Podcasts about new river gorge national park

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.    

In May of 2021, the National Park Service received a call that a woman had fallen over the Grandview Overlook at New River Gorge National Park. After days of searching with rappel lines, infrared cameras, and dogs, they didn't find anyone. Say hello on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Sign up for our occasional newsletter. Follow the show and review us on Apple Podcasts. Sign up for Criminal Plus to get behind-the-scenes bonus episodes of Criminal, ad-free listening of all of our shows, special merch deals, and more. We also make This is Love and Phoebe Reads a Mystery. Artwork by Julienne Alexander. Check out our online shop. Episode transcripts are posted on our website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

National parks capture the imagination of many travelers and road trippers seeking the Great Outdoors. But what do national parks do for the communities that serve as their gateways? We take a trip to New River Gorge National Park, the newest national park in the national park system, with Daily Yonder reporter Sarah Melotte, to learn about what Fayetteville, West Virginia is dealing with around the park designation.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Saturday, Feb. 22, 2025  Destinations and outdoor adventures throughout West Virginia earn recognition as the 2025 Best of the Blue Ridge…watch bald eagles in Shepherdstown nest as they prepare for their hatchlings' arrival…and What Makes You Wonderful previews what to expect at this year's Bridging Innovation Week…on today's daily304. #1 – From WV NEWS – West Virginia destinations, outdoor adventures, and businesses received recognition in Blue Ridge Outdoors‘ 2025 Best of the Blue Ridge awards. The publication, celebrating its 30th anniversary, compiled past years' winners to highlight top locations for outdoor recreation, events, and businesses. Running through the heart of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, the New River was recognized as Best Whitewater location. In the Monongahela National Forest, the 900-foot Seneca Rocks was named Best Climbing Crag. Snowshoe Mountain Resort in Pocahontas County won Best Ski Resort and Best Terrain Park. Check out the story to find out what other amazing West Virginia destinations received recognition. Then log on to www.wvtourism.com to learn more and start planning your Almost Heaven getaway! Read more: https://www.wvnews.com/news/wvnews/west-virginia-destinations-recognized-in-best-of-the-blue-ridge-2025/article_3f3f6bbc-eae1-11ef-918e-c33354b1adbf.html   #2 – From WBOY-TV – Not one, not two, but three eggs are being incubated at the bald eagle nest at the National Conservation Training Center in Shepherdstown, meaning patient viewers will have the chance to see three hatchlings on the live Eaglecam. An eagle's clutch usually consists of one to three eggs that hatch after about 35 days of incubation. Bella and Scout, the eagle parents at the upper nest at the NCTC, will take turns incubating and turning the three eggs. The eggs were laid on Feb. 10, 13 and 16, making the estimated hatching time in mid-to-late March.  Check out the live Eaglecam online to watch nest activity as the eagle parents prepare for their hatchlings' arrival.  Read more: https://www.wboy.com/wv-outdoors/3-eggs-laid-at-bald-eagle-nest-in-west-virginia-when-to-watch-for-them-hatching/   #3 – From DAILY304 – In this episode of What Makes You Wonderful, we chat with Amber Ravenscroft, co-chair of Bridging Innovation Week, to explore how this growing entrepreneurship event is shaping West Virginia's economic future.  Bridging Innovation Week connects business owners, aspiring entrepreneurs, and support organizations across the state, offering education and networking opportunities.  Whether you're launching a startup, scaling an existing business, looking to network, or have ideas on funding, this week-long event is designed to help you succeed.  Listen now: https://daily304.libsyn.com/wmyw-and-bridging-innovation-week-2025   Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.  That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Friday, Feb. 21, 2025. A tech center in Buckhannon offers a series of workshops to help you bone up on your employment skills…Snowshoe Mountain Resort celebrates its 50th anniversary with a look to the past and big plans for the future…and the WV Hive honors Wild Blue Adventure Company's owners as entrepreneurs of the year…on today's daily304. #1 – From MY BUCKHANNON – Are you searching for a new job, looking to amp up your employability factor or even kickstart your own small business? Well, you're in luck because the Fred W. Eberle Technical Center in Buckhannon will soon kick off a 10-week series of workshops to educate the local community on a variety of skills employers are looking for in an effort to create a more employable workforce. The workshops take place on Tuesday evenings starting March 11 beginning with Resume Building. Additional classes include subjects like CPR/First Aid Certification, Food Handler's Card, OSHA 10 Certification and more. Following the 10-week workshop series, participants and the local community can register to attend a Job Fair on May 22 with area businesses who currently (or will soon) seek personnel in a variety of industries.  Tap here to register for one or more “How To” Workshops at FETC. Read more: https://www.mybuckhannon.com/register-now-fred-eberle-to-host-free-workshops-to-develop-hirable-employees/   #2 – From CHARLESTON GAZETTE-MAIL – Fifty years ago, during Snowshoe Mountain Resort's first ski season, it took more than four hours to make the drive from Charleston to the state's newest ski area, accessed by following a series of twisting two-lane highways to a gravel road at Slatyfork leading to the top of Shavers Mountain. In its early years, the nearest available lodging was in Marlinton, 23 miles away. Patrons could look forward to libations at the Last Run Bar, Snowshoe's lone watering hole at the time Today, the resort's winter operation now includes 60 trails served by 14 lifts, hosting more than 300,000 skier/snowboarder visits annually. Lodges and rental condos on the mountaintop make more than 2,000 beds available to overnight guests and Snowshoe Mountain's Village encompasses 20 restaurants and bars and nearly a dozen shops. The resort now operates year-round with the addition of activities like mountain biking, while concerts and festivals bring in guests from near and far. As the resort celebrates its 50th anniversary, Snowshoe looks back on its early days while it continues to make exciting plans for the future.  Read more: https://www.wvgazettemail.com/outdoors/snowshoe-mountain-resort-reaches-50-year-milestone-makes-plans-for-the-future/article_5f8f6038-dcd7-11ef-85c1-db328d7bcbb4.html   #3 – From WV HIVE – Bill and Ashley Chouinard of Wild Blue Adventure Company and Aviator's Lounge at the Fayette Airport want you to not only fly with them, but also to stay at their grand three-bedroom residence available to rent for vacations and specialty events. In December 2024, the Chouinards were selected by a panel of judges as the WV Hive Entrepreneurs of the Year. Wild Blue Adventure Company was also one of 60 rural businesses selected by the Goldman Sachs 10KSB Program to participate in the Rural Advocacy Conference at the U.S. Capitol.  The parents of three started their aviation business venture with a smaller company in 2015, offering introduction to flight lessons and tailwheel endorsements. In 2019, the owner of another sightseeing flight company — Wild Blue Adventure Company — approached the Chouinards about acquiring his company. The deal included a vintage World War II Stearman biplane.  Ashley said one of the major initiatives this year is to promote the Aviator's Lounge so that the space can be utilized year-round. The setting is just minutes away from the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve.  Read more: https://wvhive.com/2025/02/owners-of-wild-blue-adventure-company-in-fayetteville-want-you-fly-and-stay-with-them/   Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.  That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.  

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Thursday, Feb. 13, 2025. Tune in to the Mountain State Music livestream and enjoy a free .concert from your couch…learn why entrepreneurship-led economic development enhances cities…and registration is open for summer high adventure camps at The Summit Bechtel Reserve…on today's daily304.   #1 – From DAILY304 – The daily304 and Folklore Music Exchange are proud to present Mountain State Music from the Folklore Stage in Charleston, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.  This week's guests include William Matheny and Darrin Hacquard. Check out the livestream on our YouTube channel. It's a concert from your couch! Sit back, relax, and enjoy LIVE music from West Virginia. Watch the video: https://www.youtube.com/live/6BOvA6B7vJc?si=1OsZFVvSvtxJgLt7   #2 – From WV BUSINESSLINK –  Entrepreneurial ecosystems are places characterized by inclusive environments which support connections, creativity, innovation, and new thinking about old problems. The benefits of entrepreneurship-led economic development are profound. Entrepreneurship, for example, builds local wealth—not just for a few people—but for individuals from all socioeconomic backgrounds.  In communities where ecosystems are supported there are more overall businesses, which diversifies and insulates the economy from economic flux by reducing single-sector reliance.  Join an elite number of individuals across the United States who are leading in entrepreneurship-led economic development. Earn your Entrepreneurship Development Professional Certification (EDP) from IEDC.  Learn more: https://wvbusinesslink.com/2025/01/10/why-entrepreneurship-led-economic-development/   #3 – From THE SUMMIT BSA – The Summit Experience is the premier onsite high-adventure program of the Summit Bechtel Reserve in Mount Hope, just a stone's throw from the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve.  Scouts and Venturers aged 13 or older are invited for a week of adventure, challenge, and growth in wild and wonderful southern West Virginia. An array of programs offers something different each day, including climbing, rappelling and zip lining, mountain biking and more, archery, whitewater rafting and more. Learn more: https://www.summitbsa.org/high-adventure/summit-experience/?   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, Feb. 5, 2025. Take a hike! A Fayetteville outfitter offers perks to encourage folks to get out and explore the great outdoors…the WV SBDC launches a program to increase access to affordable childcare in coal counties…and learn how Appalachia got its name (hint: it's a mix of Native American, Spanish and French influence)…on today's daily304. #1 – From WOAY-TV – Got those midwinter blues? Shake it off with a hike in the great outdoors.  Hike three trails a month and receive 10% off a store purchase, plus a free coffee drink from Waterstone Outdoors in Fayetteville. The retail store is just a stone's throw from the New River Gorge National Park, which offers  countless miles of hiking trails and breathtaking scenery.  To help kick off the trail challenge, Waterstone Outdoors has partnered with Active Southern West Virginia to host a free group hike every month. To receive your reward, submit proof of the hike. Waterstone Outdoors is accepting photos from the trailhead, in app trackers and mid-hike photos. Read more: https://woay.com/waterstone-outdoors-issues-trail-challenge/   #2 – From BLUEFIELD DAILY TELEGRAPH – The West Virginia Small Business Development Center has launched a pilot program intended to increase access to affordable child care. The initiative, “Childcare West Virginia: Building the Business that Supports Business,” aims to establish new profitable childcare businesses, help existing childcare providers operate more efficiently and allow employers to recruit and retain workers by offsetting childcare costs. The project is funded by the Appalachian Regional Commission's POWER Initiative and is in partnership with the West Virginia Workforce Resiliency Office and private childcare development firm Wonderschool.  The project area for the pilot program will include eight coal-impacted counties: Boone, Jackson, Kanawha, Lincoln, Mason, Putnam, Roane and Wirt. Read more: https://www.bdtonline.com/news/state_region/childcare-west-virginia-building-the-business-that-supports-business-initiative-launched/article_af0625c4-3bd1-5f11-8c28-8cc14b7a9ac8.html   #3 – From WOWK-TV – Did you ever wonder how Appalachia got its name? According to legend, the name traces back to early European expeditions.  In 1539, a Spanish expedition under the command of Hernando De Soto came across a Native American tribe near modern day Tallahassee, Florida and named them and the province Apalache (Apalachee) as a derivative of the neighboring tribe of Apalachi. In 1540, De Soto's expedition named the mountainous region of Appalachia after the tribe.  As for naming the mountain range Appalachian, the distinction goes to French artist Jacques le Moyne de Morgues, who travelled in the 1564 French Huguenot expedition of René de Laudonnière. While at the mouth of St. John's River on the Florida coast, Le Moyne painted a scene of natives collecting gold from streams running from the “Apalatcy Mountains.” Read more: https://www.wowktv.com/news/local/how-appalachia-got-its-name/   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 Friday, Jan. 17, 2025. Farmers in the Northern Panhandle, you may be eligible for assistance from last summer's drought…Putnam County receives a federal grant to grow its housing market to suit demands for a rapidly expanding business economy…and, need some R&R time? these relaxing retreats in Almost Heaven will have you sighing with happiness…on today's daily304. #1 – From WTOV9-TV –  The Northern Panhandle Conservation District is actively promoting a program designed to assist West Virginia farmers affected by the summer drought. The Livestock Forage Disaster Program, facilitated through the Department of Agriculture, aims to provide compensation to eligible livestock producers in Brooke, Ohio, and Marshall counties who experienced grazing losses during the summer and fall drought. Livestock farmers are encouraged to contact the Farm Service Agency to determine eligibility and apply in person by the Jan. 30 deadline. Read more: https://wtov9.com/news/local/west-virginia-farmers-urged-to-apply-for-drought-relief-program#   #2 – From HERALD-DISPATCH –  The Putnam County Development Authority has received a $5 million grant through the state's Economic Enhancement Grant Fund to address the area's housing needs. The grant, awarded by the West Virginia Water Development Authority, will be used to assist in building more than 600 residential units proposed in the Hurricane and Fraziers Bottom areas. A recent study showed that more housing was needed in the regions, especially with the new addition of the Nucor plant in neighboring Mason County and job opportunities at Toyota Manufacturing in Buffalo.  Read more: https://www.herald-dispatch.com/news/putnam_news/putnam-development-authority-given-5-million-for-housing/article_af45f000-cd33-11ef-b7cf-9b8fe7efaa71.html   #3 – From WORLD ATLAS – When you think of wellness retreats, it turns out you can find many of them right here in Almost Heaven, home to what is sometimes called “America's First Spa,” the town of Berkeley Springs.  The hot springs at what is now known as Berkeley Springs State Park have drawn visitors from near and far for centuries. While the Eastern Panhandle retreat might be known as West Virginia's oldest spa, the Mountain State is home to many venues where you can escape to relax and soak in the beauty of nature, from the spa at Wheeling's Ogelbay Resort to the outdoor recreation paradise of the New River Gorge National Park.  Learn more at World Atlas, and check out wvtourism.com to start planning your next getaway! Read more: https://www.worldatlas.com/places/8-best-wellness-retreats-in-west-virginia.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, 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 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 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 Thursday, Aug. 29, 2024.  Grab your paddle and get ready to tackle America's best whitewater when Gauley Season returns September 6th…the 2025 WV Wildlife Calendar is now available for purchase--grab one and help support important SNR wildlife resources programs…and a massive music festival featuring 50+ bands is coming to the Capital City in October…on today's daily304. #1 – From WV NEWS – It's almost time! Spanning six weeks from early September to mid-October, the event known as Gauley Season draws thousands eager to take on the challenging rapids of the Gauley River in West Virginia.  The Gauley River, set within a stunning and rugged canyon, offers some of the most intense rapids available anywhere. Over 100 rapids are crammed into just 25 miles, making the Gauley a must-visit for serious rafters.  The excitement of Gauley Season is made possible by controlled water releases from the Summersville Lake Dam, managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers.  For those looking to experience this thrill in 2024, Gauley Season runs from September 6th to October 20th, with water releases scheduled across several weekends.  A whitewater trip on the Gauley pairs well with a visit to West Virginia's newest state park, Summersville Lake State Park, or to the many attractions in and around the nearby New River Gorge National Park. Visit wvtourism.com to learn more and help plan your itinerary in Almost Heaven. Read more: https://www.wvnews.com/news/wvnews/experience-the-thrill-of-gauley-season-west-virginias-premier-whitewater-rafting-adventure/article_cc26e276-5b2b-11ef-8495-ff6d51288c7f.html   #2 – From MY BUCKHANNON – The 2025 West Virginia Wildlife Calendar is now available to purchase online and in stores around the state. This year also marks the 40th anniversary of the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources publishing the popular calendar, which helps fund important Wildlife Resources Section programs.  The calendar features beautiful paintings of state animals, important hunting and fishing dates, peak wildlife activity times and articles that will help people get the most out of their outdoor adventures in 2025.  Calendars can be purchased online at WVstateparks.com. Read more: https://www.mybuckhannon.com/2025-west-virginia-wildlife-calendar-now-available-to-purchase/   #3 – From WV GAZETTE-MAIL – Collaborating with FestivALL's FestiFALL and the Risers Agency, radio station WTSQ 88.1 FM, “The Status Quo,” will moderate, participate and celebrate the first-time Risers Fest Charleston music and arts festival. The event takes place throughout various city venues from Oct. 11 through Oct. 13. Boasting 50-plus-and-counting local, regional and national acts (plus one from Mexico City), Risers Fest musicians and bands will run the gamut from “A” to, well, “Y” (unless a “Z”-named group signs on before the event).  For updates and more info about the bands or venues, visit www.risersfest.com. For the latest news about FestivFALL events and activities, visit festivallcharleston.com/festivall-fall. Read more: https://www.wvgazettemail.com/townnews/radio/risers-fest-to-rock-and-rollick-in-october-in-charleston/article_5e936400-5a4f-11ef-9c0b-fff4fe4ba477.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 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.  

