Podcasts about new river gorge

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Saturday, May 31, 2025  A UC graduate shares how the university's rigorous physician's assistant program prepared her for her new career…plan an adventure for you and your dog in West “Fur”ginia (it's a ruff life!)...and the Mountain State Innovators Summit offers the opportunity for youth and college students to pitch their great ideas…on today's daily304. #1 – From UNIVERSITY OF CHARLESTON – In this edition of Discover UC, President Marty Roth sits down with Katelyn Barnhart, a proud Logan, West Virginia native and member of the Physician Assistant Program Class of 2025.  Katelyn shares her journey through UC's rigorous PA program and how it has prepared her for the next step—beginning her career at CAMC Women's and Children's Hospital. Watch now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c3VjIt42-OM   #2 – From WV LIVING – Like all good mountaineers, West Virginia's furry friends are built for adventure. From the pet-friendly atmosphere of Shepherdstown to the luxurious accommodations of The Blennerhassett to the winding trails of the New River Gorge, West Virginia is a veritable playground for you and your pet to explore. And explore you should! The folks at WV Living have prepared a guide featuring all the tips, tricks, and advice you need to make sure everyone has a ball. So grab your leashes, pack a doggy bag, and get started planning your next fur-tastic excursion. Read more: https://wvliving.com/west-furginia/   #3 – From WVU – The Mountain State Innovators Summit is a three-day, two-night experience designed to empower the next generation of young talent in West Virginia. Hosted by West Virginia University Extension and the WVU Morris L. Hayhurst LaunchLab, this summit brings together youth, college students and early-stage entrepreneurs for hands-on coaching, meaningful networking and real-world opportunities. The event features eight live pitch competitions with a total of $300,000 in prizes and awards. The pitches will take place on November 13, 2025, during the Summit at Stonewall Resort. Learn more: https://extension.wvu.edu/community-business-safety/community-and-economic-development/equity-in-youth-entrepreneurship/mountain-state-innovators-summit   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, May 6, 2025. A Preston County bison farmer finds support for her growing business from the WV SBDC…Charleston is gearing up for a  busy summer--here's your top 10 list of things to do in the capital city…and connect with other entrepreneurs and small business owners through WV BusinessLink…on today's daily304. #1 – From WVSBDC – In the picturesque landscapes of Terra Alta, Preston County, Liz Riffle, the proud owner of Riffle Farms, has carved out a unique niche in the agricultural scene by raising bison.  Her journey into bison farming began with a personal quest for healthier, more sustainable food options. An avid equestrian, she trained horses across the country while working as an active duty U.S. Navy Nurse Corps nurse. She is committed to honest meat and changing the current meat processing system our nation relies on.  But navigating the world of small business ownership, especially in a specialized industry like bison farming, comes with its challenges. That's why Liz Riffle turned to the West Virginia Small Business Development Center to help navigate her journey. Read more: https://wvsbdc.com/riffle-farms-a-bison-farm-in-the-mountain-state/   #2 – From SOUTHERN LIVING – Many people say that West Virginia's capital city feels more like a small town, with its easy access to nature and downtown full of independently-owned businesses.  And while Charleston does have a friendly, laid-back feel, there's no lack of things to do. From outdoor adventures like hiking the Kanawha State Forest or rafting in the New River Gorge, to seeing art exhibits and hearing live music, to shopping at unique boutiques, Charleston has big-city options that are easy to enjoy over a long weekend.  To get your started, Southern Living has compiled a list of 10 Best Things to Do in Charleston. Read more: https://www.southernliving.com/charleston-wv-11722346   #3 – From WV BUSINESSLINK – West Virginia BusinessLink is a supportive platform that connects entrepreneurs and small business owners to a network of local, regional, and statewide resource partners to foster innovation, growth, and prosperity. Stay on top of all the business news in your community by following the BusinessLink blog and subscribing to their newsletter. You can also find a wide array of helpful resources. Read more: https://wvbusinesslink.com/blog/   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, April 14, 2025. Visit Southern West Virginia launches a mobile passport to the New River Gorge…as West Virginia shifts to diversify its economy, its manufacturing base expands…and #YesWV partners with Jobcase to offer a free platform for local employers to post job opportunities…on today's daily304.   #1 – From WV NEWS – Locals and tourists alike have a new way to explore some of West Virginia's most scenic and historic destinations with the launch of Visit Southern West Virginia's New River Gorge, Beckley & Beyond Passport. The digital passport highlights 25 locations throughout Raleigh, Fayette and Nicholas counties and features a mix of outdoor adventure spots, cultural attractions and small-town charm. Some destinations, are also part of the West Virginia Waterfall Trail, allowing travelers to log visits on both trails with a single stop. Visitors use their mobile devices to check in at each location and earn points, which can then be redeemed for prizes.  Sign up for New River Gorge, Beckley & Beyond Passport at go.visitwv.com. Read more: https://www.wvnews.com/news/wvnews/visit-southern-west-virginia-launches-new-river-gorge-beckley-beyond-passport-program/article_cdec9d52-39ec-43c8-8976-089874b023db.html   #2 – From WV NEWS – West Virginia has historically been a powerhouse of energy production, with coal, oil and natural gas playing a central role in the state's economy. However, in recent decades, the state has shifted its focus toward diversifying its economic base. One of the most significant areas of growth has been in manufacturing, where West Virginia now boasts a wide range of industries — from chemicals and automotive to metal products and wood manufacturing. Staci Miller, director of the West Virginia University Industrial Extension, said West Virginia manufacturers are in constant pursuit of improvements in operations and development of their workforce. The state has had a number of high-profile manufacturing investments in recent years including Nucor Steel and GreenPower Motor Company. Annually, manufacturing adds more than $8.8 billion in value to the state's economy, according to data from the National Association of Manufacturers. More than 1,000 separate manufacturing businesses in the state employ more than 47,300 workers.  Read more: https://www.wvnews.com/business/molding-west-virginia-s-manufacturing-future-money-machines-and-manpower/article_ad1a8b6e-67f2-4335-b7db-30eab21faa08.html   #3 – From JOBCASE – Consumers are in constant contact with products containing elements made in West Virginia. Base polymers in cosmetics and window seals to finished goods: spark plugs, tableware, charcoal and kitchen cabinets. All made in Almost Heaven, West Virginia. West Virginia's diverse manufacturing sector includes chemicals, biotech/pharmaceuticals, primary metals, automotive components, fabricated products, wood products and more. The state's workforce also ranks first in the U.S. for the lowest turnover rate in manufacturing-specific jobs. Through their partnership with Jobcase.com/WV/Post, #YesWV offers a free platform for local employers to post job opportunities, ensuring that positions reach the right candidates. Read more: https://www.jobcase.com/articles/manufacturing-in-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.  

