Podcasts about South Charleston

Today on MetroNews This Morning: --Governor Morrisey proposes sweeping reforms to the state's child welfare system--A Charleston shooting death originally thought to be accidental is now a murder case--NASA officials tour Constellium in Jackson County where the aluminum to build spacecraft originates--In Sports: The state high school softball tournament continues in South Charleston 

Today on MetroNews This Morning: --Governor Morrisey gives an update on flood recovery in McDowell County--A Charleston teen is jailed after a tragic fatal shooting at a gas station--Charleston is thrilled with the results of a week long international bicycle racing event--In Sports: WVU prepares for baseball post season and the state softball tourney starts in South Charleston

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Sunday, May 25, 2025  Visit Southern WV launches a trail showcasing the region's beer, wine and spirits…two West Virginia organizations receive ARC funding to support energy improvements…and the WVDNR moves its main office to the Capitol Complex…on today's daily304.   #1 – From WOAY-TV – Visit Southern West Virginia has launched the new Brews and Booze Trail.   The trail is accessible through the Brews and Booze Trail digital passport and encourages travelers and locals to visit the craft breweries, wineries, and distilleries of Southern West Virginia.  The trail features 10 participating businesses that you may already be familiar with, such as Greenbrier Valley Brewing Company and Smooth Ambler, which will offer special deals to passport holders.  Users who check in their passports while visiting businesses will earn points redeemable for prizes. Visit visitwv.com to sign up and see all the participating businesses. Read more: woay.com/visit-southern-west-virginia-launches-brews-and-booze-trail-digital-passport/   #2 – From ARC.GOV –  The Appalachian Regional Commission has  awarded nearly $4.7 million to three projects through its Appalachian Regional Energy Hub Initiative. The awards will support activities to implement a hydrogen energy hub from natural gas feedstocks in the region, as well as job training to prepare Appalachians for work in the energy industry. West Virginia award recipients were: $2,989,361 to West Virginia Region 1 & 4 Planning & Development Councils to develop a community-driven plan to accelerate a regional hydrogen hub based on natural gas and natural gas liquids. $382,335 to Marion County, West Virginia to plan for the launch of a new commercial driver license training facility for drivers of diesel and hydrogen-fueled trucks. Read more: https://www.arc.gov/news/arc-awards-nearly-4-7-million-to-support-appalachias-energy-industry-expansion/   #3 – From WVDNR – The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources has relocated its main office to the West Virginia State Capitol Complex in Charleston. The relocation strengthens the agency's ability to serve the people of West Virginia and support the state's natural resources, according to WVDNR Director Brett McMillion. The WVDNR's main office was previously located in South Charleston. Its new office is located at 112 California Avenue in Charleston.  Locations for the agency's district offices and operations center remain unchanged. For contact information for WVDNR offices around the state, visit WVdnr.gov/contact. Read more: https://wvdnr.gov/wvdnr-relocates-main-office-to-state-capitol-complex/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0BMQABHtCtIF3nkvqUip2_bOT0b1OLafFHWlMcS2roVh1WdpurbR6qFOilQFHPfcAl_aem_OmiGkqetiwFANaU2KNb7Ig   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.

Chef Paul Smith joins Dave to talk campfire meals, seafood boil secrets, and taco shell debates. From Appalachian trout over open flame to low-country boils done right, Chef Paul shares expert tips for outdoor cooking. He also breaks down the differences between white and yellow corn tortillas, previews the new South Charleston farmers market, and shares plans for his upcoming wood-fired pizza classes at Capitol Market. A mouthwatering, wide-ranging food chat you don't want to miss.

Justice Beth Walker, who announced her retirement last week, joins the show. Harrison County Senator Ben Queen stops by. Brad McElhinny has an update on Green Power's lack of progress at its South Charleston plant. And Howard Monroe joins the discussion. 

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Thursday, April 24, 2025  The WV Regional Tech Park is driving West Virginia's future and fostering a vibrant community of innovation…the High Tech Foundation wants to connect job seekers to high-paying tech jobs in #YesWV…and the WV Economic Development Foundation offers loan insurance for businesses…on today's daily304.   #1 – From WV TECH PARK – Discover the Future of Innovation at the West Virginia Regional Technology Park. Located in South Charleston, the Tech Park offers state-of-the-art facilities, a collaborative research environment, and a commitment to advancing STEM industries and education across the region. The park houses 29 businesses employing 1,000 talented people. Over 30,000 patents have been developed here and many of those have been commercialized into the market.  The park offers a wide array of facilities including laboratories, pilot plants, manufacturing space, warehousing, office, incubation spaces, and shared amenities. Watch the video and explore how WVRTP is driving West Virginia's future and fostering a vibrant community of innovation, science, and technology. Watch now: https://www.wvtechpark.com/post/discover-the-future-of-innovation-at-the-west-virginia-regional-technology-park   #2 – From HIGH TECH FOUNDATION – The number of high-paying technical jobs in West Virginia has risen exponentially over the last few years, and demand is growing. Many positions are open now, with demand for hundreds more expected over the next few years. The High Technology Foundation has recruited many large employers to the state, and to meet their demand for employees and contractors, they are seeking qualified candidates. When you submit your information on the High Technology Foundation's website, it will be shared with high-tech companies currently hiring here in West Virginia.  Even if you are not currently looking for a new career, the perfect career may be looking for you!  There is no risk, yet numerous benefits to gain. Learn more: https://wvhtf.org/tech-careers-wv/   #3 – From WV EDA – Did you know the West Virginia Economic Development Authority offers loan insurance for your business? Per the guidelines of the Commercial Loan Insurance program, the WVEDA could insure up to 80% of a bank loan up to $500,000. The WVEDA is charged with the responsibility to develop and advance the business prosperity and economic welfare of the State of West Virginia, by providing financial assistance in the form of loans and direct financing and operating leases to industrial development agencies and enterprises for the promotion and retention of new and existing commercial and industrial development. Visit eda.wv.gov to learn more about additional programs offered. Read more: https://eda.wv.gov/programs/loan-insurance/   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, April 18, 2025  Plan a spring hike in Almost Heaven--WV Tourism suggests a few trails you might want to check out…the Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center offers hands-on training to help you get started on your manufacturing career…and the newly formed Appalachian Outlaw Trails promote ATV tourism in the Upper Kanawha Valley…on today's daily304.   #1 – From WV TOURISM – You might have heard about the stunning views in West Virginia, but you really have to be here to believe it. From scenic cliffside views to trails stretching deep into the serene forests, Almost Heaven makes every step worth the journey. Make spring your new favorite season and explore some amazing hiking trails, like the Seneca Rocks Trail in the Spruce Knob – Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area that features beautiful views of the Potomac River. For an easier hike there's the Cranberry Bog Boardwalk near Hillsboro, which takes you through a unique ecosystem and in April and May reveals colorful wildflowers. Visit wvtourism.com or wvstateparks.com to find more amazing hikes for all levels of ability. Read more: https://wvtourism.com/6-must-try-hiking-trails-in-west-virginia/   #2 – From MAMC – Interested in starting or advancing a career in manufacturing? Do you need to train company employees? The Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center has been helping develop West Virginia's workforce for more than three decades and has the training and course options to meet any need. Career Skills feature formal hands-on training opportunities in machining and welding. The technical skills students learn from hands-on training at the Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center (formerly RCBI) make it possible for them to enter a shop floor setting and begin work immediately.  MAMC also offers free CNC (computer-numerical-control) bootcamps for individuals of all skill levels – or no experience at all. Receive free online instruction and hands-on, in-person training in the operation of computerized mills and lathes at the Center's Advanced Manufacturing Technology facilities in either Huntington or South Charleston.  Learn more: https://www.mfg.marshall.edu/education-training/   #3 – From GAZETTE-MAIL – Like many residents of the Upper Kanawha Valley, Chris Inghram and Eric Larch grew up riding off-road vehicles on the property across from Riverside High School. Most of the land was privately owned by coal companies, however, and as ridership increased during the pandemic, they began gating off the property. Ingraham and Larch then decided to go the legal route to ensure that ATVers had a place to ride, and that's how the idea of Appalachian Outlaw Trails began. Through AOT, the two men hope to preserve trail access sustainably and boost the economy of the Upper Kanawha Valley through tourism. The first phase, slated to open in 2026, will have 50 to 75 miles of trails, a welcome center, a 10-mile racecourse for events and campsites for primitive and RV camping. Read more: https://www.wvgazettemail.com/news/kanawha_valley/lifetime-trespassers-locals-hope-to-bring-off-road-tourism-to-ukv-next-year/article_2c64a8c8-841d-4450-a31f-9b228fa79fa9.html   Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.  That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Sunday, March 9, 2025. A childhood love of birds leads to a lifelong career for the founder of a Cheat Lake conservation center…attention, small businesses--learn how you can get grant funding for trade expansion or energy efficiency…and a University of Charleston program is helping students earn degrees debt-free…on today's daily304.   #1 – From MORGANTOWN MAGAZINE – The first word that Katie Fallon spoke was “bird.” So it's fitting that she now finds herself writing books about birds and leading an organization committed to rehabbing some of the biggest birds around.  She and her veterinarian husband, Jesse Fallon, first came to Morgantown as grad students.  Her two nonfiction books—Cerulean Blues and Vulture—illuminate the plights of the region's bird populations and paint a vivid picture of the ecosystems around them.  In 2012, along with her husband and a group of like-minded friends, Katie Fallon put her passion for birds into action, co-founding the Avian Conservation Center of Appalachia.  Nestled at Cheat Lake Animal Hospital and Ridge Way Farm, the ACCA has become a vital resource for bird conservation, and its non-releasable birds of prey serve as ambassadors, captivating audiences through educational programming. Read more: https://morgantownmag.com/faces-of-morgantown-katie-fallon/   #2 – From WV NEWS – Identified by the Preston County Economic Development Authority, several state grant programs, including the State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) Grant and funding for clean energy initiatives, are now open for applications, offering opportunities for West Virginia small businesses and entrepreneurs. The Energy & Manufacturing in Appalachia initiative supports small and medium-sized manufacturers in eligible counties to expand business, production and jobs in energy supply chains while reducing costs through factory efficiencies. Additionally, the West Virginia Department of Economic Development has secured extra funding from the U.S. Small Business Administration's State Trade Expansion Program to assist small businesses with export promotion costs. More information about the STEP Grant is available at westvirginia.gov. Information about clean energy initiatives can be found at cleanenergy.mfgsupplychain.org. Read more: https://www.wvnews.com/prestoncountynews/various-grants-available-for-west-virginia-small-businesses/article_f093e936-f61e-11ef-b700-3ff7b7ce5d7b.html   #3 – From UCWV– Michael Lowe dreamed of being a nurse and making a difference in his community while growing up in South Charleston. Like others, he and his family had concerns about the cost of getting his nursing degree. To help students like Lowe achieve their goals without amassing debt, the University of Charleston launched UC Works in February 2024 in collaboration with WorkForce WV and other business partners. The program provides eligible West Virginia students with a combination of institutional, state, and federal aid programs to cover their UC undergraduate tuition and mandatory fees. It then matches those students with a local employer for part-time paid employment during their enrollment. Today, Michael and eight other UC students are completing their first year of college without worrying about finances.  Read more: https://www.ucwv.edu/2025/02/uc-works-program-helping-students-earn-degrees-debt-free/   Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.  That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.  