Send us a Text Message.For this episode, I hit the trails with The Cleveland Hiking Club to discover what drives this all-volunteer-run organization with over 1,200 members. The answer? Cool people who are passionate about encouraging and promoting outdoor recreation and making it accessible to anyone who wants to join in. In my interview with the club's Community Engagement Coordinator, Kara Girvin, and David Schiraldi of the Pathfinder Committee, we speak about finding adventure and friendship on the trails and how hiking and spending time outdoors benefits us mentally and physically. Club members lead hikes year-round every day for all levels of hikers. You will find them in the Metroparks, in cities, in our national park, and even in other countries. I recently joined a club excursion to the New River Gorge National Park with 50 other hikers. There were ten hikes over a three-day weekend, and towards the end of this episode, you will hear from some of the members I met on the trail. Join us, experience a hike or two, and check out this welcoming, vibrant community. Anyone 18 and older can hike with the Cleveland Hiking Club. To qualify as a member, one must complete six hikes a year and pay a small fee. Once a member, all miles are logged, and milestones are celebrated. Some members have hiked over 50,000 miles with the club, demonstrating the enduring power of walking together in nature.Resources:About the Cleveland Hiking ClubJoin the Cleveland Hiking ClubHiking ScheduleFollow us: https://www.facebook.com/ecospeaksclehttps://www.instagram.com/ecospeakscleContact us:hello@ecospeakscle.com

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.  

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

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Tuesday, May 21, 2024  From its Huntington origins in 1947, J.H. Fletcher & Co. is a testament to business and industrial growth in #YesWV…Plan your summer adventure in the Greater Summersville Area -- with boating, rafting, rock climbing and more…Entrepreneurial spirit and working with the WV SBDC helps Riffle Farms get ahead of the herd, so to speak…on today's daily304. #1 – From WESTVIRGINIA.GOV –  From small beginnings J.H. Fletcher & Co. rapidly expanded in Huntington, West Virginia, increasing its annual revenue from $50,000 to over $1,000,000 from 1951 to 1956. Originally incorporated in Illinois in 1937, the company relocated to West Virginia in 1947 to better serve its customer base and leverage the state's skilled workforce and strong network of suppliers and machinists essential for heavy equipment manufacturing. Learn more about why this company says #YesWV. Read more: https://westvirginia.gov/j-h-fletcher-co-a-testament-to-yeswv-business-and-industrial-growth/   #2 – From WV LIVING – The Greater Summersville Area holds all of the best outdoor recreation West Virginia has to offer. Whether you enjoy time out on the water or deep in the woods, something to make your adrenaline pump or to calm your soul—there's something here for every outdoor adventurer. Plan a visit to Summersville Lake -- West Virginia's newest state park. Explore the New River Gorge National Park. With activities like boating, fishing, hiking, biking, rock climbing and whitewater rafting, you'll never run out of things to do! Read more: https://wvliving.com/find-fun-in-summersville/   #3 – From WV SBDC – Riffle Farms raises grass-fed and finished bison tucked in the hills of Preston County. In the picturesque landscapes of Terra Alta, West Virginia, 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. Liz, who worked as a bedside nurse (with her husband who is still in nursing), understood the vital link between good nutrition and overall well-being. She explains, “We were really picky about the health profile of what we eat. Basically, you are what you eat, you are what you put in, type thing.” Check out Riffle's story and learn how this woman owned, veteran owned business benefited from working with the West Virginia Small Business Development Center. 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, May 3, 2024. Check out how it all began in ol' West Virginia with the History Project…Take a jet boat tour of the New River Gorge…Plan a cozy cabin stay at a West Virginia state park. And now for the rest of the story…on today's daily304 #1 – From THE HISTORY PROJECT – No other state was ever torn from another as was West Virginia. With the Civil War looming on the horizon, The Richmond Convention gave Virginia the opportunity to secede from the United States and The Wheeling Convention restored the rights of the state's western citizens to remain with the U.S. by seceding from Virginia. Learn how West Virginia became a state on The History Project -- the daily304's presentation of famous people, places and events that shaped West Virginia. Watch the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LOzMg5z5G_A   #2 – From WV EXPLORER – Sightseers in search of a view of the world-famous New River Gorge Bridge — though without the challenges of whitewater rafting — can board a specialized boat to travel into the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve in West Virginia.  The two-hour, 16-passenger scenic tours travel into the park from the marina at Hawks Nest State Park and depart multiple times a day, according to officials at Adventures on the Gorge, who are emphasizing the accessibility the tours accommodate. Unlike whitewater rafting, which demands skill and maturity, boat tours can accommodate passengers of any age or fitness, says Roger Wilson, CEO of the outdoor adventure resort. Read more: https://wvexplorer.com/2024/04/05/boat-tours-jetboats-new-river-gorge-bridge-west-virginia/   #3 – From WV STATE PARKS – Are you yearning for a tranquil escape surrounded by the beauty of nature?  Look no further than West Virginia's state parks and forests, where over 300 cozy cabins await to make your getaway truly unforgettable. These cabins strike the perfect balance between rustic charm and modern comforts, providing an ideal setting for making cherished memories with your loved ones. Check out wvstateparks.com to learn more and book your stay today! Read more: https://wvstateparks.com/cozy-cabin-stays-for-your-bucket-list/   Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.  That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.  

In celebration of National Park Week, this episode of Big Blend Radio features travel writer Debbie Stone who shares her adventures in New River Gorge National Park in West Virginia.  New River Gorge National Park conserves over 70,000 acres of land along the New River between the towns of Hinton and Fayetteville within the central part of southern WVA.  This is the newest National Park in the U.S., having been granted this status in 2020, bringing the total number of National Parks to 63. Read Debbie's article about her experiences here: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/exploring-west-virginias-new-river-gorge-national-park/

In celebration of National Park Week, this episode of Big Blend Radio features travel writer Debbie Stone who shares her adventures in New River Gorge National Park in West Virginia. New River Gorge National Park conserves over 70,000 acres of land along the New River between the towns of Hinton and Fayetteville within the central part of southern WVA. This is the newest National Park in the U.S., having been granted this status in 2020, bringing the total number of National Parks to 63. Read Debbie's article about her experiences here: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/exploring-west-virginias-new-river-gorge-national-park/  

In celebration of National Park Week, this episode of Big Blend Radio features travel writer Debbie Stone who shares her adventures in New River Gorge National Park in West Virginia.  New River Gorge National Park conserves over 70,000 acres of land along the New River between the towns of Hinton and Fayetteville within the central part of southern WVA.  This is the newest National Park in the U.S., having been granted this status in 2020, bringing the total number of National Parks to 63. Read Debbie's article about her experiences here: https://nationalparktraveling.com/listing/exploring-west-virginias-new-river-gorge-national-park/

