide Virtual Job Fair is scheduled for Nov. 4, with registration available for both employers and job seekers. Employers from the public, private and nonprofit sectors can participate, whether they have one position to fill or dozens. WorkForce West Virginia also maintains a calendar of in-person hiring events. Upcoming opportunities include a South Central Regional Jail and Correctional Facility hiring event in Charleston on Oct. 20, a Mount Olive Correctional Complex event on Oct. 21 and additional recruitment events across the state. Learn more: https://workforcewv.org/businesses/hire-an-employee/job-fairs/ 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.

Every summer, Americans practice two favored activities, farming and lawncare, and a West Virginian invented a product that is valued for both pursuits. Born in Dunbar in 1876, America's centennial year, 1876, and given a famous inventor's name, Benjamin Franklin Gravely would make a great contribution to America's agrarian culture.  He and his wife were raising five children on two acres of land and their large garden proved helpful in feeding the family. While working in his garden, Gravely was discontent with the plows afforded the everyday gardener, so he worked in the machine shop of his friend F.W. Wilcox in nearby Middleport, Ohio, where he combined a hand-pushed plow with an auxiliary Indian Motorcycle engine, the first Gravely tractor, the first of 65 patents he would have in his lifetime.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Sunday, Oct. 18, 2026. …and now for the rest of the stories…on today's daily304.com! #1 – From THE REAL WV – Helping Putnam County tell its story For Kelli Steele, tourism is about more than attracting visitors. It's about helping people appreciate the communities they call home. Steele, executive director of Putnam County Tourism, is The Real WV's latest Real West Virginian of the Week. A Logan County native and Marshall University graduate, she brought 15 years of marketing experience to tourism when she began her role in 2016. Today, she helps promote Putnam County's restaurants, shops, events, outdoor recreation and family attractions. One of her favorite success stories is Meeks Mountain Trails. More than 600 volunteers contributed over 35,000 hours to create more than 36 miles of trails through a public-private partnership. Steele says the project has strengthened community pride, encouraged recreation and helped businesses around the trailhead. She also points to Putnam County's growing sports tourism, improvements at Valley Park and its convenient location between Charleston and Huntington. But what makes the biggest impression on visitors? Steele says it's often the people. Her advice to young West Virginians is simple. Build relationships, get involved and recognize that meaningful careers are possible right here at home. Read more: https://therealwv.com/2026/10/13/real-west-virginian-of-the-week-kelli-steele-helps-tell-putnam-countys-story/ #2 – From WV FOOD GUY – Capital Cocktail Classic serves up food, drinks and support for the arts Four downtown Charleston restaurants are getting creative for a good cause. The Capital Cocktail Classic returns Saturday, Oct. 24, from 4 to 7 p.m. Presented by the West Virginia Fund for the Arts, the seventh annual event features a downtown restaurant crawl with special food and drink pairings benefiting 12 local arts organizations. This year's lineup includes two newcomers. Ursus Brew Works is pairing a blackberry margarita with a brisket-and-cheese-stuffed poblano pepper. Prime 101 is serving a French 75-inspired cocktail alongside a miniature crab cake over street corn salad. Returning participants Sam's Uptown Café and Fife Street Brewing have their own creative combinations. Sam's is preparing a Bloody Mary-inspired cocktail with potato-encrusted cod, while Fife Street is pairing a pomegranate whiskey maple smash with a bacon, bleu cheese and apple butter grilled cheese. Guests visit all four restaurants and vote for Best Cocktail, Best Tapas and Best Pairing. Tickets are $60 and include all four tastings. Read more: https://www.wvfoodguy.com/post/capital-cocktail-classic-toasts-newcomers #3 – From WV SBDC – Charleston bridal boutique puts the bride first Shopping for a wedding dress should be memorable. Karley Morris wants to make sure it's memorable for the right reasons. Morris opened Zylvie Bridal in Charleston in February after spending five years in the bridal industry. Named for her children, Zeke and Sylvia, the boutique offers a welcoming, personalized experience where brides can explore dresses without pressure, rushed appointments or restrictions on size, budget or style. Her goal is to make every customer feel comfortable and celebrated. Appointments are preferred but not required, and the boutique emphasizes individual attention rather than a traditional high-volume shopping experience. Morris also had help turning her idea into a