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2025. Stay connected with the people who shape WV--check out our Innovators and Entrepreneurs podcast…the WV Tech Park fosters a vibrant community of innovation, science and technology…and artificial intelligence transforms the medical field…on today's daily304. #1 – From DAILY304 – The daily304's Innovators and Entrepreneurs helps you stay connected with the people who shape West Virginia. Whether it's a brand-new invention or an improvement to our community, there are so many talented innovators and entrepreneurs who have stories to tell.  Tune in to hear about the amazing inventions, innovations, insightful messages and awe-inspiring testimonials happening right here in the Mountain State. Learn more: https://daily304.wv.gov/programs/innovators-and-entrepreneurs/   #2 – From WV TECH PARK – The West Virginia Regional Technology Park in South Charleston offers state-of-the-art facilities, a collaborative research environment, and a commitment to advancing STEM industries and education across the region.  At the Tech Park, innovation knows no bounds. There are 29 businesses located at the park, employing 1,000 talented people. Over 30,000 patents have been developed at the park and many of those have been commercialized into the market. The park provides robust and reliable infrastructure to both global businesses and start-ups that are developing products for our collective future.   Watch the video and explore how WVRTP is driving West Virginia's future and fostering a vibrant community of innovation, science, and technology. Learn more: https://www.wvtechpark.com/post/discover-the-future-of-innovation-at-the-west-virginia-regional-technology-park   #3 – From WV EXECUTIVE – Artificial intelligence is transforming the landscape of healthcare. In an industry that is always looking for new ways to overcome inefficiency and human error, the integration of AI in the medical field means an increase in efficiency and accuracy, creating the opportunity for providers to better serve patients and improve outcomes. The dynamic capabilities of AI have a revolutionary impact on streamlining tasks and productivity. AI can support caregivers in making decisions such as helping clinicians make earlier diagnoses. In terms of administrative support, AI is assisting with documentation and simplifying daily hospital operations, enhancing efficiency and giving providers more time to focus on patient care. As AI is quickly becoming an important tool in early disease detection, Marshall Health is at the forefront of integrating new technologies to help its patients. In fact, one innovative technology they are using is LumineticsCore, an AI system designed to help prevent vision loss in patients with diabetes. Read more: https://wvexecutive.com/artificial-intelligence-in-health-care/   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, Feb. 9, 2025. Find qualified talent through Generation West Virginia's Career Connector…the Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center is hiring…and discover West Virginia's own natural wonders--how many activities can you check off this year?…on today's daily304. #1 – From JOBCASE – The Generation West Virginia Career Connector program offers two ways for employers to connect with more qualified talent around the state: through its job board and Generational Talent Search recruitment services. The career connector job board is a free service for any West Virginia company looking to expand their team or fill open roles. To post a job, companies can reach out to the career connector team by providing a copy of the job description, salary range, and high quality logo. The Generational Talent Search program is a talent recruitment service that helps West Virginia employers connect with top talent through a streamlined and efficient approach. Visit jobcase.com to learn more and get started! Read more: https://www.jobcase.com/articles/wv-career-connector-hiring   #2 – From MAMC –  The Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center is hiring! With campuses in Huntington and South Charleston, MAMC encourages job creation, economic development, innovation and entrepreneurship by supporting manufacturing companies of all sizes. MAMC offers leading-edge equipment use and specialized training for everyone from sole proprietors to Fortune 500 companies. Learn more about employment opportunities with MAMC. Read more: https://www.mfg.marshall.edu/about-mamc/employment-opportunities/?es_id=07d26462bd   #3 – From WBOY-TV – Want to take advantage of all the natural wonders that West Virginia has to offer? Check out some places that the West Virginia Department of Tourism says will make you a “true Mountain State aficionado.” Bring a telescope to observe the starry skies over Spruce Knob. Visit a cave that played a vital role in the Civil War. Rather than specific points or landmarks, these are unique experiences that you can have in West Virginia, whether you have 30 minutes to spare or a full week to explore.  Visit wvtourism.com for more travel ideas in Almost Heaven! Read more: https://www.wboy.com/wv-outdoors/west-virginia-tourisms-must-see-it-list-of-natural-wonders/   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.  

Extra Ordinary ep.746 Born and raised in Arkansas and now working as an attorney in West Virginia, John Willems is a relatively new writer in the areas of horror, fantasy, and science fiction. However, he's already had short stories published in Synthetic Reality Magazine on January 15, 2022, and in Quagmire Magazine in July of this year, along with a novella called Beer Run with Solstice Publishing.  John lives with his wife Rachel and two sons, Francis and Tony, in South Charleston. John is passionate about writing speculative fiction, whether it be fantasy, science fiction, or even the occasional horror. And if you're interested, his full-length novel, Christmas in Pandemonium, will be published this year sometime around Christmas by I Aint Your Marionett Press.   More TTTV Stories by Lee John Willems: https://talltaletv.com/tag/john-willems/   ---- Listen Elsewhere ---- YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/c/TallTaleTV Website: http://www.TallTaleTV.com   ---- Story Submission ---- Got a short story you'd like to submit? Submission guidelines can be found at http://www.TallTaleTV.com   ---- About Tall Tale TV ---- Hi there! My name is Chris Herron and I'm an audiobook narrator. In 2015, I suffered from poor Type 1 diabetes control which lead me to become legally blind for almost a year. The doctors didn't give me much hope, predicting an 80% chance that I would never see again. But I refused to give up and changed my lifestyle drastically. Through sheer willpower (and an amazing eye surgeon) I beat the odds and regained my vision. During that difficult time, I couldn't read or write, which was devastating as they had always been a source of comfort for me since childhood. However, my wife took me to the local library where she read out the titles of audiobooks to me. I selected some of my favorite books, such as the Disc World series, Name of the Wind, Harry Potter, and more, and the audiobooks brought these stories to life in a way I had never experienced before. They helped me through the darkest period of my life and I fell in love with audiobooks. Once I regained my vision, I decided to pursue a career as an audiobook narrator instead of a writer. That's why I created Tall Tale TV, to support aspiring authors in the writing communities that I had grown to love before my ordeal. My goal was to help them promote their work by providing a promotional audio short story that showcases their writing skills to readers. They say the strongest form of advertising is word of mouth, so I offer a platform for readers to share these videos and help spread the word about these talented writers. Please consider sharing these stories with your friends and family to support these amazing authors. Thank you!   ---- legal ---- All stories on Tall Tale TV have been submitted in accordance with the terms of service provided on http://www.talltaletv.com or obtained with permission by the author. All images used on Tall Tale TV are either original or Royalty and Attribution free. Most stock images used are provided by http://www.pixabay.com , https://www.canstockphoto.com/ or created using AI. Image attribution will be declared only when required by the copyright owner. Common Affiliates are: Amazon, Smashwords

9:10 Vicky Vaughan from the City of South Charleston's CVB on the Christmas parade and other jolly Christmas stuff9:20 New Kanawha County Manager Jeremy Young9:35 Goodwin Chief of Staff Matt Sutton on the city postponing the Christmas parade9:50 Joe Stevens of WV Ski Areas Assocation on the opening of the ski season and (putting on his Nitro CVB hat) the Nitro Christmas parade and other jingling all the way stuff (HO HO HO!!)