Rock climbers with disabilities have found a home in Kentucky's Red River Gorge, which offers some pumpy crags.Also, climbers have also been working to make West Virginia's New River Gorge more inclusive.And, a master craftsman, who makes one of a kind whitewater paddles, remembers some advice.You'll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Monday, March 31, 2025. Looking for a job? Check out the opportunities with Hope Gas…learn how the Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation supports entrepreneurs and the WV Entrepreneurship Ecosystem…and discover some of WV's most beautiful spring hiking destinations…on today's daily304. #1 – From HOPE GAS – Hope Gas is hiring! Hope Gas is a local distribution company that provides gas service to approximately 125,000 residential, industrial, and commercial customers in 35 West Virginia counties.  The company employs over 400 workers right here in our beautiful Mountain State. Positions are open in a variety of fields in several metropolitan areas, including Morgantown, Charleston, Parkersburg and more. Visit hopegas.com to learn more. Read more: https://hopegas.com/join-our-team/   #2 – From WV SOS  – In this episode of “Just Three Questions,” West Virginia Secretary of State Kris Warner speaks with Bill Woodrum with the Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation about how the foundation supports entrepreneurs and the West Virginia Entrepreneurship Ecosystem. “Just Three Questions!” is a weekly video series hosted by Secretary Warner to talk with community leaders about issues important to business development in West Virginia. Watch now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qSZufb_7wDk   #3 – From WV NEWS – Spring is one of the best times to explore West Virginia's scenic hiking trails, offering mild weather, blooming wildflowers and fewer crowds. From the Endless Wall Trail in New River Gorge to the Cranberry Glades Botanical Area, the Mountain State is filled with breathtaking landscapes for outdoor enthusiasts. One of the most popular destinations is Blackwater Falls State Park, where visitors can hike trails leading to cascading waterfalls surrounded by lush spring greenery. (Don't forget to download your free mobile passport to the WV Waterfall Trail!) Check out the story in WV News to discover more beautiful spring hikes in Almost Heaven. Then head over to wvtourism.com or wvstateparks.com to start planning your trip. Read more: https://www.wvnews.com/news/beat-feet-west-virginia-has-some-of-best-spring-hiking-in-country/article_1826202c-ff5c-11ef-acc4-e3ed094da09a.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 Sunday, March 30, 2025. Check off five beautiful waterfalls in one day on a road trip through the New River Gorge region…country star Miranda Lambert is the headliner at this year's State Fair of WV--tickets are on sale now…and, help affect positive change with the WV Community Development Hub's Kickstart Communities training program…on today's daily304.   #1 – From WV TOURISM – Nothing completes a West Virginia road trip like checking off waterfalls on the West Virginia Waterfall Trail. Whether you're looking to earn your first prize or need a few more check-ins to earn your next one, slices of Almost Heaven surrounding the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve are rich in waterfalls to explore. Plan a road trip through New River Gorge National Park and Preserve and you can check off five beautiful waterfalls in one day, from Kanawha Falls to the west of the Gorge to Big Branch Falls in the east. Visit wvtourism.com/west-virginia-waterfall-trail to download your free mobile passport! Read more: https://wvtourism.com/did-you-know-you-can-visit-5-waterfalls-in-one-day-in-west-virginia/   #2 – From WV NEWS – The 2025 State Fair of West Virginia is set to be a milestone celebration as it marks 100 years of entertainment, agriculture, and family fun. Running from August 7-16 in Greenbrier County, this centennial event promises an exciting lineup, including a performance from Grammy-winning country star Miranda Lambert. Lambert, known for chart-topping hits and dynamic stage presence, will take the stage on August 16, delivering a mix of powerful ballads and high-energy performances. Tickets are on sale now! For more information, visit  www.statefairofwv.com. Read more: https://www.wvnews.com/news/wvnews/miranda-lambert-to-headline-100th-annual-state-fair-of-west-virginia/article_c369e6b2-033a-11f0-9450-93797120d50a.html   #3 – From WV HUB – Become the next person creating change for the better in your community. The West Virginia Community Development Hub's team working on Kickstart Communities offers training and fellowships to lift up new, unexpected, and historically underrepresented community leaders.  Are you ready to make a difference? Enroll any time in online courses to gain knowledge to make change for the better in your community. Learn more: https://wvhub.org/kickstart/   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, March 7, 2025. Soar through the trees on a zipline adventure in Almost Heaven…the USA Cycling Pro Road National Championships return to Charleston this May…and big projects are underway throughout West Virginia's Advantage Valley region…on today's daily304. #1 – From WV TOURISM – Among one of the most forested states, West Virginia is the perfect place to catch some speed and explore among the trees. Soar through the lush tree line or get your blood pumping on an aerial ropes course. Add these must-visit spots to your next getaway itinerary to truly experience the Mountain State. Take flight on one of the most extensive zip line systems in the east at Pipestem Resort State Park. Take in the spectacular scenery on zip line adventures in the New River Gorge, the Eastern and Northern Panhandles, and more. Read more: https://wvtourism.com/things-to-do/outdoor-adventures/aerial-excursions/ #2 – From METRO NEWS – Hundreds of cyclists from across the nation will once again be racing in the streets of the Capital City this spring. The City of Charleston and the Charleston Convention and Visitors Bureau have announced the return of the USA Cycling Pro Road National Championships. “This event continues to depict why Charleston, West Virginia is now making news on a national scene and an international scene,” Mayor Amy Goodwin said. The weeklong event will run from Monday, May 19 through Memorial Day Weekend, May 24-25. After bringing in a $4.6 million economic impact to the City of Charleston when the championship races were held for the first time here last May, CVB President Tim Brady said they only expect that impact to grow this year. Read more: https://wvmetronews.com/2025/02/27/more-announcements-being-made-for-second-year-of-usa-cycling-pro-road-national-championships-in-charleston/   #3 – From METRO NEWS – Major projects are taking place in the Charleston-Huntington region. Advantage Valley has released its 2024 annual report and President and CEO Terrell Ellis said the theme of the report is “under construction.” Ellis highlighted some of the new projects such as the Marshall Institute for Cybersecurity and Innovation District under construction on 4th Avenue in Huntington. She also mentioned Timet in Jackson county, the only solar powered titanium facility in the world. Their next steps include focusing on having enough housing and infrastructure to support the growing economy as well as increasing childcare services throughout the region, she added. Read more: https://wvmetronews.com/2025/02/04/advantage-valley-unveils-2024-report/   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, March 3, 2025. A massive trail project is transforming North Central WV into a premier destination for gravel biking…celebrate spring's arrival with a visit to a West Virginia state park…and FestivALL returns to Charleston on May 28, featuring visual arts, theater, music and more…on today's daily304. #1 – From WV NEWS – Visit Mountaineer Country Convention and Visitors Bureau has announced the launch of Mountaineer Gravel, a project aimed at transforming North Central West Virginia into a premier destination for gravel cycling and outdoor adventure. Spearheaded by VMC in collaboration with experts such as David Landis, owner of Village-to-Village Trails, and West Virginia University's Brad and Alys Smith Outdoor Economic Development Collaborative, the project consists of 28 existing world-class mixed-surface cycling routes spanning more than 1,000 miles of public property. The trails, ranging from five to 75 miles, feature a variety of terrains and significant elevation. The routes are designed to offer a mixture of gravel roads, dirt trails and primitive roads, capturing the natural beauty of Appalachia while also creating new economic opportunities for local communities. Seven regional hubs, including Morgantown, Rowlesburg and Grafton, serve as starting points, offering key services such as lodging, dining and local attractions. Read more: https://www.wvnews.com/news/visit-mountaineer-country-s-mountaineer-gravel-project-aims-to-boost-outdoor-tourism-in-north-central/article_94cbbc38-ea51-11ef-9d82-d351fc5094bf.html   #2 – From WV STATE PARKS – Beat the winter blues and start planning a spring trip to Almost Heaven! Home to fresh mountain air, jaw-dropping views and heart-pumping adventures, a visit to a West Virginia state park is sure to provide the serotonin you need.  Known for its stunning scenic overlook, Hawks Nest State Park makes the perfect spot to witness the bliss of spring come to life. Spend your days hiking flora-lined trails, exploring rushing waterfalls or casting a line in the New River Gorge. An oasis for a family-friendly adventure, Pipestem Resort State Park offers a multitude of energizing activities. From ziplining through the treetops and majestic horseback rides to championship golf and an adventure zone packed with fun, there's no shortage of entertainment. Head over to wvstateparks.com to check out other amazing parks to visit this spring and book your lodging online! Learn more: https://wvstateparks.com/dreaming-of-spring-these-4-parks-are-the-best-for-sunny-getaways/   #3 – From METRO NEWS – Charleston's popular festival celebrating the arts is set to return to the Capital City again with a jam-packed five day schedule full of music, theater, dance and more. FestivALL Charleston will now embark on its 21st year with a pared-back schedule of events starting on May 28 to June 1. All of the flagship events that have been a part of FestivALL since its inception will continue to be a mainstay in this year's multi-arts festival. Attendees can still look forward to events such as the Three Things speaker series, the two-day Capitol Street Art Fair and Children's Art Fair, Art-for-ALL, the Carriage Trail Walk and more. As one of the most popular events, the Capitol Street Art Fair features street performers, live music and other entertainment on stages along Capitol Street. Visit festivallcharleston.com for schedule updates or information on how to become a sponsor. Read more: https://wvmetronews.com/2025/02/16/festivall-to-return-to-capital-city-with-pared-back-schedule-of-events/   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, Feb. 18, 2025. Strategic location and a skilled workforce are part of why automotive manufacturer Highline Warren says #YesWV…the New River Gorge's Tunney Hunsaker Bridge gets a makeover…and a vintage Wurlitzer organ brings new life to Bluefield's historic Grenada Theater…on today's daily304. #1 – From WVDED – Highline Warren has established itself as a key player in the automotive aftermarket industry, known as a leading distributor with integrated manufacturing and unmatched access to the market. The company offers an expansive selection of national brands, OEM replacement products, and private-label goods.  One of the driving forces behind Highline Warren's success is its strategic presence in Glen Dale, West Virginia. Because the state is within a day's drive of 50% of the U.S. population and a third of the Canadian market, this logistical advantage ensures that customers receive their products quickly and efficiently. West Virginia's skilled workforce brings dedication and expertise, contributing to the company's ability to meet high industry standards and maintain a consistent supply of top-tier automotive products.  Check out the video to learn more about why Highline Warren says #YesWV. Watch now: https://westvirginia.gov/highline-warren-driving-success-in-yeswv/   #2 – From THE REAL WV – Far down in the New River Gorge, in the shadow of the towering New River Gorge Bridge, a West Virginia Division of Highways bridge crew is painstakingly replacing the wooden deck of the historic Tunney Hunsaker Bridge. Built in 1889, the Tunney Hunsaker Bridge was the first bridge across the New River in the New River Gorge, connecting the mining towns of Fayette and South Fayette. When the New River Gorge Bridge opened in 1977, the modest span at the bottom of the gorge was closed to vehicular traffic. But the increase in tourism to the area led to the small span being rebuilt in 1997 and reopened to traffic.  In 1998, the bridge was renamed in honor of Tunney Hunsaker, longtime Fayetteville police chief and a former professional boxer who was matched up against Muhammad Ali in Ali's first professional boxing match. Ali and Hunsaker remained friends over the years, and Ali came to Fayetteville in 1997 for Hunsaker's retirement celebration. Work on the bridge is expected to be finished by the end of March. Read more: https://therealwv.com/2025/02/11/wvdoh-work-crews-redecking-the-historic-tunney-hunsaker-bridge/   #3 – From WV LIVING – On a Saturday evening last April, downtown Bluefield stirred with excitement surrounding an unlikely source: Buster Keaton's 1926 silent film The General.  As the movie played, the walls of the historic Granada Theater reverberated with the musical narrations of a 1920s Wurlitzer organ. The occasion represented a homecoming for the instrument, a century after its first installation. The journey represents the spirit of Bluefield, determined to prove that her best days are ahead. The Granada Theater opened in 1928, initially showing silent films grandly accompanied by organ. However, by the late '70s, the theater had closed, and the organ was sold to a private buyer.  In 2012, the Bluefield Arts and Revitalization Corporation set its sights on restoring the Granada, including the original Wurlitzer organ. The theater reopened its doors in 2019. The newly restored organ made its debut in April 2024. The ripple effect on the surrounding neighborhood became apparent as restaurants and businesses began to revitalize the downtown. “Bringing this back has brought hope to the community,” Program Director and House Manager Tim Smith said.  Read more: https://wvliving.com/bluefields-historic-granada-theater-is-whole-again/   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, Feb. 18, 2025. Strategic location and a skilled workforce are part of why automotive manufacturer Highline Warren says #YesWV…the New River Gorge's Tunney Hunsaker Bridge gets a makeover…and a vintage Wurlitzer organ brings new life to Bluefield's historic Grenada Theater…on today's daily304. #1 – From WVDED – Highline Warren has established itself as a key player in the automotive aftermarket industry, known as a leading distributor with integrated manufacturing and unmatched access to the market. The company offers an expansive selection of national brands, OEM replacement products, and private-label goods.  One of the driving forces behind Highline Warren's success is its strategic presence in Glen Dale, West Virginia. Because the state is within a day's drive of 50% of the U.S. population and a third of the Canadian market, this logistical advantage ensures that customers receive their products quickly and efficiently. West Virginia's skilled workforce brings dedication and expertise, contributing to the company's ability to meet high industry standards and maintain a consistent supply of top-tier automotive products.  Check out the video to learn more about why Highline Warren says #YesWV. Watch now: https://westvirginia.gov/highline-warren-driving-success-in-yeswv/   #2 – From SOURCE – Far down in the New River Gorge, in the shadow of the towering New River Gorge Bridge, a West Virginia Division of Highways bridge crew is painstakingly replacing the wooden deck of the historic Tunney Hunsaker Bridge. Built in 1889, the Tunney Hunsaker Bridge was the first bridge across the New River in the New River Gorge, connecting the mining towns of Fayette and South Fayette. When the New River Gorge Bridge opened in 1977, the modest span at the bottom of the gorge was closed to vehicular traffic. But the increase in tourism to the area led to the small span being rebuilt in 1997 and reopened to traffic.  In 1998, the bridge was renamed in honor of Tunney Hunsaker, longtime Fayetteville police chief and a former professional boxer who was matched up against Muhammad Ali in Ali's first professional boxing match. Ali and Hunsaker remained friends over the years, and Ali came to Fayetteville in 1997 for Hunsaker's retirement celebration. Work on the bridge is expected to be finished by the end of March. Read more: https://therealwv.com/2025/02/11/wvdoh-work-crews-redecking-the-historic-tunney-hunsaker-bridge/   #3 – From WV LIVING – On a Saturday evening last April, downtown Bluefield stirred with excitement surrounding an unlikely source: Buster Keaton's 1926 silent film The General.  As the movie played, the walls of the historic Granada Theater reverberated with the musical narrations of a 1920s Wurlitzer organ. The occasion represented a homecoming for the instrument, a century after its first installation. The journey represents the spirit of Bluefield, determined to prove that her best days are ahead. The Granada Theater opened in 1928, initially showing silent films grandly accompanied by organ. However, by the late '70s, the theater had closed, and the organ was sold to a private buyer.  In 2012, the Bluefield Arts and Revitalization Corporation set its sights on restoring the Granada, including the original Wurlitzer organ. The theater reopened its doors in 2019. The newly restored organ made its debut in April 2024. The ripple effect on the surrounding neighborhood became apparent as restaurants and businesses began to revitalize the downtown. “Bringing this back has brought hope to the community,” Program Director and House Manager Tim Smith said.  Read more: https://wvliving.com/bluefields-historic-granada-theater-is-whole-again/   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, Feb. 17, 2025. Morgantown native Emily Calandrelli shares a video of her historic flight into space…coming up in March, the West Virginia Science and Engineering Fair showcases the work of creative and resourceful students…and learn about the New River Gorge hotel that hosted the world's longest continuous poker game (14 years!)...on today's daily304. #1 – From WBOY-TV – The Morgantown native who became the 100th woman to go to space back in November has shared the never-before-seen video of her space flight. Emily Calandrelli, a West Virginia University and MIT educated engineer known for her education shows like “Xploration Outer Space” and “Emily's Wonder Lab,” has released a video sharing everything that happened on her flight from Blue Origin's West Texas spaceport. The 16-minute video, which can be watched on Calandrelli's YouTube page, includes details from her astronaut training, some of the unique things she did to make the flight special for herself, women, kids and West Virginia, and her full reaction to experiencing weightlessness and seeing Earth from space. Calandrelli also raised more than $30,000 for West Virginia foster youth via a fundraiser involving a flash drive she carried into space loaded with nearly 10,000 hopes and dreams of West Virginia children. Read more: https://www.wboy.com/news/monongalia/west-virginia-woman-shares-full-video-of-trip-to-space-how-to-watch/   #2 – From THE REAL WV – The West Virginia Science and Engineering Fair takes place March 10 at the Charleston Coliseum and Convention Center.  The fair provides opportunities for students to ask questions about their world and discover how the world works. It also allows students to be creative and resourceful as they contemplate problems to solve in the real world.  It also acts as an entry point for West Virginia high school students to qualify for the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair. Middle school students can qualify for the Thermo Fisher Scientific Junior Innovators Challenge and the Lemelson Early Inventor Prize. For more information, including lodging information, previous year's winners and how to register, visit wvde.us. Read more: https://therealwv.com/2025/02/11/science-and-engineering-fair-scheduled-for-march-10-at-charleston-coliseum/   #3 – From WBOY-TV –  A now near-ghost town in West Virginia was once the home of a lavish hotel, known as a “historic spot for trouble,” that hosted a continuous poker game that lasted more than a decade. Located just outside of Thurmond, the Dun Glen Hotel was infamous in the early 1900s. The New River Gorge Convention and Visitor's Bureau describes it as an “upscale den of sin” where “alcohol flowed freely and gambling was the pastime of choice.”  The hotel bars stayed open 24/7, allowing for crazy parties and lengthy poker games—the longest ever being 14 years, according to Ripley's Believe it or Not and the Guinness Book of World Records. While the hotel is long gone, the land where it was housed is now controlled by the National Park Service. Read more: https://www.wboy.com/news/west-virginia/the-longest-poker-game-ever-was-played-at-a-historic-west-virginia-hotel/   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. 26, 2025. Rural Development grants fund broadband expansion in three West Virginia counties…the New River Gorge's Grandview area lives up to its name…and a WVDNR official shares how discarded real Christmas trees are recycled as habitat for fish…on today's daily304. #1 – From METRO NEWS – Residents in three West Virginia counties will soon have access to expanded broadband internet service thanks to a pair of USDA Rural Development grants. The $30 million grant offered through the Rural Development RECONNECT program will expand the service in Nicholas, Hardy, and Hampshire counties, serving more than 7,000 individuals. The Nicholas County project was granted to the Nicholas County Commission and CityNet will serve as the internet service provider. Hardy Telecommunication was the successful applicant and will be the ISP for the Hardy and Hampshire County project. “They know what they're doing and I think they'll be able to expand the access to high speed internet in these communities in a reasonable time frame,” said Ryan Thorn, state director of the U.S.D.A. Rural Development Authority. Read more: https://wvmetronews.com/2025/01/15/usda-program-allocates-30-million-for-broadband-expansion/   #2 – From WV EXPLORER – Perched more than 1,400 feet above the New River, the panoramic overlooks of the New River Gorge at Grandview offer views of the world-famous gorge at its widest and deepest. The rock outcrops, shaded by rhododendron, highlight why Grandview is one of West Virginia's must-see attractions and a crown-jewel of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. The main overlook is wheelchair accessible and several hiking trails of varying difficulty wind through the area, offering scenic views. The park includes several playgrounds and picnic areas, and camping is available at Little Beaver State Park, about a 10-minute drive away. Nearby, the 1200-seat Cliffside Amphitheatre hosts the summer outdoor dramas “Hatfields and McCoys” and “Honey in the Rock.”  Check out wvtourism.com to learn more about the area and plan your Almost Heaven getaway. Read more: https://wvexplorer.com/2025/01/12/grandview-overlooks-new-river-gorge-widest-deepest/   #3 – From WV PUBLIC – With the holiday season come and gone, thousands of Christmas trees will be mulched or taken to the landfill. A program from the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources aims to give our old decorations new life in local lakes and reservoirs.  Dustin Smith, fisheries biologist with the DNR, talks about the program and why old Christmas trees might be the perfect place for anglers to look for their next catch. “It's just an easy opportunity to use something which is going to be thrown away. But we can utilize them in some of our reservoirs, specifically to add woody habitat,” he said. This year the WVDNR operated two Christmas tree dropoff locations -- one in the northern part of the state and one in the southern part -- and Smith says he anticipates that will continue next holiday season. Read more: https://wvpublic.org/christmas-trees-get-second-life-as-fish-habitats/   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. 22, 2025. Discover Mountaineer Country on the gravel biking experience of a lifetime…the Generation WV Fellowship seeks to build meaningful mentorships and leadership training…and break out your spell book for Fayetteville's annual Wizard Weekend starting this Friday…on today's daily304. #1 – From VISIT MOUNTAINEER COUNTRY – Ready to add Mountaineer Country to your biking bucket list? With 25+ exciting new gravel routes launching in spring 2025, there's a route for every type of rider – from few-hour trips to multi-day adventurers. Embark on a journey across Monongalia, Preston, and Taylor counties, with routes starting from or connecting popular spots like Morgantown, Mason Dixon Park, Bruceton Mills, Masontown, Terra Alta, Rowlesburg and Grafton. These routes offer diverse terrain and endless adventure. Expect a mix of unpaved gravel, dirt roads, double tracks, and rail trails. From challenging climbs to thrilling descents, each route promises a unique blend of West Virginia's history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Read more: https://www.visitmountaineercountry.com/gravelroutes/   #2 – From GENERATION WV – West Virginia has long been celebrated for its stunning landscapes, close-knit communities, and rich cultural heritage. Yet, for years, young professionals in the Mountain State have faced a pressing challenge: finding fulfilling career opportunities that empower them to grow without leaving their home state. This is where the Generation West Virginia (GWV) Fellowship steps in. By offering fellows access to meaningful mentorship, leadership training, and skill-building workshops, the program bridges the gap between ambition and opportunity. Fellows gain more than just career insights—they develop a network of like-minded peers and mentors invested in their success and the future of West Virginia.   Applications for the 2025 Fellowship Cohort are open until March 16, 2025. To learn more and apply, visit https://generationwv.org/our-work/fellowship/apply/ Read more: https://generationwv.org/the-power-of-professional-development-retaining-young-talent-in-west-virginia/   #3 – From WVVA-TV – Get set for a magical time as Fayetteville prepares for its annual Wizard Weekend on January 24-26. The New River Gorge town will transform itself into a wizarding village with food, entertainment and other activities. Event highlights include a falconry demonstration, wizardry school, artisan workshops and more.  To view a schedule of events and activities, check out VisitFayetevilleWV.com Read more: https://www.wvva.com/2025/01/14/fayettevilles-wizard-weekend-dates-announced/   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.  