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Sunday, April 14, 2024  Anglers, get your fishing license before you head out to the waters of Almost Heaven…Your spring adventure awaits in beautiful Southern West Virginia…and, looking to locate your business in the Northern Panhandle? RED -- that's Regional Economic Development Partnership -- can help…on today's daily304. #1 – From WVDNR – Anglers, does this lovely spring weather have you itching to grab your tackle box and head for the beautiful mountain streams of Almost Heaven? Don't forget to pack your fishing license!  Thanks to the WVDNR's online system, purchasing a license has never been easier. Just head over to wvhunt.com for quick and easy access to hunting and fishing licenses. You can also view fishing regulations and information about trout stockings.  Learn more: https://www.wvhunt.com/login   #2 – From VISIT SOUTHERN WV – Spring is starting to bloom in Southern West Virginia and it's a great time to experience the beauty of this region. Go for a hike in the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve and admire the free-flowing waterfalls and sandstone cliffs along the way, hit the rapids on a whitewater adventure, or spend the day on a scenic, tranquil lake. There is a world of adventure, history and beauty to be discovered and enjoyed. Ready for a spring or summer escape? Request a free copy of the Visit Southern West Virginia Visitors Guide and start planning your trip! Learn more: https://visitwv.com/wvto-coop/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=ppc&utm_campaign=madden%20semc-wvsp&utm_content=sem&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjw5cOwBhCiARIsAJ5njuZr2zJaO7x0NsWD3CE6MuRbUS0me1MLF2sULoH1yv-PI3Bz6PJ-zpQaAoiQEALw_wcB   #3 – From REDP.ORG – Go red for business! The Regional Economic Development Partnership -- aka RED -- is located in the Wheeling, West Virginia, Metropolitan Statistical Area–a region ranked as one of the top 20 small MSAs in terms of business recruitment, business relocation and attraction. Looking to move to the Northern Panhandle? RED provides business relocation services that include information, consultation and assistance on site selection, commercial real estate, population demographics & quality of life. Read more: https://redp.org/ Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.  That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is 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 Thursday, Feb. 15   #1 – From WVPEC – What does a digital world in West Virginia look like? West Virginia Public Education Collaborative presents “Focus Forward: West Virginia's Digital Destiny,” a look at how technology will continue to revolutionize work, home and schools  The seminar will take place on Wednesday, March 27, at Morgantown Marriott at Waterfront Place. Register now! Learn more: https://wvpec.wvu.edu/  #2 – From NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC – If you've never visited West Virginia, or if you have out-of-state friends who've never visited here, National Geographic magazine presents a handy guide to everything you need to know about the Mountain State's rushing rivers, Appalachian hikes, and historic cities. Why you should visit: How about towering mountains. Rushing rivers ideal for whitewater rafting (one of National Geographic's top 20 Best of the World travel adventures for 2024). America's newest national park. Appalachian cuisine and folk music. Plan a visit in spring. Late April through May, yellow trout lily, purple larkspur, and other wildflowers frame hiking paths in destinations like Canaan Valley Resort State Park, New River Gorge National Park and Preserve and Cacapon Resort State Park. It's also ramps season, when the foraged wild onions headline on restaurant menus, at the Ramps and Rail Festival in Elkins, and even in allium-forward wine. Visit www.wvtourism.com for more information and suggested travel itineraries in Almost Heaven.  Read more: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/article/west-virginia-essential-guide #3 – From NEWS & SENTINEL – Two iconic West Virginia brands — Mister Bee Potato Chips and Tudor's Biscuit World — have joined forces to offer a new biscuit-and-gravy-flavored potato chip. A portion of the sale of every chip bag will support the work of Make-A-Wish West Virginia. The Make-A-Wish Greater Pennsylvania and West Virginia chapter is one of the most active in the country, having fulfilled more than 21,000 wishes. The Mountain State offices of the 40-year-old organization are located in Charleston and Morgantown. Tudor's Marketing Manager Elizabeth Epling said, “Our company operates in four states now but our heritage originated in Charleston, and we have a strong commitment to our loyal customers and our philanthropic partner, Make-A-Wish. There is no greater privilege than helping grant meaningful wishes for children who are fighting critical illnesses.” The new Mister Bee Biscuit and Gravy chips are available at area Walmart, Kroger, Go-Mart, Par Mar stores and Piggly Wiggly stores. Read more: https://www.newsandsentinel.com/news/business/2024/02/a-new-bag-of-tricks-mister-bee-tudors-team-for-biscuit-and-gravy-flavor/ 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. 10  Grant money will provide job opportunities at state parks for disabled high schoolers. What was the Summersville dam *almost* called? Find out, and learn other cool facts about dams. And a new event challenges motorists to navigate across WV on backroads…on today's daily304.  #1 – From WBOY-TV – A grant has enabled several state parks as well as the New River Gorge National Park to provide job opportunities for disabled high school students in West Virginia. Community Access Inc. was awarded a one-year grant by the Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation to create paid employment opportunities for 10 to 15 students from select school districts at select parks.  The jobs will be awarded based on student interest and aptitude to ensure an easy transition from training to paid employment. Those looking for more information can contact Community Access Inc. at 304-545-1483. Read more: https://www.wboy.com/news/lewis/wv-state-parks-providing-job-opportunities-for-students-with-disabilities/   #2 – From WVNS-TV – Did you know that the Summersville Dam almost had a very different name? The remains of the farming town of Gad lie at the bottom of Summersville Lake. The residents of the town had to move once the decision was made to build the dam, as the entire area would become the Summersville Lake. Traditionally, dams are named after the nearest town, which would have been Gad. Now that name would have been a little awkward, so a decision was made to name it after the town of Summersville instead! The Summersville Dam is not only the largest dam in West Virginia, it is also a part of West Virginia's newest State Park in Nicholas County. Meanwhile, Gad Dam Brewing in Summersville slyly pays tribute to the dam's origins while serving up delicious specialty coffees, craft beer and snacks. Check out the story at WVNS to learn more fascinating facts about some of West Virginia's dams. Read more: https://www.wvnstv.com/news/west-virginia-news/interesting-dam-facts-about-west-virginia/   #3 – From WBOY-TV – A lot of us drive back roads often; some of us do every day. A new event is taking this idea to the extreme and is challenging drivers to cross the entire Mountain State in one day using only backroads. 24 Hours of Appalachia: Run for the Hills challenges adventurous drivers to navigate more than 600 miles of West Virginia back roads and trails in 24 hours or less. The event is put on by Backroads of Appalachia with help from the West Virginia Gambler 500. The event begins Feb. 3 in Seneca Rocks and ends in Point Pleasant, traversing the mountains of West Virginia and taking drivers past many scenic landmarks. The event also serves as a fundraiser for the Children's Home Society of West Virginia.  Registration is full for February's Run for the Hills, but non-participating drivers are encouraged to run the route for fun after the event cars have been released. Visit www.backroadsofappalachia.org to learn more. Read more: https://www.wboy.com/wv-outdoors/can-you-drive-across-west-virginia-in-24-hours-using-only-backroads/   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, Dec. 21  The WV SBDC helps a Morgantown store “kick off” its debut. Fiesta dinnerware has been brightening America's tables since the Great Depression. And Theatre West Virginia revives popular outdoor drama, “Honey in the Rock”...on today's daily304. #1 – From WV SBDC – Tyler McElroy is the owner of Classic Kickz, a sneaker shop on High Street in Morgantown. The store carries a variety of limited edition shoes and most sought after apparel from some of the top brands.  McElroy said after college he wanted to pursue his dreams of owning his own business selling shoes and clothes. That's when he turned to the West Virginia Small Business Development Center for assistance. WV SBDC Business Coach Frank Goldsborough Jr. was able to help McElroy with repairs to the storefront by helping him secure an ARPA grant from the City of Morgantown.  “He's been a lifesaver to us,” McElroy said. “After our first meeting I mentioned other issues we were having like taxes, running the business better, keeping up with the books and money coming in and out. Frank told me about his background in accounting and we hit it off.”  Financial analysis is just one of many services that the WV SBDC can provide to small businesses in West Virginia. Visit www.wvsbdc.com to learn more. Read more: https://wvsbdc.com/classic-kickz-takes-a-step-in-the-right-direction-with-wv-sbdc-partnership/   #2 – From WV.GOV – In the world of dinnerware, one name stands out above the rest. From pitchers to platters and everything in between, Fiesta's vibrant, colorful products have earned it a seat at dinner tables across the country for more than 80 years. To understand how Fiesta became an iconic American brand located in West Virginia is to understand its rich history. Picture this: It's the 1930s, and the United States is in the midst of the Great Depression. Spirits are low, the world seems dark, and people are in need of hope. Then, Joseph M. Wells Sr., the president of The Homer Laughlin China Company, had a visionary idea: help people brighten up their tables and their lives.  Color, he believed, was the answer to the woes of the Depression and, in 1936, Fiesta was born. Soon, homes across America were flooded with saturated shades of Red, Blue, Green, Yellow, and Ivory.  Visit www.fiestafactorydirect.com to learn more about this iconic company in Newell, W.Va. Read more: https://westvirginia.gov/a-journey-through-time-the-story-of-fiesta-in-yeswv/   #3 – From WV EXPLORER – After a five-year pause, the outdoor drama “Honey in the Rock” is returning to the stage at the Cliffside Amphitheatre at Grandview as part of an initiative to reach national park visitors and dedicated local patrons. According to general manager Gayle Oaks, along with “Hatfields & McCoys,” the musical drama will be performed in repertoire in June 2024 as the production company Theatre West Virginia returns to its roots as a provider of cultural entertainment. Oaks said that with the boost in tourism that resulted from the creation of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve in 2020, investment in historical dramas was a profitable direction. “Heritage tourism is far and away the leading sector of the tourism market in the U.S.,”  Oaks said, “and we recognize that's what many of the 1.7 million tourists coming to the park each year want.” Visit www.www.theatrewestvirginia.org to learn more about upcoming shows and tickets. Read more: https://wvexplorer.com/2023/12/17/outdoor-drama-honey-in-the-rock-grandview/   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, Dec. 17  Moundsville's name reflects its ancient roots. New River Gorge park officials prepare to open a new rock climbing area to the public. And find the perfect location for your film in Almost Heaven. #YesWV #1 – From WTRF-TV –  West Virginia is known for its Appalachian culture and storied mountain communities, but there is an even older side to the region, one that is ancient and pre-dates the founding of the state itself. During the Early Woodland Period between 3,000 and 2,000 years ago, the Adena people left their mark through ancient building sites. There are 424 recorded prehistoric mounds in what is now West Virginia, according to the West Virginia Encyclopedia. The city of Moundsville is named after an ancient structure, the Grave Creek Mound, the largest earthen, conical mound in the Western hemisphere.  An 1838 exploration of the mound, found two burial vaults with human remains and grave goods. Chieftains and shamans were typically buried in mounds while ordinary people were burned and buried in log tombs, archeologists determined. Multiple mounds of varying sizes once made up the landscape of what is now Moundsville, but these structures sadly were destroyed through farming and treasure hunters. However, you can still view the Grave Creek Mound and learn more about it at the onsite museum. Read more: https://www.wtrf.com/west-virginia/unearthing-west-virginias-ancient-history-grave-creek-mound-moundsvilles-prehistoric-tomb/   #2 – From METRO NEWS – Fayette County visitors will soon have access to a popular rock-climbing area known as “Bubba City” or “Gateway to Sandstonia” which borders the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. The West Virginia Land Trust recently secured access to the 40-acre preserve located near the National Park Service Visitor Center in Fayetteville. WVLT Conservation Project Manager Adam Webster says the site won't officially open to the public until sometime next year, once they've raised more funds to make the area more publicly accessible. Webster said future plans for the property include parking, signage and hiking opportunities. “There's a couple of overlooks especially in the fall when the leaves are down, and you can see the New River. It's just another really pretty spot along the Gorge that people can enjoy,” he said. Read more: https://wvmetronews.com/2023/12/01/wv-land-trust-secures-permanent-access-to-popular-rock-climbing-property-near-new-river-gorge/   #3 – From WV FILM OFFICE –  If you're looking for the perfect location for your next film project, you'll find it in Almost Heaven, West Virginia. The West Virginia Film Office team can help you secure your perfect location, from our beautiful mountains to bold rivers, hardwood forests, rustic farmlands, and small towns and cities. View the Locations Reel to see some of the amazing settings available in Almost Heaven, then visit www.westvirginia.gov/wvfilm to learn more. Watch the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?si=SgBJk2Vo7BjjJAdT&v=-rxeWSg4mbw&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.  

Explore the newest National Park in the USA, the New River Gorge National Park & Preserve in West Virginia, featuring adrenaline-pumping whitewater rafting, base jumping from the second highest bridge in the USA, and breathtaking mountain views. Darley Newman takes you whitewater rafting on Class V rapids during Gauley Season, some of the world's toughest whitewater rafting that regular travelers can enjoy, with Ace Adventure Resort and Chris Colin. Next, it's on to the sights and thrills of Fayetteville on Bridge Day, a festival on the third Saturday in October complete with base jumping, running and local beer and pizza. Wondered if you should take a West Virginia vacation? Listen for West Virginia travel itinerary tips and advice.

It's that time of year again, so get ready to be scared out of your wits! Just kidding, but we do have a fun lineup of stories in this episode about ghost towns in the national parks. While you can find deserted towns, remnants of bygone boom/bust cycles, in many of our national parks, today we will focus on just a few.   From once thriving mining towns near Death Valley, to the site of a now-defunct copper mine in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park in Alaska, to the Thurmond Ghost Town in New River Gorge National Park, we share the history and the stories of paranormal activity in these historic places.   But no episode would be complete without a mention of Carlsbad Caverns National Park, so imagine how happy Karen was when she learned that this week marks the Centennial of this natural wonder. And fittingly for this time of year, we're celebrating Bat Week. That's right, Bat Week, an entire week dedicated each year to these flying mammals, who, as you'll learn in this episode (spoiler alert), are NOT flying rats.   All this and more, coming up next!   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