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Saturday, Nov. 23, 2024. West Virginia boasts its fair share of talent, and that includes musicians--check out some talented artists that hail from the Mountain State…Breeze Airways launches a nonstop flight from Charleston to New York City…and in Native America history, did you know the Kanawha Valley once had the highest concentration of burial mounds in North America?…on today's daily304. #1 – From WV TOURISM – Nothing soothes the soul quite like mountain music, and in West Virginia, there is plenty of just that. Whether you're into traditional country music or looking for unique covers with tons of Appalachian energy, you are sure to find a catchy tune from a West Virginia musician. Renowned country music star Brad Paisley doesn't hesitate to pour his Mountain State heritage into his music. Paisley grew up in Glen Dale in the Northern Panhandle.  Contemporary Christian artist Michael W. Smith grew up in the small Wayne County town of Kenova.  Head over to wvtourism.com to learn more about West Virginia's talented musicians. Read more: https://wvtourism.com/these-music-stars-are-local-legends-in-west-virginia/   #2 – From WV PRESS – Traveling to the Big Apple just got easier for West Virginians in the Charleston area. Breeze Airways has launched nonstop service from West Virginia's Capital City to New York-Newark, New Jersey, with fares starting from $49* one way.  This marks the newest destination served by West Virginia International Yeager Airport, along with Myrtle Beach, SC, and Tampa and Orlando, FL. Yeager CEO and Airport Director Dominique Ranieri said the NYC route fosters new opportunities for tourism and business growth in the region. Learn more about Breeze's flight offerings via its website or app. Read more: https://wvpress.org/wvpa-sharing/west-virginia-celebrates-inaugural-breeze-airways-new-york-newark-flight/   #3 – From WV EXPLORER – The Kanawha Valley in western West Virginia once had the highest concentration of burial mounds in North America, though most were destroyed. According to archaeologist Darla Spencer, author of Woodland Mounds of West Virginia, more than 400 mounds have been recorded in West Virginia, and their presence was once so extensive that explorers couldn't believe they were of Native American origin. Scholars long ago proved that indigenous peoples had raised the mounds. Today you can still find ancient mounds in South Charleston and Dunbar in the Kanawha Valley.   A professor of Native American studies at West Virginia University, Spencer examined the Grave Creek Mound in Moundsville, and 16 other mounds and mound groups of mounds in West Virginia in her book. Read more: https://wvexplorer.com/2024/11/14/kanawha-valley-once-had-highest-concentration-of-burial-mounds/?fbclid=IwY2xjawGi9CNleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHfDGw_xp08mLrhWOclC5_rarOBI34yH9qTqYJd-OWmrAAuiViVI0XH9n-Q_aem_WYR1n8ZVOmTfFeNKCWL3_g   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, Nov. 6, 2024   An expansion doubles the size of Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center in South Charleston...the WV Office of Energy's Director shares highlights of this year's Governor's Energy Summit...and Charleston is named one of the most affordable cities in the South for retirement...on today's daily304.   #1 – From MFG-MARSHALL – The Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center has announced another major expansion, this one doubling the size of its Advanced Manufacturing Technology Center on the Marshall University South Charleston campus. In addition, MAMC was just awarded more than $1 million by the U.S. Economic Development Administration to equip the new space with the latest manufacturing technology.   With 4,280 square feet of additional space, MAMC will be able to better serve existing clients as well as accommodate additional entrepreneurs and manufacturers, with more room for technical training and new technology, according to MAMC Director Derek Scarbro.   Renovations on the former library space in South Charleston will begin this fall and are expected to be complete by spring. The library recently moved to the adjacent campus building. Read more: https://www.mfg.marshall.edu/24772-2/   #2 – From METRO NEWS – Growth is the overall theme of an annual energy conference this year — growth in the coal industry, natural gas, manufacturing and other sectors that keep the Mountain State going.   Energy industry leaders were once again brought together for the annual Governor's Energy Summit, which took place Oct. 29-30 at the Charleston Coliseum and Convention Center.   Director of the West Virginia Office of Energy and Acting Secretary of Commerce Nick Preservati says the theme of growth and expansion in West Virginia's energy climate is fitting as there are so many more opportunities which are arising.    Topics discussed at the conference included expanding coal exports and creating new coal, gas and manufacturing markets. Attendees also discussed the latest developments with West Virginia's newest ARCH2 production hub in Morgantown that opens up the doorway for hydrogen production in the state. Read more: https://wvmetronews.com/2024/10/29/energy-industry-growth-being-discussed-at-this-years-governors-en ergy-summit/   #3 – From SOUTHERN LIVING – From watching boat races at the annual Charleston Sternwheel Regatta to soaking in the changing seasons along area trails, there are plenty of reasons to consider making West Virginia's most populous city your retirement home.   In fact, Southern Living magazine selected the Capital City as one of the South's most affordable places to retire for 2024 Investopedia, a financial news and education website, partnered with Southern   Living to evaluate economic and livability metrics using data on housing prices, median income levels, and proximity to recreation and cultural activities, among other criteria.   With estimated median monthly housing costs of just $857, retirees in Charleston can spend 26% less than the median across the South, the magazine noted.   Read more: https://www.southernliving.com/most-affordable-places-to-retire-2024-8704206 Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304.   The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.   That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Tuesday, Oct. 8, 2024  The Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center plans to double the size of its South Charleston facility…a new Esports league forms for West Virginia middle and high school students…and foresters urges extra caution during Fall Fire Season…on today's daily304. #1 – From MFG.MARSHALL – The Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center has announced another major expansion, this one doubling the size of its Advanced Manufacturing Technology Center on the Marshall University South Charleston campus.  MAMC also has been awarded more than $1 million by the U.S. Economic Development Administration to equip the new space with the latest manufacturing technology. With 4,280 square feet of additional space, MAMC will be able to better serve existing clients as well as accommodate additional entrepreneurs and manufacturers, with more room for technical training and new technology. Renovations on the former library space in South Charleston will begin this fall and are expected to be complete by spring. Read more: https://www.mfg.marshall.edu/24772-2/ #2 – From WDTV –  West Virginia Wesleyan Esports has been around since 2019. It was the first varsity program in the state, and the team offers scholarships. And now the team has partnered with schools to create an Esports league for middle and high school students. Coaches say Esports are a win for kids. It helps them work on their team coordination, helps them build schedules and helps them with different technical skills, according to Ethan Hayes, West Virginia Wesleyan Esports coach. The West Virginia Scholastic Esports League  is made up of schools across the state who will play against each other. Officials hope the league is eventually recognized by the state. Read more: https://www.wdtv.com/2024/09/30/wv-wesleyan-looking-grow-esports-across-state/   #3 – From METRO NEWS – It's officially the beginning of Fall Fire Season in West Virginia, and the West Virginia Division of Forestry is laying out its yearly guidelines to keep citizens safe during potentially dry months. According to Forestry Director Jeremy Jones, this past summer's drought has led to more trees losing their leaves fast this fall. “We ask the public to help protect our beautiful forests and follow burning laws and to please be mindful of the weather and conditions we are facing this year.” The Fall Fire Season will last from the beginning of October until December 31. During this time, outdoor burning is prohibited from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visit wvforstry.com for more information on Fire Burning Guidelines. Read more: https://wvmetronews.com/2024/09/30/west-virginia-division-of-forestry-lays-out-guidelines-for-fall-fire-season/   Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.  That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Friday, Sept. 6, 2024. Plan a fall waterfall road trip; download your free mobile passport to earn prizes as you explore…WV DEP is holding its Great Kanawha River Cleanup tomorrow and they're looking for volunteers to pitch in…and reach for the stars at Green Bank Observatory…on today's daily304. #1 – From WV TOURISM – Looking for some scenic waterfalls to visit this fall? The West Virginia Waterfall Trail features over 40 waterfalls spread across the state. Download your free mobile passport to check in at each waterfall to earn waterfall-themed prizes as you explore.  At Babcock State Park, you will find one of the most photographed spots in West Virginia: Glade Creek Grist Mill Falls. This gorgeous scene is one you don't want to miss in the fall, as the vibrant colors of the trees are a true sight to see. America's 63rd national park, the New River Gorge National Park & Preserve, is home to the stunning Sandstone Falls. The expansive falls, stretching over 1,500 feet wide, along with a cluster of small islands, create the beauty of the largest waterfall in the gorge.  Visit wvtourism.com to find a list of waterfalls and download your mobile passport! Read more: https://wvtourism.com/5-waterfalls-to-check-off-the-west-virginia-waterfall-trail-this-fall/   #2 – From WVNS-TV – The West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection is looking for volunteers for the Make It Shine Program's annual Great Kanawha River Cleanup. The event takes place from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Sept. 7. Cleanup sites are Winfield Beach, St. Albans Roadside Park, the South Charleston boat ramp, and Kanawha Falls at Glen Ferris.  Those who wish to volunteer are asked to register with the WVDEP so that they may be able to get enough supplies for each location. The WVDEP's Rehabilitation Environmental Action Plan will provide gloves and bags for volunteers and have the trash taken away from the site. During last year's event, 55 local volunteers collected over 2.5 tons of trash and 41 tires, according to the WVDEP.   Read more: https://www.wvnstv.com/news/west-virginia-news/great-kanawha-river-cleanup-to-be-held-by-the-wvdep/ #3 – From THE REAL WV –  Since its Oct. 17, 1957 groundbreaking ceremony, Green Bank Observatory – in rural Pocahontas County – has been on the forefront of scientific discovery.  The observatory's most prominent piece is the Robert C. Byrd Green Bank Telescope. At 100 meters in diameter, the GBT is fully steerable and known as one of the premiere telescopes in the world. In 2001, the GBT was utilized in the making of the first-ever detailed topographical radar image of the surface of Venus. The Green Bank Science Center and Galaxy Gift Shop are open Thursday through Monday, from 9:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. Admission to the Science Center and Exhibit Hall are free. Guided tours are available for $10 per person.  To find out more about the Green Bank Observatory, visit greenbankobservatory.org. Read more: https://therealwv.com/2024/08/27/we-are-all-made-of-stars-a-virtual-tour-of-green-bank-observatory/   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:--Folks in Clendenin celebrate another milestone in the recovery from the 2016 flood--Electric buses made in South Charleston are on the road today, but electric boats made in Brooke County won't happen--Entertainer and West Virginia native Peter Marshall has died--In Sports: WVU has come up with a unique way to honor the memory of the late legend Jerry West

SHOW NOTES (FOR LIBSYN AND MAILCHIMP) Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Sunday, Aug. 11, 2024. The Charleston Roots Initiative lures remote workers to the Capital City…the WV Tech Park welcomes two new tenants to its South Charleston campus…and officials break ground on the largest mountain bike trail project in state history at Cacapon Resort…on today's daily304. #1 – From GAZETTE-MAIL – A University of Charleston basketball coach, a West Side elementary school teacher and a CAMC cancer research scientist are just a few of the people the Charleston Roots Initiative has helped move to Kanawha County this year.  Administered by the Charleston Area Alliance, the Charleston Roots Initiative pays people up to $10,000 to move to Kanawha County. The program is funded by the America Rescue Plan. The initiative, launched in 2021 mirrors the Ascend WV program which pays remote workers to move to specified regions in West Virginia.  In addition to financial benefits, the Area Alliance aims to provide participants connections through networking events.  Read more: https://www.wvgazettemail.com/news/kanawha_valley/charleston-roots-initiative-bringing-new-blood-to-kanawha-county/article_f0aa34e3-88e5-5a8a-b639-360ce0c41441.html   #2 – From WV TECH PARK –  The West Virginia Regional Technology Park welcomes new tenants ABB and the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission to its South Charleston campus.  ABB Inc. is a global engineering and manufacturing company that makes and services low and medium voltage electrical switchgear, motors and drives, industrial automation and robotics. This location is the local engineering, service, and repair shop for electrical projects and equipment in West Virginia and the surrounding states. In close collaboration with the state's colleges and universities, West Virginia's public higher education office – comprising the Higher Education Policy Commission and Community and Technical College System – is working to arm 60 percent of the Mountain State's workforce with a formal credential beyond high school by 2030.  Visit wvtechpark.com/tenants to learn more about available space for lease at the Tech Park. Read more: https://www.wvtechpark.com/post/west-virginia-regional-technology-park-welcomes-new-tenants-abb-and-wvhepc   #3 – From WV EXPLORER – West Virginia officials have broken ground on the largest mountain bike trail project in state history. The $3.5 million project at Cacapon Resort State Park will add 35 miles of professionally designed mountain bike trails to the park's trail system. Brett McMillion, director of the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources, says the expansion enhances the state's reputation as a premier destination for hikers and mountain bikers. He said the project's goal is to diversify the resort's trail system by adding professionally designed bike trails that utilize the park's mountain landscape and appeal to riders of all ability levels. The project will progress in two phases and is estimated to be completed in 2026. Read more: https://wvexplorer.com/2024/08/02/cacapon-resort-state-park-mountain-biking-trails/   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, July 18, 2024. Learn the benefits of artificial intelligence when the Tech Park hosts a discussion on Ethically Powered AI…Business growth continues in Yes West Virginia, contributing to higher wages…and the WV Department of Agriculture seeks landowners' assistance in combating an invasive species…on today's daily304. #1 – From WV TECH PARK – The West Virginia Regional Technology Park and I79 Technology Park, in partnership with Project Opportunity Move, will host “Ethically Powered AI,” a panel discussion featuring three AI thought leaders with ties to West Virginia. The event takes place Aug. 12 at the Tech Park in South Charleston. Delegate Jarred Cannon will moderate the panel discussion and interactive Q&A. Delegate Cannon is an advocate for the thoughtful integration of AI into state policy and for advancing technology initiatives throughout West Virginia. He serves as Chairman of the Select Committee on Artificial Intelligence and Vice Chairman of the Committee on Technology and Infrastructure. The event is free but registration is required.  Learn more: https://www.wvtechpark.com/post/west-virginia-regional-technology-park-hosts-ethically-powered-ai-panel-discussion   #2 – From WV NEWS – It's great news for the Mountain State: West Virginia businesses have kept pace and even outperformed national trends, strengthening the local economy and providing increased wages across the state. West Virginia's economy, buoyed by major investments from companies like Nucor and Procter & Gamble, has shown robust growth, with wages outpacing national trends. Meanwhile, regions like North Central West Virginia and the Eastern Panhandle lead in job growth, with private capital investments doubling from 2017 to 2023. And small businesses, pivotal in diversifying the economy, are generously supported by state initiatives.  West Virginians' wages and salaries grew by 9% last year, while nationally wages and salaries grew by only 5.5%. West Virginia Commerce Secretary Mitch Carmichael said this is evidence of how growth in capital investment and the state's GDP translates into the wallets and pocketbooks of West Virginians. “We're very much ahead of the national trend in terms of growth rate, and wages and salaries,” he said. Read more: https://www.wvnews.com/business/business-growth-contributes-to-higher-wages-for-west-virginians/article_2b8c6158-2f46-11ef-a845-cb4aa9c0a0b9.html   #3 – From WDTV –  The West Virginia Department of Agriculture is urging landowners to sign up for the Invasive Insect Suppression Program to help protect West Virginia forests. The Lymantria dispar – or spongy moth – Suppression Program focuses on protecting landowners' forested property from devastating effects caused by the invasive species. According to officials, spongy moth caterpillars can weaken trees, making them more susceptible to other pests and diseases. The suppression program helps safeguard West Virginia forests from further damage. Applications can be submitted online or at local WVU Extension offices and are available at https://agriculture.wv.gov/divisions/plant-industries/forest-health-protection/. The sign-up period runs until August 31. Read more: https://www.wdtv.com/2024/07/09/department-agriculture-urges-landowners-sign-up-invasive-insect-program/   Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.  That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.  