Fred Nicole's name is synonymous with hard bouldering. The dude is legend, responsible for establishing the world's first V14 and first V15, always while bringing an artistic, quiet approach that has defined the soul of bouldering for over four decades. Today Fred works as a shoe designer for So Ill, and continues to explore the forests of his native Switzerland—among other areas around the world—for new boulders that capture his imagination. But first, Chris shares some stories about an escape to what's arguably the best rock in the country, the New River Gorge.  Our Final Bit is from none other than Margo Hayes, the first woman to climb 5.15. This song is called Jaded and it's off her new album Notes to You. Show Notes Follow Fred Nicole on Instagram Fred Nicole interview with UP Climbing Dreamtime on Youtube Follow Margo Hayes on Instagram Listen to Notes to You wherever you get your music Become a RunOut Rope Gun! Support our podcast and increase your RunOut runtime. Bonus episodes, AMA, and more will be available to our Rope Guns. Thank you for your support! http://patreon.com/runoutpodcast Contact us Send ideas, voicemail, feedback and more. andrew@runoutpodcast.com // chris@runoutpodcast.com

Hello everyone and welcome to Episode One Hundred and Five!  And I hope you all remain safe and healthy out there. SMP Patrons! I want to thank Rich Takmajian for his contribution to the So Much Pingle podcast, via Patreon. Much appreciated, Rich, thank you so much.  And as always, I am grateful to all the show's patrons who help to keep the show moving forward. And if you're out there listening and you would like to kick in a few bucks, it's easy to do, you simply go to the So Much Pingle Patreon page. You can support the show for as little as three bucks a month – less than a fancy cup of coffee! You can also support the show via one-time contributions via PayPal or Venmo (please contact me via email to somuchpingle@gmail.com). I recorded this episode back in early September, while the show was still on hiatus.  I was invited to give a presentation at the West Virginia Herpetological Society's annual meeting, which was held this year at the New River Gorge. I can't go any further without giving a shout-out to the good folks of the West Virginia Herp Society.  It's a great group that focuses on that important three-legged stool of education, conservation and appreciation. This is not people sitting around talking about their ball pythons, these folks are well-versed in the herpetofauna of their home state and ongoing research and conservation efforts. Their meetings are family friendly and visitor friendly – in fact there were a lot of folks at the annual meeting that came from other states. Thanks especially to Jared Cain, Josh Stover, Jon Tinney and Dylan Cooper for not only inviting me, but for making me and all the other attendees feel welcome and included. And, thank you all as well for arranging my interview with Dr. Thomas K. Pauley. Dr. Pauley and I talked at a picnic pavilion on a very chilly Sunday morning, and I am sure you will love this conversation as much as I did. Thanks for talking with me, Dr. Pauley!  And thanks for listening everyone! And as always, please keep the comments and suggestions coming, and please take time to rate the show on your podcast platform! The show email is somuchpingle@gmail.com, and there's also a So Much Pingle group on Facebook, for discussion, comments, feedback, suggestions, herp confessions, tips for herping better, etc. -Mike

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Thursday, Nov. 14, 2024. Community organizations work to revitalize West Virginia's downtowns…Taste WV delivers the scoop on the Mountain State's food, hospitality and tourism industries…and did you know one of the country's earliest UFO sightings occurred over the New River Gorge?…on today's daily304. #1 – From WV EXECUTIVE – Throughout the Mountain State, revitalization efforts are bringing new life to downtown areas, helping transform them into vibrant hubs of community and commerce. Organizations like Main Street Martinsburg, RenewAll and Charleston Urban Works are working to better their downtown areas with help from volunteers, sponsors and organizational partners. Main Street Martinsburg is focusing on historic preservation, protection and use of Martinsburg's historic downtown area in order to boost economic development in the city. This commitment is evident in the broad spectrum of projects and events that MSM organizes, offering fun-filled activities for tourists and drawing in visitors.  Meanwhile in Huntington, RenewAll recently transformed Central City Gazebo Park from a barren lawn into a lush public space equipped with trees, café tables and upgraded utilities for running food trucks. It is also putting the final touches on a public art installation. In the Capital City, Charleston Urban Works is working on the West Side Gateway Lighting Initiative, which will revolutionize public lighting in the area. The organization also focuses on enhancing public spaces and supporting business development through initiatives like its new business and property owner survey, which will help shape long-term work plans and goals through 2027. Read more: https://wvexecutive.com/reviving-west-virginias-downtowns/   #2 – From TASTE WV – Join Taste West Virginia and Chef Paul Smith on this rising tide of positive things for the Mountain State's food, hospitality, and tourism industries. Check out tastewv.com to get the scoop on farm-to-table cuisine, new eateries and culinary events in Almost Heaven. Taste West Virginia offers a fresh storytelling style shining a spotlight on some of the people and businesses shaping West Virginia hospitality. Read more: https://tastewv.com/category/food/   #3 – From WV EXPLORER – Did you know that one of the first UFO sightings reported in the U.S. may have originated in West Virginia over the region that's now part of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve? The encounter allegedly occurred in January 1950 near Beckley, and over what is now the Summit Bechtel National Scout Reserve, which adjoins the national park. According to late historian C. Lloyd Gibson, Mount Hope Mayor Pat Garrett spotted the object on the skyline to the east of his home, which sits on a hill that overlooks the town. Becky Sullivan, executive director of the New River Gorge Convention and Visitors Bureau, says she'll be happy to speak with anyone about the encounter.  “Mount Hope is a very interesting historical community, no less because the reserve is located there, but it's also at the gateway to the middle section of the New River Gorge National Park,” she said. Read more: https://wvexplorer.com/2024/11/04/did-nations-first-ufo-report-originate-in-west-virginia/   Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.  That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.  

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Tuesday, Nov. 12, 2024. Motorcycle riders flock to The Talon, a scenic, winding motorsports route that winds through the New River Gorge…the High Technology Foundation has been awarded a grant to fund operational expenses for a statewide collaborative entrepreneurial assistance program…and get the scoop on great things developing in Almost Heaven with Innovators and Entrepreneurs…on today's daily304.   #1 – From WV EXPLORER – The global attention that one of America's newest national parks has garnered is boosting interest in The Talon, an exceptional new motorsports route in southern West Virginia. The 18-mile stretch of two-lane US-60 that skirts the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is growing fast as a favorite route for motorcyclists and other adventure motorists. According to cyclist Jeff Lanham, founder of “Backroads of West Virginia,” the Talon explores some of the most scenic mountain lands in the U.S. and provides a variety of highway conditions, both relatively straight and exceptionally curving. The four other routes the organization is promoting include The Ridge—21 miles, following an upland range of hills north of Charleston; The Seneca Trail—213 miles, following the old Seneca warpath (US-219) through the Allegheny Mountains; The Trail of Dragons—244 miles, following WV-16 from Saint Marys to Tazewell, Va.; and The Shenandoah Sidewinder—65 miles, following US-33 from Seneca Rocks to Harrisonburg, Va. Read more: https://wvexplorer.com/2024/11/04/new-national-park-boosts-talon-motorsports-route/?fbclid=IwY2xjawGWES1leHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHVPvFh-OeRwcAkohDf0DI_Y15T7VWoB8jwzCUUgGkiBpxWcIKh9ZRuV-xQ_aem_9TDDbuAulLCTdjQRfq33GA   #2 – From TECH CONNECT – The High Technology Foundation has been awarded $848,800 by the U.S. Economic Development Administration to fund operational expenses for a statewide collaborative entrepreneurial assistance program.  The initiative is part of the EDA's commitment to foster economic development in regions impacted by the decline in coal industries. The project will be matched with $212,200 in local funds, bringing the total investment to over $1 million. The program will provide critical support to entrepreneurs and small businesses in the technology sector across West Virginia, according to Jim Estep, president and CEO of the High Technology Foundation. Read more: https://techconnectwv.org/high-technology-foundation-receives-848800-from-u-s-department-of-commerce-to-support-small-business-and-entrepreneurial-growth-in-west-virginia/   #3 – From INNOVATORS & ENTREPRENEURS – Get the scoop on all the good stuff happening in #YesWV. Check out “Innovators and Entrepreneurs,” a 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. Subscribe to the daily304 YouTube channel so you don't miss an episode! Read more: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLbTIXU2Zp-Km1gNK2YeXfnsVd91rSHh0b   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 Main Thing Podcast, where every episode brings you a concise, high-impact wisdom lesson from one of the wisest people I know. Studying their wisdom and learning together, we all get a little better at this thing called life.   Courage & Community-Building are Par for the Course with Alison Stepping onto a golf course is a serene escape for some, but for Allison Ibarra, it was the beginning of a journey that led her from competitive golf to transforming a near-derelict bowling alley into Pinhead's Family Fun Center—a community gem in Oak Hill, West Virginia. Join me as I chat with Allison, a driven entrepreneur and resilient military spouse, who shares how she turned personal challenges into opportunities for community growth and family happiness. Her story is a testament to the power of determination and adaptability. Through Allison's stories and wisdom lessons, we explore the essence of friendship, community service, and the unique resilience required in the face of life's challenges.   In today's conversation with this courageous, servant leader, you will discover Alison's Main Thing and also learn: How an incredibly productive entrepreneur manages it all; How a military spouse and her husband coped with long deployments and many months apart; and How the strongest leaders gain tremendous respect by being peace makers, rather than conflict initiators. More About Our Guest Alison is a native West Virginian, born and raised in Oak Hill. She's a former golfer, who played competitively and worked as a PGA teaching professional.   As a military spouse, married to a counter intelligence agent, Alison Ibarra has lived in many places across America. After many years away from the Mountain State, Alison and her family returned to her home region.   Today, she owns and operates a bowling alley, as Chief Pinhead at Pinheads Family Fun Center of the New River Gorge. Alison also serves as the Director of Economic Development for the City of Oak Hill. This respected community leader is also the mother of two teenage daughters.   Alison and I spoke at her home in Fayetteville, West Virginia.   Resources Pinheads Bowling Alley & Fun Center website Connect with Alison on LinkedIn Movie “Shallow Hal” on IMDB   Credits Editor + Technical Advisor Bob Hotchkiss Brand + Strategy Advisor Andy Malinoski PR + Partnerships Advisor Rachel Bell Marketing, Social Media and Graphic Design Chloe Lineberg   Stay Connected with Us on Social YouTube @themainthingpod Twitter @themainthingpod Instagram @themainthingpod Facebook  @TheMainThingPod LinkedIn   Help Support and Sustain This Podcast Become a subscriber. Share the podcast with one or two friends. Follow us on social media @TheMainThingPod Buy some Main Thing Merch from our Merchandise Store. Buy a book from our curated wisdom collection on bookshop.org. Become a patron and support us on Patreon with funding.   Episode Chapters   [0:03:25] - Golf and bowling; the vision and strategy behind Pinheads [0:06:00] - How Skip and Alison are connected - Holly Fussell [0:06:55] - Life as a military spouse; setting a precedent; flexible domestic roles [0:11:15] - Time management; avoiding feeling overwhelmed; out-sourcing [0:12:45] - Alison shares her Main Thing wisdom nugget; inspiration from “Shallow Hal” [0:15:11] - Wisdom for the golf course [0:17:16] - Priorities and choices [0:18:56] - Thoughts on peacemakers; how we react under stress [0:20:24] - Alison shares views on servant leadership and building community   Keywords Wisdom, Leadership, Military Spouse, Entrepreneurship, Service, Community, Golf, Bowling, Legacy, West Virginia, Adaptability, Resilience, Life Balance, Personal Growth, Timeless Activities, Inclusivity, Role Changes, Parenting, Family Unity, Prioritizing, Strengths, Weaknesses, Decision-making, Women

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Wednesday, Oct. 23, 2024, Forty high schools throughout West Virginia receive recognition for their efforts in helping students plan for college…a popular hiking trail in the New River Gorge gets additional parking spots…and are you brave enough to stay at a haunted campground on Sutton Lake?...on today's daily304. #1 – From WV PRESS – Principals, counselors, and staff from 40 high schools across West Virginia were recognized this month for their efforts to inform students of higher education opportunities after graduation.  The “Champion of College Access and Success” recognition awards are annually presented by the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission and the Council for Community and Technical Education to select schools that foster a college and career readiness culture within their communities. Representatives from the Champion schools attended an award ceremony at Stonewall Resort in conjunction with a statewide summit focused on affordable college and career pathways.  For more information about Champions of College Access and Success and college planning events, visit the College for West Virginia website at cfwvconnect.com/champion. Read more: https://wvpress.org/wvpa-sharing/forty-high-schools-across-west-virginia-recognized-for-their-outstanding-efforts-to-help-students-plan-for-college/?utm_source=newsletter   #2 – From METRO NEWS – Visitors to the New River Gorge National Park can rejoice now that one of the park's most popular trails has expanded parking. Just in time for the Gorge's annual Bridge Day celebration, Gov. Jim Justice joined Tourism Secretary Chelsea Ruby and officials with the West Virginia Division of Highways recently to welcome the additional 70 parking spaces at the Endless Wall Trail. Ruby said the DOH first came out and widened the portion of Lansing-Edmond Road the trail sits off of, making it safe for the public to create an additional 30 parking spots. Then, just recently, DOH crews created the additional 70 more spots from a completely dense forest adjacent to the trail. According to the Department of Tourism, the New River Gorge area sees about 2 million visitors a year. Read more: https://wvmetronews.com/2024/10/14/parking-expanded-for-the-endless-wall-trail-in-fayette-county/ #3 – From WV EXPLORER –While there are many remote campgrounds in West Virginia, few boast their own ghosts. Though only 30 minutes from Interstate 79, Baker's Run Campground may feel remote due to how it tucks into the hills on the Elk River at Sutton Lake, and that's much of its allure. According to most versions of the once-famous tale, the ghost is that of Jacob Beamer, who was fond of moonlight walks. He met his end one night when he was hit by a train. For many years afterward, his ghost was said to appear to wanderers at night as it searched for his missing head.  Need more than a ghost to have a good time? Sutton Lake has recently become famous for alleged sightings of a Bigfoot, and the whole of the region is renowned as the site of the crash landing of the Flatwoods Monster. And if that's not enough, there are plenty of great opportunities for camping and fishing! Read more: https://wvexplorer.com/2024/10/13/bakers-run-campground-headless-ghost-centralia/   Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.  That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.  