business. Through the West Virginia Small Business Development Center, she connected with Business Coach Julia Moran, who helped with financial projections, budgeting, vendor relationships and marketing strategies. Since opening, Zylvie Bridal has attracted customers from across West Virginia and neighboring states. Some brides have traveled three hours or more after hearing about the boutique through friends or social media. Read more: https://wvsbdc.com/zylvie-bridal-reimagines-wedding-dress-shopping/ Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty, and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo. That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026. …and now for the rest of the stories…on today's daily304.com! #1 – From DAILY304 – Discover your next favorite West Virginia musician There's no shortage of musical talent in the Mountain State. And daily304's Mountain State Music is helping more people discover it. Each month, the series introduces audiences to creative West Virginia artists performing their original songs live from the Folklore Stage. It's a chance to hear the music, meet the musicians and experience the creativity happening right here in Almost Heaven. And you don't have to buy a ticket or leave your living room. Mountain State Music brings the concert directly to your screen, giving local performers another opportunity to share their work with new audiences. Looking for something new to listen to? Start with someone making music right here in West Virginia. Listen now: https://daily304.wv.gov/programs/mountain-state-music/ #2 – From WVDNR – Get ready for hunting season in Almost Heaven Fall means hunting season for thousands of West Virginians. Whether you're an experienced hunter or heading into the woods for the first time, the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources has resources to help you prepare. The DNR's hunting website brings together season dates, regulations, license information and maps of public hunting lands. Hunters can purchase licenses online, check in harvested game and find information about big game, small game, archery, firearms and trapping. New to hunting? The site also offers a beginner's guide and information about hunter education. Families can explore youth hunting opportunities, while experienced hunters can review regulations and prepare for upcoming seasons. There are even tips for handling venison and recipes to help make the most of a successful hunt. Know the rules. Plan your trip. Enjoy West Virginia's great outdoors. Read more: https://wvdnr.gov/hunting/ #3 – From WV ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT – Catch up on West Virginia's economic development news There's a lot happening in West Virginia's business community. And the West Virginia Division of Economic Development makes it easy to follow the latest announcements. Its News and Information page highlights business investments, expansions, workforce initiatives and opportunities across the Mountain State. Recent stories include West Virginia reaching approximately $96 billion in announced private-sector investment since October 2025, supporting more than 19,000 projected jobs. Other announcements highlight a planned $23 million aviation training facility in Bridgeport, a $50 million defense manufacturing investment by Helsing in Berkeley County and PowerFlo Solutions' planned $20 million manufacturing operation in Wood County. The site also shares stories about West Virginia companies expanding into international markets, workforce development programs and industries creating opportunities across the state. Whether you're a business owner, job seeker or simply interested in West Virginia's economy, there's plenty to explore. Learn more: https://westvirginia.gov/news/ Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty, and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo. That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Thursday, Oct. 15, 2026. …and now for the rest of the stories…on today's daily304.com! #1 – From MARSHALL UNIVERSITY – Marshall and Intuit bring business accelerator to West Virginia West Virginia entrepreneurs have a new opportunity to grow their businesses, thanks to an expanded partnership between Marshall University and Intuit. The Intuit IDEAS business accelerator is now available to eligible small businesses across West Virginia. The yearlong program helps business owners increase revenue, improve operations and prepare to access capital. Previously offered in major metropolitan markets, the program is expanding to include rural entrepreneurs in the Mountain State. Participants receive individualized business coaching, executive coaching, access to Intuit's business technology, grant funding and support from other entrepreneurs. The program will serve more than 150 small businesses nationwide, including veteran- and military spouse-owned businesses. Applications close today, Oct. 15, and are