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Friday, July 5, 2024. GreenPower delivers its first electric school bus to Kanawha County Schools…Embark on a camping adventure at Lost River State Park and discover views for days…and employers, learn how you can post your job openings for free on Jobcase.com…on today's daily304. #1 – From WV PUBLIC– A factory in South Charleston continues to roll out electric school buses for West Virginia districts. GreenPower recently delivered its first full-size BEAST model electric bus to Kanawha County Schools built in South Charleston. The model seats 90 passengers and has a range of 150 miles. Its aluminum body is made by Constellium, which has a plant in Jackson County. The district has another three on order. All four are part of a total order of 37 statewide to replace diesel buses. They will be delivered by the end of the year, the company said. Read more: https://wvpublic.org/greenpower-drops-off-full-size-electric-bus-with-more-to-come/   #2 – From WV STATE PARKS – Embark on a camping adventure where you can truly get lost in nature. Set in the wooded mountains of Hardy County in West Virginia's Eastern Panhandle, Lost River State Park delivers stunning mountain views and a generous offering of recreational activities. Lost River offers a camping experience like no other. Two primitive campsites and a ranger's cabin can be reached only by a 1 or 2 mile hike. Or you can enjoy an overnight stay in one of the park's 25 fully equipped cabins. Spend your days hiking (Check out the stunning views from Cranny Crow overlook!), horseback riding, swimming, or hit the game courts with a friend. Meanwhile, regional attractions include the Spruce Knob-Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area, the Potomac Eagle scenic train, and Seneca and Smoke Hole Caverns.  Visit www.wvstateparks.com and start planning your Almost Heaven getaway today! Read more: https://wvstateparks.com/plan-a-lost-river-state-park-camping-trip/   #3 – From JOBCASE –  Consumers are in constant contact with products containing elements made in West Virginia. The state fosters a diverse manufacturing sector and its workforce ranks first in the U.S. for the lowest turnover rate in manufacturing-specific jobs. West Virginia boasts robust partnerships with employers, fostering a vibrant employment environment for job seekers. Through their partnership with Jobcase.com/WV/Post, #YesWV offers a free platform for local employers to post job opportunities, ensuring that positions reach the right candidates. Learn more: https://www.jobcase.com/articles/manufacturing-in-wv#manufacturing-companies-hiring-now-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.  

This week we sat down for a chat with Steve Hedrick, Chairman, President, and CEO of AVN Corporation, right in the heart of South Charleston, West Virginia. Now, Steve's not your average CEO. He's got this cool mix of petrochemical savvy and military know-how from his West Point days. And boy, does he have some stories to share! From the importance of being understanding as a leader to the magic that happens when teamwork kicks in, Steve spills the beans on how he's been steering the AVN ship through some tough times. He's all about creating a workplace where everyone feels like they belong, where growth isn't just a buzzword, but a real, tangible thing. And let me tell you, we've got him talking about everything, from how AVN went from non-profit to for-profit, and the challenges of managing a distributed team. Plus, Steve's not shy about sharing some heartfelt tales from his own journey, giving us all a peek behind the curtain of leadership, shedding light on the tough decisions leaders often face and offering advice on building resilient, empathy-driven amazing teams.Key Takeaways:What is the importance of empathy in leadership roles, and how does it contribute to overcoming challenges with resilience and adaptability while leading through change?How can leaders manage a transition and sustain motivation while cultivating a culture of continuous improvement?What role does discipline play in Steve Hedrick's motivation and leadership approach?How does Steve Hedrick cultivate unity in diversity and collaboration within a geographically dispersed team?Key Timestamps:(00:00) Introduction(02:37) The Essence of Building Amazing Teams: Empathy and Leadership(05:53) Empathy in Leadership: A Military Perspective(09:57) The Evolution of AVN Corporation: From Nonprofit to Industry Leader(13:52) The Challenges of Managing a Distributed Team(24:06) Leading Through Hard Times(27:39) Discipline Over Motivation(29:12) Steve's Five Tacos of Appreciation(32:34) Closing ThoughtsConnect with Steve:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steven-hedrick-b5398313/Website: https://avncorp.com/Build Stronger, Connected, More Engaged Teams:https://heytaco.com/Use Coupon Code: AMAZINGTEAMS for 15% off for the first 3 months.About the Amazing Teams PodcastWe started this podcast because we love teams, especially amazing ones. Michael Jordan said it best, "Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence win championships." This is what we're all about!Our mission is to help others build amazing teams by having authentic conversations with remarkable people who are building amazing teams. We will explore the tactics, strategies, and frameworks that have helped them succeed.The Amazing Teams Podcast is produced by HeyTaco. Please share your feedback with us here: https://amazingteams.com/feedback.

Join us for an exciting episode of Golf Talk Live - Season 12! This week on Coaches Corner, we have Jon Decker and Pete Buchanan joining us. Later in the show, Ted's excited to have Ryan Snyder, PGA Director of Golf at Shangri-La Resort, as his special guest. Ryan's journey to golf is an interesting one. Growing up in South Charleston, West Virginia, he was primarily a baseball player and played sports in a highly competitive environment. However, an injury during his second year of college led him to pick up a golf club for the first time. And the rest, as they say, is history. Ryan's passion for golf grew as he focused on his studies and his game. He earned both a Bachelor's and Master's Degree in Public Administration with minors in Economics, Sociology, and Biology. He then went on to work as Director of Golf Operations for Boca Raton Resort & Club before joining the Shangri-La team as PGA Director of Golf. Don't miss out on this exciting episode of Golf Talk Live! Join us live on Thursdays from 6:00-8:00 PM Central or listen to the show on various platforms, including iTunes, Stitcher, Tunein, Castbox, TalkStreamLive, and Spotify.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Tuesday, April 16, 2024.  Discover WVs growing tech industry: The WV Tech Park becomes a global leader in research and innovation…the High Technology Foundation helps diversify the state's economy…technology & information service industries say #YesWV…and find a career in the tech industry in Almost Heaven…on today's daily304. #1 – From WV TECH PARK – The West Virginia Tech Park is a premier research and technology facility and a global leader in research and innovation.  Located in South Charleston right off I-64, the Tech Park 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, the 258-acre campus is ideal for STEM industries and institutions that diversify West Virginia's economy and drive business and economic growth. Visit the West Virginia Regional Tech Park today and discover a place to grow, succeed and thrive in business and in life. Schedule your tour today! Learn more: https://www.wvtechpark.com/   #2 – From WVHTF – For over 30 years, the High Technology Foundation has been committed to building a stronger West Virginia. Located in the I-79 Technology Park, WVHTF is a vibrant, national technology organization driven by knowledge, excellence and innovation, rooted in West Virginia values, with a proven plan to strengthen and diversify our state's economy. The Tech Park has become the premier location for high priority federal operations that require advanced electrical and telecommunications infrastructure.   Learn more: https://wvhtf.org/   #3 – From WV.GOV – Every day, more technology & information service industries say #YesWV. This growing cluster of researchers and practitioners in the Mountain State includes university research facilities, government agencies and commercial enterprises. The concentration of technology and information services, specifically our leading biometric organizations in north-central West Virginia, has been called the “Silicon Valley of America's biometrics activity,”  These strengths, combined with our state's skilled workforce, low cost of doing business and high quality of life make West Virginia a great place to relocate, invest and expand. Learn more: https://westvirginia.gov/industries/information-technology/   #4 – From JOBCASE – Have you always wanted to work in technology? Consider starting or growing your career in technology and innovation in the West Virginia tech ecosystem. West Virginia houses a hub of technology companies, tech-focused accelerators, high-tech parks, community colleges and higher education systems. The tech industry is a thriving part of the state, generating $2.5 billion in new job opportunities. For entrepreneurs, West Virginia fosters tech startups with access to a variety of funding sources. Visit Jobcase.com to learn more about the technology industry and job openings in #YesWV! Learn more: https://www.jobcase.com/articles/get-hired-into-west-virginias-tech-ecosystem-2   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 Ferguson in the Morning 04-15-24 An 81-year-old Ohio man has been charged in the fatal shooting of an Uber driver he believed was working with a scammer in South Charleston, Ohio, located between Dayton and Columbus. Story here: https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/ohio-man-81-charged-fatal-shooting-uber-driver-mistakenly-thought-was-rcna147827 Also story here: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-13308215/Ohio-man-charged-murder-shooting-dead-female-Uber-driver-scammer.html We discuss the situation and the shooting. Today is Tax Day! How much do you think you pay in taxes over your lifetime? The average is $525,000.  NewsTalkSTL website: https://newstalkstl.com/ Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/NewsTalkSTL Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/NewstalkSTL Livestream 24/7: http://bit.ly/newstalkstlstreamSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Thursday, March 21, 2024. The metals industry is just one of many that are thriving in #YesWV; find out why. WV Tech Park spotlights Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center's skill building. And get outside and take in spectacular sunset views in the New River Gorge…on today's daily304. #1 – From WV ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT – From steel Bessemer converters in the 1880s to 3-D printers today, metals have long been an essential component in West Virginia's flourishing manufacturing industry. The state has forged strong links between our abundant raw materials, skilled metalworking labor force, and supportive business climate. West Virginia has ready supplies of primary and fabricated metals, machinery and other components necessary for the manufacturing of metalworking and machinery products. The state is at the heart of more than 4,000 regional suppliers of needed materials and home to thousands of skilled production and craft workers, particularly metalworking machinery operators, metal fabricators and machine assemblers. Contact the West Virginia Department of Economic Development to download a Business Assistance Brochure and learn more about why the metals industry says #YesWV. Learn more: https://westvirginia.gov/industries/metals/   #2 – From WV TECH PARK – Nestled within the West Virginia Regional Technology Park in South Charleston, Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center's training and education center boasts cutting-edge equipment and technical resources that bridge the skills gap by preparing the local workforce for the demands of modern manufacturing. The facility works to address the critical need for skilled workers in the manufacturing sector. MAMC offers comprehensive training programs to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge they need to compete in today's manufacturing landscape. By forging strong ties with industry leaders, academic institutions and government agencies, the center creates a vibrant ecosystem where ideas and innovation thrive. Through collaborative workforce development efforts, MAMC is strengthening the region's manufacturing sector and positioning West Virginia as a hub for innovation and prosperity. Read more: https://www.wvtechpark.com/post/tenant-spotlight-marshall-advanced-manufacturing-center   #3 – From THE TRAVEL – Few hikes provide lasting memories quite like those taken at sunset. Evening hikes can provide a level of peace and tranquility that can be harder to come by earlier in the day. West Virginia's New River Gorge National Park & Preserve features some of the best spots to view both sunrises and sunsets anywhere east of the Mississippi.  Hikers who want to get a great view of the sun setting over the gorge will want to flock to one of the park's westward-facing lookouts. Fortunately for hikers looking for a less strenuous hike, one of the best of these west-facing lookouts lies along the accessible Endless Wall Trail.  While the Endless Wall Trail's 3.2 miles are worth the hike, the real centerpiece of the trail is the Diamond Point Overlook, which offers an expansive, breathtaking view of the New River Gorge and the surrounding mountains.  Visit wvtourism.com to learn more about scenic overlooks and sunset views in Almost Heaven, and don't forget to order your free 2024 West Virginia Vacation Guide! Read more: https://www.thetravel.com/easy-us-hikes-with-scenic-sunset-views/#endless-wall-trail   Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.  That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.  

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Friday, March 15, 2024. Check out the great meeting space available at the WV Training and Conference Center. Celebrate spring with a hike in the mountains of Almost Heaven. And Solenis joins the WV Tech Park campus--#YesWV…on today's daily304. #1 – From MHS&T – Does your company need a place to meet? The West Virginia Training and Conference Center offers the community, government organizations and companies a modern conference center with classrooms and access to mine and electrical labs that are furnished with special equipment and the latest technology.  Located conveniently near Corridor G/US-119 and the Southridge Shopping Center in Charleston, the WVTCC is available for meeting rentals, conferences and more. Learn more: https://minesafety.wv.gov/west-virginia-training-and-conference-center/ #2 – From WBOY-TV -- Spring is a great time to get out and explore the woods and mountains of Almost Heaven. Plan a hike to observe wildflowers, waterfalls and other scenic wonders.  Wondering where to start? The West Virginia Department of Tourism has a few recommendations for 2024. From a trail that winds past towering cliffs to repurposed railroad tracks that follow a river, there's plenty of great opportunities for hiking. There's even an urban trail in the heart of the Capitol City. Visit wvtourism.com or wvstateparks.com for more information, and don't forget to order your FREE 2024 West Virginia Vacation Guide. Read more: https://www.wboy.com/wv-outdoors/must-try-hiking-trails-for-2024-according-to-wv-tourism/   #3 – From WV TECH PARK – The West Virginia Regional Technology Park welcomes Solenis as its newest tenant. Solenis is a leading global producer of specialty chemicals focused on delivering sustainable solutions for water-intensive industries, including consumer, industrial, institutional, food and beverage, and pool and spa water markets. Owned by Platinum Equity, the company's product portfolio includes a broad array of water treatment chemistries, process aids, functional additives, and cleaners and disinfectants, as well as state-of-the-art monitoring and control systems.  Located off Kanawha Turnpike in South Charleston, The Tech Park is more than just land and office space - it's a place where you can find a willing partner to obtain the assets, workforce, and connections to succeed. Not only will you find connectivity to redundant utilities and high-speed internet access but also connections to state and federal government leaders, bankers, technology resources, educational leaders, and more.  Visit www.wvtechpark.com to learn more or to schedule a visit. Learn more: https://www.wvtechpark.com/post/welcome-to-the-tech-park-solenis-joins-the-west-virginia-regional-technology-park-community   Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.  That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.  