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2024  Find manufacturing jobs and post job opportunities on a free platform courtesy of #YesWV…Marshall University is at the forefront of institutions tackling national security issues…and bring your dog along for a howling good time in Almost Heaven…on today's daily304. #1 – From JOBCASE – Consumers are in constant contact with products containing elements made in West Virginia.  The Mountain State supports a diverse manufacturing sector that includes chemicals, biotech/pharmaceuticals, primary metals, automotive components, fabricated products, wood products and more. West Virginia's workforce also ranks first in the U.S. for the lowest turnover rate in manufacturing-specific jobs.  Through their partnership with Jobcase.com/WV/Post, #YesWV offers a free platform for local employers to post job opportunities, ensuring that positions reach the right candidates. Check out Jobcase.com to learn more and find out who's hiring! Read more: https://www.jobcase.com/articles/manufacturing-in-wv   #2 – From VERTX PARTNERS – National security is more than an academic concern at Marshall University – it's a driving force that shapes the institution's mission, impacting the state of West Virginia and the country as a whole.  Marshall is at the forefront of academic institutions preparing the next generation to tackle the complexities of national security.  Marshall's programs in aviation, technology transfer, and cybersecurity are more than just academic offerings. Each is integral to the United States' national security framework. Vertx Partners believes it's vital to highlight and connect with academic institutions like Marshall to strengthen our nation's security, says Vertx President and Retired Air Force Colonel Sean Frisbee.  “Marshall has a broader mission, but it fits into Vertx's,” adds Frisbee. “First of all, by educating students to be effective members of society that drive new technologies. Read more: https://vertxpartners.org/marshall-university-vertx-spotlight/   #3 – From BLUE RIDGE OUTDOORS – Bring Fido along for a dog-friendly weekend in West Virginia! In the Mountain State, festivals, restaurants and adventures give a whole new meaning to family-friendly, pups included. In Charleston, enjoy events like FestivALL's Woofstock & Wieners race, a goofy competition for  dachshunds. You can also enter your dog in sprints or show off his tricks and obedience skills. In the New River Gorge, plan a stay at Hemlock Haven Cabins, which has fenced-in backyards for pet owners, then hit the trails with your leashed pal. If your pooch is small enough to fit in a stroller, he can even join you for some ghost tours at Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum! Or, carry him in your arms as you stroll through this historic building. Check out Blue Ridge Outdoors for more dog-friendly travel ideas, then visit wvtourism.com to start planning your Almost Heaven getaway today! Read more: https://www.blueridgeoutdoors.com/sponsored-content/9-wester-virginia-mountain-trips-dog-can-take-lead/   Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.  That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Thursday, Sept. 19, 2024. Piggy backing off the success of WV's new national park, visitor spending and jobs are up in the New River Gorge region…the WV Office of Broadband publishes a map to help folks locate digital inclusion services…and big investments are being made in broadband infrastructure; it's a great time to find a career in broadband…on today's daily304.   #1 – From WCHS-TV – Last year, nearly two million people visited the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve and two other national recreation areas in the region, spending close to $100 million.  The New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, Gauley River National Recreation Area and Bluestone National Scenic River saw 1.9 million visitors spend about $96.5 million in communities surrounding the parks in the past year, according to the National Park Service. Officials said the spending has increased throughout the region in the years since the New River Gorge's redesignation as a national park in 2020. Spending supported 1,268 jobs in the local area and had a cumulative benefit to the local economy of $116.5 million. The area also saw a 10% increase in jobs. Read more: https://wchstv.com/news/local/visitor-spending-rises-as-nearly-2-million-people-visited-new-river-gorge-in-2023#   #2 – From WTAP – The West Virginia Department of Economic Development, Office of Broadband has launched a new Digital Equity Asset Map and Dashboard. This DE map will enable residents and organizations across the Mountain State to find organizations that offer digital inclusion services. Digital inclusion services are any activity that helps underserved or underrepresented communities better access and use the Internet.  The DE Asset Map allows users to filter out digital equity assets by county, provider type, and service type. By clicking on the map, users can view the provider's website, contact information, hours of operation, service details, and more. To view the map, click here. Read more: https://www.wtap.com/2024/09/03/wv-office-broadband-launches-de-asset-map/   #3 – From WV DED – Big investments in broadband infrastructure are occurring throughout West Virginia. West Virginia workers have an opportunity to be part of one of the largest federally funded infrastructure investments in State history. Check out the video and visit the West Virginia Department of Economic Development to learn more. Watch the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?si=yC04iQuqVdnEvyM2&v=kM_7mMHnA9Q&feature=youtu.be   Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.  That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.  

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Wednesday, Sept. 18, 2024. The WV Hive receives a federal grant to fund a Food Incubation Hub in Fayette County…Experience a month of changing autumn colors in Almost Heaven…and a Preston County bison farm teams up with the WV SBDC to boost its business…on today's daily304. #1 – From THE REAL WV – Leaders of the New River Gorge Regional Development Authority and West Virginia Hive recently joined with the Appalachian Regional Commission and the U.S. Department of Agriculture to showcase the many benefits of small business development throughout southern West Virginia. The day started with the announcement of a $750,000 federal grant to the WV Hive that will locate a new Food Incubation Hub in Fayette County. The hub will include a commercial kitchen with space for 10 to 12 businesses, small wares, and catering supplies. The hub will also include full WV Hive business support services, with one-on-one business advising and technical assistance support. Community leaders also took part in a small business roundtable discussion and toured Water Stone Outdoors in Fayetteville and Pinheads in Oak Hill. Read more: https://therealwv.com/2024/09/01/arc-and-usda-leaders-help-nrgrda-and-wv-hive-celebrate-small-business-progress/   #2 – From WV TOURISM – One of the more unique features of West Virginia is its wide range of elevation. This provides visitors the opportunity to enjoy fall leaf peeping for nearly an entire month throughout the Mountain State. The leaves begin to peak in late September in the eastern mountains of the Potomac Highlands. Mid-October is the New River Gorge's time to shine. Fall color wraps up in late October in the Eastern Panhandle. During this time, you can enjoy a variety of exciting fall festivals and outdoor recreation. Start planning your Almost Heaven fall getaway today! Read more: https://wvtourism.com/fall-leaf-peeping/   #3 – From WV SBDC –  Tucked in the hills of Preston County, Riffle Farms raises grass-fed and finished bison. Owner Liz Riffle has carved out a unique niche in the agricultural scene. Her journey into bison farming began with a personal quest for healthier, more sustainable food options. This dedication to quality and health resonates throughout Riffle Farms' operations, making them pioneers as the first commercial bison operation in West Virginia.  Liz acknowledges the support they received from the West Virginia Small Business Development Center is a crucial resource for entrepreneurs.  “The SBDC is one of those folks who really wanted to help us out from that perspective,” she shares. “It made a big difference for us because we could then be taken seriously from a lending perspective, which allowed us to expand our business.” Read more: https://wvsbdc.com/riffle-farms-a-bison-farm-in-the-mountain-state/   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, Sept. 13, 2024.  Marshall University announces a new partnership between WV Public Broadcasting and the School of Journalism & Mass Communications…Bridgeport hosts the state's largest conference for small manufacturers…and discover some of the most scenic trails in Almost Heaven this fall…on today's daily304. #1 – From MARSHALL.EDU – Marshall University has announced a new strategic partnership that will establish a collaborative environment for media education and content production. This partnership will see the opening of an official West Virginia Public Broadcasting news bureau within the School of Journalism & Mass Communications building on Marshall's Huntington campus. This new collaboration will provide WVPB with office space, technical support and access to the school's state-of-the-art recording studios, allowing for the production of high-quality broadcast content directly from the university campus. As part of the agreement, WVPB will include the journalism school in the “West Virginia Morning” credit line, recognizing the school as a supporting institution. SOJMC students will also have the opportunity to submit news stories and content for consideration. “We are excited about this opportunity to work with the students and faculty at SOJMC,” said Eric Douglas, the director of Broadcast Journalism at WVPB. “Re-establishing a bureau in Huntington will help us better cover the western part of the state. And getting the opportunity to work with upcoming students at Marshall is an added bonus for content for our broadcasts.” Read more: https://www.marshall.edu/news/2024/08/marshall-university-and-west-virginia-public-broadcasting-announce-partnership/   #2 – From WVU INDUSTRIAL EXTENSION – Get set for West Virginia's largest conference for small manufacturers! WVU Industrial Extension's 2024 West Virginia Manufacturing Conference takes place Sept. 24- 25 at the Bridgeport Conference Center.  The event kicks off with an opening reception on Friday, Sept. 24. On Saturday, Sept. 25, the event includes a full day of insightful speakers and engaging hands-on activities, all designed to creatively educate small manufacturers across the state.  Don't miss this unique opportunity to connect with industry leaders, gain valuable insights, and explore innovative solutions tailored for small manufacturers. Register now: https://wvmanufacturingconference.com/   #3 – From WV TOURISM – West Virginia is home to stunning scenic vistas all year-round. In the fall, lush forests come alive with colors of red, orange and yellow, creating a beautiful view of mountains and valleys. There's no better time to get on a trail. Explore the beauty of autumn splendor with some of West Virginia's most scenic hikes and overlooks, from Coopers Rock State Forest to the New River Gorge to Harpers Ferry National Historical Park. Visit wvtourism.com to learn more and start planning your Almost Heaven fall getaway today! Read more: https://wvtourism.com/seasons/fall/hikes/   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 Part Two of The Golden Bear Way, a special three-part series exploring the past, present, and future of West Virginia University Tech. Situated in the heart of the New River Gorge, WVU Tech is quickly becoming one of the state's most dynamic institutions. In this episode, we highlight how Tech combines academic excellence with the natural beauty and abundant opportunities of the region. Today, we're joined by Dr. Tamara Smith, Vice President for Academic Affairs. Though originally from outside West Virginia, she was drawn to Tech's renowned engineering program. With a master's and PhD in chemical engineering from MIT, Dr. Smith brings a wealth of expertise to the table. We'll discuss the challenges students face when choosing the right undergraduate education and how schools and faculty are adapting to meet the evolving needs of today's students. If you missed Part One featuring President Ramon Stuart, make sure to catch up. Now, let's dive in with Dr. Tamara Smith.

In this episode of the STR Data Lab, Jamie and Scott explore the exciting potential of investing in short-term rentals near national parks. They kick things off with a fun conversation about their personal experiences visiting these natural wonders before diving into AirDNA's latest research. This analysis uncovers the top 10 markets for short-term rentals near national parks, focusing on key metrics like occupancy rates, average daily rates, and home values. Jamie and Scott break down the methodology behind the rankings, explaining how yield serves as a key metric to level the playing field. They reveal the top five national park markets, including New River Gorge, Mammoth Cave, and Joshua Tree, providing insights into why these locations top the list. The episode touches on significant trends such as the surge in national park visits post-pandemic and the rise in unique stays, from cabins to yurts.  Finally, they offer actionable advice for potential investors, stressing the importance of understanding peak seasons and leveraging AirDNA's interactive tools to make informed decisions. Jamie wraps up by giving a special shoutout to his colleague, Linda, for her key role in pulling together this comprehensive analysis. You don't want to miss this episode! ~~~~ https://www.airdna.co/blog/national-park-airbnb-markets ~~~~ Signup for AirDNA for FREE

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Friday, Aug. 23, 2024. Check out some of West Virginia's most talented musical artists, all from the comfort of your couch, with Mountain State Music livestream videos…Discover Almost Heaven at Family Adventure Camp at the Summit, in the heart of the New River Gorge…and plan the ultimate adventure road trip through northeastern West Virginia…on today's daily304. #1 – From DAILY304 – 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, recorded live at Folklore Music Exchange. 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. Watch the videos: https://daily304.wv.gov/programs/mountain-state-music/   #2 – From SUMMIT BSA – Family fun awaits at the Summit Bechtel Reserve! A vacation to this unique getaway is something that your family will remember forever. From scenic hikes, a variety of lodging options, and exciting outdoor activities, the Summit has something for everyone.  Family Adventure Camp at the Summit is in the Appalachian Mountains of West Virginia, next to the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. Discover why so many people call this land “Almost Heaven,” with its breathtaking natural beauty, abundant ecosystems, and many activities.  The camp is open to ALL Families; no BSA or Scouting affiliation is required! Learn more: https://www.summitbsa.org/familyadventurecampwv   #3 – From BACKPACKER – Thanks to the establishment of the country's newest national park in the New River Gorge, West Virginia is having its time in the limelight right now. Even in this small state, there's plenty to explore beyond the park's boundaries. The northeastern part of the state, from the Dolly Sods to Blackwater Falls, has hiking trails, waterfalls, and funky small towns that offer no end of outdoor adventure. If you're ready to explore but also want to be close enough to Main Street to grab a drink or dinner post-hike, pitch your tent in Tucker County near the towns of Davis and Thomas for some good, clean (but actually probably pretty muddy) outdoor fun.  Check out Backpacker's 5-day itinerary for the ultimate Almost Heaven road trip! Read more: https://www.backpacker.com/trips/road-trip-through-west-virginia/   Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.  That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.  