accepted on a rolling basis. Read more: https://www.marshall.edu/news/2026/10/marshall-intuit-expand-partnership-to-strengthen-west-virginias-business-pipeline/ #2 – From WOAY-TV – West Virginia tourism becomes a board game What if learning about West Virginia tourism was as much fun as playing a board game? Governor Patrick Morrisey recently visited Oak Hill Middle School to introduce Mountain Moves, a new board game developed by the West Virginia Department of Tourism. The game plays similarly to the Game of Life, introducing students to tourism careers while teaching them about West Virginia's attractions, history and communities. Eighth-grade teachers at Oak Hill Middle School received the first three copies, with the game becoming available to schools across the state. Tourism Secretary Kayla Kessinger says the goal is to help students understand the role tourism plays in West Virginia's economy and introduce them to careers they might not have considered. And there's a good reason to start early. According to the Department of Tourism, approximately one in every 15 West Virginia jobs is connected to tourism. The classroom visit also included West Virginia trivia, from the state flower and animal to the places and traditions that make the Mountain State special. Read more: https://woay.com/morrisey-unveils-state-tourism-board-game-in-oak-hill/ #3 – From WV GOVERNOR – $3.2 million to strengthen rural healthcare in West Virginia Better technology, more healthcare professionals and improved access to medical services are coming to rural communities across West Virginia. Governor Patrick Morrisey announced more than $3.2 million in investments through the West Virginia Rural Health Transformation Program during a visit to Stonewall Jackson Memorial Hospital. Five rural hospitals will receive funding for artificial intelligence-powered clinical listening technology designed to reduce documentation time and give healthcare providers more time with patients. Those facilities include Stonewall Jackson Memorial Hospital, Mon Health Marion Neighborhood Hospital, Preston Memorial Hospital, Plateau Medical Center and Webster Memorial Hospital. Broaddus Hospital will receive support for the Mansfield Place TeleHub Pilot, using telemedicine to connect rural skilled nursing residents with specialty care, behavioral health services and urgent clinical consultations. Vandalia Health also received additional funding to address healthcare workforce shortages. The investment is expected to support more than 100 healthcare staffing placements while strengthening recruitment and retention across the state. The awards are part of a broader effort to improve healthcare delivery, reduce administrative burdens and expand access to services in rural communities. Read more: https://governor.wv.gov/article/governor-morrisey-announces-more-32-million-rural-health-transformation-investments Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty, and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo. That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2026. …and now for the rest of the stories…on today's daily304.com! #1 – From WV ENERGY – $88 million available for home energy improvements Looking to make your home more comfortable and energy efficient? The West Virginia Office of Energy has began to distribute $88 million in federal funding through two Home Energy Rebate Programs. The Home Owner Managing Energy Savings (HOMES) program supports whole-home improvements such as insulation, air sealing and heating and cooling upgrades. Rebates are based on energy savings. The Home Efficiency Appliance Rebates (HEAR) program helps eligible low- and moderate-income households purchase energy-efficient appliances, including heat pump water heaters, electric stoves and clothes dryers. It can also support necessary wiring and ventilation improvements. Both homeowners and renters may qualify, although renters need landlord approval. Depending on eligibility, improvements could come with little or no out-of-pocket expense. The Office of Energy launched these two Home Energy Rebate Programs statewide on September 28, 2026. Eligible residents can register and join the application waitlist now for energy audits and installations. Read more: https://energywv.org/programs-initiatives/home-energy-rebate-programs/ #2 – From WV SBDC – Big ideas start with small business support Have a business idea? Ready to take your existing business to the next level? The West Virginia Small Business Development Center offers confidential, no-cost, one-on-one business coaching to help entrepreneurs start, manage and grow their businesses. Its statewide network of business coaches provides assistance with business planning, marketing, funding, financial analysis, human resources, cybersecurity, government contracting and more. Coaches work directly with business owners to identify goals, solve problems and develop practical plans for growth. The