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Monday, Jan. 29  Learn about international business opportunities with a free luncheon seminar at the WV Tech Park. Four WV counties join efforts to promote economic development. And Wheeling Park is set to host the largest inclusive playground in the state…on today's daily304. #1 – From WV TECH PARK – The West Virginia Regional Technology Park in South Charleston is partnering with the U.S. Commercial Service to provide information on international business opportunities at an upcoming lunch and learn. The seminar takes place at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 13 at the Hendrickson Conference Center. The session is free and lunch is provided.  Register now: https://forms.monday.com/forms/86ed9efacb3fe18857f0b0a12bb28261?r=use1   #2 – From WOWK-TV – Four West Virginia counties that have seen big companies announce plans to move or expand there are now joining together in a shared economic development effort. Nucor Steel got the ball rolling two years ago when it announced a new, big plant in Mason County. Berkshire Hathaway Energy then broke ground on expansive operations in Jackson County; Toyota is growing in Putnam County; Marshall University is building a huge cyber security lab in Cabell County. With a lot of growth coming to all four counties, they have created REACT, which stands for “Regional Economic Alliance of Counties Together.” The collaborative effort will focus on common needs such as roads, water, sewer, housing, and more. Commissioners say creating REACT is important and practical because so many people live in one of these counties but work or go to school in another one of the counties. Read more: https://www.wowktv.com/news/west-virginia/four-west-virginia-counties-to-work-together-on-economic-development/ #3 – From THE INTELLIGENCER – Swings, slides and monkey bars have been torn down to make way for upgrades that will turn the Wheeling Park playground into the largest and most inclusive ever built in the state. Features of the new playground focused on accessibility include a sensory wave ramp, interactive educational panels, shaded gathering spaces, quiet decompression areas, braille panels, rock climbers and musical instruments. The updated space will be a National Demonstration Site for Inclusion, as granted by commercial playground equipment manufacturer GameTime. Wheeling Park has become one of the company's premier playgrounds. As part of the distinction, a series of surveys will be performed by the company to determine how guests use and respond to new activities at the site. The other main goal of the updates is to incorporate nature into the play space. The maintenance and landscaping of the area will be given attention to “ensure a well-maintained and visually appealing playground for everyone to enjoy,” said Marketing Director Wendy Hodorowski. Read more: https://www.theintelligencer.net/news/top-headlines/2024/01/wheeling-park-playground-to-become-largest-most-inclusive-in-w-va/?fbclid=IwAR22LHT-ShNf9mJ6-JGBSOytm2USme5ULwk6_Axdw69BueL3LJ5qxF52Pag   Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.  That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Thursday, Jan. 18  Discover Science on a Sphere--a unique tool for teaching weather patterns and forecasting. A Wheeling roofing company prides itself on serving WV residences. And enjoy a disco light show as you boogie down the hill at Snow Riders in Harpers Ferry…on today's daily304. #1 – From WV TECH PARK – Teachers, are you looking for a unique educational tool?  Science on a Sphere at the West Virginia Regional Technology Park in South Charleston brings weather science to life and fosters a love for learning and exploration among students. SOS was developed by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The spherical display system uses multiple projectors to showcase dynamic visualizations of Earth, its atmosphere, and other planetary data. The National Weather Service and Tech Park teams have developed a dynamic presentation that appeals to a wide variety of age groups. By incorporating real-time weather data and simulations, students explore the complexities of weather patterns, understand the science behind forecasting and witness the impact of extreme weather and climate change.  After the SOS presentation concludes, students and visitors can apply what they've learned during a tour of the National Weather Service's local forecast office. To book an outing to Science on a Sphere and the National Weather Service Local Forecast Office, contact Jordan Ferrell, WVRTP Director of Communications and Park Programs at jordan.ferrell@wvrtp.com.  Read more: https://www.wvtechpark.com/post/science-on-a-sphere-a-unique-educational-experience   #2 – From WV ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT – Kalkreuth Roofing and Sheet Metal has become synonymous with excellence, dedication, and a commitment to shaping skylines. Since its inception in 1984 in Wheeling, the company has grown from a small team of passionate individuals to a powerhouse of over 500 professionals, leaving an indelible mark on the roofing and sheet metal industry. While Kalkreuth is renowned for its commercial projects, it proudly extends its services to West Virginia's residential sector. From historic homes to modern residences, the company's commitment to excellence and craftsmanship remains unwavering.  What sets Kalkreuth apart is its comprehensive approach to exterior envelope applications. Specializing not only in roofing but also in wall cladding, the company offers a one-stop solution for clients in diverse sectors such as automotive, chemical, government, education, and healthcare.  Visit www.krsm.net to learn more about this company and its projects. Read more: https://westvirginia.gov/building-a-bright-future-with-kalkreuth-roofing-and-sheet-metal-why-yeswv-is-the-way-to-go/   #3 – From WV LIVING – The Eastern Panhandle is a great destination any time of year—but winter visitors got a snowy new playground when Snow Riders in Harpers Ferry opened its tubing hill in February 2023. The latest offering from family adventure resort River Riders, Snow Riders gives an exhilarating downhill run that's three football fields long—nearly a sixth of a mile. Tubers enjoy up to 12 machine-groomed lanes, depending on conditions, and a Magic Carpet conveyor lift makes for a quick and easy ride to the next run. Snowmaking means the downhill fun can go on even when the weather is only marginally wintry. One fun feature of the tubing park is its Downhill Disco laser light show, a nighttime LED colored light show timed to change to the beat of the music. And that lends itself to fun themed nights—already planned for 2024 are an '80s Night, with all of the happy nostalgia of that decade's music, and a First Responders' Night, with a customized red and blue light show. Snow Riders is open every day in January and February, conditions permitting. Tickets must be purchased in advance online and include lift tickets, tubes, and, on request, helmets. Follow Snow Riders on Facebook for the latest on conditions and events and smile inducing videos. Read more: https://wvliving.com/tubing-comes-to-the-wv-eastern-panhandle-at-snow-riders/   Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.  That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Tuesday, Dec. 26  Discover the joy of living and working in West Virginia's Advantage Valley. Get outside and enjoy nature and a brisk walk on a First Day Hike. And travelers reveal their favorite tourist attractions in Almost Heaven…on today's daily304. #1 – From LIVABILITY – Are you on the hunt for a new place to call home? Look no further than Advantage Valley, West Virginia. This stunning region, encompassing Charleston, Huntington, South Charleston, and Teays Valley, is brimming with everything you desire and more. Picture a wealth of career opportunities, picturesque landscapes, and inviting restaurants and breweries where you can unwind with friends after a productive day. Advantage Valley hosts an impressive lineup of major companies and boasts a thriving tech sector. Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Advantage Valley offers breathtaking views and a wealth of outdoor activities all year long. Read more: https://livability.com/advantage-valley/   #2 – From WV STATE PARKS – Hey, outdoor lovers! Start the New Year on the right foot with a First Day Hike. These free guided hikes, held annually on January 1, are part of a nationwide initiative led by America's State Parks to encourage people to get outdoors and enjoy nature while learning about park history and wildlife. A number of West Virginia state parks and forests are hosting First Day Hikes. To find an event near you, visit www.wvstateparks.com and click on Events, then Calendar.  Participants will receive a West Virginia State Park First Day Hike patch. Read more: https://wvstateparks.com/start-your-new-year-on-the-right-foot-with-a-first-day-hike/   #3 – From ONLY IN YOUR STATE  – Are you looking for the best tours and tourist attractions in West Virginia? Check out this list of nine tried and true favorites, compiled with input from Only In West Virginia Facebook followers. Whether your tastes range from outdoor adventure to culture and history, you'll find something to love in Almost Heaven. Enjoy uniquely West Virginian experiences like New River Gorge Bridge Walk, Cass Scenic Railroad State Park, Harpers Ferry National Historical Park and more. Read more: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/west-virginia/must-see-attractions-wv/   Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.  That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.  