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Monday, July 29, 2024. The WV Jobs Investment Trust establishes a program to help businesses obtain capital…Greenbrier Valley receives funding to enhance manufacturing in the region…and tackle the toughest trail in the New River Gorge while you explore the remnants of an old coal mining operation…on today's daily304. #1 – From WVJIT – Does your business need capital? Mountain State small businesses now have a source of capital through the West Virginia Capital Access Program through the West Virginia Jobs Investment Trust. WVCAP is designed to assist credit-worthy companies that may not fit traditional lending models. Learn more about WVCAP funding options for Seed Capital Co-Investment, Subordinated Debt, Collateral Support and Technical Assistance  For more information about any of the investment or lending programs available through WVCAP, go to wvjit.wv.gov/wvcap. Read more: https://wvjit.wv.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Pub_CAP_Capital_Flier_WVEDA_JIT_nocropmarks.pdf   #2 – From  YES GREENBRIER VALLEY – The Greenbrier Valley Economic Development Corporation has received funding from the Small Business Administration to enhance manufacturing in Greenbrier County.  The $819,000 award will provide funds for construction of space inside the existing Rahall Business & Technology Center at the Airport Industrial Park in Maxwelton. The construction will provide space for smaller manufacturing and trade companies in the region. In addition, the project will provide wrap-around business development services and support from Greenbrier Valley EDC and its partners.  The Commercialization Center Project is expected to begin by 2025. Read more: https://yesgreenbriervalley.com/greenbrier-valley-edc-receives-funding-for-commercialization-center/   #3 – From LOOT PRESS –  Located deep in the New River Gorge is the Kaymoor Miners Trail, a one-mile strenuous trail with stairs and switchbacks that lead you to a now-forgotten world. Kaymoor, founded in 1899 by the Low Moor Iron Company, was one of the many coal towns that lined the New River Gorge and was the last operating mine in the Gorge before it shut down in 1961. Kaymoor featured an extensive mining operation, multiple homes, a company store, schools, churches, and even a movie theater. Now, the former town of Kaymoor serves as a destination for hikers and explorers alike. The Kaymoor Miners Trailhead descends down the steep and rugged gorge, where hikers can view remnants of the mining operation, including buildings and equipment. From there a set of 821 wooden steps leads to Kaymoor Bottom, the site of the once prosperous mining town.  If you plan on hiking the trail, take plenty of water and stop for a break if you need to. Visit the Canyon Rim Visitor's Center in the New River Gorge National Park for more information.  Read more: https://www.lootpress.com/these-821-steps-lead-you-to-a-forgotten-world/   Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.  That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.  

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Friday, July 26, 2024. Interested in a manufacturing job? Highline-Warren is seeking a maintenance mechanic apprentice…Artists, get your submissions in now for the  2024 West Virginia Emerging Artists Juried Exhibition…and see the beautiful New River Gorge via train on the Amtrak Cardinal…on today's daily304. #1 – From HIGHLINE AFTERMARKET – Highline-Warren is seeking a maintenance mechanic apprentice. The apprentice is responsible for performing a variety of unskilled and semi-skilled tasks while receiving on-the-job training and classroom instruction on mechanical electrical, hydraulic and pneumatic systems. Located in Glen Dale, Highline-Warren is the leading national manufacturer and distributor in the automotive aftermarket. Apply now: https://highlineaftermarket.hrmdirect.com/employment/job-opening.php?req=3129557&req_loc=270626&&&nohd#job   #2 – From BLUEFIELD DAILY TELEGRAPH – Calling all artists! The West Virginia Department of Arts, Culture and History is accepting submissions for the 2024 West Virginia Emerging Artists Juried Exhibition. The exhibit will open Nov. 3 at the Culture Center, State Capitol Complex, in Charleston. Submissions are due by Sept. 6. Eligible artists may submit two pieces for the exhibit jurying in painting, print/drawing, mixed media, craft/wall hangings, photography, digital art and sculpture. The pieces that are entered must have been created between 2022 and 2024.  The Best of Show/Purchase Award will receive $1,000. Second place will receive $500, and third place will receive $250. For more information and to print out an entry form, visit WVCulture.org. Learn more: https://www.bdtonline.com/news/lifestyles/applications-accepted-for-2024-west-virginia-emerging-artists-juried-exhibition/article_a6483d9b-f86b-5a85-9b8e-3dee4c71a085.html   #3 – From THE LOOT – In the New River Gorge, there are many ways to see the beauty the area has to offer, whether it be by foot, car, kayak, raft, or biplane… and there's also a train that travels through the national park. The Amtrak Cardinal runs through the Gorge three days a week, twice a day. If one purchases their tickets early enough, a round trip through the New River Gorge from Montgomery to Hinton is only $18. It's a great way to view scenery including the Hawks Nest Dam, the New River Gorge Bridge and the historic railroad town of Thurmond. The Cardinal makes stops in the West Virginia towns of Huntington, Charleston, Montgomery, Thurmond, Prince, Hinton, Alderson, and White Sulphur Springs. Read more: https://www.lootpress.com/travel-by-train-through-new-river-gorge-national-park-via-amtrak/   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 Main Thing Podcast! Each episode we bring you a concise, high impact wisdom lesson from one of the wisest people I know. Studying their wisdom and learning together, we all get just a little bit better at this thing called life.   Curiosity, Climbing and Community: Wisdom Lessons from SEAL Spouse, Bold Business Leader Holly Fussell   Holly Fussell is one of the most diverse and curious people I've ever met. She's a certified yoga instructor, an experienced triathlete, and a formally trained sommelier who studied at the Culinary Institute of America.   Holly was a military spouse for more than 10 years with an active duty Navy SEAL for a husband, so she knows what it is like to face transition and uncertainty.    We'll have fun as we explore Holly's rich, diverse wisdom. Along the way you will learn: How to be truly adaptable, especially when facing uncertainty. Plus you will hear tips on how to avoid the comparison trap. How to look within and trust that you have everything you need.   More About Our Wise Guest With her husband, Holly Fussell owns Water Stone Outdoors, a specialty outdoor gear and apparel shop in Fayetteville, WV. She looks forward to being a part of job creation in the growing outdoor recreation economy in West Virginia.   While living in Washington, D.C., Holly worked with non-profit organizations supporting access to healthy, high-quality food. She served on the Board of Directors for SEALKIDS for five years, an organization supporting academic challenges and special needs for children in the Navy SEAL community.   Holly recently completed her MBA through West Virginia University and volunteers in her community, serving on the Board of Directors for the Fayetteville Visitors and Convention Bureau.   She is the mother of two childre and enjoys spending time outdoors with family and friends.   Now gear up and get ready. Over the next 19 minutes, you'll discover why Holly Fussell is one of the wisest people I know.   Resources Connect with Holly on LinkedIn to read her essays on small biz ownership Waterstone Outdoors website Episode 32 of our podcast, featuring Navy SEAL Chris Fussell Our website for additional wisdom resources   Credits Editor + Technical Advisor Bob Hotchkiss Brand + Strategy Advisor Andy Malinoski PR + Partnerships Advisor Rachel Bell Marketing, Social Media and Graphic Design Chloe Lineberg   Stay Connected with Us on Social YouTube @themainthingpod Twitter @themainthingpod Instagram @themainthingpod Facebook  @TheMainThingPod LinkedIn   Help Support and Sustain This Podcast Become a subscriber. Share the podcast with one or two friends. Follow us on social media @TheMainThingPod Buy some Main Thing Merch from our Merchandise Store. Buy a book from our curated wisdom collection on bookshop.org. Become a patron and support us on Patreon with funding.   Episode Chapters [0:03:30] - Holly's diverse background [0:06:03] - About Waterstone Outdoors; the new vision for the store [0:05:23] - How Skip and Holly are connected [0:09:42] - Life as a military spouse; being married to a Navy SEAL [0:14:00] - Holly reveals her Main Thing wisdom lesson [0:15:07] - Growth mindset; the importance of curiosity; learning by trying [0:16:45] - Surrounded by high-performers; avoiding comparison trap [0:18:14] - Fallacy of making assumptions about successful people [0:19:16] - Ingredients for a life of intention   Keywords Small Business, Adaptability, Growth Mindset, Excellence, Military Spouse, Comparison Trap, Perfectionism, Intentionality, Pursuing Fulfillment, High Achievers, Emotional Intelligence, Intentional Living, Personal Development, Multiple Intelligences, SEAL Team, Navy, Community, Meaningful Relationships, Entrepreneurship, Yoga, Triathlete, Sourdough Bread, Rock Climbing, Sommelier, Foreign Language Teacher, High Performers, Effort, Outcomes, Exciting Updates, Revitalized Store, Waterstone Outdoors, Fayetteville, New River Gorge, National Park  

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Tuesday, July 16, 2024. Learn about the unique plants and animals of our newest national park with New River Gorge Eco Tours…download your West Virginia Culinary Trail Mobile Passport and earn prizes as you sample delicious local fare…and the West Virginia Makes Festival returns to Marshall's campus in October…on today's daily304. #1 – From WCHS-TV – The owners of Lafayette Flats Boutique Vacation Rentals have zeroed in on a niche market appealing to lovers of nature and history. Shawn Means and Amy McLaughlin founded New River Gorge Eco Tours, a guided immersive hike focusing on the flora and fauna of the area sprinkled with bits of coal mining history. The tours are offered April through November.  “One of our goals of New River Gorge Ecotours is that people will leave with a deeper appreciation of the nature, the history and everything that's embedded in the New River Gorge region, and really understand why it is a national park,” Means said. Watch the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?si=ngfQ_IkTcR2lqb7j&v=LsVQ_vghndo&feature=youtu.be   #2 – From WV TOURISM – Let cuisine be your compass as you explore local dining options and unlock prizes for your efforts. Claim your FREE mobile pass to the West Virginia Culinary Trail and start earning one-of-a-kind foodie prizes today.  Looking for a place to start? Visit West Virginia's Northern Panhandle and enjoy culinary delights at restaurants like the Vagabond Kitchen, the Prima Marina and La Cucina Italian Grill. Visit wvtourism.com to learn more! Learn more: https://wvtourism.com/start-your-culinary-trail-adventure-in-the-northern-panhandle/   3 – From MFG MARSHALL –  Save the date! This year's West Virginia Makes Festival takes place Oct. 11 on the Huntington campus of Marshall University. Show off your innovations, inventions or other creative endeavors and compete for prizes, including cash. Watch awe-inspiring demonstrations. Participate in hands-on making activities for people of all ages. Listen to some rocking music, and more. The fun is free! Learn more: https://www.mfg.marshall.edu/2024-west-virginia-makes-festival/   Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.  That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.  

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Friday, July 12, 2024. The Office of Minority Affairs embarks on a listening tour throughout West Virginia…”What Makes You Wonderful” visits with The Greenbrier Goat, a pack service on the Greenbrier River Trail…and the New River Gorge CVB teams up with Midland Trail High School to launch a scavenger hunt, with big prizes up for grabs…on today's daily304.   #1 – From HHOMA – The Herbert Henderson Office of Minority Affairs has launched a listening tour taking place throughout the state over the next few months. The HHOMA team intends to engage with community members and gather valuable feedback to address their needs. The tour will provide a forum for discussing issues that affect the state's minority populations. The issues raised at these forums are addressed by partner agencies, and policy recommendations are made to the legislature based on the discussions and feedback gathered across the state. Upcoming stops include Mount Hope, Parkersburg and Welch. Details will be posted on the agency's website and Facebook page. Learn more: https://minorityaffairs.wv.gov/news/Pages/HHOMA-launches-statewide-listening-tour.aspx   #2 – From WMYW –  What Makes You Wonderful spotlights Aaron Coleman, the innovative owner of The Greenbrier Goat. His service, the only one of its kind in the state, features a pack-goat-powered basecamp tailored for groups of cyclists and day hikers.  Coleman passionately believes in the therapeutic benefits of nature and animal companionship, providing a memorable and rejuvenating experience for all who visit. Whether you're cycling through scenic trails or embarking on a day hike, The Greenbrier Goat promises an adventure like no other. Check him out on Facebook, and tune into our podcast! Listen now: https://daily304.libsyn.com/wmyw-and-the-greenbrier-goat   #3 – From WVVA – The New River Gorge Convention and Visitors Bureau, in collaboration with sixth grade students from Midland Trail High School, have launched a scavenger hunt called, “North of the New.' The scavenger hunt will take participants through various locations north of the New River Gorge Bridge where they will search for hidden treasures, answer questions about what they see, and take photos at designated landmarks.  Those who complete the hunt are eligible to win the grand prize, which includes $500 in gift certificates and New River Gorge gear. Details are posted on the New River Gorge CVB's website. Read more: https://www.wvva.com/2024/07/01/new-river-gorge-cvb-launches-new-scavenger-hunt-tourism-campaign/ 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 Mountaineer Media's special three-part storytelling series, "The Golden Bear Way." This series explores WVU Tech's past, present, and future, highlighting the program's most important initiatives and how it's using the breathtaking backdrop of the New River Gorge to tell its story. To kick off the series, we speak with President T. Ramon Stuart, the program's leader. The McDowell County native shares his vision for the University and how it is actively positioning itself to succeed in the future. Whether you're a prospective student, an alum, or a fan of our state's heritage, this series is a source of inspiration. Join us as we dive into the history, adventure, and achievements of WVU Tech, starting with an exclusive interview with President Stuart.