SBDC also offers online and in-person training, including its popular Business Fundamentals workshop for people thinking about starting a business or who have operated one for a year or less. Whether you're opening your first business or planning your next expansion, you don't have to figure everything out alone. Read more: https://wvsbdc.com/ #3 – From WV DRS – Helping West Virginians find their path to employment Everyone deserves an opportunity to build a meaningful career. The West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services helps youth and adults with disabilities prepare for, find, keep and advance in employment. Its services are available to eligible West Virginians beginning at age 14. Vocational rehabilitation counselors work with individuals to assess their interests and abilities, explore career options and develop employment plans. Services may include education, job training, job search assistance and support for overcoming barriers to employment. DRS also works with employers, offering recruitment and placement assistance, employee retention support and disability-related training and technical assistance. For students, the agency offers resources to help make the transition from school to employment. Adults can receive individualized assistance to develop skills, pursue new opportunities or return to work. Read more: https://wvdrs.org/ Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty, and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo. That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2026. …and now for the rest of the stories…on today's daily304.com! #1 – From WV GOVERNOR – Nearly $20 million in upgrades planned for West Virginia State Parks Big improvements are on the way to some of West Virginia's favorite outdoor destinations. Governor Patrick Morrisey announced $19.725 million in investments and proposed projects to modernize, repair and improve state parks, forests and recreation areas. The package includes $9.725 million from the state budget surplus and another $10 million in proposed projects through the State Parks Endowment Fund Board. At Little Beaver State Park, $3 million will support a new 34-site campground and electrical improvements. Twin Falls State Park is slated for $2.275 million in cabin renovations and lodge upgrades. Another $4 million will go toward paving and repairs across the park system. Proposed projects include snowmaking improvements at Canaan Valley, wastewater infrastructure at Chief Logan and Cacapon, and rehabilitation of the lower tram building at Hawks Nest. Read more: https://governor.wv.gov/article/governor-morrisey-announces-19725-million-major-upgrades-across-west-virginia-state-parks #2 – From DAILY DISPATCH – Training today to fight tomorrow's wildfires When a forest fire breaks out, preparation makes a difference. That's why the West Virginia Division of Forestry conducts annual hands-on wildfire training with support from other agencies. During a recent exercise, forestry personnel used smoke devices to simulate a forest fire, giving new recruits experience responding to conditions they could face in the field. Regional Forester Chris White says fall is an especially important time to prepare. As leaves fall and dry vegetation accumulates, wildfire risks increase. West Virginia averages more than 1,000 forest fires annually, burning approximately 15,000 acres. The training gives recruits a chance to practice their response skills outside the classroom. Regional Forester Mat Bailey says that hands-on approach is particularly valuable to new personnel. Read more: https://dailydispatch.com/fire-news/wildland/west-virginia-division-of-forestry-staying-sharp-with-simulated-forest-fire-training/ #3 – From WV EXPLORER – Private support could help West Virginia State Parks grow West Virginia's state parks, forests and rail trails have big plans. They also have significant maintenance and improvement needs. The West Virginia State Parks Foundation is working to bring more private donations and grants into the park system. Executive Director Brad Reed says some estimates place outstanding maintenance, equipment and project needs at approximately $260 million. The nonprofit recently received a $25,000 Appalachian Regional Commission grant to develop a comprehensive marketing and fundraising plan. Its goal is to build a stronger network of private supporters who can help fund improvements beyond what existing public resources can cover. Private foundations have already helped support playgrounds, hiking trails, picnic shelters, restrooms and cabin improvements. The statewide foundation hopes to build on that work and eventually raise millions in private contributions. Read more: https://wvexplorer.com/west-virginia-state-parks-private-funding-foundation/ 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.