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Sunday, Oct. 22  Preservation Alliance is accepting applications for grants to save historic buildings. An expansion at Marshall's flight school will open a new course for rotorcraft pilots. Check out 4 reasons to visit Almost Heaven this fall (as if you needed a reason!)...on today's daily304. #1 – From WV EXPLORER – The Preservation Alliance of West Virginia is accepting applications for its new Saving Historic Places Grant, designed to save certified historic buildings in rural West Virginia communities from “demolition by neglect.” According to Danielle Parker, executive director for the statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to historic preservation in the Mountain State, funding will be provided for building emergencies, building stabilization, and pre-development costs. To qualify for the grant, buildings must either be individually listed in the National Register of Historic Places or listed as contributing structures in a historic district on the National Register of Historic Places. Completed grant applications are due Friday, November 17, 2023. Read more: https://wvexplorer.com/2023/10/05/grant-to-save-preserve-historic-buildings-west-virginia/   #2 – From WSAZ-TV – Marshall University's Board of Governors approved a new multi-million dollar expansion at the Bill Noe Flight School in Charleston, and this is just another step in setting this school apart from the rest. The nearly $15 million expansion to the flight school is expected to bring a new hangar and helicopter to the school. The helicopter purchase would be used to begin a third academic training course of study that would be the only school in the region with a training program for rotorcraft pilots. Bill Noe, Chief Aviation Officer at Marshall University, said the expansion comes at the perfect time. “There is such a need for rotorcraft aviation professionals, and that touches everything. It touches law enforcement, the medical field, pipelines, powerlines. The need for rotorcraft helicopter pilots is as much if not more than the fixed-wing airplane,” he said. Read more: https://www.wsaz.com/2023/10/12/multi-million-dollar-expansion-approved-mus-bill-noe-flight-school/   #3 – From TRAVEL OFF PATH –  Looking for a unique U.S. getaway this fall? Plan a road trip to Almost Heaven, West Virginia.  With almost all of the state being located within the Appalachian Mountains, you can enjoy beautiful mountain scenery as you drive, and the fall foliage is beautiful. It's home to America's newest national park, New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. The state is also home to a number of beautiful state parks, such as Babcock State Park. It's a state rich in history, with sites like Harpers Ferry National Historical Park (famous for John Brown's raid) and The Greenbrier Resort, which dates back to 1778. Get started on your West Virginia getaway! Visit www.wvtourism.com or www.wvstateparks.com for information on lodging, events and attractions. Read more: https://www.traveloffpath.com/4-reasons-to-visit-this-underrated-but-stunning-u-s-state-this-fall/   Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.  That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Thursday, Oct. 19  Plan your WV leaf-peeping excursion around scenic Mercer County…WVU seeks to “IgniteWV”  entrepreneurs…and discover the beauty of the New River Gorge in fall…on today's daily304. #1 – From GREENVILLE ONLINE – For a family-friendly spot that exudes classic fall activities, Mercer County, West Virginia might make your cozy, pumpkin, outdoor dreams come true.  The region has a host of options for soaking in fall color and making memories that can last a lifetime.  Go waterfall hunting at Camp Creek State Park and Forest. (Don't forget to download your WV Waterfall Trail digital passport.) Hike to the observation deck at Pinnacle Rock State Park to take in the fall color. Visit the charming and historic small towns of Bramwell and Princeton. Or get spooked at Lake Shawnee Abandoned Amusement Park's Dark Carnival.  Find more things to see and do at visitmercercounty.com. Read more: https://www.greenvilleonline.com/story/upstateparent/2023/10/06/fall-weekend-getaway-consider-mercer-county-west-virginia-hiking-waterfalls-pinnacle-rock-state-park/71070805007/   #2 – From WVU – West Virginia University is renewing efforts to promote prosperity in West Virginia with a new statewide competition that challenges promising entrepreneurs and empowers them to succeed. IgniteWV is funded with $200,000 in grant support from the Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation and evolved from the West Virginia Business Plan Competitions hosted previously by WVU. Its goal is to provide budding entrepreneurs with the education, skills, contacts and motivation necessary to create viable start-up companies in the Mountain State. The program is open to anyone interested in registering or growing a business in West Virginia. The competition features two tracks — one for Main Street, community-oriented businesses that need technical assistance funding, and another for technology and innovation-focused businesses that are seeking investment.  Read more: https://wvutoday.wvu.edu/stories/2023/10/10/benedum-grant-fuels-wvu-efforts-to-promote-entrepreneurism-via-ignitewv   #3 – From LOOTPRESS – People who travel long distances to take in Sandstone Falls in Summers County are in for a spectacular visual experience. But the falls are not the only attraction for this scenic community. There's a visitor's center a few miles away that provides information galore on a variety of topics including hiking trails and nature walks, as well as some of the history of the region, and how it played out during the early days of river commerce and timbering. “Miles of trails … offer an excellent means of discovering New River Gorge history, as well as its plant and animal life,” said Rudy Paugh, a retired park ranger with the New River Gorge National River of the South District at Sandstone and Grandview. “Trails feature old coal towns, waterfalls, geological formations, and scenic views of the gorge.” The New River Gorge National Park and Preserve ecompasses a wide swath from Fayetteville to Hinton and offers a wide range of recreation, including whitewater rafting, fishing, rock climbing, hiking and more. Visitors are encouraged to check out the local shopping and dining scene as well.  Learn more at www.newrivergorgecvb.com or www.exploresummerscounty.com. Read more: https://www.lootpress.com/hiking-trails-offer-pathways-to-charming-scenery/   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, Oct. 8  Headed into the great outdoors? Learn how you can stay safe…Gauley Season may experience its biggest season yet, officials predict…and learn what puts the “wonderful” in Wild, Wonderful West Virginia…on today's daily304. #1 – From WVDNR – The cooler temperatures and colorful foliage of fall brings outdoor lovers to the woods. Whether your passion lies in hunting, hiking, fishing, paddling or camping, it is crucial to keep safety as the top priority when prepping for your trip. That's why the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources' Law Enforcement Section and the West Virginia Department of Homeland Security are teaming up to give outdoorsmen and women advice on what they need to do in preparation for their outdoor excursion and what they should do if they become lost on their adventure. If you get lost, stay calm and stay put, and signal for help. Always tell someone your planned route and estimated return time. Carry essential supplies.  Learn more outdoor safety tips at wvdnr.gov. Read more: https://wvdnr.gov/survival-skills-ten-things-to-do-when-lost-in-the-woods/   #2 – From WV PUBCAST –  As summer winds down, tens of thousands of whitewater rafters and kayakers from all over the country begin their migration to West Virginia. They are here for the Gauley River — which normally only has navigable flows during the fall.  The fall recreational flows are part of a planned effort of water releases in the fall to draw down Summersville Lake and support whitewater rafting and kayaking.  The colors on the hills change from a bright green in the beginning of the season to vibrant yellows, reds and oranges in the late season. The landscape is interrupted by the bright primary-colored boats, tutus, sequined shirts and glittered faces, all headed downstream from where the river begins at Summersville Dam.  “A lot of different colors, a lot of plastic on the water, a lot of smiling faces, a lot of glitter, a lot of lipstick,” says Matt McQueen, a park ranger with the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve.  “There's definitely a whole culture involved in the whitewater industry that is kind of unique, for sure.”  The Gauley River usually gets 20,000 to 30,000 visitors each season. Rangers are predicting that the numbers this year could be their highest yet. Gauley season runs through Oct. 22, so there's still time yet to book your whitewater trip to experience the Beast of the East. Read more: https://wvpublic.org/the-transient-loud-sparkly-and-rowdy-culture-of-fall-boating-in-w-va/   #3 – From THE DAILY304 – You can find out all of the amazing places to go ​and interesting people to meet each week listening to the daily304's “What Makes You Wonderful” podcast. We uncover wonders that make West Virginia truly ​ext​raordinary.  Host Tiffney Lopez connects with other local leaders and experts to share fun events, take you to uniqu​e places to visit, and venture down literary roads of local reads. Tune in to “What Makes You Wonderful” and let the magic of the Mountain State inspire you! Listen now: https://www.wv.gov/daily304/wmyw/Pages/default.aspx   Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.  That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

This episode of Big Blend Radio's ROAD TRIP RADIO Podcast features Steve & Karen Wilson, aka "Mr & Mrs Wild" who discuss their recent park road trip. The adventure started from their inn, The Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast, in Asheville North Carolina and then led to hiking and scenic views in New River Gorge National Park and New River Gorge Bridge Walk, Hawks Nest State Park, Babcock State Park, plus food/drink stops at Cathedral Cafe & Free Folk Brewery in West Virginia. Then they explored Grayson Highlands State Park and visited 7 Dogs Brewpub & The Damascus Brewery in Virgina. On the home stretch the made a stop at Michael Waltrip's Brewing Co. in Bristol which sits on the VA/TN state line. Read their story here: https://tinyurl.com/3t6tcaz6Sarah Edwards, who owns and operates Free Folk Brewery in Fayetteville, Virginia, also joined in on the podcast discussion. More: https://freefolkbrew.com/ Learn more about The Lion & The Rose B&B at https://www.lion-rose.com/ Follow our Big Blend Radio "Adventures in Asheville" podcast with Steve & Karen here: https://tinyurl.com/3ewrb9b4 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Big Blend Radio's ROAD TRIP RADIO Podcast features Steve & Karen Wilson, aka "Mr & Mrs Wild" who discuss their recent park road trip.  The adventure started from their inn, The Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast, in Asheville North Carolina and then led to hiking and scenic views in New River Gorge National Park and New River Gorge Bridge Walk, Hawks Nest State Park, Babcock State Park, plus food/drink stops at Cathedral Cafe & Free Folk Brewery in West Virginia. Then they explored Grayson Highlands State Park and visited 7 Dogs Brewpub & The Damascus Brewery in Virgina. On the home stretch the made a stop at Michael Waltrip's Brewing Co. in Bristol which sits on the VA/TN state line. Read their story here: https://tinyurl.com/3t6tcaz6  Sarah Edwards, who owns and operates Free Folk Brewery in Fayetteville, Virginia, also joined in on the podcast discussion. More: https://freefolkbrew.com/  Learn more about The Lion & The Rose B&B at https://www.lion-rose.com/  Follow our Big Blend Radio "Adventures in Asheville" podcast with Steve & Karen here: https://tinyurl.com/3ewrb9b4 

This episode of Big Blend Radio's ROAD TRIP RADIO Podcast features Steve & Karen Wilson, aka "Mr & Mrs Wild" who discuss their recent park road trip. The adventure started from their inn, The Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast, in Asheville North Carolina and then led to hiking and scenic views in New River Gorge National Park and New River Gorge Bridge Walk, Hawks Nest State Park, Babcock State Park, plus food/drink stops at Cathedral Cafe & Free Folk Brewery in West Virginia. Then they explored Grayson Highlands State Park and visited 7 Dogs Brewpub & The Damascus Brewery in Virgina. On the home stretch the made a stop at Michael Waltrip's Brewing Co. in Bristol which sits on the VA/TN state line. Read their story here: https://tinyurl.com/3t6tcaz6Sarah Edwards, who owns and operates Free Folk Brewery in Fayetteville, Virginia, also joined in on the podcast discussion. More: https://freefolkbrew.com/ Learn more about The Lion & The Rose B&B at https://www.lion-rose.com/ Follow our Big Blend Radio "Adventures in Asheville" podcast with Steve & Karen here: https://tinyurl.com/3ewrb9b4 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Sunday, Sept. 24  National Park officials anticipate a busy fall season in Almost Heaven…the “House in the Clouds” artist reveals what drew him to West Virginia…and September is National Voter Registration Month; register or update your information today!…on today's daily304. #1 – From WBOY-TV –  Fall is the peak season for tourists who come to enjoy the sights of West Virginia. As the leaves are beginning to turn, one national park representative estimates that this year will be the busiest so far. Dave Bieri, District Supervisor at New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, said that many travelers already called to ask about the fall foliage. “We're also just starting into the Gauley Season, so that brings a lot of people out, especially on the weekends,” Bieri said. In addition to whitewater rafting on the Gauley River, there are numerous fall festivals and other activities taking place throughout the state.  Visit www.wvtourism.com/seasons/fall to sign up for weekly fall foliage updates and find scenic drives and other seasonal activities and events in Almost Heaven. Read more: https://www.wboy.com/wv-outdoors/fall-activities-attracting-more-tourists-to-west-virginia-than-ever/   #2 – From THE GAZETTE-MAIL –  Before becoming a self-described “West Virginian by choice,” having spent half his 85 years living and working in his home and studio atop a remote Hardy County ridgetop, nationally recognized artist Robert Singleton arrived at his West Virginian homesite by chance. Singleton is the subject of a new film, “House in the Clouds: The Artistic Life of Robert Singleton,” that tells the story of what inspired him to return to his studio and resume an art career. The film also details the artist's progression from conventional imagery to award-winning abstract expression, and on to “light paintings” and ethereal, mystical horizon lines and clouds, depicting the meeting space between heaven and earth. “One day I went for a walk with my dog and found a clearing in the forest where I laid down and looked up at the sky, and went to sleep. When I woke up, my depression was gone.” SIngleton had discovered what he wanted to paint: clouds. “They're all about capturing light,” he said, “and no two are the same.” Read more: https://www.wvgazettemail.com/news/acclaimed-hardy-county-artist-subject-of-new-documentary/article_22f16619-1338-5ded-8531-fde36b21d1ed.html   #3 – From MY BUCKHANNON – September is National Voter Registration Month. All eligible West Virginia residents are encouraged to register to vote or, if already registered, verify that their information is updated and accurate. Since January 2017, West Virginia Secretary of State Mac Warner and his staff have worked closely with the county clerks to register 333,575 eligible citizens to vote. Of that number, more than 100,000 have been eligible high school students – many of whom will vote for the first time in the upcoming May 2024 Primary Election. According to Warner, those voters who change their name or get married and assume their spouse's last name are required to update their voter registration. Those voters who have moved their residence since the last election or who may have a new address because of the remapping of the state's 911 system should also update their voter registration. To register or update your voter registration, visit the Secretary of State's secure election website at GoVoteWV.com. Read more: https://www.mybuckhannon.com/nearly-50-voter-registration-drives-scheduled-to-take-place-throughout-w-va-in-september/?fbclid=IwAR3YN1BEsjL9KsGtVJ31Bf_Ac08n08HrkFciyo9Z-0m_hhIj4IRetT8fju0_aem_AQRJrQmbAA6ov-M4V03U3Ky-_ABNQxBJjqCgccMNc5WukY2_HriLTv3PQVHPdB6YAv4   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.