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Monday, Nov. 27  Discover knockout scenery, history and culture in southern WV. Learn how SEED SPOT helps WV entrepreneurs. And WV schools implement new technology to make safety a priority…on today's daily304. #1 – From ATLANTA MAGAZINE – The bar is set undeniably high for any visit to West Virginia.  The forested ridges and folds of the Allegheny Mountains, threaded with narrow valleys and winding rivers, offer knockout scenery, particularly in fall. And outdoor activities, such as hiking and whitewater rafting, abound. Travel east with, from the perennially cool small town of Fayetteville to the historic mountain town of Bramwell, to discover a trove of cultural offerings, from the anticipated (coal mine tours and mountain crafts) to the unexpected (a Cold War–era bunker and an acclaimed French restaurant). Visit www.wvtourism.com for more road trip ideas in Almost Heaven. Read more: https://www.atlantamagazine.com/southbound-articles/road-trip-guide-to-southern-west-virginia/   #2 – From WV BUSINESS LINK – If you are just learning about SEED SPOT you might be wondering why a Phoenix-based nonprofit wants to work with West Virginia entrepreneurs. With West Virginia's entrepreneurs and small business owners being the driving force behind the growing local economy, SEED SPOT can play a small role in supporting this emerging ecosystem. The nonprofit offers a supportive space and community for underrepresented entrepreneurs to test and refine their ideas, receive personalized, judgment-free mentorship from experts who reflect their own lived experiences, and receive the education and resources they need to build and sustain their ventures.  SEED SPOT's current programming options include a 2-day Launch Camp, an 8-week Impact Accelerator Program, and an Alumni Program. Learn more: https://wvbusinesslink.com/2023/10/31/seed-spot-in-west-virginia-nurturing-underrepresented-entrepreneurs/ #3 – From WV EXECUTIVE – Leaders of West Virginia's primary, secondary and collegiate level schools are turning to technology and increased security as they consider the possibility of gun violence in schools. BridgeValley Community and Technical College in South Charleston is in the process of installing a gunshot detection system, says President Casey Sacks. The technology will consist of strategically positioned sensors within buildings that will automatically transmit alerts through a platform if gunshots erupt. Other colleges and universities say they have added additional security cameras or police officers, while increasing the amount of training in preparation for potential shootings. With the goal of student safety, Governor Jim Justice announced the School Safety Initiative by the state Department of Homeland Security in 2022. The initiative aims to provide guid­ance to school personnel, students, par­ents and community members to detect and prevent school violence by recognizing threatening behavior in students and providing the tools necessary to seek assistance in the event of a crisis or threat. In addition to the state's school safety initiative, more than 50 West Virginia schools are implementing a live video analytics platform called ROC Watch that they will use to identify visitors and help administrators manage building access before guests enter the school's front office. Read more: https://wvexecutive.com/keeping-schools-safe/   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, Nov. 26  Looking to relocate? WV's Advantage Valley has it all! WV Jumpstart sponsors a contest for skilled workers. And a new program is tackling childhood obesity by teaching healthy eating habits…on today's daily304.  #1 – From LIVABILITY – Are you on the hunt for a new place to call home? Look no further than Advantage Valley, WV. This stunning region, encompassing Charleston, Huntington, South Charleston, and Teays Valley, is brimming with everything you desire and more. Picture a wealth of career opportunities, picturesque landscapes, and inviting restaurants and breweries where you can unwind with friends after a productive day. Advantage Valley hosts an impressive lineup of major companies, as well as a thriving tech sector. Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, the region offers breathtaking views and a wealth of outdoor activities all year long. And for those moments when you're ready to indulge, visit exceptional craft breweries along Brewers Row in downtown Charleston. Watch the video to learn more! Learn more: https://www.livability.com/advantage-valley   #2 – From WV JUMPSTART –  Are you a West Virginia truck driver, electrician, welder, or another type of trade professional? Do your vocational skills help pay the bills?    Tell us what makes you proud to be a West Virginia skilled worker and snap a picture for a chance to win up to $12,000 deposited into a Jumpstart Savings Account!   The contest deadline is Dec. 31, 2023, so get those entries in now!   Learn more: https://wvjumpstart.com/contest   #3 – From WDTV Morgantown –  Healthy Kids Inc. Is the first cooking model of its kind in the state, and they are looking to fight childhood obesity.  “We have a group of trained, skilled chefs and nutritionists who help to prepare all our foods and the menus. Using local foods, the healthiest food that we can find, our goal is to make sure the youngest children are eating the healthiest food,” said Mandy Curry, Founder of Health Kids Inc. Healthy Kids Inc. has been in full-cooking operation for two years, and they supply food for 11 childcare centers across four counties and a private school in Fairmont, and they make between 1,000-1,200 meals a day.  Curry and her team have plans for the future to feed seniors, and they will expand their childcare center meals with the ultimate goal of building a fresh food coalition. Read more: https://www.wdtv.com/2023/11/08/healthy-kids-inc-fuels-youth-nutrition/   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, Nov. 3 The first electric school buses are set to roll out of South Charleston in December. Ice, Ice, Baby…a Hampshire County natural wonder is now open for guided tours. And a Huntington native advocates for people with disabilities in TV and film…on today's daily304. #1 – From METRO NEWS – GreenPower Motor Company is prepared to deliver the first electric buses manufactured in the Mountain State and has released the full results from the pilot program. Vice President of Business Development and Strategy Mark Nestlen said the first four units are just the beginning of a growing market. “We look forward to December 13, which is the day that the four West Virginia-manufactured Nano Beasts will depart South Charleston,” Nestlen said. “They will be the first vehicles produced at that facility.” Overall, the company reported that by the fourth quarter of 2023, it had delivered 120 vehicles to customers nationwide, representing a six-fold increase from sales the year before.  As more entities learn about subsidies related to the Inflation Reduction Act more orders are anticipated, Nestlen said. “We're going to need another 60-plus people to come on board in Q1 to be well on track to the 200 number by the end of 2024,” Nestlen said. Read more: https://wvmetronews.com/2023/10/29/first-west-virginia-built-electric-buses-to-roll-off-the-line-in-december-following-successful-pilot-program/   #2 – From WV EXPLORER – One of West Virginia's most fascinating natural wonders, Ice Mountain, where winter ice can be found lingering in crevices until summer, is now open to guided hikes year-round. Long a puzzle to scientists who were determined to discover how its "ice vents" functioned, the mystery has been solved, though the phenomena and the remarkable plant life it sustains will likely attract visitors to the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia for years to come. Ice Mountain's refrigerating effect comes from inside its thick talus slope, a mass of boulders at the mountain's foot that traps the cold. In winter, cold air sinks into the talus, forming the ice. Once the weather warms, the air flows out of cold vents along the bottom of the slope, keeping the ice frozen until early summer. Ice Mountain boasts remarkable flora, such as dwarf dogwoods or bunchberries, more often found near the Arctic Circle, according to Steve Bailes, a docent for the Ice Mountain preserve,   For further information or tours, visit the Ice Mountain Preserve or Historic Hampshire.   Read more: https://wvexplorer.com/2023/10/30/west-virginia-natural-wonder-ice-mountain-tours/   #3 – From THE PARTHENON –  A blind Huntington native has claimed his corner of the film and television industry despite the challenges that he has faced. Joe Strechay is co-executive producer for season three of the Apple TV+ show “See.” One of his goals for the show was to change how blindness is seen by the world. “I create accessibility for people who are blind or have low vision on sets,” Strechay said. “When creating the set of ‘See,' the writers told me that we have to create an atmosphere of respect around blindness and disability.” Strechay has also been working on the new Netflix show ‘All the Light We Cannot See,' which will be released on Nov. 2. He is an associate producer and blindness accessibility consultant on that project. To ensure accessibility, he evaluates the accommodations for actors and background performers with all types of disabilities. He also recruits actors through his connections and networking. “Nothing about us, without us,” said Strechay. “I want to make sure people with disabilities have opportunities. Utilizing and representing communities is important.” Read more: https://marshallparthenon.com/32289/news/producer-joe-strechay-advocates-for-people-with-disabilities-in-the-entertainment-industry/   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. 29   Bridge Valley officials tout the success of its dual enrollment program. The WV School of Osteopathic Medicine establishes a program at Fairmont State. And learn about famous art that was inspired by the Mothman legend…on today's daily304. #1 – From METRO NEWS – Bridge Valley Community and Technical College in South Charleston is making some positive strides for a few new efforts to increase and retain enrollment, as well as transform the overall student experience. The dual enrollment program the college has launched this year allows high school students to take a Bridge Valley course while still in high school if there is a teacher at that high school who has a certification allowing them to be an adjunct to Bridge Valley. Bridge Valley President Casey Sacks said there are a total of 34 high school students taking advantage of the dual enrollment in some form or another and from various districts.  Sacks said they have been doing work on process mapping around the recruitment and admission teams, as well as a reorganization of student affairs.  “I think a lot of this work has been what has driven some of our enrollment increase, because it has led us to a better job of communicating with people who are interested in the college, so it's something that we all recognize that we're going to continue doing moving forward,” Sacks said. Read more: https://wvmetronews.com/2023/10/09/bridge-valley-seeing-success-with-new-dual-enrollment-program-efforts-to-standardize-student-experience/    #2 – From METRO NEWS — The West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine is establishing the Pre-Osteopathic Medicine Program at Fairmont State and Frostburg State universities. The programs are designed to provide a firm foundation for students interested in osteopathic medicine, including the skills and credentials needed to gain admission and ultimately success in osteopathic medicine school, according to WVSOM President James Nemitz. “These are pipeline programs to educate students about what osteopathic medicine is and to provide them with a pathway to help them be successful at achieving acceptance at medical school,” Nemitz said. The WVSOM campus is located in Lewisburg and was founded as the Greenbrier College of Osteopathic Medicine in 1972. Through the Statewide Campus, WVSOM maintains locations throughout the state used by students in the final two years to complete clinical rotations. The institution is nationally recognized for the number of DOs that graduate from WVSOM and work in rural settings. “We're an attractive institution, especially for students who come from rural areas,” Nemitz said. “And we're experts in training those students to be rural medical providers.” Read more: https://wvmetronews.com/2023/10/22/osteopathic-school-of-medicine-inks-deals-with-fairmont-state-frostburg-state/   #3 – From WBOY-TV Clarksburg – The Legend of Mothman has inspired tons of West Virginians and artists, and items from beers to baseball uniforms have been created using the cryptid's image. Mothman is best known for its presence at the Silver Bridge in Point Pleasant in 1967, right before the bridge collapsed, killing 46 people.  The legend was widely unknown and forgotten even by the residents of Point Pleasant until John Keel, a prominent journalist and UFOlogist, immortalized the tale in “The Mothman Prophecies” book in 1975. One of the best-known visual art pieces associated with Mothman, the painting “Mothman” by comic book artist Frank Frazetta, was created around 1980.  And of course, one of the most recognizable and famous Mothman-inspired artworks is the Bob Roach Mothman Statue in Point Pleasant. The stainless steel figure was created in 2003 and has become a main attraction for the town and a must-see during the Mothman Festival every year. Learn more about the legend -- and the artwork it has inspired -- at the Mothman Museum in Point Pleasant.  Read more: https://www.wboy.com/news/west-virginia/the-3-most-famous-artworks-inspired-by-west-virginias-mothman-cryptid/   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, Oct. 20  Gestamp announces a major green investment, bringing 100 more jobs to the South Charleston area…Looking for a high-wage, in-demand career? Enroll in a course on machine technology or welding… and get the scoop on economic development in #YesWV…on today's daily304. #1 – From WV GAZETTE MAIL – Gestamp plans to invest nearly $70 million in its South Charleston stamping plant for an upgraded line to produce components for electric vehicles. “Today, we are announcing that we are investing $69.5 million in this facility to upgrade our presses [and] introduce robotic laser equipment and welding equipment to satisfy our customers,” Gestamp U.S. President John Petroni said in an Oct. 11 announcement. “In addition, we'll be adding 100 new positions to man all of our new equipment and prepare ourselves for the growth in electric vehicles.” Petroni said the company worked with the West Virginia Department of Economic Development and was awarded a $7.5 million incentive to locate the expansion in West Virginia. “This combined $75 million investment and expansion means so much to this community and to our state, especially the creation of 100 additional jobs,” said Michael Graney, executive director of the Department of Economic Development. “This means Gestamp will now provide 500 West Virginians a high-paying, benefit-rich, career here in South Charleston.” The company said the investment will take place between 2023 and 2025, and will prepare the South Charleston facility for the next wave of electric vehicles. Read more: https://www.wvgazettemail.com/business/gestamp-plans-to-invest-69-5m-for-upgrades-at-south-charleston-stamping-plant/article_a896d578-2ebd-508a-9e5e-3f395fcc8a79.html   #2 – From MARSHALL –  Looking for a high wage career that's in demand? Perhaps you want to earn nationally recognized certifications?  Enroll in a training program at Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center and learn the skills necessary to achieve nationally recognized certifications and earn college credits toward an associate degree along the way. Machinist Technology/CNC and Welding Technology courses feature hands-on practical experiences in a shop environment, guided by instructors who are certified in their fields.   Seating is limited. Learn more at www.mfg.marshall.edu. Read more: https://www.mfg.marshall.edu/education-training/career-skills-programs/   #3 – From WV ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT –  West Virginia's diverse economy has moved beyond our history of resource extraction to include a robust array of products and services.  Visit the West Virginia Department of Economic Development online to learn about the key industries that have taken a foothold here and learn why leading companies make their home in the Mountain State. You can also sign up for our newsletter. It's free and packed with vital information about the state of West Virginia and its evolving incentives.   Learn more: https://westvirginia.gov/thriving-industries/   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. 18  Starlink high-speed internet is now available throughout West Virginia…State agencies and higher-ed institutions team up to tackle a shortage of veterinary technologists…and an advanced manufacturing work-study program is putting students to work faster…on today's daily304. #1 – From WVPB – About 5,000 Space-X Starlink satellites are now orbiting the earth, able to provide internet service to the highest mountain and deepest hollow. Del. Daniel Linville, R-Cabell, chairs the House Technology and Infrastructure Committee. He said Starlink now has the capacity to clear its West Virginia waiting list and offer internet service everywhere — except for the restricted Green Bank Observatory area. The service offers an immediate option for any West Virginian to get connected.    “It's true broadband speeds,” Linville said. “Your kids can game online if they wish, or you can stream movies or do telehealth or education or anything that you would need to do.” Monthly rates begin at $90. Some households may qualify for the FCC's Affordable Connectivity Program, which provides a $30 monthly discount regardless of internet provider.  Learn how to connect to Starlink at www.starlink.com. Read more: https://wvpublic.org/internet-from-space-now-available-throughout-w-va/   #2 – From WDTV – West Virginia University, West Virginia State University and the West Virginia Department of Agriculture have developed a new initiative called Vet Start, designed to address the shortage of veterinary technologists in the state. The four-year program will better prepare students, giving them more hands-on experience to make them career ready by the time of graduation.   Cheat Lake Animal Hospital will also provide assistance with this project. Co-owner Dr. Jesse Fallon believes that this program will benefit all clinics around the state. “We need folks that are trained, that are licensed, and who can help us take care of our patients better,” Fallon said. “So the more veterinarian technicians we have, the better skilled veterinarian technicians we have, the better veterinarian medicine we can provide.” Read more: https://www.wdtv.com/2023/10/09/new-vet-tech-program-vet-start/   #3 – From WV GAZETTE-MAIL – Madelyn Ward says she was talking to her hairstylist about trying to find a pathway to a career without going into massive student loan debt and was surprised when she had the perfect solution. “She mentioned her husband was in an advanced manufacturing training program at BridgeValley Community and Technical College in South Charleston. She said it might be a perfect fit for me and it really got my attention, so I looked into it,” Ward said. Ward was one of 20 students the Kanawha Valley Federation of Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME) chapter chose for its inaugural 2023 cohort.  Students in the 2023 BridgeValley Advanced Manufacturing Technology program applied for and were selected for a paid, part-time position with Toyota West Virginia, Nucor Steel West Virginia or Kanawha Scales and Systems. Ward was one of three students to sign a letter of intent to participate in the work sponsorship program with Nucor. “Being able to go to school, work at the same time and graduate debt-free was a big factor for me,” she said. “Being able to graduate with a degree while making good money and have the opportunity to get a good job with good benefits at Nucor is really awesome. It's really a blessing for me and my son.” To learn more about the FAME program, visit pcda.org/fame-usa. Read more: https://www.wvgazettemail.com/business/manufacturing-apprenticeship-program-offers-wv-students-debt-free-pathway-to-high-paying-jobs/article_ba233013-c925-5328-b548-bc06bf6f32c0.html?es_id=4c0e1e97f5   Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.  That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

If you're a regular listener to the show, you know that host Matt Browning recently opened his own bookshop, Plot Twist Books in South Charleston West Virginia. Podcaster and author Sarah Royal steps into the host seat this week to turn tables on Matt and interview him about what it's like to go from bookstore explorer to bookstore owner. Books We Talk About: The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman, Shark Heart by Emily Habeck, Homestead by Rosina Lippi, and Fresh Water for Flowers by Valerie PerrinFrom the Library With LoveLibrarians, authors & our wartime generation.Ordinary people sharing extraordinary storiesListen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

Today on MetroNews This Morning:--Mary Lou Retton continues to battle for life in a Texas hospital amid a rare form of pneumonia--South Charleston parts plant Gestamp announces plans to invest in E-V production technology--Marshall enrollment is finally making a turn for the better--In Sports: It's Gameday for WVU and Houston

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Tuesday, Sept. 26  The WV Tech Park spotlights #YesWV tenant Dow…Author Cory Doctorow to speak at WV Humanities Council event…and Weirton's Pietro Fiorentini USA finds WV to be an ideal location for business…on today's daily304. #1 – From WV TECH PARK – Dow is one of the many innovative companies that reside at the West Virginia Regional Technology Park in South Charleston. At 126 years old, Dow is one of the world's leading suppliers of chemicals, plastics, synthetic fibers, and agricultural products.  Dow has a global presence with over 100 manufacturing sites in 31 countries. With two operations on the Tech Park campus, including Univation™ Technologies and its Polyolefin research and development facility, Dow has a longstanding history of innovation at the site. Home to over 25 businesses and 1,000 jobs, the Tech Park is committed to the continued growth of its multi-tenant park dedicated to research, innovation, technological advancement, and education.  Lease space is available. The 258-acre campus is ideal for STEM industries and institutions that diversify West Virginia's economy and drive business and economic growth. For more information or to schedule a tour, contact the Tech Park or call (304) 356-3165. Read more: https://www.wvtechpark.com/post/tenant-spotlight-dow   #2 – From WV HUMANITIES COUNCIL – The West Virginia Humanities Council presents the 41st annual McCreight Lecture in the Humanities at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 19. This year's distinguished speaker is author, journalist, and tech humanist Cory Doctorow.  Doctorow, a 2020 inductee into the Canadian Science Fiction Hall of Fame, is the author of over two dozen books. His new finance crime technothriller, “Red Team Blues,” releases in April 2023; and a new work of nonfiction, “The Internet Con,” will release in September 2023. The 2023 McCreight Lecture takes at the University of Charleston's Geary Auditorium, and will include an audience Q&A. The lecture will be followed by a book signing and refreshments. Admission to the lecture and signing are free and open to the public.    Read more: https://wvhumanities.org/programs/mccreight-lecture/?es_id=d9d59428ed&fbclid=IwAR27pzPglOe3O14TaRMLGNHMSYPRGYku0vREaAFVtQKf1zOTnX1a9JE0PvQ   #3 – From WV ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT – Pietro Fiorentini USA is one of the many international companies that has chosen to reside in #YesWV. Located in Weirton but headquartered in Italy, Pietro Fiorentini boasts a vast portfolio of products and solutions catering to the oil and gas industry worldwide. While historically focusing on natural gas and oil, the company is adapting to emerging trends in renewable energy, particularly with hydrogen and biomethane.  The state's support and commitment to business development have made it an ideal location for the company's growth, according to company officials. “West Virginia is a welcoming place for foreign companies to grow. It is supportive in development and future growth of the business,” said Mattia Pizzacaro, director of operations. Pietro Fiorentini is deeply involved in the local community. In addition to their membership with the Weirton Area Chamber of Commerce, they also utilize the Governor's Guaranteed Workforce Program to invest in the development of local workforce with comprehensive training. Read more: https://westvirginia.gov/pietro-fiorentini-usa-bridging-cultures-and-energizing-west-virginias-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 Sunday, Sept. 3  GreenPower Motor Company revolutionizes the Type A school bus…15 counties are added to West Virginia's Communities in Schools program… and swing into an unforgettable musical adventure when the Spider-man concert experience comes to Charleston…on today's daily304. #1 – From SCHOOL BUS FLEET –  Some manufacturers of the Type A school bus -- workhorse of the special-needs transportation system -- have struggled to meet production demand due to shortages of the chassis used to build the buses.  Fraser Atkinson, CEO of GreenPower Motor Company, noted that his company hasn't been directly affected by the chassis shortage when it comes to production of the Type A Nano BEAST, because it is built on GreenPower's EV Star Cab and chassis, making them their own chassis supplier. “What sets GreenPower apart is that all of our vehicles are purpose-built to be battery-powered with zero-emissions,” Atkinson said.  GreenPower Motor Co. operates a manufacturing facility in South Charleston. “We constantly look for new technologies and ways to improve our vehicles for our customers,” he said. “Most recently, we deployed a version of the Nano BEAST that serves the needs of special education students and children with disabilities by including wheelchair lifts and securements while featuring a flat floor to ensure excellent accessibility.” Read more: https://www.schoolbusfleet.com/10205313/revolutionizing-the-ride-a-closer-look-at-innovating-type-a-school-buses  #2 – From WOAY-TV – Schools in 15 new counties are being added to West Virginia's Communities in Schools program. Communities in Schools build community partnerships and bring resources into schools to prevent student dropout and increase graduation rates, according to State Superintendent of Schools Michele L. Blatt. “Communities In Schools has had a life-changing impact on thousands of students in our state,” Blatt said. “The relationships between site coordinators, schools, students, and families are at the core of this success. These students need support and structures that help them recover from setbacks and regain the confidence to believe they can do great things. Communities in Schools is essential to opening options and pathways for those needing hope and a vision for their future.” The new counties are Barbour, Boone, Cabell, Doddridge, Hancock, Jefferson, Marion, Mason, Mineral, Monongalia, Ohio, Pocahontas, Putnam, Roane, Tucker, Tyler, Wetzel, Wirt, and Wood. Read more: https://woay.com/schools-in-15-new-counties-added-to-communities-in-schools-program/   #3 – From LOOT PRESS –  Dive into the Spider-Verse with the incredible Sinfonietta Orchestra and live DJ experience in the “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” concert experience. The show comes to the Municipal Auditorium in Charleston on Friday, Oct. 25. Featuring a soundtrack that blends symphonic orchestral music with hip-hop, the event pairs a screening of the Academy Award®-winning animated film with live musicians and turntables featuring a DJ scratcher live on stage. Tickets can be purchased online here. Read more: https://www.lootpress.com/spider-man-concert-experience-coming-to-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, Sept. 1  A new food packaging facility in Berkeley County will create more than 600 jobs…WVDEP seeks volunteers for the Great Kanawha River Cleanup…and a new nonprofit seeks to diversify the economy through the art of filmmaking…on today's daily304. #1 – From WV GOVERNOR –  Gov. Jim Justice has announced a pioneering joint venture between Klarpet of Turkey and Triton International Enterprises of the USA to develop a state-of-the-art food packaging facility in Berkeley County. The $50 million Treplar investment is projected to result in more than 600 high-paying jobs at the conclusion of its expansion. “I am excited to announce this state-of-the-art project and outstanding economic development investment into our state by Treplar,”  Justice said. “The company's investment in our state and their innovative food packaging production facility is tremendous, and I wish them utmost success in West Virginia. I'm honored to add Treplar to our growing list of companies that recognize West Virginia is the best place to raise a family and build a business.” Treplar is currently testing a new generation of food packaging material that is 100% home compostable. With its state-of-the-art facility, innovative technology, and focus on sustainability, Treplar's next phase, set to launch later this year, promises to be a game-changer in the food packaging industry.  Read more: https://governor.wv.gov/Pages/default.aspx   #2 – From THE GAZETTE-MAIL –  The West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection is seeking volunteers for its 33rd annual Great Kanawha River Cleanup. The event is planned for 9 a.m. until noon on Saturday, Sept. 9. Cleanup sites include Winfield Beach, St. Albans Roadside Park, the South Charleston boat ramp, and Kanawha Falls at Glen Ferris. Other cleanup sites could be added as the day of the event nears. The WVDEP's Rehabilitation Environmental Action Plan will supply bags and gloves for volunteers and will arrange for trash to be hauled away. All volunteers will receive a T-shirt.  To volunteer or suggest an additional cleanup location, contact the WVDEP's Chris Cartwright at 304-389-8389 or christopher.j.cartwright@wv.gov. Read more: https://www.wvgazettemail.com/news/volunteers-needed-for-wvdeps-great-kanawha-river-clean-up-on-sept-9/article_86eace94-4afa-500e-9d7b-821071dfc1a4.html   #3 – From THE GAZETTE-MAIL – In the picturesque landscapes of the Appalachian Region, a new, nonprofit organization is on a mission to empower underserved communities and foster economic diversification through the art of filmmaking. Film Futures Foundation is determined to break barriers and provide access to filmmaking resources, education, and opportunities, unlocking the potential of Appalachia's untapped talent and creativity. Founded by Justin Williams and Ashley Stinnett, “FFF is committed to creating a lasting impact on the lives of individuals in the Appalachian communities,” Stinnett says. “Our goal is to empower the people to tell their own stories and showcase their unique perspectives to the world.” The nonprofit is offering two free workshops in October and November to train people in basic introductory grip and lighting skill sets.  For more information, visit www.filmfuturesfoundation.com. Read more: https://www.wvgazettemail.com/dailymailwv/daily_mail_features/film-futures-foundation-paves-way-for-economic-diversification-through-state-made-cinema/article_34081d77-9cfc-56e6-8233-41c76615f60c.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.