Before there was The Twilight Zone or Black Mirror, there was Ambrose Bierce, a 19th century author who lived among some of America's most famous people, and whose writing was full of intrigue, tragedy and ironic endings, much like his own life.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Sunday, Oct. 11, 2026. …and now for the rest of the stories…on today's daily304.com! #1 – From WV ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT – See what's thriving in West Virginia West Virginia's economy has grown beyond its traditional roots in resource extraction, with companies finding opportunities across a wide range of industries. The West Virginia Division of Economic Development highlights sectors including aerospace, automotive, building products, chemicals and polymers, data centers, defense, energy, food and agriculture, forest products, life sciences, manufacturing, metals and technology. Automotive manufacturers benefit from a skilled workforce and access to materials including steel, aluminum and polymers. Chemical companies can tap into existing industrial parks, natural gas supplies and shared services. Manufacturers draw on an experienced workforce, while fulfillment and distribution operations benefit from the state's location and logistics advantages. Learn more: https://westvirginia.gov/thriving-industries/ #2 – From TRAVEL + LEISURE – Find some real solitude in the Cranberry Wilderness Want to REALLY get away? Travel + Leisure recently called West Virginia's Cranberry Wilderness one of the most peaceful places in the country and highlighted it as a spectacular destination for fall color. The wilderness covers 47,742 acres, making it one of the largest roadless wilderness areas east of the Mississippi. Elevations range from about 2,400 to more than 4,600 feet, and visitors can explore roughly 70 miles of hiking trails through mountains, streams, waterfalls and swimming holes. For an easier adventure, the Falls of Hills Creek Trail passes three waterfalls over roughly a mile and a half. The nearby Cranberry Glades Botanical Area offers a half-mile boardwalk through a high-elevation bog filled with unusual plants. And the 4.7-mile Black Mountain Trail offers overlooks of the Williams River Valley and some impressive fall foliage. No traffic. No crowds. Just a whole lot of Almost Heaven. Read more: https://www.travelandleisure.com/cranberry-wilderness-west-virginia-12071248 #3 – From CONCORD UNIVERSITY – Turning summer jobs into career experience Concord University students have a new opportunity to turn summer work into real-world career experience. Concord University and the Summit Bechtel Reserve have established an internship pipeline designed to give students hands-on experience in hospitality, tourism, recreation, guest services and large-scale event coordination at the Summit near Glen Jean. Eligible Concord business students who work 60 days during the summer can receive paid internships, mentorship from experienced staff and managers, letters of completion and reference, and potential scholarship opportunities. Concord will also integrate the program into work-based learning and academic credit options. The goal is bigger than a summer job. It's about giving students practical skills, professional connections and experience they can carry into their careers. Read more: https://concordian.concord.edu/2026/09/30/concord-university-summit-bechtel-reserve-unite-in-internship-pipeline-effort/ Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty, and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo. That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026. …and now for the rest of the stories…on today's daily304.com! #1 – From WV NEWS – Fall is calling in Almost Heaven West Virginia's mountains are putting on a show, and Tourism officials expect another busy fall season. The state's varied elevations help create one of the longest fall color seasons in the country. Leaves can begin changing at higher elevations in September, while lower elevations may hold onto their color into late November. A weekly foliage forecast helps travelers follow the color as it moves across the state. But fall travel here goes well beyond the leaves. Scenic train rides, hiking, cozy cabins, festivals, whitewater rafting and the Hatfield-McCoy Trails give visitors plenty of reasons to make a trip. There's also a new Almost Heaven Swing BINGO Challenge encouraging travelers to check in at nearly 60 swing locations around the state. And then there are the ghosts. West Virginia's Paranormal Trail has tapped into growing interest in haunted places, folklore and mysterious Mountain State history. Read more: https://www.wvnews.com/west-virginia-tourism-department-prepares-for-another-busy-fall-season-with-foliage-paranormal-attractions-and/article_152da68e-1b5a-4f27-9577-de63a46dab5f.html #2 – From THE REAL WV – Ready to get spooked? October brings ghost stories, paranormal investigations and Halloween adventures to communities across West Virginia. In Logan, the Shadows of Logan walking tour takes