We're fresh off the outdoor adventure trip of a lifetime with River Expeditions, a lodging and adventure property & rafting outfitter in the New River Gorge National Park in West Virginia. We're recounting every moment of the best three days kayaking and white water rafting on the New River, zip lining in the West Virginia forest, and living in luxury in the massive cabins at River Expeditions. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Shop: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Trip Itineraries⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Amazon Storefront ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TSP Merch⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Connect: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠and contact us at travelsquadpodcast@gmail.com to submit a question of the week or inquire about guest interviews and advertising. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/travel-squad-podcast/support

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Thursday, June 13, 2024. West Virginia's excellent business climate continues to attract top-notch, major companies…to thru-hikers, historic Harpers Ferry is the heart of the Appalachian Trail…and the founder of Lafayette Flats shares what inspired her to create this boutique lodging in the New River Gorge…on today's daily304. #1 – From CHIEF EXECUTIVE –  West Virginia has turned a new leaf in economic development. After notching nearly $20 billion in capital investment commitments since 2017, the state has shown that CEOs, as well as its residents, understand West Virginia is a great place to live, work and play. Michael Graney, executive director of the West Virginia Department of Economic DevelopmentT, references West Virginia's great business climate. That's due in part to unique education opportunities, ample raw materials and quick access to important markets. The state also has America's second-lowest workers' compensation insurance rates, the least manufacturing workforce turnover in the nation and a highly responsive economic development team that out-quicks the competition. Major companies, including Procter & Gamble, Toyota Motor and MHI RJ Aviation Group, have taken advantage of locating and staying in West Virginia, while new entrants include Nucor. North America's largest steel-products company two years ago selected a site near Apple Grove for its new, $3.1 billion sheet mill which will employ about 800 full-time workers. Read more: https://chiefexecutive.net/from-rust-belt-to-business-belt-west-virginias-transformation/   #2 – From THE TRAVEL – At 2,190 miles, the Appalachian Trail is the longest footpath in the world. It takes five to seven months for hikers who want to hike the entirety of the trail from Maine to Georgia as it winds through forests, rural countryside and small towns. Of all the towns on the AT, Harpers Ferry, West Virginia could be considered the heart. It's home to the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, the organization that is responsible for maintaining the trail. It's also home to Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, loads of Civil War history and historic buildings, and beautiful mountain scenery.  Hikers may want to rest up for a few days here to explore, grab a tasty meal, or even raft or tube on the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers. Several campgrounds are available outside the park boundaries, providing a comfortable place to rest up for the rest of the journey. Read more: https://www.thetravel.com/where-appalachian-trail-runs-through-west-virginia/   #3 – From THE MAIN THING – What kind of magic is required to transform a 120-year-old building into a contemporary haven filled with original local art? The Main Thing podcast uncovers the inspiring journey of Amy McLaughlin and her husband/co-founder, who turned their vision into Lafayette Flats Boutique Vacation Rentals in Fayetteville, West Virginia.  Celebrating the 10-year anniversary of Lafayette Flats, Amy talks about the meticulous planning, visionary design, and the challenges they overcame to create a unique lodging destination amidst the natural beauty of New River Gorge National Park.  This conversation is a rich source of wisdom on sustainable tourism, entrepreneurship, and celebrating local culture, making it a must-listen for anyone with a passion for hospitality and West Virginia's scenic splendor. Listen now: https://themainthingpodcast.com/ep-110-building-your-dream-with-entrepreneur-amy-mclaughlin/   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.  

New River Gorge National Park in West Virginia is full of adventures to be had for the ultimate dare devil to family adventures, there is something for everyone in this park.  The Gorge has been formed over millions of years of the New River carving out the canyon. Come learn why we think the New River has the wrong name, along with some fascinating history of the area and fun things to do.  

On this West Virginia Morning, we talk with National Park Ranger Eve West to learn about ways to enjoy the nation's newest National Park at the New River Gorge this summer. Also, we explore the state's low voter turnout and the impact it has on young voters. The post Young Voter Turnout And Summer Fun At New River Gorge, This West Virginia Morning appeared first on West Virginia Public Broadcasting.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Tuesday, June 4, 2024. A donation from the Wing 2 Wing Foundation will put musical instruments in all middle schools throughout West Virginia…Longstanding companies in #YesWV evolve with the times to produce innovative products…and ALL ABOARD to the New River Gorge via Amtrak…on today's daily304. #1 – From METRO NEWS – The West Virginia Department of Arts, Culture and History has accepted a $280,000 contribution from the Wing 2 Wing Foundation in its partnership with the Save The Music Foundation to enhance musical education in West Virginia. Secretary Randall Reid-Smith said the money will give more students an opportunity to learn how to play a musical instrument by providing instruments to every middle school in all 55 counties. The Wing 2 Wing Foundation, founded by Marshall University President Brad Smith and wife Alys Smith, focuses on investments in education, entrepreneurship and the environment. The state has implemented the program in 156 schools with $40,000 worth of free instruments in each school. Read more: https://wvmetronews.com/2024/05/27/brad-smiths-wing-2-wing-foundation-to-help-fund-musical-education-in-west-virginia/   #2 – From WV EXECUTIVE – Many companies in West Virginia have been around for decades and thus have long provided the Mountain State and beyond with essential products and services. Despite their already impressive strategies, there are always opportunities for businesses to excel and innovate.  Warwood Tool, Amsted Graphite Materials, Star Plastics and MHI RJ Aviation Inc. are four examples of innovation taking place in long standing companies, all of which have made great strides by implementing new ideas. Warwood Tool opened as a blacksmith shop in 1854. Now, the Wheeling company continues to manufacture a wide array of industrial grade tools that can be used for any purpose. Amsted Graphite Materials in Anmoore was built by the National Carbon Company in 1904 and has been a notable contributor to the carbon and graphite industries.  Star Plastics, formed from its parent company SDR Plastics in 1988. The Ravenswood recycling company now specializes in custom formulated engineering grade resins and continues turning used plastic into quality products. MHI RJ in Bridgeport has been around for 33 years, the result of a merger between Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and the Canadair Regional Jet Series Program. It is the largest maintenance, repair and overhaul provider for CRJ and has one of the world's largest regional aircraft bases. Read more: https://wvexecutive.com/innovation-in-industry/   #3 – From THE TRAVEL – For those who want to visit the newest national park in the nation, Amtrak would like to help take the burden off of road-tripping to the New River Gorge and trying to find parking by dropping off and picking up passengers at one of three stations located around the park. The Cardinal, which is best known for its Chicago to New York route, makes three stops per week at each of the three stops around the park in Hinton, Thurmond, and Prince. The stops occur on Sunday, Wednesday, and Friday. While The Cardinal picks up and drops off passengers, the train ride also takes passengers through New River Gorge National Park. As a result of the glass-domed passenger car, those riding the train can get unparalleled views riding through the park, the likes of which would not be seen if you drove to the park instead. Read more: https://www.thetravel.com/amtrak-train-to-new-river-gorge-national-park/   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 Main Thing Podcast! Each episode we bring you a concise, high impact wisdom lesson from one of the wisest people I know. Studying their wisdom and learning together, we all get just a little bit better at this thing called life. Building Your Dream:  Exploring the Entrepreneurial Journey What kind of magic is required to transform a 120-year-old building into a contemporary haven filled with original local art? Join us as we uncover the inspiring journey of Amy McLaughlin and her husband/co-founder, who turned their vision into Lafayette Flats Boutique Vacation Rentals in Fayetteville, West Virginia. Celebrating the 10-year anniversary of Lafayette Flats, Amy takes us through the meticulous planning, visionary design, and the challenges they overcame to create a unique lodging destination amidst the natural beauty of New River Gorge National Park. Aspiring entrepreneurs and lovers of West Virginia's charm will find a wealth of insights and inspiration in this episode. We discuss the decision-making principles that guided her, focusing on goals over circumstances, particularly in the face of the area's National Park designation. This conversation is a rich source of wisdom on sustainable tourism, entrepreneurship, and celebrating local culture, making it a must-listen for anyone with a passion for hospitality and West Virginia's scenic splendor. More About Our Wise Guest - Entrepreneur Amy McLaughlin Amy McLaughlin is an entrepreneur, master naturalist and art collector. She finds great beauty in her West Virginia home, which she curates for the rest of the world to appreciate. Amy and her husband own and operate Lafayette Flats Boutique Vacation Rentals in Fayetteville, WV on the rim of New River Gorge National Park. In April 2024, they celebrated the 10th anniversary of their small business, which is housed in a 120-year-old building they lovingly renovated. Lafayette Flats was recently named one of the best places to stay in West Virginia by National Geographic, and as you will learn, it is much more than just a lodging property. Now, settle in, take a deep breath of fresh mountain air … and get ready, over the next several minutes you will learn why Amy McLaughlin is one of the wisest people I know.   Resources Check out the Lafayette Flats website Follow Lafayette Flats on Instagram Connect with Amy on LinkedIn   Credits Editor + Technical Advisor Bob Hotchkiss Brand + Strategy Advisor Andy Malinoski PR + Partnerships Advisor Rachel Bell Graphic Design + Social Media Chloe Lineberg   Stay Connected with Us on Social YouTube @themainthingpod Twitter @themainthingpod Instagram @themainthingpod Facebook  @TheMainThingPod LinkedIn   How Can You Help Support the Growth of this Podcast? Become a subscriber. Share the podcast with one or two friends. Follow us on social media @TheMainThingPod Buy some Main Thing Merch from our Merchandise Store. Become a patron of the show and support us on Patreon with funding. Purchase a book from our curated collection on Bookshop.   Episode Chapters [0:02:47] - Celebrating Lafayette Flats [0:07:16] - Creating Lafayette Flats [0:11:17] - Making Decisions Based on Goals   Keywords Entrepreneurship, Hospitality, West Virginia, Lafayette Flats, Vacation Rentals, National Park, Sustainable Tourism, Interior Design, Construction, Budget, Vision, Planning, Challenges, Local Art, New River Gorge, Celebrating, Charm, Scenic Splendor, Aspiring Entrepreneurs, Shared Experiences, Unique Appeal, Backgrounds, Decision-Making, Goals, Circumstances, Professional, Personal Life, Socially, Environmentally, Economically Sustainable

This week, rock climbers with disabilities have found a home in Kentucky's Red River Gorge, which offers some pumpy crags. Climbers have also been working to make West Virginia's New River Gorge more inclusive. And a master craftsman, who makes one of a kind whitewater paddles remembers some advice. You'll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

Tiffany Hoben is the Director of Education Partnerships & Strategy for the Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy. She joins the Forgotten America Podcast to share her motivations for moving from the Sunshine State to the Mountain State, her passion for civics education, and her belief in the importance of feeling rooted in a local community. The Outpost: https://outpostnrg.com/ Florida Civics Standards: https://www.fldoe.org/civicliteracy/ Comments from the Civics Alliance on the 2024 Proposed West Virginia Social Studies Standards: https://civicsalliance.org/letter-comment-on-west-virginia-social-studies-standards/ New River Gorge: https://www.nps.gov/neri/index.htm Parrish, Florida: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parrish,_Florida   Garrett Ballengee, Host President & CEO - @gballeng Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy   Amanda Kieffer, Executive Producer Vice President of Communications & Strategy - @akieffer13  Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy   Nate Phipps, Editor & Producer Communications & Social Media Associate - @Aviv5753 Cardinal Institute for West Virginia Policy   Follow: YouTube, Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram Support: Patreon, Donate, Newsletter