Matt Ballard is the Executive Director and CEO of the West Virginia Regional Technology Park in South Charleston. Today, the Tech Park has blossomed into a beating heart of research and development in the Kanawha Valley, supporting a dynamic workforce of about 900 people. Before this current position, Ballard served as the President and CEO of the Charleston Area Alliance and was the Executive Director at the Hatfield-McCoy Regional Recreation Authority. An ideal place to turn an abstract idea into a market-ready product, the Tech Park's main goal is to develop new technologies and diversify the economy of West Virginia. With a strong focus on energy, chemicals, materials, and biotechnology, this place is a hotbed for turning dreams into reality.

In this episode of Innovators and Entrepreneurs, we talk to Matt Browning, Co-owner at Plot Twist Books in South Charleston, WV. He and his team have turned their passion for books into a venue unlike anything else you can experience in the state.   “I have been a fan of independent bookstores for as long as I can remember. You gotta be a little innovative when opening any business, but especially a book and mortar book shop. Tony Award winner Dinah Manoff joined us for a virtual event, my business partner does a segment called Plot Twist kitchen where we do recipes based on books we sell, and the AirBnB is one we're super excited about. It is a bookshop holiday where you can stay and “work” at the shop. If you've ever wanted to own your own book shop, it's kind of the thing to do. ”   Innovators and Entrepreneurs is a bi-weekly segment of the daily304 that features discussions and wisdom from West Virginians who have built their companies and launched new ideas here in the Mountain State.   Links to more information:   www.plottwistbooks.com www.wvsbdc.com www.wvbusinesslink.com WestVirginia.gov/Entrepreneurship   Interested in starting or expanding your business? Connect with free resources with the West Virginia Small Business Development Center today!  

Samantha Hohl, wine educator and certified sommelier, and Robert Tas take a trip to South Charleston to review the wine list at The Fig where southern dishes with a unique twist are prepared with seasonal ingredients and creativity. Sam checks through the list where she identifies a small producer with 40-year-old vines who focuses on minimal intervention, she spots a producer who farms their vines organically and biodynamically, and she recommends a special bottle of which only 1200 cases are produced. Wines reviewed include: 2021 Pinot Noir, Mac Forbes, Yarra Valley, Australia 2018 Domaine de l'Ecu Muscadet “Granite”, France 2017 Domaine du Collier "La Ripaille" Saumur Rouge For more information on today's episode, and the wines you love to love, visit www.corkrules.com.

Today on MetroNews This Morning:--The 2023 National Boy Scout Jamboree gets started this week in West Virginia--A worldwide band competition is also starting up in West Virginia this week--A tragedy in South Charleston results in a swimming lessons program for children and it's a hit--Sports: Best Virginia soars in a warmup game for the TBT.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Saturday, July 14  The WV Tech Park welcomes Helicon Chemical to its South Charleston campus…Charleston welcomes the UC Downtown Innovation Hub…and Mountain Lakes restaurants share their recipes…on today's daily304. #1 – From WV TECH PARK – The West Virginia Regional Technology Park welcomes the newest tenant, Helicon Chemical, to its South Charleston campus. Helicon is a leading innovator in developing drop-in-ready, upgraded binder for government and commercial propulsion systems, The addition of Helicon to the technology park's esteemed roster of tenants further solidifies its position as a hub for cutting-edge research, development, and innovation in the region.   Partnering with Tech Park tenant AVN, federal, state and local lawmakers, Helicon is using existing infrastructure to manufacture the enhanced binder in West Virginia, bringing jobs to the region while helping to improve national security.   “The partnership we have forged here in West Virginia is a significant step in our ability to deliver enhanced rocket fuel at scale,” said Dr. Wes Naylor, Chief Executive Officer, Helicon. “We look forward to bringing jobs to the community and adding to the rich history of technology development and innovation.”   Read more: https://www.wvtechpark.com/post/w-va-regional-technology-park-helicon-chemical-bring-rocket-fuels-to-its-south-charleston-campus #2 – From WOWK-TV – The ribbon is officially cut on the brand new University of Charleston Downtown Innovation Hub, located on the corner of Lee and Capitol streets. Primarily funded through a US economic development grant, the new DIH center aims at helping local businesses with coaching, employee training and creating economic opportunities. “We're providing them with the knowledge, the tools and the contacts they need to accelerate their business growth, which will stimulate economic development in the Kanawha Valley as well as help to create jobs,” said Marty Roth, president of the University of Charleston. Read more: https://www.wowktv.com/news/west-virginia/kanawha-county-wv/university-of-charleston-unveils-new-downtown-innovation-hub/ #3 – From WV EXECUTIVE – The Mountain Lakes region is a top destination for anyone looking for a good bite to eat. From everyday Appalachian comfort food to upscale, modernist cuisine, this region has a little bit of everything. The next time you're traveling through the area, stop for a bite at one of its charming local restaurants. Elk River Hotel & Cafe in Sutton is the perfect spot for anyone looking for casual dining with an exquisite view.  Thyme Bistro in Weston offers a high-end, eclectic atmosphere and a diverse array of dishes, from classic pub-style food to vegan and gluten-free options. Whistle Punk Grill & Taphouse in Richwood uses locally sourced ingredients for dishes ranging from peanut butter on panini to pan-fried gnocchi served with grilled pork. Each of the restaurant owners have been kind enough to share a recipe so you can recreate a delicious meal at home.  Read more: https://wvexecutive.com/in-the-chefs-corner-meals-of-the-mountain-lakes/   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, June 12 Meet the WV Symphony's new director, Maurice Cohn…The WV Tech Park welcomes Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center to its South Charleston campus…and just what IS the daily304? Find out more, and check us out on social media...on today's daily304. #1 – From THE VIOLIN CHANNEL – As it enters its 85th season, the West Virginia Symphony Orchestra announced Maurice Cohn as its 11th music director. Cohn will locate to Charleston in September. Following an international search of almost two years for the music director role, Cohn was selected from six final candidates, who each spent a week in Charleston learning about WVSO and conducting its musicians in an Elliot Foundation Symphonic Series concert. A graduate of Oberlin Conservatory studying cello performance, history, and mathematics, Cohn also has a master's degree in conducting from the Eastman School of Music, where he worked frequently with the Eastman orchestras and OSSIA New Music Ensemble. “I am beyond thrilled to be joining the West Virginia Symphony Orchestra family,” Cohn said. “When I came to perform here in April, I was immediately struck by the energy and passion for music — both from members of the orchestra and everyone in the WVSO community. This is a place that cares deeply about the power of music to transform our lives, and I feel incredibly lucky to get to be a part of that exciting project.” Read more: https://theviolinchannel.com/west-virginia-symphony-hires-new-music-director/   #2 – From WV TECH PARK –  The West Virginia Regional Technology Park welcomes the Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center to its South Charleston campus. The new training and education center expands training options for existing businesses and helps attract new industries to West Virginia. The Advanced Manufacturing Training & Education Center is made possible by funding from the Appalachian Regional Commission's POWER initiative, which targets federal resources to communities affected by job losses in coal mining and related industries. The Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center also partnered with IACMI- The Composites Institute and federal, state and local leadership to make the center a reality. Read more: https://www.wvtechpark.com/post/marshall-advanced-manufacturing-training-center-opens-at-the-west-virginia-regional-technology-park   #3 – From the daily304 – The daily304 brings you three stories every day about wonderful, almost heaven West Virginia. It's an information and communication platform and a way for us to work together to share West Virginia's story. Visit www.wv.gov/daily304 to view the latest stories and videos.   Learn more: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9aY4n1p1Y9M   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.

South Charleston's new GreenPower Motors is hiring!...Got job openings in West Virginia? List them for free on Jobcase…and find out why the WV Tech Park is ideal for your STEM-based industry…on today's daily304. #1 – From METRO NEWS –  GreenPower Motor Company, the electric school bus maker, plans to hire production associates to assemble the vehicles at the South Charleston manufacturing facility over the next several weeks. “We're going to be hiring 45 people by the middle of next month (June),” Vice President of Business Development and Strategy Mark Nestlen said Tuesday on MetroNews Talkline. “They are production team members that will be on the floor in the manufacturing process of the Type A NanoBeast and the Type B Beast school buses.” GreenPower employees will start at $20 per hour with full health, dental, and vision benefits, plus access to continuing education through a partnership with the Workforce Development Board of Kanawha County and BridgeValley Community & Technical College. The student or employee will have access to hands-on technical training to help them learn the job and additional skills to advance as opportunities develop. Read more: https://wvmetronews.com/2023/05/16/greenpower-to-add-production-workers-in-south-charleston-electric-bus-manufacturing-site/ #2 – From JOBCASE –The West Virginia Department of Economic Development has partnered with Jobcase to provide free listings for employers. Whether you need one employee around the corner, or want to hire hundreds across the country, Jobcase can help you find the right people fast. This opportunity is open to employers located in West Virginia as well as out-of-state employers who have open positions in West Virginia Have your job description ready and Jobcase will walk you through the rest! Learn more: https://hirenow.westvirginia.jobcase.com/purchase/post-now/ #3 – From WV TECH PARK – Whether it's new construction on our existing sites or renovating our existing laboratory facilities, the West Virginia Regional Technology Park in South Charleston stands ready to support laboratories, research, development, testing, innovation, and more.  WVRTP's sites and buildings offer flexibility and versatility alongside a robust infrastructure to provide new and existing tenants with the assets vital to their success. Featuring 800,000 sq. ft. of specialized material science, research and other technology development space, the park is 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. The 258-acre campus is ideal for STEM industries and institutions that diversify West Virginia's economy and drive business and economic growth.  Learn more: https://www.wvtechpark.com/post/make-sure-your-clients-don-t-overlook-these-sites-buildings-at-wv-regional-technology-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 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.

When he died, LaRoy Earl Gorman was the Vice President of the Board of Directors of the Charleston National Bank and had just negotiated the acquisition of First national Bank of South Charleston. He had just finished a night out at his favorite restaurant when he was shot three times and left to die. He made it to the hospital and managed to vaguely identify his attacker, but not clearly enough to be found. There were rumors surrounding people losing money because of him, his habits with women and more. So what could have been reason for his death? The options don't paint any clearer a picture after 43 years.

Steve Hedrick is Chairman, President & CEO of AVN Corp. (AVN) in South Charleston, W.Va. AVN delivers market-driven innovation, research, technical engineering, and technology commercialization for the chemical, energy, environmental, and advanced software sectors. Mr. Hedrick has more than three decades of broad-based leadership experience, with more than 20 years of experience in the petrochemical industry, leading businesses, chemical manufacturing and health, safety, environment and quality (HSEQ). Prior to AVN, he held numerous roles of increasing responsibility at Lyondell, Bayer Polymers, Bayer MaterialScience and Bayer CropScience and has led multiple regional and global teams to improve business results, reliability and safety systems. His entry into the chemical industry followed service as an officer in the United States Army. In addition, Mr. Hedrick currently serves on several boards of directors, including Discover Real West Virginia Foundation, West Virginia Chamber of Commerce, West Virginia Manufacturers Association, and Clay Center for the Arts and Sciences of West Virginia. He is Chairman of the Charleston Area Alliance Board and Vice President (Vice Chair) of the Advantage Valley Board.In addition, Mr. Hedrick sits on the Business Roundtable of West Virginia.A native of West Virginia, he holds a B.S. in chemical engineering from the United States Military Academy at West Point, N.Y.