This week, Inside Appalachia drops by Flat Five Studio in Salem, Virginia. It had a reputation for recording bluegrass bands, but caught a big break in the early 1990s when the Dave Matthews Band needed a quiet place to record its debut album. We also learn a little about primordial forests. A patch of woods in the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve was recently inducted into the Old Growth Forest Network. And we visit a small nonprofit company in West Virginia that's making solar powered light kits for families in war-torn Ukraine.

Welcome to the daily304, your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Tuesday Aug. 22, 2023    Calling all entrepreneurs! Here's a podcast for you from 3 steps to start up… Start your engines, Adventures On the Gorge wants to take you on a driving tour of the Gorge… And a class starting in August will offer free training to women hoping to get jobs in the manufacturing industry. On today's daily304    #1 - 3 steps 2 start ups -  We love podcasts. So do you. Oh - yeah - well, check out these entrepreneurial advice podcasts from three steps to start up ... .It's like talk radio, but the subject of discussion is hyper-specialized for your exact entrepreneurial interests.  Learn more: https://3steps2startup.com/podcasts/   #2 - wvexplorer.com - Adjacent to New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, Adventures on the Gorge has developed a half-day scenic driving tour showcasing the park's cultural and natural history, according to resort CEO Roger Wilson. “Most visitors are fascinated to learn the human and natural history of this rugged destination, so we introdauced this tour to provide our guests with an in-depth overview of its most magical places,” Wilson said. Learn more: https://wvexplorer.com/2023/08/07/aadventures-on-the-gorge-driving-tours-new-river-gorge/   #3 - wowktv  - A class starting in August will offer free training to women hoping to get jobs in the manufacturing industry.  (manufacturing sounds)   The Step Up for Women Advanced Manufacturing Pre-Apprenticeship Program is relaunching in Charleston. The 12-week program is designed to prepare women for entry-level positions in advanced manufacturing at places like Toyota and Nucor, to name a few. It is similar to the Step-Up for Women Construction Program.  Learn more: https://www.wowktv.com/a-closer-look/a-closer-look-free-training-program-in-west-virginia-to-prepare-women-for-manufacturing-careers/   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, Aug. 16, 2023  Supporting and protecting WV's great outdoors boosts the tourism economy…From campsites to B&Bs and cozy cabins, find the perfect accommodations in the New River Gorge…and learn how farmers' markets help improve health and build a stronger community…on today's daily304. #1 – From BRAD D SMITH – West Virginia's beautiful mountains, hills and valleys play a vital role in supporting the local economy through tourism and outdoor recreation. A recent study reported that outdoor recreation in the Mountain State is responsible for 91,000 jobs statewide and generates $660 million in state and local tax revenue.  Supporting and protecting West Virginia's great outdoors is a matter of both sustainability and economic health.  A key part of maintaining West Virginia's outdoor resources lies in educating future generations — building an appreciation and respect for preserving the state's natural beauty. The Science Adventure School through the Brad and Alys Smith Outdoor Economic Development Collaborative works to aid students in outdoor education and recreation.  To learn more about how Brad D. Smith is supporting West Virginia's environment and economy, visit the website of his nonprofit organization, the Wing 2 Wing Foundation.  Read more: https://braddsmith.com/blog/west-virginia-outdoor-recreation/   #2 – From NEW RIVER GORGE CVB – Planning a trip to the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve? Whether you're looking forward to whitewater rafting, hiking, biking, or just soaking up the natural beauty of the area and exploring nearby towns, you're going to need a base camp for your adventures. Cozy up in a cabin, camp under the stars or have all the comforts of home at a quaint B&B or hotel. There's pet friendly lodging, too, so bring along your favorite four-footed friend. Learn more: https://newrivergorgecvb.com/stay/?utm_campaign=august_2023&utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social   #3 – From WEELUNK –  In celebration of National Farmers Market Week, Matthew Rafa, the co-market chair of the Warwood Farmers Market in Wheeling, shares his perspective on the value that farmers markets offer by improving health and building a stronger community that is accessible to everyone.  “In 2019, NPR covered a story on the saturation of farmers markets and cited too few farmers and customers to support the increase. There is a shortage of farmers nationwide, but we are truly fortunate to have some amazing farmers in our area, while the demand from shoppers for local markets has exploded. There's only too few current farmers market shoppers…not too few potential shoppers,” Rafa says. The Warwood Farmers Market aims to create a stronger, healthier community by acquiring grant money to feed our community. The market recently experienced its two two best years for revenue, thanks in large part to corporate giving grants and programs like the SNAP Stretch program offered by the WV Food and Farm Coalition. The market also has partnered with FARMacy WV to start a diabetes “Prescriptions for Produce” pilot program. This 12-week pilot program will provide $25 in weekly produce and nutritional education to examine the impact of produce on diabetes, cholesterol, and high blood pressure management.  If your kids are still looking for something to do while school is on summer break, take them to the Warwood Farmers Market. The market is providing FREE arts and crafts, STEM activities, and experiences that kids will remember without leaving the community. Read more: https://weelunk.com/warwood-farmers-market-programs/   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, August 3  A Cleveland reporter checks off a bucket list trip to the New River Gorge…What's a great place to visit all year long? West Virginia, no matter the season…and an angel investment helps boost broadband in Southern West Virginia…on today's daily304. #1 – From CLEVELAND.COM – “For much of this summer, I've had to nag my 12-year-old out of the  basement and away from his Xbox,” writes Laura Johnston. “But on a 2-mile hike through New River Gorge National Park, he talked nonstop – about camp, friends, baseball stats and lacrosse. Topics flowed as quickly as the river rapids 876 feet below.” The author writes about her recent bucket list trip to the Gorge with her son and dog. “So I packed our lifejackets and my stand-up paddleboard in the trunk of our Honda Accord, loaded our 3-year-old, 90-pound golden retriever in the backseat and woke my son to leave as the sky began to lighten on a Saturday in the height of July.” Learn more about their weekend explorations, which include shopping and dining in Fayetteville, hiking the Endless Wall Trail, and SUP boarding on Summersville Lake. Read more: https://www.cleveland.com/travel/2023/07/a-kid-a-dog-and-24-wild-wonderful-hours-in-new-river-gorge-national-park-west-virginia.html   #2 – From WV NEWS –  Gov. Jim Justice is fond of saying West Virginia has “four of the most beautiful seasons on the planet.” And now, the West Virginia Department of Tourism has shifted its focus to marketing the state as a 12-month destination, while highlighting the unique reasons to return season after season. “As of today, our tourism numbers are almost even across the four quarters,” Tourism Secretary Chelsea Ruby said. “We've succeeded in making us truly a four-season destination by working with our partners to offer additional activities and events throughout the year.” While Tourism officials have identified a core demographic that comes to West Virginia looking for what it calls “high adventure” — those who come for extreme sports like rafting and mountain biking — there is also a subset who look for “soft adventure,” such as hiking, waterfall hunting and dark skies tourism. “It's people who want to be outdoors, but don't necessarily come to West Virginia with all of the equipment or aren't looking to do something that's going to take a great deal of training. They're just simply looking to escape the big cities, get outside and enjoy the beautiful weather.” Read more: https://www.wvnews.com/statejournal/news/west-virginia-department-of-tourism-expands-reach-looks-to-states-dark-skies/article_673ff524-256b-11ee-b3dc-9fc1464b9380.html   #3 – From WVCRAN –  In 2020, Dan Cox had a business plan in his head. Cox worked for large telecommunications firms in Pennsylvania but longed to create his own company in an area where broadband improvements were needed. After enlisting the help of the West Virginia Hive and taking a CO-STARTERS Core training course to pressure test his strategy, he began pitching Cox Telecom as a viable enterprise to investors. Less than one year after launching his business, Cox Telecom in Southern West Virginia is employing 16 full-time employees and creating a local and regional based operation to deploy a turnkey operation of wireless services to all cellular carriers (AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, DiSH). The company is also solving the problem of recruiting out of state labor forces to complete projects in West Virginia for cellular carriers. “Dan has exceeded all expectations in revenue and job creation,” said Peni Adams, senior business advisor at the Hive who works with the company. “Cox Telecom was the first active WV Hive client to receive an investment from the Country Roads Angel Network.” Read more: https://wvcran.com/2023/03/beckleys-cox-telecom-llc-employing-16-staff-and-improving-broadband-in-southern-west-virginia-after-one-year-in-business/   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, Aug. 1  Want to build a hovercraft at home? Check out these fun science experiment videos…The WV Mine Wars Museum in Matewan captures a volatile time in state history…and, planning a visit to the national parks in southern WV? Plan a stop at area state parks as well…on today's daily304. #1 – From EMILY CALANDRELLI – It's too hot to play outside and the kids are complaining they're bored. So how about arranging a project for them that's both fun and educational? “Space Gal” Emily Calandrelli has prepared a bunch of science experiment videos that kids can do at home with everyday items.  Calandrelli, a native of Morgantown, is a graduate of West Virginia University. The MIT engineer-turned science communicator is is host and executive producer of the educational shows “Xploration Outer Space” and” Emily's Wonder Lab.” These short, fun YouTube videos include experiments like “how to make magnetic slime” and “drinking water with chopsticks in space.” Watch the videos: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCj7mQxv2dAm6mhyx8-kb5Xw   #2 – From ATLAS OBSCURA – This small museum located in an old bank building in Matewan covers a unique but little-known period in American and labor history known as the Mine Wars.  These “wars” started in central West Virginia in the 1910s and culminated with the 1921 Battle of Blair Mountain, in which approximately 20,000 fought, in southern West Virginia. A collection of immigrants, Black Americans from the South, and other residents of the various hollows located around the state joined forces to stand up against the mine guard system.  The town of Matewan, politically independent of coal companies, served as a focal point for union organizers during this period and witnessed the “Battle of Matewan,” in which Sheriff Sid Hatfield got into a wild-west shootout with mining security. To learn more about things to do and see in the area, visit the Tug Valley Area Convention and Visitors Bureau at www.visitcoalcountry.org. Learn  more: https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/west-virginia-mine-wars-museum   #3 – From FAYETTE TRIBUNE – It's not all about the national lands.  While the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve and its companion federal facilities, Gauley River National Recreation Area and Bluestone National Scenic River, are a major draw for tourists in southern West Virginia, folks are urged not to overlook the offerings of the 35 scenic state parks and nine state forests in the West Virginia State Parks system.  In the New River-Gauley-Bluestone region, there's Babcock and Hawks Nest, Little Beaver and Bluestone state parks, as well as Camp Creek State Park and Forest. Admission is free and there's an abundance of recreational offerings like hiking, mountain biking, fishing and boating … not to mention beautiful overlooks and scenery.  Visit www.wvstateparks.com to reserve lodging and start planning your Almost Heaven getaway! Read more: https://www.fayettetribune.com/community/there-s-a-lot-to-unpack-at-west-virginia-state-parks/article_98dea322-24cc-11ee-af5e-8fae839a8b3e.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.

Episode 199 - We sit down with Heather from River Expeditions, a rafting outfitter and adventure property just outside New River Gorge National Park in West Virginia. Heather has been in the business for decades. In this interview Heather shares her first memories of rafting, how the business has grown, what America's newest national park has to offer, and all the fun things to do at River Expeditions, including zip lining, the bridge walk, massage, horseback riding, drinks at the saloon, hiking, and of course - rafting! Learn more about Heather and River Expeditions at raftinginfo.com and get 20% off your River Expeditions adventures and accommodation when you call 1-800-463-9873 to book and mention promo code TSP. Trip Meet Up! We're hosting our first trip meet-up at River Expeditions June 7-10, 2024. Visit our travelsquadpodcast.com/new-river-gorge-adventure-trip for all the information and to book! Travel Itineraries on Sale Now! Explore our instant download trip itineraries for trips to iconic USA, international, and national park destinations that plan every detail of the adventure for you. On sale for $30! travelsquadpodcast.com/travelitinerary Shop our favorite travel gear, packing lists, and gifts for travelers on our Amazon Shop https://www.amazon.com/shop/travelsquadpodcast  Connect with us on Social Media: YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram  Jamal: @jamal_marrush Brittanie:@bucketlist_brittanie Kim: @lushdeez  Email us at travelsquadpodcast@gmail.com to discuss: Being a guest on our podcast or having the squad on yours Ask a Question of the Week --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/travel-squad-podcast/support

In the final episode of Season 5, Mike and Dusty look at all of the hiking trails featured in this season including trails in New River Gorge National Park, Theodore Roosevelt National Park, Badlands National Park, and Indiana Dunes National Park. Website: GazeAtTheNationalParks.comInstagram: @GazeAtTheNationalParksFacebook: Gaze at the National ParksOur listeners can enjoy 20% their copy of Moon USA National Parks from MOON Travel Guides by clicking HERE and using offer code GAZE at checkout! Expires December 31, 2023, offer only available with Hachette Books, not valid with any other retailers. To see additional National Parks Guides published by Moon, visit Moon.com.#gazeatthenationalparks#hikeearlyhikeoften#adventureisoutthereHosted by Dustin Ballard and Michael RyanEpisode Editing by Dustin BallardOriginal Artwork by Michael RyanOriginal Music by Dave Seamon and Mariella KlingerMusic Producer: Skyler FortgangSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/gaze-at-the-national-parks/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Dusty and Mike look at the Wildlife and Environment of the National Parks of Season 5 including New River Gorge National Park, Theodore Roosevelt National Park, Badlands National Park, and Indiana Dunes National Park. Website: GazeAtTheNationalParks.comInstagram: @GazeAtTheNationalParksFacebook: Gaze at the National ParksOur listeners can enjoy 20% their copy of Moon USA National Parks from MOON Travel Guides by clicking HERE and using offer code GAZE at checkout! Expires December 31, 2023, offer only available with Hachette Books, not valid with any other retailers. To see additional National Parks Guides published by Moon, visit Moon.com.#gazeatthenationalparks#hikeearlyhikeoften#adventureisoutthereHosted by Dustin Ballard and Michael RyanEpisode Editing by Dustin BallardOriginal Artwork by Michael RyanOriginal Music by Dave Seamon and Mariella KlingerMusic Producer: Skyler FortgangSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/gaze-at-the-national-parks/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Mike and Dusty look at the histories of the National Parks from Season 5 including New River Gorge National Park, Theodore Roosevelt National Park, Badlands National Park, and Indiana Dunes National Park.Website: GazeAtTheNationalParks.comInstagram: @GazeAtTheNationalParksFacebook: Gaze at the National ParksOur listeners can enjoy 20% their copy of Moon USA National Parks from MOON Travel Guides by clicking HERE and using offer code GAZE at checkout! Expires December 31, 2023, offer only available with Hachette Books, not valid with any other retailers. To see additional National Parks Guides published by Moon, visit Moon.com.#gazeatthenationalparks#hikeearlyhikeoften#adventureisoutthereHosted by Dustin Ballard and Michael RyanEpisode Editing by Dustin BallardOriginal Artwork by Michael RyanOriginal Music by Dave Seamon and Mariella KlingerMusic Producer: Skyler FortgangSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/gaze-at-the-national-parks/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Dusty and Mike look at Visitorship in the National Parks featured in Season 5 including: New River Gorge National Park, Theodore Roosevelt National Park, Badlands National Park, and Indiana Dunes National Park.Website: GazeAtTheNationalParks.comInstagram: @GazeAtTheNationalParksFacebook: Gaze at the National ParksOur listeners can enjoy 20% their copy of Moon USA National Parks from MOON Travel Guides by clicking HERE and using offer code GAZE at checkout! Expires December 31, 2023, offer only available with Hachette Books, not valid with any other retailers. To see additional National Parks Guides published by Moon, visit Moon.com.#gazeatthenationalparks#hikeearlyhikeoften#adventureisoutthereHosted by Dustin Ballard and Michael RyanEpisode Editing by Dustin BallardOriginal Artwork by Michael RyanOriginal Music by Dave Seamon and Mariella KlingerMusic Producer: Skyler FortgangSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/gaze-at-the-national-parks/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is SUNDAY, June 18  Planning a stay at a WV State Park? Check out the great dining options nearby...WVU's Robotics Team places No. 1 at an international event--Let's go, Mountaineers!...and, speaking of robots, troops undergo high-tech field training in Almost Heaven…on today's daily304. #1 – From WV STATE PARKS – There's plenty to do at West Virginia state parks and forests, from hiking, biking and fishing to swimming, horseback riding and more. But what to do after you've worked up a big appetite? Satisfy your rumbling tummy with a delicious meal from a local eatery! If you're staying at a lodge park, you can always enjoy a hearty meal served at the park restaurant. (Check the calendar for upcoming special Farm-to-Table Dinners at the lodge parks.) In the meantime, here are a few other options you'll want to check out. Rent a historic CCC cabin at Babcock State Park and rest assured your dining options will be plentiful in the area. Take a drive over to the lodge at Hawks Nest State Park where you can dine while enjoying a stunning view of the New River Gorge. As you head into the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, you'll find lots of great dining options in the area.  Read more: https://wvstateparks.com/foodie-travel-guide-to-west-virginia-state-parks/   #2 – From WVU TODAY – It's official: The West Virginia University robotics team is the best in the world. Team Mountaineers topped dozens of other teams from 10 countries in a competition to design and build the next generation of Mars rovers during the 2023 University Rover Challenge held May 31-June 3 at the Mars Desert Research Station in Hanksville, Utah. The student-led, cross-disciplinary team comprises more than 75 undergraduate students and five graduate student mentors from the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering and the Lane Department of Computer Science and Electrical Engineering. “This win is also the fruit of six years of hard work by hundreds of WVU students, including those who are currently here and who have graduated, those who have been to Utah and who have stayed back, those who boldly proposed new ideas and those who were quietly making sure everything worked perfectly,” said  Yu Gu, team faculty adviser and mechanical and aerospace engineering associate professor.  Read more: https://wvutoday.wvu.edu/stories/2023/06/05/wvu-robotics-team-wins-international-mars-rover-challenge   #3 – From WV ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT –  If you're a fan of action movies, you'd be pleased to know that some real-life military training exercises happened in West Virginia recently.  The Civil-Military Innovation Institute hosted a military field training exercise and experimentation event, known as Driving Innovation in Realistic Training Days 23-001, in partnership with the United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command and the 101st Airborne Division. It was held at CMI2's Adaptive Experimentation Facility in Fola, West Virginia, which is actually a repurposed coal mining facility.  The event allowed soldiers to participate in and lead the development and field testing of emerging tactics and technology while bolstering their operational skill sets through challenging, realistic exercises. The event was designed to emulate future operational environments the soldiers could experience in an age of intensifying technology and threats. In short, it was a chance for soldiers to have fun, learn some new skills, and prepare for whatever the future might bring them. Although West Virginia may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of defense companies, recent events show that the state has a lot to offer. With its world-class military training facilities, strategic location, and business-friendly environment, West Virginia is an ideal location for defense companies that want to develop new tactics and technologies and work closely with the military.  Read more: https://westvirginia.gov/robots-in-yes-west-virginia-say-what/   Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.  That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is FRIDAY, June 16  Plan your Almost Heaven camping getaway and choose your setting, from Seneca Rocks to North Bend State Park…state grant will help fund Wild, Wonderful Woods celebration in Elkins…and explore these eerily beautiful abandoned places…on today's daily304. #1 – From SOUTHWEST JOURNAL –  West Virginia, known as the “Mountain State,” is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. With its breathtaking landscapes, abundant wildlife, and diverse ecosystems, it offers an array of camping spots that cater to all levels of adventurers.  Whether you prefer the tranquility of a secluded forest or the thrill of a mountain hike, West Virginia has something for everyone. Check out some of the top camping spots in the state, including the Monongahela National Forest, Greenbrier State Forest, North Bend State Park, and more.  Start planning your Almost Heaven camping getaway today! Read more: https://www.southwestjournal.com/camping-west-virginia/   #2 – From THE INTER-MOUNTAIN – A local nonprofit facility will receive a prestigious state grant. The West Virginia Humanities Council, the state affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities, recently announced that the Kump Education Center is the recipient of a minigrant that will partially fund an upcoming Wild, Wonderful Woods celebration at the historic Gov. Kump House on Saturday, June 24. The grant will assist in creating interpretive panels and other display materials focusing on the Mountain State's rich forest heritage and how it impacted the region's economy and character. The celebration's highlights include many children's activities, such as making ornaments for the National Christmas Tree, which will be harvested from the Monongahela National Forest this year. Local musicians will provide entertainment, and the KEC's popular Pie Auction will return at 2 p.m.   Read more: https://www.theintermountain.com/news/local-news/2023/05/center-set-to-receive-state-grant/   #3 – From THE TRAVEL –  Visiting abandoned places is one of the most exciting adventures to have, and West Virginia is home to many of them. Besides being eerily beautiful, West Virginia's abandoned places force one to pause and think about what they were like when they were once inhabited. For anyone eager to learn more about these old neglected structures, once-loved places, and tales of days past, here's a handful of the most popular abandoned places West Virginia has in store for curious travelers (and most come with interesting stories, too). Explore Virginius Island. Set on the Shenandoah River near Harpers Ferry, the island once hosted factories, mills and other industrial establishments.  Tour the old Lake Shawnee Amusement Park in Princeton -- but beware! It's rumored to be haunted.  Hike to the old Kaymoor Mine site in the New River Gorge National Park, where you'll see remnants of the coal mining facility and town that once resided there.  Read more: https://www.thetravel.com/abandoned-places-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 Friday, June 2  Take a trip back in time to the drive-in movies this summer…the historic Thurmond Depot is getting a makeover…and the new Frito Lay facility in Teays Valley is a game changer for the region…on today's daily304.   #1 – From WOWK-TV – Are you feeling nostalgic for the old drive-in movie showings? Or perhaps you've never even been to one. Luckily for you, there are at least six different open drive-in theaters in West Virginia just waiting to be explored. From the oldest operating drive-in theater in Shinnston (opened in 1947) to the newest one in Oak Hill (opened in 2016), these theaters bring in carloads of people every summer. Check out the full list on WOWK-TV and start planning your movie night! Read more: https://www.wowktv.com/news/west-virginia/drive-in-movie-theaters-in-west-virginia/   #2 – From WVPB –  A group from the National Park Service's Historic Preservation Training Center is working with staff at the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve to restore its historic Thurmond Depot. The building is an old railroad depot built at the beginning of the 20th century during Thurmond's heyday as a railroad town. Its location on the main line of the Chesapeake and Ohio Railroad meant the depot became an entry point for regional business during the Industrial Revolution. The Thurmond Depot was added to the National Register for Historic Places in 1984 before reopening as a visitors center for the National Park a decade later, in 1995. The restoration of the depot doubles as a workforce training program. The national initiative, called the Campaign for the Historic Trades, helps train park workers on how to best preserve historical buildings. Read more: https://wvpublic.org/workforce-training-helps-preserve-historic-new-river-gorge-depot/   #3 – From METRO NEWS – Officials at Frito Lay say a new state of the art facility in West Virginia will serve their needs for distribution for many years into the future. The new warehouse and distribution center opened at the Teays Valley exit of I-64 in Putnam County. The facility is four times the size of the former facility which was used for many years in Poca. “It's really big. It's got 35 loading docks which is amazing,” said Laura Maxwell, Senior Vice-President of Supply Chain for Pepsico Foods. The 70,000 square foot facility represents a $16 million investment. About 100 employees transferred from the old Poca warehouse to Scott Depot. The expansion also created 25 new jobs for the facility. Read more: https://wvmetronews.com/2023/05/21/frito-lay-says-new-putnam-county-warehouse-is-an-investment-in-the-future/   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 30  WV Inventors prepare to set Huntington aglow with bright ideas next month…Discover the charming New River Gorge town of Fayetteville…and students compete in a drone competition at Fairmont State University…on today's daily304. #1 – From WV INVENTORS SOCIETY – Calling inventors, entrepreneurs, innovators…and the curious! The West Virginia Inventors Society will gather June 22, 2023 in Huntington. This is your opportunity to network with like-minded folks, connect with service providers, and find inspiration in others' stories.  Register now: https://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?oeidk=a07ejqv5tjjdeadb142&oseq=&c=&ch=  #2 – From MSN –  Planning a road trip this summer? Consider adding Fayetteville, West Virginia, to your itinerary. This charming town offers a plethora of outdoor adventures, shopping, dining, and historic landmarks that will make your trip unforgettable. Nestled in the heart of the New River Gorge National Park, Fayetteville offers many exciting opportunities for adventure seekers. Whether you enjoy hiking, rock climbing, or zip lining, Fayetteville has something for everyone. Visit the iconic New River Gorge Bridge. Shop and eat in downtown Fayetteville. And of course, take advantage of all the incredible outdoor activities in the Gorge.  Read more: https://www.msn.com/en-us/travel/tripideas/the-ultimate-road-trip-to-fayetteville-west-virginia-guide/ar-AA11E1Cu?li=BBnbklE   #3 – From TIMES WV – Students from across the United States took their skills to new heights by competing in the Aerial Drone Competition Championship at Fairmont State University. The May 20 event, which hosted 62 teams from 10 states, gave middle and high school student drone crews an opportunity to display their science, technology, engineering, and mathematics abilities while also learning about the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's upcoming mission, the Dragonfly. The event was produced by the NASA Katherine Johnson Independent Verification and Validation Facility located in Fairmont, and hosted by the West Virginia Robotics Alliance. “I love doing robotics things because it keeps me involved in STEM,” said Lily Farry, a member of the Robo BeeGees from Saint Albans, West Virginia. “I think it is really cool.” Read more: https://www.timeswv.com/news/local_news/students-show-off-skills-in-blackout-drone-championship/article_4e93561a-f695-11ed-8816-e3619629de71.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.

Today on MetroNews This Morning:--Boone County deputies investigate a grim discovery--There's another big, national acknowledgement of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve--Kanawha County Commissioner Ben Salango says he's considering another run for the Democratic nomination for Governor--In Sports, despite a rough weekend to close the regular season in Texas, WVU baseball claims a share of the Big XII title

In this episode of National Park Explorers, host Josh takes listeners on a journey through the rugged beauty of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. From the towering heights of the New River Gorge Bridge to the adrenaline-pumping whitewater rapids, Josh explores the diverse offerings of this stunning park. Whether you're a hiker, a history buff, or an adventure seeker, this episode will inspire you to discover the wild and wonderful New River Gorge.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Wednesday, May 10  WV driver's licenses will soon feature an iconic landmark…Sign up for the WV Tech Park's new e-newsletter…and don't miss out on spring fishing opportunities--check out the DNR's handy fishing guide…on today's daily304. #1 – From WV EXPLORER – An iconic West Virginia landmark will soon be featured on all state driver's licenses and identification cards. The new design features a background of West Virginia's historic New River Gorge Bridge in the nation's newest National Park, the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, and uses the official state branding. The “Almost Heaven” mark is also included on the back of each card. “This new design reflects the immeasurable pride we have in our state's beauty. The New River Gorge Bridge is one of our most popular attractions. It is the centerpiece of our nation's newest national park and draws people from all over the world,” Gov. Jim Justice said. West Virginians may apply for a duplicate license or ID card with the new design before their renewal period by visiting the DMV website at dmv.wv.gov or at any of the 25 regional DMV offices across the state.tourism  Read more: https://wvexplorer.com/2023/04/26/new-west-virginia-drivers-license-design-features-new-river-gorge-bridge/?es_id=0a8c38d7c6   #2 – From SOURCE – The West Virginia Regional Technology Park in South Charleston offers flexibility and versatility alongside a robust infrastructure to provide new and existing tenants with the assets vital to their success. Home to over 25 businesses and 1,000 jobs, WVRTP is committed to the continued growth of its multi-tenant park dedicated to research, innovation, technological advancement, and education. WVRTP has launched an e-newsletter to keep its community partners and stakeholders informed about the growth and opportunities happening on campus. Sign up: https://www.wvtechpark.com/post/let-s-talk-tech-park-community-update   #3 – From WVDNR – Late spring is a perfect time for a fishing adventure in West Virginia! Streams and lakes stocked with trout still have excellent numbers of trout to pursue, and warming waters mean that warm-water species, such as bass and sunfish, are more actively feeding in preparation for spawning. The month of May is the final month of trout stocking but trout can be found in many streams even into the summer. Don't miss out on some prime spring fishing in the Mountain State! Before you head out, just remember to buy your fishing license and stamps at WVfish.com. Visit mapwv.gov/huntfish to find your fishing spot. The WVDNR has prepared a handy fishing guide to West Virginia waters. Check it out, and start planning your fishing trip before it's too late! Read more: https://wvdnr.gov/spring-fishing-guide/   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.

Today on MetroNews This Morning:--W.Va. elected leaders talk about today's planned arraignment of Donald Trump in Manhattan--A-G Patrick Morrisey is expected to announce a run for Governor today--The New River Gorge National Park and Preserve grows by just over 900 more acres--In Sports, UConn stands atop college basketball and WVU has its next women's basketball coach

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Sunday, April 2  Did you know you can camp for free within the New River Gorge National Park?...a new airline at Yeager will offer budget flights to Orlando and “the other” Charleston…and an African-American arts academy hosts summer camp for teens…on today's daily304. #1 – From THE GAZETTE-MAIL –  “It's a pretty place,” said first-time New River Gorge National Park and Preserve camper Sharon Simpson as she relaxed on a chair at her campsite in the park's Glade Creek Campground. “The only sounds you hear are from the river or a passing train,” Simpson said. “When I walked to the creek to take some pictures, a deer walked right past me.” Unlike most campgrounds in other national parks, where campers are charged fees averaging about $20 per night, all eight campgrounds found within the New River National Park and Preserve are free and open year round. They're rated primitive--meaning they lack drinking water, bathhouses, or hookups for power and other utilities--but what they lack in amenities are more than made up for with the area's natural beauty and proximity to recreation like fishing and hiking.  Read more: https://www.wvgazettemail.com/news/new-river-gorges-no-fee-campgrounds-a-rarity-among-national-parks/article_39387025-9380-5371-a9db-46fa91db3cc2.html   #2 – From GOVERNOR.WV.GOV –  Gov. Jim Justice has announced a partnership with the successful new low cost carrier Breeze Airways to connect West Virginia International Yeager Airport (CRW) with at least five cities over the next two years.  New nonstop flights to Orlando, Florida (MCO) and Charleston, South Carolina (CHS) will begin May 31, 2023. The new routes are now on sale at introductory fares of $59 and $49, respectively, one way. At least three more destinations, including New York City, are slated to be added over the next 24 months.  This innovative partnership between the state, Kanawha County, and the City of Charleston comes after years of decline in available destinations from smaller airports around the country, including West Virginia International Yeager Airport. The new flights will more than double air connectivity to West Virginia's capital. Breeze was launched in 2021 by JetBlue founder and former CEO David Neeleman with a mission to fill a key gap in America's air-travel offerings: efficient, affordable, direct flights between secondary airports, bypassing hubs for shorter travel times. It was recently named one of the best domestic airlines in the U.S. by Travel + Leisure.  Read more: https://governor.wv.gov/News/press-releases/2023/Pages/Gov.-Justice-announces-historic-airline-partnership.aspx   #3 – From BLACK BY GOD –  The Norman Jordan African American Arts & Heritage Academy is planning its 2023 Summer Youth Arts & Heritage Academy.   NJAAAHA is an annual summer arts program that offers teenagers between the ages of 12-18 concentrated study in their chosen artistic discipline. The program provides classes in instrumental and vocal music, theater, dance, visual arts, creative writing (including hip-hop and basic songwriting), and arts technology. The workshops are supplemented with historical and cultural knowledge associated with the students' chosen art form, with guest performers, field trips and more.  Norman Jordan of Ansted, WV was the president and chief financial officer of the NJAAA&HA until his passing in 2015. Jordan was one of the leading African-American poets of West Virginia and the Black Arts Movement.  This year's academy will meet at West Virginia State University the week of July 10-15. Applications are open at https://normanjordanaaaha.com/ Read more: https://blackbygod.org/articles/community/the-norman-jordan-african-american-arts-heritage-academy-returns-for-2023-summer-youth-program-at-west-virginia-state-university   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.

Brandon Shaw is the founder of New River ATV. Located in Minden, this ATV tour company provided trips through the rugged and beautiful terrain of West Virginia. In this episode we also announce a new giveaway that'll give you a chance to experience New River Gorge National Park via New River ATV! Check this one out if you're an outdoor recreation thrill seeker! Want to sign up for our flagship event, the Almost Heaven Classic? Find out more! The Mountaineer Media Podcast is C.J. Harvey and Cooper Simmerman Special thanks to our bloggers and live events members: Andrew Montes, Joslyn Barnhart, Logan Garrison, Joe Justice, Jessica Riggins and Amanda Larch. Know someone we should have on the podcast? Send us a note! The Almost Heaven Classic's title sponsor is Star USA Federal Credit Union. You can learn more about them here.

Welcome to March 22nd, 2023 on the National Day Calendar. Today we celebrate the 35th state and dessert for breakfast. West Virginia; the last of the states to be created from one of the original thirteen colonies, formed by staunch Union supporters when Virginia voted to secede from the Union at the beginning of the Civil War. West Virginia is also called The Mountain State with the Allegheny, Appalachian and Blue Ridge Mountains running through the state. The newest National Park is in West Virginia, the New River Gorge National Park with over 70,000 acres of hiking, white water rafting and climbing among other pursuits. On National West Virginia Day, we celebrate from Harpers Ferry to Wheeling, the 35th of these United States of America. Anna: Hey, watcha snacking on there Marlo? Marlo: Nothing. Anna: It doesn't sound like “nothing.” Is that chocolate syrup on your face? Marlo: No. Anna: Marlo, you are clearing eating dessert for breakfast? What I wanna I know is why didn't you save some for me? Is that a Bavarian Crepe? Marlo: Maybe. Anna: Ok, but if you're celebrating National Bavarian Crepe Day why didn't you bring any for us? Marlo: Cause I'm celebrating National Goof Off Day? Anna: You are a goof off. I'm Anna Devere and I'm Marlo Anderson. Thanks for joining us as we Celebrate Every Day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is a fun one! We're exploring Shenandoah National Park and New River Gorge National Park – the newest national park in the United States. Since they are so close, you can couple these two into a weekend trip and see the best of both, without taking any PTO! This east coast adventure features wild white water rafting, hiking, gorgeous overlooks, and road tripping through two states during a gasoline shortage. Since New River Gorge is our newest national park, we're answering all your questions and inspiring you to go on your adventure there too. Topics we discuss in this episode include: Where is Shenandoah National Park? Where to stay in Shenandoah National Park? What to do in Shenandoah National Park?  Things to do in New River Gorge National Park? Travel Itineraries on Sale Now! Explore our instant download trip itineraries for trips to iconic USA, international, and national park destinations that plan every detail of the adventure for you. On sale for $30! travelsquadpodcast.com/travelitinerary Shop our favorite travel gear, packing lists, and gifts for travelers on our Amazon Shop https://www.amazon.com/shop/travelsquadpodcast Connect with us on Social Media: YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram  Jamal: @jamal_marrush Brittanie: @bucketlist_brittanie Kim: @lushdeez Email us at travelsquadpodcast@gmail.com to discuss: Being a guest on our podcast or having the squad on yours Ask a Question of the Week --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/travel-squad-podcast/support

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Sunday, March 12 Have you heard about the time they knocked a hole in the Cheat River? This strange tale was reported in an 1885 edition of the Weston Democrat…Learn about the numerous higher ed opportunities in Advantage Valley, #YesWV…and mark your calendars for Oct. 21--that's the 2023 date for Bridge Day…on today's daily304.  #1 – From WV EXPLORER – A lot of crazy things have happened in West Virginia, but the day they knocked the hole in the Cheat River is one of the more bizarre. While some historians have questioned the story's authenticity, an eyewitness account was reported in the Nov. 14, 1885 edition of the Weston Democrat. About 15 miles north of Kingwood, a great limestone boulder weighing an estimated 324 tons sat on top of the mountain, supported only by a large oak. Some men, for reasons unknown, decided to cut down that tree, which sent the boulder plummeting down the mountain to land in the Cheat River. “But instead of seeing the rock, we saw the water rushing from every direction down into a huge hole probably 30 feet square. During the half-hour we stood there, not less than 10 saw logs were drawn into the hole and disappeared,” the eyewitness said. It was speculated that a cave extended under the river and the weight of the immense rock coming down with such force and rapidity caused the roof to give away.  Read more: https://wvexplorer.com/2017/09/18/day-knocked-hole-cheat-river-west-virginia/   #2 – From LIVABILITY – Are you preparing for college or planning to go back to school for another degree? There's no better place to study than West Virginia's Advantage Valley. Top institutions and universities help to train the Advantage Valley region's present and future workforces. Those include state universities, private colleges and community and technical colleges.  From West Virginia University in the north to Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College in the south, these top learning institutions offer everything from two-year degrees to graduate college, in a variety of fields including aviation, biomedical engineering, agribusiness and the arts. Learn more: https://livability.com/wv/charleston/education-careers-opportunity/8-colleges-and-universities-in-advantage-valley-wv/ #3 – From WVNS-TV – After a triumphant return in 2022 following a two-year hiatus, Bridge Day is back again in 2023. The date has been set for October 21, 2023.  The event will include known favorites and staples like the titular Bridge Day BASE Jump itself, along with others including a 5K race, Bridge Walk guided tours, and whitewater rafting. Events take place in the beautiful New River Gorge National Park and Preserve.  For details, visit OfficialBridgeDay.com. Read more: https://www.wvnstv.com/outdoor-sports/bridge-day-2023-announced-registration-opens-soon/ 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.

Mike and Dusty visit Thurmond, the ghost town inside New River Gorge National Park.Website: GazeAtTheNationalParks.comInstagram: @GazeAtTheNationalParksFacebook: Gaze at the National ParksOur listeners can enjoy 20% their copy of Moon USA National Parks from MOON Travel Guides by clicking HERE and using offer code GAZE at checkout! Expires December 31, 2023, offer only available with Hachette Books, not valid with any other retailers. To see additional National Parks Guides published by Moon, visit Moon.com. #gazeatthenationalparks#hikeearlyhikeoften#adventureisoutthereHosted by Dustin Ballard and Michael RyanEpisode Editing by Dustin BallardOriginal Artwork by Michael RyanOriginal Music by Dave Seamon and Mariella KlingerMusic Producer: Skyler FortgangSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/gaze-at-the-national-parks/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Mike and Dusty hike the Castle Rock Trail as well as the Tunnel Trail and the Gradview Rim Trail in the Grandview Area of New River Gorge National Park.Website: GazeAtTheNationalParks.comInstagram: @GazeAtTheNationalParksFacebook: Gaze at the National ParksOur listeners can enjoy 20% their copy of Moon USA National Parks from MOON Travel Guides by clicking HERE and using offer code GAZE at checkout! Expires December 31, 2023, offer only available with Hachette Books, not valid with any other retailers. To see additional National Parks Guides published by Moon, visit Moon.com. #gazeatthenationalparks#hikeearlyhikeoften#adventureisoutthereHosted by Dustin Ballard and Michael RyanEpisode Editing by Dustin BallardOriginal Artwork by Michael RyanOriginal Music by Dave SeamonMusic Producer: Skyler FortgangSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/gaze-at-the-national-parks/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Episode 168 – Rim to River 100 Race Recap with Rob Bozovich This week we dive into a detailed race recap with Rob Bozovich. Pete and Karen Clarke joined Rob at the Rim to River 100 in beautiful New River Gorge National Park in West Virginia. The scenery was stunning. The temps were unseasonably warm. And the hero of our story hit some snags along the way. Lots to unpack from this race, so let's get right to it! Check out the Rim to River 100 documentary here. Now, get out there and #bebettertoday! This episode is sponsored by The No Fear Project podcast, the Be Better Today podcast, and That Wine Pod. Subscribe now in your favorite podcast app! Join The No Fear Project on Facebook or shoot Pete a note for more information.   Listen, subscribe, share, rate & review! Please subscribe to the podcast and leave us a review on iTunes/Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play, Podbean, Stitcher, or in your favorite podcast app! Find FatMan Chronicles at: Fatmanchronicles.com Facebook.com/fatmanstories Twitter & Instagram - @fatmanstories Email – fatmanchronicles@outlook.com Music – “You Got Me Wrong” by Sifar Copyright 2022 Paragon Media – All Rights Reserved

Mike and Dusty hike the Big Branch Trail in the Sandstone Falls area of New River Gorge National Park.Website: GazeAtTheNationalParks.comInstagram: @GazeAtTheNationalParksFacebook: Gaze at the National ParksOur listeners can enjoy 20% their copy of Moon USA National Parks from MOON Travel Guides by clicking HERE and using offer code GAZE at checkout! Expires December 31, 2023, offer only available with Hachette Books, not valid with any other retailers. To see additional National Parks Guides published by Moon, visit Moon.com. #gazeatthenationalparks#hikeearlyhikeoften#adventureisoutthereHosted by Dustin Ballard and Michael RyanEpisode Editing by Dustin BallardOriginal Artwork by Michael RyanOriginal Music by Dave SeamonMusic Producer: Skyler FortgangSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/gaze-at-the-national-parks/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Mike and Dusty hike the boardwalks and the Island Loop Trail in the Sandstone Falls Area of New River Gorge National Park.Birds featured in trail recordings: Carolina Chickadee, White-breasted Nuthatch, Common Grackle.Website: GazeAtTheNationalParks.comInstagram: @GazeAtTheNationalParksFacebook: Gaze at the National ParksOur listeners can enjoy 20% their copy of Moon USA National Parks from MOON Travel Guides by clicking HERE and using offer code GAZE at checkout! Expires December 31, 2023, offer only available with Hachette Books, not valid with any other retailers. To see additional National Parks Guides published by Moon, visit Moon.com. #gazeatthenationalparks#hikeearlyhikeoften#adventureisoutthereHosted by Dustin Ballard and Michael RyanEpisode Editing by Dustin BallardOriginal Artwork by Michael RyanOriginal Music by Dave SeamonMusic Producer: Skyler FortgangSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/gaze-at-the-national-parks/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Mike and Dusty hike the Long Point trail at two different times of the year in New River Gorge National Park.Website: GazeAtTheNationalParks.comInstagram: @GazeAtTheNationalParksFacebook: Gaze at the National ParksOur listeners can enjoy 20% their copy of Moon USA National Parks from MOON Travel Guides by clicking HERE and using offer code GAZE at checkout! Expires December 31, 2023, offer only available with Hachette Books, not valid with any other retailers. To see additional National Parks Guides published by Moon, visit Moon.com. #gazeatthenationalparks#hikeearlyhikeoften#adventureisoutthereHosted by Dustin Ballard and Michael RyanEpisode Editing by Dustin BallardOriginal Artwork by Michael RyanOriginal Music by Dave SeamonMusic Producer: Skyler FortgangSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/gaze-at-the-national-parks/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

In this first episode of Season 5, Dusty and Mike hike the Canyon Rim and travel the Fayette Station Road scenic drive in New River Gorge National Park.Website: GazeAtTheNationalParks.comInstagram: @GazeAtTheNationalParksFacebook: Gaze at the National ParksOur listeners can enjoy 20% their copy of Moon USA National Parks from MOON Travel Guides by clicking HERE and using offer code GAZE at checkout! Expires December 31, 2023, offer only available with Hachette Books, not valid with any other retailers. To see additional National Parks Guides published by Moon, visit Moon.com. #gazeatthenationalparks#hikeearlyhikeoften#adventureisoutthereHosted by Dustin Ballard and Michael RyanEpisode Editing by Dustin BallardOriginal Artwork by Michael RyanOriginal Music by Dave SeamonMusic Producer: Skyler FortgangSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/gaze-at-the-national-parks/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Attorney General Patrick Morrisey readies for oral arguments before the U.S. Supreme Court next week. A change is proposed in the fee for limited video lottery license holders. Complaints about food in the WVU campus cafeterias have reached the Board of Governors. We hear from the attorney for Delegate Danielle Walker who filed a lawsuit against a pro-life group over an email with racist symbols and the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve draws a record number of visitors. In sports, a new name in the winner's circle for the Daytona 500 and the Mountaineers take on TCU on the road tonight. Those stories and more in today's MetroNews This Morning podcast.

A 911 call for a woman who reportedly plummeted 1400 feet from the Grandview Overlook in the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve sparked a massive search and rescue mission. Men and women repelled down a cliff for two days, risking their lives to bring this woman to safety. Was this really an accident or a woman trying to impede justice? This is the bizarre case of Julie Wheeler For the list of sources for this episode, visit our website www.wvnstv.com.

A study finds the elderly living near fracking sites have a higher risk of dying prematurely. Plus, a pipeline company is charged with environmental crimes.‌ ‌A climate reporter wants to hear from you. And, a look at the role of fire at the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve.

Dylan Jones and Nikki Forrester from Highland Outdoors Magazine tell us about some of the big things going on in WV's outdoor community, including the designation of the New River Gorge National Park.

West Virginia health officials worry about the anticipated surge of the Omicron variant in the weeks ahead in West Virginia. Governor Jim Justice unveils a plan to ramp up the training, retention, and recruitment of nurses in West Virginia. The Parkways Authority is notifying a large number of folks their three year EZ pass deal is up for renewal. The New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is a year old in the new designation. In Sports, Marshall falls and WVU prepares to take on Youngstown State. Those stories and more in today's MetroNews This Morning podcast.

In this week's episode we head to New River Gorge National Park, the newest National Park in America. At face value, this new and beautiful park is full of fun activities and beautiful landscapes. But, if you dive deeper and really take a look at the smaller, less known areas, there are very dark stories that reside here.  On an island called Red Ash Island, a place many visitors just pass right by without a second thought, lies a graveyard of over 200 people and their stories and tragic.  This week we're taking a bigger look at old forgotten ruins and traveling way back in history to learn about what they once were. We love our National Parks and we know you do too but when you're out there, remember to enjoy the view but watch your back. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe from wherever you're listening to NPAD! Become part of our Outsider family on Patreon to gain access to ad-free episode, bonus content and more. Follow our socials Instagram, Facebook , and Twitter. To share a Trail Tale, suggest a story, access merch and browse our book recommendations - head over to our website.   Thank you so much to our partners, check them out!  Listen Now to Killer Psyche from Wondery. Quip: Take care of your oral health, good health starts with good habits. BetterHelp: Get 10% off online therapy  Athena: Silky smooth razor kits. 20% off your first order with code NPAD Sources: NPS, Hellraisers Journal

On this West Virginia Morning, we learn about one of West Virginia's legendary musical families, the Kessingers. Also, in this show, a brush fire in the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve has grown, and hospital workers in Huntington have ended their month-long strike.

Are you thinking about visiting our nation's 63rd national park, nestled in the Appalachian Mountains of West Virginia? Then you're in luck. In this episode, we talk about our recent visit to New River Gorge National Park and Preserve with our dear friends Bob and Sue. And we've arranged it into a three-day itinerary to give you a starting point for planning your visit.   You can find links to many of the places and activities we discuss in this episode on our blog post about New River Gorge National Park – click here.   Please 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

The New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is full of great hikes, fresh air and scenic views. Stevie is joined by Olivia Migacz from the Olivia Outside travel blog to talk about things to do in the national park, grabbing a slice of pizza from Pies and Pints in Fayetteville, going for a swim in Summersville Lake and more!Check out the Olivia's West Virginia Blog Follow Olivia on InstagramExplore Group Experience to Learn how to Build your Travel TribeSupport the show (https://www.patreon.com/dbetravel)

Tourism. In this episode, we took you to the New River Gorge National Park to tell you about all it has to offer to tourists visiting. Make sure to check out this guide to America's newest National Park!

It's Jerry's birthday and he's 16(ish)! Beks and Susie discuss how Leslie tries to do it all and eventually has to listen to Ron and slow down. This week's National Park is New River Gorge Park and PreserveFollow us here:Twitter: @pawnee_commonsInstagram: pawneecommonspodFacebook: The Pawnee CommonsProducer: Andy MeyerIntro and Outro Music:Life of Riley by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3976-life-of-rileyLicense: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Links:https://www.nps.gov/neri/index.htmhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_River_Gorge_National_Park_and_Preservehttps://www.nps.gov/neri/planyourvisit/index.htmhttps://www.nps.gov/neri/learn/historyculture/thurmond.htmhttps://www.nps.gov/neri/learn/historyculture/nuttallburg.htmhttps://www.nps.gov/neri/planyourvisit/nrgbridge.htmhttps://www.nps.gov/neri/planyourvisit/scenic-drives-at-new-river-gorge.htmhttps://www.nps.gov/neri/planyourvisit/african-american-heritage-auto-tour.htmhttps://www.nps.gov/neri/planyourvisit/snakes.htmhttps://www.nps.gov/neri/learn/historyculture/motherjones.htmhttps://www.nps.gov/neri/learn/historyculture/carter-g-woodson.htmhttps://www.nps.gov/neri/learn/nature/animals.htm

Episode 94 is a fun one! We're exploring Shenandoah National Park and New River Gorge National Park - the newest national park in the United States. This east coast adventure features wild white water rafting, hiking, gorgeous overlooks, and road tripping through two states during a gasoline shortage. Thanks to our sponsor MANSCAPED! Get 20% OFF + Free Shipping with promo code TRAVELSQUAD at MANSCAPED.com Travel Itineraries on Sale Now! We now have six 20+ page PDF trip and national park itineraries that plan the entire trip for you. Get yours now for just $30 on our website:https://travelsquadpodcast.com/travelitinerary Connect with us on Social Media: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3_gxT16uimZ2Vrl9gnjk2g? Instagram: @travelsquadpodcast Co-hosts: Jamal: @jamal_marrush Brittanie: @brittanieharbick Kim: @lushdeez Get in touch! Email us at travelsquadpodcast@gmail.com to discuss: Being a guest on our podcast or having the squad on yours Ask a travel question for Question of the Week Inquire about brand advertising --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/travel-squad-podcast/support

The biggest outdoor amphitheater in West Virginia is a part of America's newest national park, the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve.   Theatre West Virginia's Cliffside Amphitheater at Grandview has presented shows under the stars every year since 1961...until COVID 19 forced its closure in 2020. This summer, they're back in action and will feature several outdoor dramas and musicals, and they'll wrap up their season with a major national concert starring America's Got Talent winner and native West Virginian Landau Eugene Murphy Jr, celebrating the 10th anniversary of his AGT win.  *Just announced...joining Landau for the August 1st show, Voices Of Classic Soul, featuring the former lead singers of the Temptations, Platters, Drifters and Four Tops! Theatre West Virginia Executive Director Scott Hill takes us backstage for the inside scoop on how Theatre West Virginia managed to get through a year when audiences weren't allowed, what it's like to try to do theatre in the woods, the historical drama about the founding of the Mountain State, their big season-ending concert and more!  Get tickets for all shows at www.theatrewestvirginia.org. The Big Time Talker podcast is sponsored by Speakermatch.com.  

West Virginia is the only state that did not have a national Park. They have finally added one to the registry. New River Gorge National Park makes it the 64th and the nation. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/retired-roaders/message

President Biden's plans to invest in clean energy could create high-paying union jobs. But not everyone's on board. New reports outline thousands of new jobs to clean up old mines and gas wells. A new project in the Laurel Highlands gives amphibians a place to breed in peace. Some local concerns over the newly designated New River Gorge National Park and Preserve.