Dr. Julie Brauer // #GeriOnICE // www.ptonice.com In today's episode of the PT on ICE Daily Show, join Modern Management of the Older Adult lead faculty Julie Brauer translates lessons learned from training for a 50k trail run into strategies to use when working with older adult clients to help them become the person they want to be as they journey through life. Take a listen to learn how to better serve this population of patients & athletes, or check out the full show notes on our blog at www.ptonice.com/blog. If you're looking to learn more about live courses designed to better serve older adults in physical therapy or our online physical therapy courses, check our entire list of continuing education courses for physical therapy including our physical therapy certifications by checking out our website. Don't forget about all of our FREE eBooks, prebuilt workshops, free CEUs, and other physical therapy continuing education on our Resources tab. EPISODE TRANSCRIPTION INTRODUCTIONHey everybody, Alan here. Currently I have the pleasure of serving as their Chief Operating Officer here at ICE. Before we jump into today's episode of the PTI Nice Daily Show, let's give a shout out to our sponsor Jane, a clinic management software and EMR. Whether you're just starting to do your research or you've been contemplating switching your software for a while now, the Jane team understands that this process can feel intimidating. That's why their goal is to provide you with the onboarding resources you need to make your switch as smooth as possible. Jane offers personalized calls to set up your account, a free date import, and a variety of online resources to get you up and running quickly once you switch. And if you need a helping hand along the way, you'll have access to unlimited phone, email, and chat support included in your Jane subscription. If you're interested in learning more, you want to book a one-on-one demo, you can head on over to jane.app slash switch. And if you decide to make the switch, don't forget to use the code IcePT1MO at signup to receive a one month free grace period on your new Jane. JULIE BRAUER Morning crew. Welcome to the PT on Ice daily show. My name is Julie Brower. I am a member of the older adult division, and I am going to be talking to you all this morning about my favorite thing in the world, running. So this morning I am going to share with you some lessons that I've learned from training and running a 50k that I just ran this past weekend and I'm going to translate some of the lessons I learned and give you all some advice on how you can use those lessons with your older adult patients. So This past weekend, I ran a 50K, that's 31 miles, in New River Gorge, West Virginia. It was absolutely beautiful, absolutely brutal, and I was out there for seven hours and 14 minutes. That gives you a lot of time to reflect and learn some life lessons. So I'm gonna share some things with you all, and hopefully you can translate these to be using with your patients this week. LESSON 1: THE TRUE FINISH LINE IS AT THE END OF YOUR LIFE Okay, so first lesson. The true finish line is at the end of our lives. The true finish line is at the end of our lives. This is a quote by Sally McRae. If you all have not heard of her, she is my absolute idol. She is a professional ultra mountain runner. She is known for her mental fortitude and crazy accomplishments throughout her career. She just did the Grand Slam of 200 mile races, which are four 200 mile races in the span of five to six months, which is absolutely insane. So she has a, her own podcast called the Choose Strong Podcast. And I started listening to her as I was starting to train. Um, when I first started trail running like a year plus ago, a little bit over a year ago, And I remember I'm running on the trail, I'm listening to her podcast, and she said that, quote, the true finish line is at the end of our lives. All of these start lines and finish lines and belt buckles and medals that we acquire, they're just adventures along the way. They're lessons learned along the way, the triumphs and the failures. What matters is the end of our lives. And it's a story that we get to tell. So I, as I was listening to this, I was thinking back to when I was younger and I ran track when I was younger. And when I was running in a race, it was first place or last place. My entire world hinged on me winning that race. If I didn't come in first place, I was gonna have a bad several days, my family was gonna have a bad several days because I was miserable. And so as I'm listening to Sally talk about this, and I'm training, I'm realizing that life is not a singular race or a singular goal to conquer, and then we're done. It's a journey. And it's not about winning, it's about becoming someone who endures. So that's my thought about this is a journey in our lives, that the end of our lives is the actual finish line. It's about, for me, becoming someone who endures. Developing the mindset and the habits and the lifestyle of someone who can go out and run 31 miles in the mountains. Okay? So when you're thinking about this with your patients, especially when we work with older adults, it's never just about their one episode of care with you. From day one, when you're sitting down and you're talking to your patient or your client, you want to be speaking to them as if this is a journey that you're going to go on together. This isn't, we're just creating goals for you to accomplish at the end of our eight week plan of care. This is about connecting with their life journey. Who do they want to become? How are you going to help them develop the habits and the lifestyles to become the person that they want to be so that the next several decades of their life are happy, purposeful years? Start that conversation early. Start talking about what's next. Again, it's not we are ending this relationship in eight weeks. What's going to be beyond that? Do you have a side gig that you do private wellness in folks' homes and you're going to then provide personal training for them? Are you going to refer them to a gym and you start that process early so you find the right fit for them so they can continue on with fitness? Start talking to your older adult clients as if this is a long-term relationship and this is a lifelong journey. Start talking to them about who is the person that they want to become and how you are going to help them get them there. Okay, that's number one. LESSON TWO: PAIN IS MORE EASILY ENDURED WITH FRIENDS Number two, pain is more easily endured with friends. Pain is more easily endured with friends. Team, I have never experienced pain like I have when I was out there on the trail this past weekend. There was about 5,000 feet total of elevation gain and loss. You're climbing up rock scrambles, like vertical rock scrambles, treading through water, slipping on mud, rocks and roots the whole entire time. The terrain was absolutely brutal. I've never felt this type of pain before. I mean, my ankles and my knees and my feet were just absolutely destroyed and screaming at me for a long time. I went out on that second 15.5 mile loop and I knew, I was like, this is gonna hurt the entire time. It was not my cardiovascular system holding me back. It was the pain in my joints. Every single step was grueling. And I started to think, as I'm in this much pain, I'm starting to think about our older adult clients who have aches and pains and arthritis, and I'm like, man, this may be a little bit of something that they feel on a daily basis, right? I know that this pain for me is temporary. When I finish this 31 miles, it's gonna be over, for the most part, until the DOMS sets in, which has definitely happened. But older adults, pain may be a part of their lives. Now, we know that we can get people strong and we can influence their environment and help with their diet and their stress management and their sleep. Like, we can do a lot of things that can help with pain that they feel, right? However, I don't think it's fair to come at someone with rainbows and butterflies and tell them, like, you're never gonna experience any pain. I don't think that's fair. Pain may be a very real experience for older adults, even amongst them doing all the right things and getting really strong. And we have to realize that. So this is what I want you to think about. Pain is better endured with friends. And I will tell you when I was out running and I was on that second 15.5 mile loop, just miserable and miserable amounts of pain. The one time that I wasn't feeling it as severe were the times when I was running alongside someone. When I was having a conversation with someone else on that trail who was experiencing the same thing as I was. When I was meeting people and hearing their journey of their training and why they signed up for this race, and who's waiting for them at the finish line, and what they were experiencing in that moment, and you're distracting each other, and you're learning about each other, you're making friends with strangers. I did not feel that pain as severe as when I was spending time with someone else on that trail. And I will tell you one moment in particular, I was running with this one guy pretty consistently at the last like five, six miles of the race. And I was telling him like, I ran a 20 miler and then I jumped to this 50K. So skip the marathon. And at one point, we're continuing on and he turned around and he says to me, hey, you just ran a marathon. And I was just so taken that this individual, who's trying to concentrate on his own footing and his own race, turned around to give me the benefit of, hey, you just ran a marathon. You just PR'd. And that right there, I didn't feel any pain. I was so grateful for this human. I didn't feel a darn thing. So when you are starting to work with your older adult clients, I want you as quickly as you can, starting day one, try and get them to be a part of a community. I said it before, how are we going to plant that seed early to get them to discharge to fitness, right? To go on to their second part of their journey, start getting them a part of a community as quickly as possible. The pain that many older adults experience throughout the day is because they're bored. They're bored. They're not doing anything. They're not spending time with anyone. Try and find them friends as quickly as possible, whether that is a fitness facility, a walking group, a church group. Find them community ASAP. Get them to be socially interacting with others more than just you for that one time in the week. Because their pain they're experiencing, I promise, is going to be able to be endured easier when they are spending time with others. LESSON 3: FORWARD IS FORWARD Okay, next one. Forward is forward. Alright? Forward is forward. I had to keep telling myself that. especially before I was heading out on that 15.5 mile loop, that second one, because there's no way I was like, I am in so much pain. There is no way I can be in this much pain for 15.5 miles, especially knowing how much climbing I was having to do for the last five and a half miles. I couldn't believe that it was possible. All right. But when I kept on going back to focusing on becoming someone who can endure, Focusing on that goal. It's not about winning this race. It's about becoming. I am focusing on becoming someone who can endure. I am having people along the trail who can distract me along the way. Even amongst insane amounts of pain, you can move forward. And I had not experienced that until this past weekend. It's incredible what the body can endure if you just focus on continuing to move forward. regardless of what that looks like. There is so much grace in forward. For me, it was, okay, running quick, like my first 15.5 miles, I was zooming, I was flying, it felt awesome. The second loop ate me alive. Running quickly became jogging, okay? Jogging slowly, my jogging slowly became hiking. all right my hiking became i am leaning up against a tree hunched over absolutely miserable and making deals with myself like julie count down from 10 and then keep moving and i out loud was counting down from 10 and then i would say go and then i would just continue moving forward it is insane how you can chip away at miles and chip away at time and chip away at pain if you just focus on forward but you give yourself grace as to what forward means so applying this to your patients especially when you are putting them through an emom or an amrap have options for them, especially those who are high achievers and they want to be able to do the level one, the highest level of the exercise you're giving them. So have options for them. So I have a fellow right now, he was just diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, incredibly sad diagnosis, but cardiovascularly he's very deconditioned, but also he just feels like there's an elephant on his chest that he can't get air in. And so he gets very tired very quickly when we start exercising. But I know that it's so important to build his capacity any way we can. So I will say, OK, I want you for two minutes. burpees, okay? That's the goal. When you can no longer do burpees, then I am going to have you do some jumping jacks. Take away that transitioning from up to down. When those jumping jacks become too hard, I want you to march in place. When marching in place becomes too challenging, I just want you to walk. I want you to walk down to the driveway and back up. The only thing I care about is that you continue to move forward. Give your patients options and make sure that you let them know that whatever type of forward it is or moving that it is, it has value. Continuing to move forward through discomfort, through pain, giving a lot of grace there, that's going to build a lot of confidence and mental fortitude with your patients. LESSON 4: SOMETHING>NOTHING AND DONE>PERFECT Okay, last one, last one. I could do this forever, but last one. We're getting close to where we're getting too long. Okay, so last one. Something over nothing and done over perfect. Something over nothing and done over perfect. So this is another quote by Sally McRae. Something that I have just had etched in my mind ever since I heard it on her podcast. Team, the consistency of chipping away at a goal every single day. and saying yes to yourself versus no is so much more important than hitting your A goal every single time that you go out to train or you go out to compete. I wrote myself a note. It's right here. I put it on my fridge so I could see it every single day. I'm going to read it to you. Hey Julie, remember last time you felt like shit before going on a run? Consider not going, but walked out the door and went for it anyway. Data shows that when that happens, you regret saying yes to yourself 0% of the time. Say yes, start moving. xoxo that's exactly what this says and i looked at it every single day every single day because no matter how bad you feel and how much you want to say no when you say yes and you do something something it doesn't have to be My goal was to do six miles, and if I don't do six miles, I'm throwing the day away. No, that could be I do two miles. That could be I stay and I do 20 minutes of strength in the garage. When you say yes, and you continue to build that consistency, you build resiliency. You are building reserve. Every single time you say yes, you are building mental fortitude. And 100%, You will feel better when you say yes. You will never feel bad for saying yes. You always feel better. So when you are working with an older adult, You're making sure that, again, you give them options. Maybe they don't do their entire HEP, and instead of them, well, I wasn't gonna do the HEP, so I just didn't do any exercise. Make sure they understand that saying yes is so important. It's the same thing. Forward is forward. Yes is yes. If they don't want to do their entire HEP, my goodness, just do five minutes of it. Five minutes. Guys, they said yes. And yes is so incredibly powerful. If we know that we wanted them to do that high intensity EMOM, we're trying to increase their aerobic capacity, but they just weren't feeling it that day, they can do yoga instead. It's still movement. We know with older adults, something is always better. than nothing. And the more you say yes, and what I did, I started to tally up the amount of times that I said yes versus no. And every single time, how did I feel afterwards? I felt so happy and proud that I said yes, and physically and mentally I felt better. Once you elicit that same feeling with your older adult clients, and maybe you write something for them too, you write them a note to put on their fridge, and they track the amount of times they said yes, it's momentum. It's going to be so much easier for them to continue to say yes every single time. SUMMARY All right, guys, that's it. We've been here for 20 minutes. I could talk about running and lessons learned forever, but let's recap. Number one, that true finish line is at the end of our lives. It is about the story we want to tell. It's about becoming someone who endures. becoming someone who endures. Make sure you're connecting with an older adult's life journey and who they want to become. Two, pain is more easily endured with friends. Make sure day one you are starting to figure out how to decrease social isolation and help your client find friends to work out with, to experience different sorts of pain and competition and training with. They're going to experience their pain at a lower severity, I promise. Next, forward is forward. There's so much grace. Make sure that they understand that they've got options and you are hammering in that if you can't do that level one goal, We've got options for you and as long as you're still moving, it's still forward progress. And lastly, something over nothing and done over perfect. If we're not going to reach that A goal, it doesn't matter. Just say yes to yourself consistently every single day. It's going to build resiliency and reserve and confidence moving forward and saying yes is going to become a lot easier. All right, y'all, I hope you have a wonderful rest of your Wednesday. The last thing I will leave you with are what courses we have coming up. We've got both of our online courses coming up in May on the 15th and the 16th. 15th, level one starts. 16th, level two starts. And then on the road between May and June, we are in North Dakota, Virginia, Arizona, and Texas. PT on ICE is where you find all that info. Hit us up if you want to talk about 50ks and running. I'm here for it. Have an awesome day, guys. OUTRO Hey, thanks for tuning in to the PT on Ice daily show. If you enjoyed this content, head on over to iTunes and leave us a review, and be sure to check us out on Facebook and Instagram at the Institute of Clinical Excellence. If you're interested in getting plugged into more ice content on a weekly basis while earning CUs from home, check out our virtual ice online mentorship program at ptonice.com. While you're there, sign up for our Hump Day Hustling newsletter for a free email every Wednesday morning with our top five research articles and social media posts that we think are worth reading. Head over to ptonice.com and scroll to the bottom of the page to sign up.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is April 10, 2024  The West Virginia Department of Commerce charts course for economic growth and energy innovation. New owner, new strategies drive Water Stone Outdoors. WV School of Osteopathic Medicine  assistant dean turns tragic events into opportunity to serve others - and now for the rest of the story…on today's daily304. #1 – From WV NEWS –  The team at the West Virginia Department of Commerce — which includes the Division of Forestry, the Division of Labor, the Division of Natural Resources, Geological & Economic Survey, the Office of Miners' Health, Safety and Training, WorkForce West Virginia and the Division of Rehabilitation Services — has had numerous recent notable achievements.  Among those achievements? Partnering with the job marketplace company Jobcase to launch a West Virginia-focused job database. Implementing the West Virginia Build Act. And designating Summersville Lake as the 36th state park, the first new park in 30 years. Check out this interview with Secretary of Commerce James Bailey to read about more accomplishments and learn what's in store for 2024.  Read more: https://www.wvnews.comn/ews/wvnews/west-virginia-department-of-commerce-charts-course-for-economic-growth-energy-innovation/article_af1771ca-dfb9-11ee-9e8c-73c59b9c9924.html   #2 – From THE DAILY OUTDOOR RETAILER – Holly Fussell recently celebrated the two-year anniversary of buying Water Stone Outdoors in Fayetteville, West Virginia. Water Stone saw 25% growth in revenue from 2022 to 2023, which runs counter to the ongoing narrative in the outdoor industry that has struggled with inventory overhang and other macroeconomic challenges. Fussell attributes that success to internal and external factors. Internally, she said she's built a strong team and updated the store's systems, including its POS program. Externally, nearby New River Gorge was designated as a national park and preserve in 2020, and that has helped bring in customers who are either tourists visiting the area or locals who need supplies to explore the park, Fussell said. The store has always been focused on climbing, but Water Stone is now offering a wider variety of products as well as an expanded coffee shop and a beer garden. “We spent a fair amount of money transforming the back of the shop into a hangout spot,” Fussell said. One of the strategies there is to attract people to the store with lower price point opportunities like beverages. Read more: https://thedaily.outdoorretailer.com/news/brands-and-retailers/new-owner-new-strategies-drive-growth-for-water-stone-outdoors/ #3 – From WV GAZETTE-MAIL – Learn how a WVSOM dean turned tragedy into a learning opportunity on the  West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine's statewide campus, where third- and fourth-year medical students complete clinical rotations.  Michael Peterson found his real-world experience gave him a head start in the sciences. Where most students learn theory before practical applications, this part of Peterson's education took place in reverse. Emergency medicine is important and this gentleman is a leader. Read more: https://www.wvgazettemail.com/dailymailwv/daily_mail_features/wvsom-assistant-dean-turns-tragic-events-into-opportunity-to-serve-others/article_4d3a45a7-0402-5f11-bae6-426eb584530d.html   Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.  That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.  