visitors through historic downtown by lantern light while sharing local ghost stories and legends. In Weston, the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum offers a six-hour nighttime ghost hunt inside its historic main building. Families can climb aboard the Cass Halloween Train Oct. 30-31 for an evening trip to Whittaker Station. There's hot chocolate around the campfire, a haunted cemetery, an abandoned logging camp and Halloween treats for the kids. And in Lewisburg, Miller's Haunted Farm is bringing cryptids, beasts and things lurking in the darkness every weekend in October. Ghost walks. Haunted trains. Paranormal investigations. Pick your level of spooky and go. Read more: https://therealwv.com/2026/09/23/haunted-tours-ghost-hunts-and-halloween-events-to-experience-in-west-virginia/ #3 – From WV STATE PARKS – Find your fall adventure at a West Virginia State Park Maybe ghosts aren't your thing. We've got mountains. West Virginia State Parks offers nearly 50 parks and forests, with outdoor adventures ranging from hiking and biking to fishing, boating, camping, horseback riding, scenic train rides and wildlife viewing. Want to stay awhile? The park system offers cabins, campgrounds, lodges and unique overnight stays. Its online Park Finder lets visitors search by location, lodging type and activities to find the right place for their next trip. Or keep it simple. Find a trail. Pack a lunch. Watch the leaves change. There's plenty of Almost Heaven waiting outside. Read more: https://wvstateparks.com/parks Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty, and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo. That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Thursday, Oct. 8, 2026. …and now for the rest of the stories…on today's daily304.com! #1 – From TRAVEL + LEISURE – See fall color from the rails Want a front-row seat to fall in Almost Heaven? Climb aboard the Greenbrier Express. Travel + Leisure recently highlighted the steam-powered scenic train as one of the best ways to experience West Virginia's fall color. The 15-mile journey leaves Cass, travels through the Monongahela National Forest and follows the Greenbrier River to Durbin. Along the way, riders can take in mountain scenery, colorful forests and wildlife including deer, eagles and waterfowl. And the train itself is part of the experience. Greenbrier Express trips are pulled by steam locomotives more than 100 years old. Passengers stop in Durbin for an included lunch before making the return trip to Cass. October rides continue on select days, and winter weekend trips begin in mid-January. Read more: https://www.travelandleisure.com/greenbrier-express-west-virginia-12059570 #2 – From NORTHERN VA MAGAZINE – Charleston serves up Appalachian flavor Northern Virginia Magazine is telling its readers to head west for a taste of Appalachia. The magazine recently featured Charleston's growing food scene, highlighting a new generation of chefs, distillers and market vendors embracing ingredients and traditions that make West Virginia distinctive. Think ramps, foraged mushrooms, sorghum and moonshine, served in a compact, walkable capital city. The story takes visitors from Capitol Market and J.Q. Dickinson Salt-Works to Charleston-area restaurants including 1010 Bridge, Paulie's Fine Italian and Ristorante Abruzzi. It also highlights the city's growing spirits scene and, of course, West Virginia's famous pepperoni roll. There's plenty to do between meals, too. The itinerary includes Taylor Books, ArtWalk, the West Virginia State Museum, local shopping and a side trip to Helvetia. Read more: https://northernvirginiamag.com/things-to-do/travel/2026/09/28/indulge-in-elevated-appalachian-cuisine-in-charleston-west-virginia/ #3 – From WV PRESS – West Virginia heart specialist joins global leadership program A West Virginia cardiologist is joining an international network working to improve heart health around the world. Dr. Abhishek Chaturvedi, a cardiologist with the WVU Heart and Vascular Institute at Thomas Memorial Hospital and Ruby Memorial Hospital, has been selected for the World Heart Federation Salim Yusuf Emerging Leaders Programme. He was chosen for the program's 12th cohort from thousands of applicants representing more than 50 countries. The program develops future leaders in cardiovascular health and connects physicians and researchers working in disease prevention, research, education and patient care. Dr. Chaturvedi has also been invited to participate in the 2026 Emerging Leaders Seminar in Florence, Italy, where he'll collaborate with cardiovascular experts from around the world. Here at home, Dr. Chaturvedi provides advanced cardiac care to patients in South Charleston and Morgantown. Read more: https://wvpress.org/wvpa-sharing/wvu-medicine-thomas-hospitals-cardiologist-selected-for-prestigious-world-heart-federation-emerging-leaders-programme/ 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.