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Thursday, March 21, 2024. The metals industry is just one of many that are thriving in #YesWV; find out why. WV Tech Park spotlights Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center's skill building. And get outside and take in spectacular sunset views in the New River Gorge…on today's daily304. #1 – From WV ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT – From steel Bessemer converters in the 1880s to 3-D printers today, metals have long been an essential component in West Virginia's flourishing manufacturing industry. The state has forged strong links between our abundant raw materials, skilled metalworking labor force, and supportive business climate. West Virginia has ready supplies of primary and fabricated metals, machinery and other components necessary for the manufacturing of metalworking and machinery products. The state is at the heart of more than 4,000 regional suppliers of needed materials and home to thousands of skilled production and craft workers, particularly metalworking machinery operators, metal fabricators and machine assemblers. Contact the West Virginia Department of Economic Development to download a Business Assistance Brochure and learn more about why the metals industry says #YesWV. Learn more: https://westvirginia.gov/industries/metals/   #2 – From WV TECH PARK – Nestled within the West Virginia Regional Technology Park in South Charleston, Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center's training and education center boasts cutting-edge equipment and technical resources that bridge the skills gap by preparing the local workforce for the demands of modern manufacturing. The facility works to address the critical need for skilled workers in the manufacturing sector. MAMC offers comprehensive training programs to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge they need to compete in today's manufacturing landscape. By forging strong ties with industry leaders, academic institutions and government agencies, the center creates a vibrant ecosystem where ideas and innovation thrive. Through collaborative workforce development efforts, MAMC is strengthening the region's manufacturing sector and positioning West Virginia as a hub for innovation and prosperity. Read more: https://www.wvtechpark.com/post/tenant-spotlight-marshall-advanced-manufacturing-center   #3 – From THE TRAVEL – Few hikes provide lasting memories quite like those taken at sunset. Evening hikes can provide a level of peace and tranquility that can be harder to come by earlier in the day. West Virginia's New River Gorge National Park & Preserve features some of the best spots to view both sunrises and sunsets anywhere east of the Mississippi.  Hikers who want to get a great view of the sun setting over the gorge will want to flock to one of the park's westward-facing lookouts. Fortunately for hikers looking for a less strenuous hike, one of the best of these west-facing lookouts lies along the accessible Endless Wall Trail.  While the Endless Wall Trail's 3.2 miles are worth the hike, the real centerpiece of the trail is the Diamond Point Overlook, which offers an expansive, breathtaking view of the New River Gorge and the surrounding mountains.  Visit wvtourism.com to learn more about scenic overlooks and sunset views in Almost Heaven, and don't forget to order your free 2024 West Virginia Vacation Guide! Read more: https://www.thetravel.com/easy-us-hikes-with-scenic-sunset-views/#endless-wall-trail   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, March 8, 2024. Beckley is set to become the first Inclusive Recovery City in the U.S. A Raleigh County restaurant makes Yelp's Top 100 Places to Eat in the U.S. And runners flock to the newly designated New River National Park…on today's daily304. #1 – From REGISTER-HERALD – The collaborative efforts among organizations supporting recovery in Beckley have caught the attention of a global initiative seeking to improve awareness and support for people in recovery. Beckley is set to become the first Inclusive Recovery City in the United States. Jay Phillips, the executive director of Seed Sower, said the designation will help in further connecting recovery efforts in the area. Seed Sower is a residential recovery service provider with 45 state-certified recovery beds spread across Raleigh, Fayette and Greenbrier counties. It also offers transportation and peer recovery services and operates a Recovery Community Organization in Beckley. Its most visible partnership is with Fruit of Labor, a restaurant in Beckley with a recovery and culinary arts program that employs several of the individuals staying in Seed Sower recovery housing. Philips said the Inclusive Recovery City model aims to enhance and expand these types of collaborative partnerships. Read more: https://www.register-herald.com/news/beckley-organizations-recognized-for-recovery-effort-invited-to-global-recovery-movement/article_675dbb48-d5df-11ee-8232-577b11ff0e7a.html   #2 – From WVNS-TV – The Dish Cafe in Raleigh County made Yelp's “Top 100 Places to Eat in the U.S.” list for 2024. The Dish has been a staple in Daniels, West Virginia for nearly 11 years, serving up locally-sourced, healthy meals to its customers. “It's a very big honor for us, you know, seeing as how it was the only restaurant from West Virginia,” said Head Chef Paul Almond. The Dish offers rotating menus for lunch and dinner, and homemade desserts. Read more: https://www.wvnstv.com/top-stories/the-dish-cafe-makes-yelp-top-100-places-to-eat-in-the-u-s/   #3 – From WV EXPLORER – Since becoming one of America's newest national parks, the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve has grown even more popular, especially with trail runners. What does this amazing destination in rural West Virginia have to offer? More than 70,000 acres of hikable, bikeable, raftable, and climbable public land along 53 miles of the rugged New River in the longest, deepest river gorge in the Appalachian Mountains. Avid runner Brandon Mehlinger says there are two trails in the gorge that every runner must experience. “Two of the best trails in the New River Gorge National Park for trail running are Long Point Trail and Kaymoor Miner's Trail,” says Mehlinger, a spokesperson for Active Southern West Virginia. If you like to plan your travel around races, the New River Gorge offers two big events — the Bridge Day 5K in October and the six-mile New River Gorge Rim-to-Rim Race in May. Both involve the stunning and much-photographed New River Gorge Bridge, which runners pass under during the rim-to-rim, Mehlinger says. Read more: https://wvexplorer.com/2024/02/29/new-river-gorge-national-park-west-virginia-runners-running/   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, March 6, 2024.  A Charleston distillery teams up with the WV EDA to improve its bottling efficiency. The WV chapter of the National Defense Industrial Association meets this month at the Culture Center. And WV Hive will host a training workshop for New River Gorge businesses…on today's daily304. #1 – From WV EDA – Located in the heart of Charleston's historic West Side, the youthful Bullock Distillery has already become an integral part of the neighborhood. Bullock Distillery makes and bottles all kinds of spirits at their facility like bourbons, whiskeys, brandies, vodkas, gin, and more. In the front of the building, customers can wander around and shop. In the back, you'll find industrial machinery using different ratios of corn, rye, wheat, and malted barley, sourced from West Virginia farmers. But like any business, Bullock Distillery ran into road blocks along the way. One problem was their bottling process was slow and inefficient. A serious bottling machine is a considerable investment, but the business was able to get connected with the West Virginia Economic Development Authority. “It was a bad time for borrowing and that can be hard to finance through traditional means,” said co-foundeTighe Bullock. “The WVEDA was very understanding and responsive and they saw the potential for it to grow our business.” Now, Bullock Distillery is in talks to take on contract bottling from out of state, bringing business into West Virginia. They are significantly more efficient and are planning on increasing their workforce. Watch the video: https://eda.wv.gov/bullock-distillery/   #2 – From WV NDIA – The West Virginia Chapter of National Defense Industrial Association will host its spring meeting March 20 at the Culture Center at the West Virginia State Capitol Complex. WV NDIA will discuss the latest trends and innovations in West Virginia's defense industry. This is a great opportunity to network and exchange ideas. Admission is free. Reserve your spot today! Learn more: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/west-virginia-ndia-spring-2024-meeting-tickets-851500279257?aff=oddtdtcreator   #3 – From WV EXECUTIVE – West Virginia Hive, the entrepreneurship program of the New River Gorge Regional Development Authority, has announced a regional initiative to improve customer service among frontline businesses The program will kick off March 25-26 “Growing Your Business Through a Culture of Service,” a customized and personalized training workshop at Tamarack Conference Center in Beckley. “We want to offer best-of-class training to help the New River Gorge region and Southern West Virginia surpass expectations for visitor experiences, business transactions and overall customer service and hospitality,” says Judy Moore, executive director of WV Hive and deputy director of NRGRDA. “Every dollar people spend in our region and every person who decides to relocate here or return for more visits is an economic multiplier for our community and economic betterment.” The WV Hive has contracted with the Michigan-based business training firm Zingerman's to offer its tested, research-based ZingTrain learning concepts, which will be personalized and customized for the New River Gorge region. The 40-year-old company was called the Coolest Small Company in the Country by Inc. magazine. Interested parties can register here.  Read more: https://wvexecutive.com/west-virginia-hive-launches-regional-culture-of-service-mission/   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. 17   #1 – From WV EXPLORER – Spring ramp festivals are drawing more attention than ever, thanks to a renewed interest in West Virginia and Appalachia, says the publisher of West Virginia Explorer Magazine. David Sibray says ramp festivals witnessed a leap in attendance in 2023 and he's expecting the number to grow due to increased interest in the state as a destination for vacations and residency. In January 2024, National Geographic named whitewater rafting in the New River Gorge in West Virginia among its “Best of the World” Top 20 Travel Experiences. This designation follows a series of recent significant announcements in other high-profile travel publications. A seasonal staple of Appalachian cuisine, ramps or rampion, a wild leek native to eastern North America, are among the first edible plants to appear in the mountains in spring. WV Explorer's Ramp Dinners and Festivals guide will be updated soon with 2024 dates. Read more: https://wvexplorer.com/2024/02/06/spring-ramp-festivals-west-virginia-david-sibray/    #2 – From WMYW –  In the latest episode of the Daily304's “What Makes You Wonderful” podcast, we climb into the intriguing world of geological wonders with special guest David Sibray, publisher and editor-in-chief of West Virginia Explorer Magazine.  This week's spotlight shines on Castle Rock, nestled in the quaint town of Pineville, West Virginia. While other geological formations may steal the limelight, Castle Rock emerges as a captivating underdog, ready for adventurers and nature enthusiasts. With a passion for uncovering the lesser-known treasures of the region, David Sibray offers invaluable insights into the unique charm of Castle Rock. Sibray says it stands as a testament to the beauty and storied history. Listen now: https://daily304.libsyn.com/wmyw-unveils-castle-rocks-charm-with-david-sibray?es_id=5656116a01   #3 – From WBOY-TV –  Most West Virginians know that Hurricane is pronounced HUR-uh-kun and Canaan is pronounced kuh-NANE, but here are a few places in West Virginia that unless you live there, you will probably say wrong the first try. 12 News referenced the book “A Guide to Pronunciation of Place Names in West Virginia” for this story, which was published by West Virginia University in 1981. If you travel to Rio in Hampshire County, you'd better pronounce it RY-oh, like the locals do. Meanwhile, Iaeger, the vowel-heavy town in McDowell County, is pronounced YAY-gur--similar to Jägermeister, the German liquor. Read on for more place names you might be mispronouncing, and be sure to check out Part 1 of the story.  Read more: https://www.wboy.com/only-on-wboy-com/west-virginia-place-names-you-might-be-pronouncing-wrong/   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.  

If you follow economic news at all, you've taken note of the changing conditions of the American housing economy in the last few years. First, high demand, low supply, and cheap debt fueled an extraordinary (and unhealthy) price surge. In response, the Federal Reserve ratcheted up interest rates to cool an overheated economy in the wake of pandemic-related disruptionsIn years prior, economic conditions supported a vast proliferation of real estate investment. Individual investors to multinational corporations scooped up properties across the country for cheap. The returns were fantastic. But in my mind, those days were decidedly over.When my guest today, Michael Farnsworth, discussed his novel concept of real estate investment, I was all ears. Do many of the real estate investment rules-of-thumb still function in a world of 7%+ mortgage rates and all-time high prices? Is now really the time to start a real estate investment portfolio? Is this even the time to buy a personal residence? And when it comes to short-term rentals, what are the ethical considerations to local economies and community fabric? We cover all this and more in today's episode. Support this project: Buy Me a CoffeeSubscribe to the website: SUBSCRIBE ME!Show Notes and Links at Clippingchains.com Topics Discussed with Michael FarnsworthThe “Triangle of Death:” Michael's unique form of House Hacking2024 climbing goals: 100th first-try 5.12 and V10Stock market vs real estate investingMichael's struggle with remote work and feeling groundedThe characteristics of a real estate investorThe viability of real estate investing in a high-interest and low-supply (e.g., expensive) marketMichael's ongoing landlord nightmare scenarioDecision to leave his traditional career to pursue property management full-timeIntellectual stimulation without a traditional jobFinancial metrics and characteristics of the ideal rental propertyUnderstanding costs and the importance of detailed accountingWhen and how much to raise rentsNontraditional means of mortgage fundingConsiderations on property managersEthical considerations of short-term rentals (Airbnb, etc)Michael's ideal lifestyleSuffering from lupus and two kidney transplantsSo much more!

Tonight, I'll be returning to the woods, as I discuss a sighting of an unknown creature in Montana, the legend of the Witchy Wolves of Omer Plains Michigan, and strange occurrences taking place in the New River Gorge of West Virginia. All coming up on this edition of From The Forest. TELL YOUR STORY Email or Voice Message: https://www.paranormalmysteriespodcast.com/tell-your-storySUPPORT THE SHOW Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/join/paranormalmysteries?BuyMeACoffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/paranormalPayPal: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=MG24QCZBAWRRNMerchandise: https://www.zazzle.com/store/paranormalmysteries WEBSITE, FORUM & SOCIAL MEDIA Website: https://www.paranormalmysteriespodcast.com Blog: https://www.paranormalmysteriespodcast.com/blogForum: https://www.paranormalmysteriespodcast.com/forum YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ParanormalMysteriesPodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paranormalmysteriespodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paranormalmysteriespodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/ParaMysteryPod MY WIFE'S “SLEEP AND RELAXATION PODCAST” YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SleepandRelaxationPodcast Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3aOsZoy Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3zwS29T Pandora: https://bit.ly/3xjB1NX EPISODE REFERENCESArticle: The Witchy Wolves of Omer PlainsAuthor: Lindsey RussellSource: https://mysteriousmichigan.com/the-witchy-wolves-of-omer-plainsPODCAST MUSIC & MEDIA https://www.paranormalmysteriespodcast.com/stock-music-media PODCAST SOURCE https://www.spreaker.com/show/paranormal-mysteries-podcast © Copyright Paranormal Mysteries Podcast

This week, rock climbers with disabilities have found a home in Kentucky's Red River Gorge, which offers some pumpy crags... Climbers have also been working to make the New River Gorge more inclusive. And a master craftsman, who makes one of a kind whitewater paddles remembers some advice. You'll hear these stories and more this week, Inside Appalachia.

Buckle up, folks, for another road trip loop! In this episode, we're taking you on an epic trip through the heart of Appalachia to four national parks and a national park service scenic byway. We'll travel to national parks in five states: Mammoth Cave in Kentucky, New River Gorge in West Virginia, Shenandoah in Virginia, and Great Smoky Mountains in North Carolina and Tennessee. From the world's longest cave to one of the oldest rivers on earth to the most visited US national park, this 1500-mile road trip has it all! And as a bonus, we share some of our favorite places to eat along the way and suggestions for a few other must-see destinations. Here are a couple of links to items we mentioned in this episode: ·     Tickets for cave tours at Mammoth Cave National Park ·     Information about booking your New River Gorge Bridge Walk   The best way to support our podcast is to become a member of our Patreon account. Follow this link to check it out.   And don't forget to check out our new online merch store and www.dirtlander.com.   Subscribe to The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you like to listen, and if you've enjoyed our show, please leave us a review or rating on Apple Podcasts. Five-star ratings help other listeners find our show.   Follow us on Instagram at @mattandkarensmith, on Twitter at @mattandkaren, on Facebook at dearbobands, or check out our blog at www.mattandkaren.com.   To advertise on The Dear Bob and Sue Podcast, email us at mattandkarensmith@gmail.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices