Podcasts about west virginians

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Wednesday, August 6, 2025. #1 – From WV Tourism – Tourism Works Program Tourism Works is a free, online tourism and hospitality training available to all West Virginians through Blue Ridge Community and Technical College. The program offers 12 micro-credentials, one hour of college credit, and certification as a Destination Specialist. It's ideal for residents in tourism, hospitality, or any role engaging with visitors. Learn more and sign up: https://wvtourism.com/tourismworks/free-trainings/?utm_source=chatgpt.com   #2 – From Marshall MAMC – Historic Theater Restoration Marshall University's Advanced Manufacturing Center is applying advanced reverse-engineering technology to restore a historic theater in Huntington. Using accurate scans, modeling, and fabrication, they're helping rebuild architectural details of the Spanish Baroque-style Keith-Albee Performing Arts Center, which first opened its doors in 1928. By combining innovation and cultural preservation, it's a technical tribute to West Virginia's artistic past and craftsmanship. Read more: https://www.mfg.marshall.edu/mamc-deploys-reverse-engineering-advanced-technology-to-help-restore-grandeur-of-famed-theater/ #3 – From WOAY / WOAY News – WV Film Office 3-Year Anniversary The West Virginia Film Office marks its third year of driving film activity in the state, now supporting 150 productions annually. With top-10 tax incentives and a location database for cast and crews, it's backed more filmmakers, boosted tourism, and created jobs—putting Almost Heaven on the screen everywhere. Read more: https://woay.com/wv-film-office-celebrates-3-years-of-helping-to-promote-filmmaking-in-the-mountain-state/?utm_source=chatgpt.com#google_vignette   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, August 3, 2025. #1 – From The History Project – Moundsville Penitentiary Documentary The West Virginia Penitentiary at Moundsville stands as a striking monument to America's 19th- and 20th-century prison system. In this short film from The History Project, explore the haunting architecture and dark legacy of the state's first prison, which operated for over a century. Now a site of historical tours and curiosity, it offers an unflinching glimpse into the past. Watch the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ajbZrm0lMv0   #2 – From WV News – Mountaineer Challenge Academy South Expansion Big news in Beckley—Mountaineer Challenge Academy South is expanding its presence on the former WVU Tech campus. The new facilities will help accommodate more cadets, grow the program's impact, and continue supporting at-risk youth through structure, education, and discipline. It's a powerful investment in the next generation of West Virginians. Read more: https://www.wvnews.com/news/wvnews/mountaineer-challenge-academy-south-plans-expansion-on-former-wvu-tech-campus/article_1aea6d9c-e3a1-4273-9807-e20047917d68.html   #3 – From WV Explorer – Spartan Trifecta Comes to WV Calling all thrill seekers—West Virginia is now home to a Spartan Trifecta. The multi-race challenge puts competitors through intense mud runs, grueling climbs, and adrenaline-pumping obstacles across the state's rugged terrain. The event takes place Sept. 6-7 at the Summit Bechtel Reserve on the edge of the New River Gorge National Park, providing the perfect backdrop for those who like to sweat with a view. Read more: https://wvexplorer.com/2025/07/29/spartan-trifecta-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.

Today on MetroNews This Morning: --A Kanawha County deputy is charged with forcing a female inmate into a sexual encounter--A West Virginian is in Hawaii and shares the fearful experience of tsunami warnings this week--A Logan County school has structural problems and won't house kids in the coming school year--In Sports; WVU football coach Rich Rodriguez displeased with the practice performance of his team at practice and the Best Virginia run in the TBT ends in the semi-finals 

We wrap up our Gray Barker series with Author and Gray Barker "expert" Tony Breeden. Tony shares a lot about the man, the myth, the legend. But we can't have a West Virginian native on without discussing an myriad of other West Virginia based topics. Join the Patreon:  www.Patreon.com/Wednesdaystalk  Call Us:  773-599-3473  Email Us:  OnWednesdaysWeTalkWeird@gmail.com  Follow Tobias Wayland:  www.SingularFortean.com  Follow Ashley Hilt:  linktr.ee/itsasherz  Produced By: Turtle Eater NateBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/on-wednesdays-we-talk-weird--5989318/support.

Listen to the first Native West Virginian playwright who shares his talents with his debut at the Contempory American Theater Festival. His background as a Vietnamese West Virginian will create a state of awe as he recounts his journey. 

On this West Virginia Morning, we hear about a new book documenting the lives of trans teenagers, and we discuss ways West Virginians can help protect the oceans. The post The Daily Lives Of Trans Teens And Protecting Our Oceans From Afar, This West Virginia Morning appeared first on West Virginia Public Broadcasting.

Prepare for another episode of Long Time No See: The Podcast!  where comedic brilliance collides! We're absolutely thrilled to feature the hilarious Jeff Zenisek (from the TOO WOKE BOYS podcast and with over 15 million views on TikTok) and the incredibly witty Chinedu Unaka (as seen in Abbott Elementary, House Party, and with a new Hulu special from Kevin Hart's HARTBEAT). Get ready for unforgettable stories and plenty of laughs.The conversation between Jeff and Chinedu takes some wild and hilarious turns. On the docket this week: a spirited defense of bowl cuts, the ins and outs of West Virginian style, a debate on what it means to be "Zebra level hot," and a definitive answer on whether zebra stripes are actually camouflage!Listen to the fantastic chat, and make sure to follow Long Time No See wherever you get your podcasts. If you enjoy the show, please give us a review on Apple Music to keep the laughs coming!You can also check out Jeff Zenisek here and keep up with Chinedu Unaka here.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

A new ruling from the Fourth Circuit may make it harder for West Virginians to terminate a pregnancy, and the head of a Huntington foodbank details the impact of pending SNAP cuts on the hungry in Appalachia. The post Restricting Abortion Meds And Feeding The Hungry After SNAP Cuts, This West Virginia Morning appeared first on West Virginia Public Broadcasting.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Sunday, July 13, 2025. #1 – From ESPN SportsCenter (50 States series) In its “50 States in 50 Days” series, ESPN's SportsCenter visits West Virginia to spotlight Timbersports—the high‑intensity logging sports featuring rapid axe‑chopping, log‑rolling, and precision woodcraft. Host Stanford Steve learns the craft from seasoned competitors, delving into the athleticism, tradition, and Appalachian heritage behind each swing. It's a powerful look at how West Virginians keep a rugged, skill‑based legacy alive. Watch now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AAXjO8mUV_E #2 – From OnlyInYourState.com Looking for unique beach vibes? These West Virginia hiking trails feature sandy riverbanks where you can dip your toes and breathe in fresh air. Trails like Bluestone Gorge and Greenbrier's sand bars pair scenic walking with summer sun—bringing true “beach” moments to the Mountain State. Perfect for family-friendly, low-key outdoor escapes. Read more: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nature/west-virginia/beach-hiking-trails-wv #3 – From WV Veterans Blog West Virginia respects and honors the sacrifices of our veterans and understands the importance of supporting our servicemen and women when they return home. That's where the West Virginia Department of Veterans Assistance comes in. If a veteran was denied assistance for a condition in the past, that doesn't mean they aren't eligible now. The Mountain State wants to connect veterans with crucial benefits.  Learn more: https://www.wvveteransblog.com/uncategorized/independence-day-shaped-by-sacrifice/?es_id=e800cd61aa   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 back to the lovely show! A very busy humjobber has sent in funky fresh beat. Could it be the song of the summer?! Your lovely hosts are chatting festival hacks, West Virginian farmers and greasing tins.  Make sure you check out the full version of "Queen of Knobber" and give Stu (@IgnoredEchoes) some love: https://youtu.be/wCgMHiVCmNg If you enjoyed this episode of The Lovely Show, please ensure to leave us a LOVELY review. Support The Lovely Show to get ad-free listening and bonus episodes at https://headstuffpodcasts.com/membership/ - listen to your bonus episodes and ad-free feed in your favourite app! This is a HeadStuff podcast produced by Hilary Barry. Artwork by Matt Mahon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Darkness Radio presents Beyond Mothman: Chasing Cryptids in Point Pleasant & More with Paranormal Investigator/Author, Dave Spinks! In the early 2000s, Dave Spinks set out on a quest to uncover the truth behind one of America's most infamous legends—the Mothman of Point Pleasant. What began as a deep dive into the chilling sightings of the 1960s quickly turned into something far more unsettling. With each visit to the area, he peeled back layers of mystery, revealing an eerie web of supernatural occurrences that stretched far beyond the Mothman itself. For two decades the deeper this native West Virginian dug, the stranger the stories became—whispers of banshees wailing in the night, shadowy cryptids lurking in the forests, UFOs lighting up the sky, and even the presence of witches practicing ancient rites. But this wasn't just folklore. Spinks himself experienced bizarre phenomena, documenting an overwhelming amount of paranormal evidence that suggested Point Pleasant was a true hotbed of the unknown.  Dave joins Darkness Radio today to talk about this new book, about his adventures with David Weatherly and Serenity Jenny chasing down Mothman stories, Men In Black, Banshee hauntings, Occult activity, and much much more!  Get your copy of Beyond Mothman here: https://bit.ly/4eHpgpO Find out more about Dave here:  https://www.davespinkspi.com/ Get Dave's music here:  https://www.davespinkspi.com/ghost_in_the_machine_music Want the Halloween experience of a lifetime? Travel with the Great Grandnephew of Bram Stoker to Dracula's Castle and many other historical haunts in Romania this Halloween season!  Spread your payments out and Use the code "darkness" for a discount! Click this link for more information! https://mysteriousadventurestours.com/halloween-tours/ There are new and different (and really cool) items all the time in the Darkness Radio Online store at our website! . check out the Darkness Radio Store!   https://www.darknessradioshow.com/store/ #paranormal  #supernatural  #metaphysical  #paranormalpodcasts  #darknessradio  #timdennis #davespinks #thewestvirginiadogman  #ghosts  #spirits  #apparitions #evp #hauntings #hauntedhouses #paranormaltv #ghostnation #ghosthunters #paranormaldrama #discoveryplus #haunteddolls  #demons #Aliens  #UFO #UAP #Extraterrestrials  #Alienspaceships  #disclosure #shadowpeople  #Cryptids #Cryptozoology #bigfoot #sasquatch #yeti  #abominablesnowman #ogopogo #lochnessmonster #chupacabra #beastofbrayroad #mothman #Satanists  #conspiracytheory  #neardeatheexperience 

Darkness Radio presents Beyond Mothman: Chasing Cryptids in Point Pleasant & More with Paranormal Investigator/Author, Dave Spinks! In the early 2000s, Dave Spinks set out on a quest to uncover the truth behind one of America's most infamous legends—the Mothman of Point Pleasant. What began as a deep dive into the chilling sightings of the 1960s quickly turned into something far more unsettling. With each visit to the area, he peeled back layers of mystery, revealing an eerie web of supernatural occurrences that stretched far beyond the Mothman itself. For two decades the deeper this native West Virginian dug, the stranger the stories became—whispers of banshees wailing in the night, shadowy cryptids lurking in the forests, UFOs lighting up the sky, and even the presence of witches practicing ancient rites. But this wasn't just folklore. Spinks himself experienced bizarre phenomena, documenting an overwhelming amount of paranormal evidence that suggested Point Pleasant was a true hotbed of the unknown.  Dave joins Darkness Radio today to talk about this new book, about his adventures with David Weatherly and Serenity Jenny chasing down Mothman stories, Men In Black, Banshee hauntings, Occult activity, and much much more!  Get your copy of Beyond Mothman here: https://bit.ly/4eHpgpO Find out more about Dave here:  https://www.davespinkspi.com/ Get Dave's music here:  https://www.davespinkspi.com/ghost_in_the_machine_music Want the Halloween experience of a lifetime? Travel with the Great Grandnephew of Bram Stoker to Dracula's Castle and many other historical haunts in Romania this Halloween season!  Spread your payments out and Use the code "darkness" for a discount! Click this link for more information! https://mysteriousadventurestours.com/halloween-tours/ There are new and different (and really cool) items all the time in the Darkness Radio Online store at our website! . check out the Darkness Radio Store!   https://www.darknessradioshow.com/store/ #paranormal  #supernatural  #metaphysical  #paranormalpodcasts  #darknessradio  #timdennis #davespinks #thewestvirginiadogman  #ghosts  #spirits  #apparitions #evp #hauntings #hauntedhouses #paranormaltv #ghostnation #ghosthunters #paranormaldrama #discoveryplus #haunteddolls  #demons #Aliens  #UFO #UAP #Extraterrestrials  #Alienspaceships  #disclosure #shadowpeople  #Cryptids #Cryptozoology #bigfoot #sasquatch #yeti  #abominablesnowman #ogopogo #lochnessmonster #chupacabra #beastofbrayroad #mothman #Satanists  #conspiracytheory  #neardeatheexperience 

West Virginians have one more flight destination to consider from Charleston, and a student led investigation delves into whether opioid settlement funds are really helping kids stay away from drugs. The post New Flights From Yeager And Using Opioid Funds For Prevention Efforts, This West Virginia Morning appeared first on West Virginia Public Broadcasting.

National Weather Service defends its flood warnings amid fresh scrutiny of Trump staff cuts; Poll: Majority of West Virginians support renewable energy policies; MI fellowship trains justice-involved youth as community leaders; Measles outbreak hits central Kentucky.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Tuesday, July 1, 2025. #1 – From Dominion Post / WV DNR When flooding hit over the weekend, West Virginia DNR's swiftwater rescue teams launched into action—pulling stranded residents to safety and helping protect families and property. These dedicated crews, strategically stationed statewide, train for rapid response in challenging conditions. Their efforts highlight the crucial role first responders play in safeguarding Almost Heaven during extreme weather. Read more: https://www.dominionpost.com/2025/06/20/against-the-current-dnr-swift-water-rescue-units-vital-during-weekend-flooding/   #2 – From YouTube – West Virginia University At Mon Hills Records, the student-run record label at West Virginia University, students can showcase their talent while also learning all aspects of the music business. Watch now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lwJ2WraN0hk #3 – From Generation WV Generation WV's June newsletter highlights resources that empower young West Virginians—covering leadership training, civic engagement opportunities, and local service projects. Through funding, mentorship, and community partnerships, the initiative supports youth as they build purposeful careers and resilient hometowns. It's a growing blueprint for keeping our future leaders here in the Mountain State. Read more: https://generationwv.org/june-2025-newsletter/ 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, June 29, 2025. #1 – From Innovators & Entrepreneurs (daily304) In “Shooting for the Stars,” we sit down with David Martinelli (Director, WV Small Satellite Center) and Scott Zemerick (Chief Scientist, TMC Technologies) to explore how the state's new satellite initiative merges innovation with economic growth. The program aims to solve real-world challenges—like agriculture, disaster response, and infrastructure—by building and launching small satellites from WV. Their mission: turn space tech into local jobs and long-term investment. Watch now: https://daily304.wv.gov/programs/innovators-and-entrepreneurs/   #2 – From WV History Feature (YouTube) Take a nostalgic ride through history and discover how Camden Park carries on the legacy of West Virginia's “trolley parks”—waterside amusement venues that began in the early 1900s to encourage weekend transit ridership. WV once hosted seven trolley parks and one waterside playground during that golden era, and Camden Park is the last one still in operation. It serves as a living time capsule of community fun, rides, and turn-of-the-century entertainment. Watch now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gMPIm3Jj3T8   #3 – From First Ascent WV First Ascent is rolling out new program packages that empower West Virginians to blend remote work, outdoor adventure, and professional growth. These bundles include mentorship, co-working, guided outdoor excursions, and gear rental—designed to help participants live, learn, and connect across six WV regions. Whether you're a remote worker, entrepreneur, or outdoor enthusiast, the packages provide structure and community to balance work with Almost Heaven adventures. Explore the packages: https://firstascentwv.com/program-package Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty, and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo. That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Friday, June 27, 2025. #1 – From WVSBDC.com The West Virginia Small Business Development Center is offering a wide range of training opportunities to help entrepreneurs sharpen their skills. From writing business plans to understanding financial statements, these sessions are designed to empower business owners at every stage. Explore upcoming training sessions and get connected with experienced business coaches today. Learn more: https://wvsbdc.com/training/   #2 – From WV DNR The Master Naturalist Program is helping West Virginians take their love for nature to the next level. Designed for those passionate about the outdoors, this volunteer program trains individuals to educate others and assist with conservation efforts. Participants gain in-depth knowledge of West Virginia's ecosystems and become valuable stewards of the state's natural heritage. Read more: https://wvdnr.gov/master-naturalist-take-your-love-of-nature-to-the-next-level/ #3 – From MetroNews Charleston's beloved Sternwheel Regatta is set to return with a full lineup of fun this summer. In addition to its cherished boat races and live music, new features like professional wrestling and expanded family activities promise something for everyone. It all kicks off in early July and continues to celebrate the capital city's riverfront heritage. Read more: https://wvmetronews.com/2025/06/22/charlestons-annual-sternwheel-regatta-set-to-return-with-traditional-as-well-as-new-events-in-a-little-over-a-week/ 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, June 26, 2025. #1 – From WV SBDC Careers The West Virginia Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is hiring full-time Business Advisors to help entrepreneurs thrive statewide. These roles include coaching, training and outreach, with the chance to support business creation, retention and growth in communities across WV. If you love making a real difference—and want to build the backbone of local economies—apply today. Read more: https://wvsbdc.com/the-west-virginia-small-business-development-center-is-hiring/   #2 – From WV Secretary of State   West Virginia Secretary of State Kris Warner's guest this week is Nancy Bruns, co-founder and CEO of J.Q. Dickinson Salt Works. Secretary Warner and Ms. Bruns discuss how her family revived the salt industry in the Kanawha Valley. Ms. Bruns also explains the salt harvesting process. Watch now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hpjwf21VM5c   #3 – From AscendWV Ascend WV is a statewide initiative designed to connect West Virginians with career opportunities, apprenticeships, and employer incentives. Backed by generous support from Brad D. and Alys Smith, the Collaborative at West Virginia University, WV Tourism, and the State of West Virginia, the program harnesses our state's natural beauty and outdoor assets to boost the economy and enhance quality of life. From world-class recreation to remote work opportunities, Ascend WV promotes livability and the joy of calling Almost Heaven home. Learn more: https://ascendwv.com   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.

On this West Virginia Morning, West Virginians continue to rally against proposed cuts and requirement adjustments to Medicaid and SNAP benefits and how changing federal policy will impact the country's electric vehicle market. The post A Rally Against Cuts To Medicaid, SNAP And The Future Of The Electric Vehicle Market, This West Virginia Morning appeared first on West Virginia Public Broadcasting.

There are few sure things nowadays, but one thing we can guarantee is that today somewhere in the Mountain State this song is being sung, whistled, hummed or at least thought of about every 15 minutes.The truth is that The Flood has avoided doing ”Take Me Home, Country Roads” for about a half century now. It's not that the guys don't like it; on the contrary, just the opening line (Al-most heeeeaven, West Virginnnnia….) will always tease out a smile in our band room.But, well, gee, it just seemed almost like a cliché, you know? A bunch of West Virginians singing it was kind of like the boys down in San Antone doing “Home on the Range” or “Deep in the Heart of Texas” or a Crescent City crew doing “Saints Go Marching In.”That all changed, though, earlier this year. When everybody watched a stadium full of people at the Super Bowl in New Orleans spontaneously joining in on “Country Roads” following that Rocket Mortgage commercial, band manager Pamela Bowen looked at Charlie and said, “It might be time….”It is. The instrumentation is right nowadays. Jack Nuckols has dusted off his fiddle. Bowen has learned enough banjo to contribute something. Randy Hamilton has just the right voice for the lead. Danny Cox and Sam St. Clair grew up knowing that harmony. It was just a matter of getting it together in time for today. Happy West Virginia Day, y'all!About The Song“Take Me Home, Country Roads” was born, not in West Virginia, but in neighboring Maryland. Its first public performance was on New Year's weekend 1970 at the tiny Cellar Door coffeehouse in the Georgetown section of Washington, DC.The idea for tune started a few weeks earlier when songwriters Bill Danoff and his girlfriend Taffy Nivert — who performed together as “Fat City” —  were driving to a family reunion in Massachusetts, Neal Augenstein writes in Washington's WTOP.com. (Incidentally, if Danoff and Nivert's names are familiar it might be because they later renamed their group “Starland Vocal Band,” known for the 1976 hit “Afternoon Delight.”)For the “Country Roads” debut, Len Jaffe, a D.C. area singer/songwriter, was at the Cellar Door and later told Augenstein, “The road they were actually on was Clopper Road, in Gaithersburg, a little two-lane blacktop” at the time, but now an exit off Interstate 270.“When they got to the ‘Almost heaven …' part,” Jaffe added, “at first it was going to be ‘Massachusetts,' because that's where Bill was from. But they didn't like the vibe, so they used 'West Virginia.' They had never been to West Virginia.”That was the same weekend that John Denver would hear the song which would become his first platinum single. On Dec. 29, 1970, Denver played the first of a string of solo shows at the Cellar Door, where Danoff and Nivert were the opening act. Later that evening in the couple's Georgetown home, Denver asked if they had any new songs he could hear.“Get out that song you're writing for Johnny Cash,” Taffy said, and Danoff pulled out what at that point consisted of only the chorus and a single verse. Denver loved it immediately and helped Danoff and Nivert complete the lyrics and arrangement overnight. Then that very evening, Denver played the new song at the coffeehouse.“We just finished a brand new song,” Denver said on stage, “and I haven't even learned the words yet.” He taped the lyrics to the mic stand and, as an encore, the three of them did the song cold.“It was a five-minute standing ovation,” Jaffe told Augenstein. “The walls were vibrating. I thought the club was going to implode.”The following month in New York, as part of his Poems, Prayers & Promises album, Denver recorded the song with Danoff and Nivert doing the harmony vocals.West Virginia ConnectionsOkay, now, wait a minute. So the song debuted in D.C. after being written in Maryland by folks whose minds were set traveling to New England. Where the heck does West Virginia come into this story? Actually, Danoff says that from the start there were Mountain State connections to “Country Roads.” The portion of the lyric's bridge says “the radio reminds me of my home far away," a line he says is quintessentially West Virginian. That's because it is an allusion to his Springfield, Mass., childhood when he grew up in the ‘50s listening to “Saturday Night Jamboree” broadcasts each week from Wheeling's WWVA.“It was a powerful station,” he said, “and we got it clearly in Springfield at nighttime.”Danoff also had other West Virginia associations to draw from. For instance, he was a good friend of actor Chris Sarandon, a Beckley native who was once married to actress Susan Sarandon. But even more than that, Danoff recalled a group of hippies from a West Virginia commune who used to sit in the front row of the little clubs in which his and Taffy's band used to play.“They brought their dogs and were a very colorful group of folks; that's how West Virginia began creeping into the song,” he said.Mountain Mama's ReceptionIn the Mountain State, "Take Me Home, Country Roads” has, of course, received an enthusiastic response for more than 50 years now.In 2017, the state's tourism office announced it had obtained the rights to use the song in its marketing efforts. "'Country Roads' has become synonymous with West Virginia all over the world," said tourism commissioner Chelsea Ruby. "It highlights everything we love about our state: scenic beauty, majestic mountains, a timeless way of life, and most of all, the warmth of a place that feels like home whether you've lived here forever or are just coming to visit." The opening "Almost heaven" phrase became a primary tourism slogan.The song is the theme song of West Virginia University. Since 1972 it has been performed during every home football pregame show. It also is played after every home victory when fans are encouraged to stay in the stands and sing along with the team.On Sept. 6, 1980, at the invitation of then-Gov. Jay Rockefeller, Danoff, Nivert and Denver performed it to a sold-out crowd of Mountaineer fans at the dedication of WVU's Mountaineer Field.In 2014, the state legislature adopted it one of four official state songs (along with "West Virginia Hills," "This Is My West Virginia" and "West Virginia, My Home Sweet Home”).But About That GeographyFrom the start, however, some West Virginians have groused about the lyrics' sketchy geography. Blue Ridge Mountains? Shenandoah River? To local folks, that sounded a bit more like western East Virginia than their home turf.Some, with a grin, even propose a little judicious editing, maybe something like: Almost heaven, West Virginia, Snowshoe Mountain, Monongahela River….In the end, though, most mountaineers choose to love the song anyway, and, if anyone asked, they just say the song cleverly refers to the state's historical rather than contemporary geography.Still, those dicey directions always supply an easy punchline for smart-alecky Virginians: “Why, son, that's why West Virginia is just almost heaven.…”More Tunes for Mountain Mama Day?Finally, if you need more extensive soundtrack for today's West Virginia Day celebrations, remember the “Special Blends” section of the free Radio Floodango music streaming service includes a selection of Flood-centric Mountain State tunes. Click below for details: This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit 1937flood.substack.com

Paul Smith's deeply ingrained love of both cooking and West Virginia can be traced back to his earliest days — standing alongside his grandfather helping stir the sauce for the large Sunday dinners so common among Italian families who had settled in the coalfields. From those beginnings, Paul's passions for food and his Appalachian home have taken him on a culinary journey that he is proud to share with his community. After graduating from Charleston Catholic High School, Chef Paul immersed himself in learning the hospitality industry and the finer points of great cuisine. With his BA from West Virginia State University, he formally trained at New York's prestigious Culinary Institute of America (graduated with honors) and CIA's Greystone campus in Napa Valley, California, where he studied pastries and wine and graduated as Valedictorian.Paul has worked around the country, from The Ritz Carlton Resort in Naples, Florida, to the world-renowned Biltmore Estates in Asheville, North Carolina, to The Windsor Club in Vero Beach, Florida. Taking the tastes and techniques of every stop along his culinary journey he longed to return to his roots and tell these culinary stories through the traditions and flavors of Appalachia. When the Mountain State pulled at his heartstrings, he returned to West Virginia where he served as the Executive Chef at the University of Charleston, and Corporate Chef for Buzz Food Service.Today, he has multiple restaurants in Charleston, West Virginia's capital: The Pitch Sports Bar & Grill, and 1010 Bridge Restaurant & Catering, which quickly gained a reputation as one of the state's premiere dining destinations.He believes strongly that a rising tide will lift all boats, and has served as an advisor to multiple food and hospitality businesses in West Virginia. Paul's ultimate vision is to give back to the state he has always considered home through his gifts of great food and warm hospitality.Chef Paul was named a Semifinalist for the James Beard Foundation's Best Chef of The Southeast Award and became an official nominee the same year and is the first West Virginia chef to receive that honor. He was also named West Virginian of the year in 2023.In 2024 he was honored again with a nomination for the James Beard Foundation's Best Chef of The Southeast Award and on June 10th 2024 in a ceremony in Chicago he became West Virginia's very first James Beard Award winner. He continues to champion West Virginia and his community in all he does, and loves few things more than the way food brings people together.

This week, the guys serve up a delightfully cheesy platter of conversation, melting together topics like an ooey-gooey fondue. They grate through a mountain of cheese talk, slice into field day fun, and savor the rich flavors of West Virginian cuisine. They also celebrate the sharp and brilliant minds of their wives (truly aged to perfection), send well-wishes to their sick loved ones, and stack up discussions on the Tower of Babel like a well-layered lasagna. Plus, they dig into the Monster Hunter movie, measure up Ryan's brother's towering height like a colossal wheel of Parm, and so much more! Get ready for a conversation that's as satisfying as a perfectly grilled cheese sandwich.... – http://linktree.com/thegmgpod – All of our links can be found on the LinkTree link including our audio podcast (Apple, Spotify, etc.), YouTube, Twitch streaming channels, Discord, Patreon, GMG Merchandise, X, Facebook, Instagram, and E-Mail. – Listen as Lucas, Patrick, and Ryan talk about video games, TV, movies, sports, Jesus, but most importantly, life...the greatest and most difficult game of all. And you shouldn't go at it alone, so we are gonna do it with you on this fine morning.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. is Friday, June 6, 2025.     #1 – From WV EXPLORER Ice Mountain, a natural wonder in Hampshire County, offers guided tours where visitors can experience cold air vents and rare plant species. Tours are typically held on Saturdays and require advance reservations. To schedule a tour, contact Steve and Terry Bailes at 304-469-7359 or bailessteve@yahoo.com.  Read more: https://wvexplorer.com/2025/05/24/west-virginia-natural-wonder-ice-mountain-tours/     #2 – From DAILY304 The "Innovators and Entrepreneurs" program by daily304 showcases West Virginians who are making significant impacts through innovation and entrepreneurship. Tune in every other week to hear inspiring stories of creativity and determination from across the Mountain State.  Learn more: https://daily304.wv.gov/programs/innovators-and-entrepreneurs/     #3 – From WEST VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT The Apprenticeship In Motion (AIM) program promotes and expands registered, nontraditional apprenticeship activities in West Virginia. This initiative helps develop courses needed statewide, increasing and improving apprenticeship programs to build a skilled workforce.  Discover more: https://westvirginia.gov/incentives-and-programs/apprenticeship-in-motion/     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.

Don't worry, there's not 77 of them, just 4. and all 4 of 77 Spears are in MLPP Towers this week for a shooting of the breeze!We discuss the fragrant public service they provide, their up coming album, making a live album, disappearing founder members and the band reveal how they push the boundaries of what can be merchandise to the very limit.Tom has a holiday report, Niallism's joined a club and we discuss what might happen if some West Virginians were confronted with Coventry.Additional music this week is from Tenpole Tudor, Septic & The Tanks, The Vandals, The Distillers and Irked.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Tuesday, June 3, 2025 #1 – From EDA.WV.GOV Skana Aluminum is opening its newest operation in Jackson County, West Virginia. The move represents a major investment by the Wisconsin-based company as it expands its U.S. footprint. The 330,000-square-foot facility is expected to create up to 200 jobs and help meet increasing demand for aluminum products across several industries. Skana joins a growing list of companies recognizing West Virginia's business-friendly environment and strategic logistics. Read more: https://eda.wv.gov/skana-aluminum/ #2 – From DAILY304.WV.GOV Check out the "Innovators and Entrepreneurs" video series from the daily304. You'll hear directly from startup founders, small business owners, and change-makers who are building success in the Mountain State. Each episode dives into what inspires these West Virginians, the challenges they've overcome, and why Almost Heaven is the perfect place to grow an idea into a movement. Watch now: https://daily304.wv.gov/programs/innovators-and-entrepreneurs/ #3 – From WESTVIRGINIA.GOV GATC Health is bringing its cutting-edge AI technology to West Virginia. The biotech company plans to collaborate with local universities and health systems, helping accelerate drug development and disease prediction tools. GATC Health's arrival supports the state's goal of diversifying its economy through innovation and high-tech partnerships. From mining to medicine, #YesWV continues to show what transformation looks like. Read more: https://westvirginia.gov/gatc-health-advancing-medicine-with-ai-in-yeswv/ 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 2, 2025  UC's Business Accelerator Program helps West Virginians looking to grow their business…job opportunities abound in construction trades throughout West Virginia…and take the next step toward advancing your career by signing up for a WorkForce WV Statewide Virtual Job Fair…on today's daily304.   #1 – From UCWV– Are you looking to start or grow a business? Sign up for the Business Accelerator Program at the University of Charleston's Downtown Innovation Hub. To be a sophisticated business owner, you need a systematic way to grow your business. The skilled professionals at UC DIH have worked with dozens of growth companies from startups to multi-million-dollar enterprises to develop a systems approach that brings clarity to business management, enabling you to scale up and grow your business. Learn more: https://www.ucwv.edu/innovation/dih/   #2 – From METRO NEWS – Those with the construction trades in West Virginia say technology has transformed and added opportunities for those looking for job opportunities in the Mountain State. Affiliated Construction Trades West Virginia Executive Director Justin Williams says a wide range of good-paying jobs are available for people willing to sweat and work with their hands. Several members of the trades from West Virginia are in Ohio working on the construction of a microchip plan. Closer to home, there is the major bridge project over the Monongahela River in Morgantown, work on the WVU campus, a new Mon Health facility in the Bridgeport area and the $20 million Morris Family Health and Fitness Complex at Glenville State University. “The studies say over the next 15 years a great number of trades members are going to be retirement-eligible,” Williams said. “I'm not saying they're going to retire, but we need to train the workers to be able to fill those positions.” Read more: https://wvmetronews.com/2025/05/27/officials-say-skilled-trades-jobs-available-in-west-virginia/   #3 – From WORKFORCE WV– Are you a West Virginia job seeker looking to change or advance your career? Through the Virtual Statewide Job Fairs, you can chat with multiple organizations that are hiring all across West Virginia!  As an attendee, you can apply, live chat, video chat and interview virtually with employers participating in the event.  Virtual job fairs are scheduled for June 4, July 2 and August 6. Register now and take the next step toward starting or advancing your new career! Read more: https://workforcewv.org/statewide-virtual-job-fairs/   Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.  That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Saturday, May 24, 2025  The business director for the WV Secretary of State's office discusses entrepreneurship opportunities in #YesWV…all aboard the Potomac Eagle for a scenic trip along the south branch of the Potomac River…and an associate professor at WVU is documenting the state's garment history…on today's daily304.   #1 – From WV SOS OFFICE – Join us for “Just Three Questions,” when West Virginia Secretary of State Kris Warner hosts Sarah Carey, the business division director for the Secretary of State's office. Secretary Warner and Director Carey discuss this year's West Virginia Entrepreneurship Conference at Shepherd University, the resources of the West Virginia Entrepreneurship Ecosystem and the innovative ways to do business with the West Virginia One Stop Business Center. Watch now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?si=_lOMWaobDhMojejx&v=5rWzykwn2LU&feature=youtu.be   #2 – From WBOY-TV – The Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad allowed 12 News to experience all of the magic behind its three-hour trough trip, which takes riders through the mountains of West Virginia to see eagles up close. The route begins at the Romney train station and travels along an old, historic line that was originally built by the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad. The ride travels along the south branch of the Potomac River, an area you can only travel through by canoe, kayak or train. Due to the area being fairly isolated, it's an ideal spot for eagles to nest. Learn more and book your train ride at potomaceagle.com. Read more: https://www.wboy.com/wv-outdoors/how-you-can-spot-bald-eagles-on-the-potomac-eagle-scenic-railroad/   #3 – From WVU MAGAZINE – Katie Jones believes the garb of West Virginia's ghosts can tell us how those people lived and who they wanted to be. Jones is an associate professor at West Virginia University's College of Creative Arts and Media and is coordinator for the School of Art and Design's fashion design and merchandising program. She's one year into a five-year USDA-funded research project to bring garment and textile collections statewide out of dark closets and into public view. “We should be able to tell the story of how West Virginians have presented themselves to the world and how they've contributed to a fashion economy,” she said. Jones wants to document collections including anything people put on their bodies, from accessories and workwear to special-occasion garments like wedding dresses. She has started “as local as we can get,” digitizing WVU's own dress collection, which she estimates contains 3,000-5,000 pieces.  Read more: https://magazine.wvu.edu/stories/2025/02/08/this-old-thing   Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.  That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Saturday, May 17, 2025  Start your journey to better health and fitness with a Mountaineer Mile hike at West Virginia's stunning state parks…discover small town charm paired with big outdoor experiences in Elkins…and grow your business with the University of Charleston's Business Accelerator Program…on today's daily304.   #1 – From WV STATE PARKS – There is no better place to get outside and get moving than West Virginia's stunning state parks.  Governor Patrick Morrisey has launched the Mountaineer Mile to encourage West Virginians to walk at least one mile daily and has designated an official Mountaineer Mile trail in 32 state parks.  From the gentle loop circling the lake at Little Beaver to the winding trail to Elakala Falls at Blackwater Falls, West Virginia's state parks offer a variety of treks for hikers of all fitness levels. Visit wvstateparks.com to view the list of Mountaineer Mile trails and get started on your journey to fitness and health! Read more: https://wvstateparks.com/take-on-a-mountaineer-mile-trail-in-west-virginia-state-parks/   #2 – From NORTHERN VIRGINIA MAGAZINE – If you're looking for a place that blends small-town charm with big outdoor experiences, look no further than Elkins, West Virginia. Set in the heart of the Allegheny Mountains, Elkins is a welcoming hub for hikers, bikers, road trippers, and anyone who loves a town with character, creativity, and easy access to nature. Discover a downtown that's full of character, with great options for food and drink. Hop aboard a scenic train ride. Explore the area's rich history. Plan an outdoor adventure and bask in the beauty of Almost Heaven--all from the charming mountain town of Elkins.  Read more: https://northernvirginiamag.com/sponsored/2025/04/29/explore-elkins-randolph-county-west-virginia-your-basecamp-for-mountain-adventure/   #3 – From UNIVERSITY OF CHARLESTON – At the UC Downtown Innovation Hub, we know you strive to be a sophisticated business owner. To do that, you need a systematic way to grow your business.  After working with dozens of growth companies from startups to multi-million-dollar enterprises, the University of Charleston has developed a systems approach that brings clarity to business management, enabling you to scale up and grow your business. Learn more about the Business Accelerator Program. Read more: https://www.ucwv.edu/innovation/dih/   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.

Senator Jim Justice joins the show to discuss a variety of issues. Brad McElhinny breaks down a lawsuit aimed at preventing job cuts at NIOSH in Morgantown. How could Medicaid cuts impact West Virginians? Activists in Morgantown are upset that voters upheld a camping ban ordinance. WVSSAC Executive Director Wayne Ryan joins the show. 

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Thursday, May 1, 2025  Commercial Metals says #YesWV, building a state-of-the-art steel mill in Berkeley County…WV Economic Development authority financing helps iconic potato chip maker Mister Bee triple their capacity…and a West Virginia couple looks to the WV Small Business Center for assistance in launching their kayak loading company…on today's daily304.   #1 – From WVDED – Commercial Metals Company is making a significant investment in West Virginia by constructing a state-of-the-art micro mill in Berkeley County. This $450 million facility will produce 500,000 tons of straight-length and spooled rebar annually. CMC chose West Virginia for its strategic location, offering efficient access to major metropolitan markets in the Mid-Atlantic, Northeast, and Midwest regions. Additionally, the state's welcoming business climate and skilled, available labor force make it an ideal location for CMC's expansion. The new micro mill will be one of the most environmentally friendly steelmaking operations globally, utilizing 100% recycled steel as raw material and electric energy for production. Read more: https://westvirginia.gov/cmc-says-yes-to-west-virginia-building-a-state-of-the-art-steel-mill-in-the-mountain-state/   #2 – From WVEDA – Mister Bee is the only potato chip made in West Virginia. New owner Mary Anne Ketelsen was determined to make sure the brand would be around for generations to come. When she took over in 2018, the operation needed to be completely rehauled. With West Virginia Economic Development Authority financing, Mister Bee was able to triple their capacity, make new products, and hire more people. Watch the video: https://eda.wv.gov/iconic-potato-chip-manufacturer-is-thriving-with-wveda-support/   #3 – From WVSBDC – Like many West Virginians, Jeff and Vicki Wilson shared a passion for the outdoors. But the couple struggled to load and unload their heavy fishing kayaks -- a tiring and time-consuming task that left them frustrated. The challenge they faced sparked an idea, and with support from the West Virginia Small Business Development Center, they were able to make their dream into a reality. The partnership resulted in the launch of Kayak Loading Solutions, a West Virginia-made quality product that also helps boost the economic health of the community and state.  Read more: https://wvsbdc.com/how-wv-sbdc-helped-kayak-loading-solutions-turn-an-idea-into-a-reality/   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.

We're back for another edition of the Hurricane Hundred K Runner Profile and Education Series with West Virginian, Anne Tisdell. We sat down with Anne — ultrarunner, coach, and fresh off her WIN at the Arizona Monster 300 — to talk all things endurance, mindset, and the wild journey of running 300+ miles through the desert

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Monday, April 28, 2025  Commercial Metals says #YesWV with the construction of a $450 million state-of-the-art micro mill in Berkeley County…newly designated Mountaineer Mile trails at West Virginia state parks encourage West Virginians to get active while enjoying nature…and applications are open for a new grant program for small businesses in Kanawha County…on today's daily304.   #1 – From WV NEWS – Commercial Metals Company is bringing a major economic boost to West Virginia with the construction of a cutting-edge micro mill in Berkeley County. The $450 million investment marks a significant expansion for the company and reinforces West Virginia's appeal as a hub for advanced manufacturing. The new facility is designed to produce approximately 500,000 tons of straight-length and spooled rebar each year. This state-of-the-art micro mill will support demand for steel in infrastructure, construction, and industrial sectors across key regions including the Mid-Atlantic, Northeast, and Midwest. CMC selected West Virginia for its strategic geographic location, which provides streamlined access to several major metropolitan markets. The company cited the state's pro-business policies, skilled labor pool and strong infrastructure also as central to the decision Read more: https://www.wvnews.com/news/wvnews/commercial-metals-company-to-build-450-million-micro-mill-in-berkeley-county-west-virginia/article_0e633cec-220e-4331-aeb4-42c996cb85ed.html   #2 – From WVVA-TV – West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey has announced a new initiative that encourages West Virginians to walk at least a mile a day. The governor joined other state officials recently at Little Beaver State Park to unveil the first Mountaineer Mile trail around the lakefront. As part of the initiative, 32 state parks in West Virginia will have a Mountaineer Mile Trail.  Morrisey says he hopes the trails will encourage people to be healthier as well as visit the state's scenic state parks.  “Because West Virginia has the most beautiful state parks in the country, there's no better place to partake in the Mountaineer Mile challenge,” he said. “If the Mountaineer Mile can take off across the state, it will lead to incredible health outcomes for our residents.” Read more: https://www.wvva.com/2025/04/16/gov-morrisey-unveils-first-mountaineer-mile-trail/   #3 – From SMALL BIZ TRENDS –  Optimum Business and the Charleston Area Alliance have announced the opening of applications for the Lifting Up Small Businesses Grants, a new initiative aimed at bolstering small business growth in Kanawha County.  As part of the program, 25 small businesses will each receive a $5,000 grant, totaling $125,000 in funding to support long-term economic prosperity in the region. The grant program, introduced on April 14, is designed to directly support local entrepreneurs and strengthen the community's economic infrastructure. The initiative includes recognition events hosted by Optimum Business, where local officials and community partners will celebrate the awarded businesses. Learn more about the grant program's rules and eligibility here. Read more: https://smallbiztrends.com/optimum-kanawha-small-business-grants/   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.

Mairah Clay who is the Southern WV Coordinator and Autumn Crowe who is the Deputy Director of WV Rivers.Many West Virginians are taking a stand against the Mountain Valley Pipeline. Communities across the state are voicing their opposition to a project they say threatens fragile ecosystems, endangers clean water sources, and disregards Indigenous and rural land rights. With the rugged beauty of Appalachia at stake, West Virginians are fighting back—demanding a transition to cleaner energy and a future that protects both people and the land they call home.A report from West Virginia Rivers Coalition and Downstream Strategies highlighted that 88% of the 139 stream crossings and 89% of the 61 wetland crossings by the MVP in West Virginia were negatively impacted, with 14 stream crossings showing severe decreases in channel stability .​In March 2025, a federal court invalidated a key water permit for the MVP, emphasizing the project's detrimental effects on West Virginia's rivers and streams. This decision was celebrated by environmental groups as a significant step in protecting the state's water resources from further harm.Contact and connect with Mariah and Autumn: mclay@wvrivers.org and acrowe@wvrivers.org WV Rivers: https://wvrivers.org/ MVP Story Map & Petition: https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/05ae21f465af43509d576338119b29adMVP Audit Report: https://wvrivers.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/MVP-November-2024-Audit-Report.pdf

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Wednesday, April 23, 2025  A New Martinsville windows and doors manufacturer boosts their growth with help from the WV DED…the WV Office of Energy is hosting an online session to teach the public how they can benefit from the Home Energy Rebate Program…and Charleston's Elk City district is seeing an influx of new businesses…on today's daily304.   #1 – From WV DED – Sprouse Windows and Doors has deep roots in West Virginia's manufacturing landscape. Founded in Paden City in 1972, the family-owned company took a big step forward when it relocated its corporate operations to a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in New Martinsville. What sets Sprouse apart is their dedication to crafting energy-efficient vinyl windows that meet the highest standards. Over the years, their commitment to innovation and excellence has propelled them to serve not just lumberyard dealers but also distributors across more than 10 states. They credit their success to the people and the business-friendly environment of West Virginia. They also highlight the ease of working with the West Virginia Department of Economic Development, which has been instrumental in their growth journey.  Read more: https://westvirginia.gov/sprouse-windows-and-doors-a-legacy-of-quality-and-innovation/   #2 – From WV ENERGY – The West Virginia Office of Energy is hosting an online public information session on Wednesday, April 30 detailing plans for the upcoming Home Energy Rebate Program. This program will provide West Virginians with financial incentives for energy efficient upgrades that can make homes more comfortable and help reduce energy bills, and also provides workforce training opportunities for current or aspiring home and energy contractors in our state.  Register now: https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/1ec35e0b-cfff-4470-9a8d-cec4c08d7798@4ee48f43-e15d-4f4a-ad55-d0990aac660e   #3 – From WCHS-TV – Small Business Liaison for the City of Charleston Audrey Conn says the city's local small business climate continues to be on the rise. She's been busy following up with all of the small business opportunities that keep pouring into the city, including Wine Down, the new wine bar that opened recently on the West Side. This is particularly exciting as the city is also about to roll out their Sip-N-Stroll in that area, implementing a Private Outdoor Designated Area for outside alcohol consumption. The Elk City district has seen a lot of growth, particularly in the restaurant industry. Sergios and Albuquerque Southwest Bar and Grill have been just a couple of local restaurants to recently open in that area. Conn said developing small businesses may not know just how many resources are available to them in the city, such as the West Virginia Small Business Development Center. She cited a number of additional resources available to small businesses.  “You're talking Charleston Area Alliance that has a business incubator, you're talking Workforce West Virginia that actually has a free version of Indeed, so they help job seekers and employers, you have Base Innovations, which helps veterans and their families who are trying to open businesses.” Read more: https://wchsnetwork.com/2025/04/14/city-of-charleston-helps-work-with-small-businesses-looking-to-move-in/   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.

Mary Anne Buchanan from West Virginians for Life on the 27th Rose Dinner April 25 in MorgantownMorgantown Mayor Joe Abu Ghannam on the new city manager and other city issues 

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Wednesday, April 16, 2025  The WV DEP is seeking volunteers for its annual Adopt-A-Highway Statewide Spring Cleanup on April 26…Runners, mark your calendar for the brand-new UC Marathon coming to Charleston next April…and do you want to make a difference in your community? Sign up for the WV Hub's Kickstart Communities Coaching for Transformation Fellowship…on today's daily304.   #1 – From WV NEWS – The West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection is accepting registrations for the 2025 Adopt-A-Highway Spring Statewide Cleanup, scheduled for Saturday, April 26.  Organized through the WVDEP's Rehabilitation Environmental Action Plan and co-sponsored by the West Virginia Division of Highways, the Adopt-A-Highway program aims to reduce roadside litter while encouraging civic engagement. Volunteers from all walks of life—including individuals, families, schools, local organizations, and businesses—are encouraged to participate. Participants can sign up to clean nearly any state-maintained road, including back roads and major routes. Volunteers receive free cleanup supplies, including garbage bags, gloves, and safety vests, while WVDEP handles the proper disposal of the collected litter. To register, call 1-800-322-5530 or email dep.aah@wv.gov with your name, group name, phone number, cleanup date, number of participants, and the county where your adopted road is located. Read more: https://www.wvnews.com/news/wvnews/wvdep-opens-registration-for-2025-adopt-a-highway-spring-cleanup-in-west-virginia/article_9e17513f-8fa0-439f-acc3-9a66b19ee947.html   #2 – From WCHS-TV – Charleston is partnering with University of Charleston to host its longest-distance run yet. The UC Marathon will be the first marathon the Capitol City has held in nearly 30 years. The race, debuting in April of next year, will feature a fast and flat 26.2 mile course through the city's most popular locations, including the downtown area, the historic Elk City district, Kanawha City, and UC's scenic riverfront campus. UC Honors College students will be in charge of planning, promoting, and executing next April's marathon. The race. All proceeds are expected to go directly to the support of the Honors College and help fund future scholar and leadership opportunities for them. Read more: https://wchsnetwork.com/2025/04/07/full-marathon-to-return-to-capitol-city-after-nearly-30-years/   #3 – From WV HUB – Applications are open for the 2025 Kickstart Communities Coaching for Transformation Fellowship. The fellowship, sponsored by the WV Hub, is for West Virginians who are looking to advance their skills needed to engage in and lead impactful community development initiatives.  This six-month program includes an orientation session, nine full-day events (2 virtual, 7 in-person), monthly coaching sessions, peer-to-peer mentorship, and project development. Anyone who wants to make a difference in West Virginia communities is welcome to apply. Read more: https://wvhub.org/kickstartfellowships/applyforcoaching/   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, April 8, 2025. Looking to film in Almost Heaven? The West Virginia Film Office can help you secure your perfect location, find skilled workforce and navigate permitting…Generation WV helps employers connect with qualified talent around the state…and Jobcase has the scoop on film industry jobs in #YesWV…on today's daily304. #1 – From WV FILM OFFICE – Whether you're looking for the perfect location for your next film project, or you're a crew member ready to undertake your next project, the West Virginia Film Office is here for you. The Film Office team can help you secure your perfect location, find skilled workforce and navigate film permitting. West Virginia is ready to help with an experienced crew, an established statewide network of governmental agencies, nation-leading fiscal incentives, local business leaders and community representatives that are unmatched in hospitality.  Learn more: https://westvirginia.gov/wvfilm/   #2 – 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.  Ready to partner with Generation West Virginia on your hiring needs? Let's connect! Learn more: https://www.jobcase.com/articles/wv-career-connector-hiring   #3 – From JOBCASE –  Since the earliest days of silent film, West Virginia has played a role in the film industry. A long list of West Virginians played pivotal roles in film and TV history, from late, great stars like Don Knotts to modern-day stars like Jennifer Garner. #YesWV has long sent talent to Hollywood to make their way -- like Lawrence Kasdan, a Morgantown native who wrote “Raiders of the Lost Ark” and  “The Empire Strikes Back” -- the state is now working to reel in film, TV and creative productions to the Mountain State.  Now, people here -- whether they are producers, caterers, set carpenters, stunt coordinators, hair and makeup, drone operators or electricians -- can plug into the wide range of creative and blue-collar jobs in the film and TV industry. Check out Jobcase to see who's hiring! Read more: https://www.jobcase.com/articles/film-is-back-in-wv   Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.  That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.  

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Tuesday, April 1, 2025. West Liberty University debuts its new aviation program--an offshoot of Marshall's Bill Noe Flight School…West Virginia supports a thriving aerospace industry…and the leaders of  MHIRJ Aviation Global share how their Bridgeport maintenance facility contributes to the US transportation infrastructure…on today's daily304. #1 – From THE WHEELING INTELLIGENCER – It seems that the new aviation program at West Liberty University is taking flight. The bachelor of science program is affiliated with the Bill Noe Flight School at Marshall University and those who graduate from the aviation program at WLU will hold credentials from both schools. The flight instruction at WLU started last fall and presently has about 13 students, with 25 already enrolled for the fall 2025 semester, according to James B. Smith, director of aviation maintenance technology education at Marshall University. WLU offers classes to those interested in being a commercial airline pilot, corporate pilot, cargo pilot, flight instructor or aerospace operations manager. In the coming years, Marshall will be bringing their entire suite of aviation classes to the Wheeling-Ohio County Airport, according to Kevin Price, chief development officer for aviation at the airport. Read more: https://www.theintelligencer.net/news/top-headlines/2025/03/aviation-program-taking-off-at-west-liberty-university/   #2 – From WVDED  – The aerospace industry is a dynamic, emerging economic sector in West Virginia. From up-and-coming high-tech innovators to established titans of the industry, the state's growing cluster of aerospace companies is fueled by an array of advantages. West Virginia is within a day's drive of 34% of the top domestic purchasing sectors of aerospace products and national defense contractors, corporations and federal agencies. Additionally, the state is in close proximity to original equipment manufacturers based in the South, including Boeing, AirBus, Lockheed Martin and Gulfstream. To learn more about the diverse opportunities you can discover through the West Virginia advantage, connect with West Virginia Economic Development online. Learn more: https://westvirginia.gov/industries/aerospace/   #3 – From DAILY304 – In this episode of Innovators and Entrepreneurs, we speak with Ross Mitchell, Vice-President of MHIRJ Aviation Global, and Michael Genin, Director of Operations for MHIRJ Aviation in Bridgeport, West Virginia. MHIRJ is the leader in aviation maintenance for the CRJ Series, the world's most successful regional jet. With more than 550 employees in West Virginia and state-of-the-art hangars in Bridgeport, this growing company supports the top three airlines in the US and top regional airlines in the world. 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. Subscribe to the daily304's YouTube channel so you don't miss out! Watch the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fs0uSJ5IgIA   Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.  That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.  

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Saturday, March 29, 2025. A West Virginia couple's love for fishing and kayaking sparks an idea that turns into a business…WorkForce WV launches a texting campaign to connect unemployed and underemployed residents with resources…and hit up four amazing state parks in one wild and wonderful road trip…on today's daily304.   #1 – From WV SBDC –  Like many West Virginians, Jeff and Vicki Wilson shared a passion for the outdoors. But the couple struggled to load and unload their heavy fishing kayaks.  The challenge they faced sparked an idea, and with support from the West Virginia Small Business Development Center, they were able to make their dream into a reality. They connected with a business coach who helped them launch Kayak Loading Solutions. Now the couple is producing West Virginia-made quality products that also help boost the economic health of the community and state.  Read more https://wvsbdc.com/how-wv-sbdc-helped-kayak-loading-solutions-turn-an-idea-into-a-reality/   #2 – From WORKFORCE WV – WorkForce West Virginia has announced a new texting campaign in conjunction with the agency's Unemployment Insurance Program initiative to further connect unemployed and underemployed West Virginians with resources.  The UI program serves as a vital financial support system for individuals and their families during periods of unemployment or underemployment, providing a safety net until full-time employment is secured.  Text messages from WorkForce West Virginia will come from 1-800-252-5627 and will never request sensitive information. If you prefer not to receive text updates, you can opt out at any time. For more information or to file a claim, visit WorkForceWV.org or contact your nearest WorkForce West Virginia local office. Read more: https://workforcewv.org/workforce-west-virginia-announces-new-texting-campaign-for-unemployment-insurance-ui-program/   #3 – From WV STATE PARKS – Have you had West Virginia state park on your list to check out for a while now? Not sure which ones to start with? These four state parks and forests are the perfect road trip through the Potomac Highlands. Begin your adventure at Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park, a historic site that transports you back to the Civil War era. Just a short drive away is Beartown State Park, renowned for its ancient, 300-million-year-old rock formations. The third stop, Calvin Price State Forest, offers more opportunities for exploration via the Allegheny Trail and the Greenbrier River Trail  End your road trip (and book a cabin or camping spot) at Watoga State Park. With over 40 miles of trails, the park offers endless opportunities to hike, bike, boat, fish and more.  Visit wvstateparks.com or wvtourism.com for more road trip itineraries in Almost Heaven! Learn more: https://wvstateparks.com/road-trip-through-these-4-west-virginia-state-parks/   Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.  That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.  

Today on MetroNews This Morning--WVU basketball is shut out of the Big Dance--Major wind storm damage in parts of West Virginia--House Speaker Roger Hanshaw isn't a fan of proposed changes to vaccine laws--In Sports: Although the Mountaineer men are out of the NCAA tourney, the women are in and several West Virginians will be playing in the college basketball post season

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Thursday, March 6, 2025. A new program from WorkForce West Virginia connects unemployed residents with helpful resources…WVU-Parkersburg president says the sweeping renovations taking place on campus are all about vision…and Mister Bee Potato Chips launches a new chip flavor that pays tribute to Mothman…on today's daily304. #1 – From WORKFORCE WV – WorkForce West Virginia has announced a new initiative to increase access to and understanding of the Unemployment Insurance program. The primary goal of this outreach effort is to ensure that more West Virginians understand if they are eligible for the program, know how to apply and have the necessary information to complete their applications.  The UI program serves as a vital financial support system for individuals and their families during periods of unemployment or underemployment, providing a safety net until full-time employment is secured.  Individuals who meet the eligibility criteria are encouraged to file their UI claims online at uc.workforcewv.org. For those who may have limited access to computers or the internet, WorkForce West Virginia local offices are equipped with necessary resources including computers for filing UI claims.  Read more: https://workforcewv.org/workforce-west-virginias-unemployment-insurance-program-initiative-connects-unemployed-and-underemployed-west-virginians-with-resources/   #2 – From NEWS & SENTINEL – Renovation work is continuing on the Stott Administration Building on the former campus of Ohio Valley University to turn it into the new Innovation and Technology Center at West Virginia University at Parkersburg.  WVUP President Torie Jackson says it's all about vision when it comes to helping the area grow with new educational opportunities. The IT Center is expected to open for classes in the fall.  A second phase, occurring simultaneously, will be setting up the new daycare facility in the former OVU Library space. Jackson said OVU's chapel space will be left intact as a meeting space and to be rented out for weddings. The old OVU kitchen could be updated at some point into a commercial kitchen facility and they are looking for someone who might be able to convert the former cafeteria into a restaurant. “What we are doing here has the potential to change Vienna for generations, because it is a project that allows for a housing development over time, allows for schools to be located and it allows for many businesses to have opportunities here in Vienna,” she said. Read more: https://www.newsandsentinel.com/news/business/2025/02/mid-ohio-valley-foundations-education-west-virginia-university-at-parkersburg-works-on-new-innovation-and-technology-center/   #3 – From WV NEWS – Mister Bee Potato Chips has unveiled a “Mothman Style Mysterious Spice Blend Chip” in honor of the legend of the Mothman and popular festival in Point Pleasant. The chips are rolling out on local store shelves now and will be available statewide soon. Co-owner Mary Anne Ketelsen said she and the leadership team at Mister Bee – the only manufacturer of potato chips in the state – are continuing to showcase the best of West Virginia with special chip bags and exciting new flavors. The Mothman chips are the latest in a line of special edition flavors produced by Mister Bee, including pepperoni roll chips to honor the coal miners who introduced the treat to our state; and a sausage and biscuit flavored chip in partnership with Tudor's Biscuit World, to benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation in West Virginia. Read more: https://www.wvnews.com/news/wvnews/mister-bee-teases-mothman-inspired-snack-for-west-virginia/article_3fb728f8-f542-11ef-9739-37494a7348de.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.  

The Trump administration's efforts to cut federal spending is targeting a broad range of departments and agencies including the low-income health care program Medicaid. Republican lawmakers want work requirements in place for eligibility. But the scope of Medicaid programs goes beyond direct health care. Many people rely on Medicaid for treatment of substance use disorder and drug addiction. West Virginia has the nation's highest overdose numbers and the rate for African American people exceeds any other group. In this episode of Us & Them, host Trey Kay learns how Medicaid money supports the organizations that work in recovery and what that work looks like.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Sunday, Feb. 23, 2025  Jackson County's new metals plant hosts a progress tour…artist Kelson Thorne's murals brighten communities across the state…and West Virginia's own Jennifer Garner makes Variety's list of best TV performances of the 21st century…on today's daily304. #1 – From WOWK-TV – The future of metalmaking is slowly taking shape in Jackson County. TIMET, also known as Titanium Metals Corporation, is one step closer to building a plant where furnaces will be used to melt and process titanium. The plant hosted a tour earlier this month to show their progress since last year's groundbreaking. They are expected to start melting metal in the fall. Leaders said the facility will be the “first of its kind.” The plant will use renewable solar energy through a partnership with BHE Renewables. When operations are officially up and running, it will create two hundred jobs for the local economy. Read more: https://www.wowktv.com/news/west-virginia/jackson-county-wv/titanium-manufacturing-plant-hosts-progress-tour-congresswoman-miller-among-guests/   #2 – From WV LIVING – Artist and muralist Kelson Thorne finds inspiration in West Virginia and communities across the state. A Petersburg resident and WVU graduate, he strives to use his art to make his community a better place. One way he does that is through the Folk Around Appalachian Arts and Music Festival, something he has hosted twice via his art company, Art Junkie. He's already working on the third event, planned for this coming June. Thorne says the festival will be combined with a Petersburg Art Week, taking it from a one-day event to two days. The goal is to celebrate the community with an emphasis on Appalachian arts—which includes musical acts and those specializing in fine arts. Thorne's first mural was for a resident of Westover, across the river from Morgantown. He had never done a large-scale project but, to get the job, he says, he told the client he'd figure it out. Figure it out he did: Murals have since become a big focus for him. Many of his murals can be found spread throughout Petersburg, with others found in Keyser and Marlinton. Read more: https://wvliving.com/the-art-on-the-wall/   #3 – From WOWK-TV – Despite being born in Houston, Jennifer Garner has embraced West Virginia as her home ever since moving here when she was three years old, and one of her first major roles has recently garnered some recognition from Variety. Garner's performance as Sydney Bristow on “Alias” was number 54 on Variety's list of “The 100 Greatest TV Performances of the 21st Century.” The list only features scripted shows that started on or after Jan. 1, 2000. Since “Alias,” Garner has become Hollywood royalty with performances in films like “Deadpool & Wolverine,” “Juno” and “13 Going on 30.” In 2018, she received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, making her the fifth West Virginian to have one. Read more: https://www.wowktv.com/news/west-virginia/west-virginia-actress-featured-on-list-of-best-tv-performances-of-21st-century/   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.

Lakota, Jr < and stacey explore wrestling as a hole . Tell some WV facts and things only West Virginians know . But wrestling is the main thing on the agenda . AEW, TNA a, and WWE all under one roof ...

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. Volunteer West Virginia offers grants for AmeriCorps programs…West Virginia Northern Community College receives funding to boost manufacturing and production skills…and West Virginia's “snow bowl” offers the ultimate winter sport experience…on today's daily304. #1 – From VOLUNTEER WV – ​Volunteer West Virginia announces a funding opportunity through AmeriCorps State Formula grants for eligible applicants. Potential applicants will apply to operate an AmeriCorps program solely in West Virginia utilizing at least five AmeriCorps members beginning in fall 2025 or spring 2026. Volunteer West Virginia, the state's commission for national and community service, challenges West Virginians to strengthen their communities through service and volunteerism. The commission administers West Virginia's AmeriCorps service programs in cooperation with local and state grantees.  To apply, visit volunteerwv.gov. Learn more: https://volunteer.wv.gov/Grants/Pages/AmeriCorps-Formula-Funding.aspx   #2 – From WTOV9-TV – West Virginia Northern Community College has been awarded a $1.5 million grant from the U.S. Department of Labor as part of the Strengthening Community Colleges Initiative. The funding aims to create more job opportunities for students by developing pathway programs that lead to living-wage careers. The college's initiative, known as M.A.P.S. 2.0, will focus on manufacturing and production skills. Students entering the advanced manufacturing career and technical education program from high school will develop skills in advanced manufacturing while earning dual credit. The grant is focused on redesigning programs to ensure the production of workers needed by employers like Form Energy. As unique economic opportunities unfold in the Ohio Valley, the hope is that students will be able to stay local, enter the industry, and earn competitive salaries. Read more: https://wtov9.com/news/local/west-virginia-northern-community-college-secures-15m-grant-to-boost-job-opportunities   #3 – From WV EXPLORER – High in the Allegheny Mountains in eastern West Virginia lies a scenic valley with a Canadian-like climate in which it can snow 10 months out of the year. Though only two hours from the Washington beltway, the Canaan Valley receives more snow than the snowiest reporting station in Maine and a shorter growing season than Fairbanks, Alaska. Scientists have determined that elevation, position, and orientation are all contributing elements that notably support the valley's three ski areas. More specifically, the cold temperatures, increased precipitation, and the valley's similarity to a “huge bathtub” conspire to create its remarkably wintry conditions.  Want to experience this phenomenon for yourself? Plan a ski getaway to Canaan Valley Resort State Park, Timberline Mountain or White Grass Ski Touring Center. Check out wvtourism.com or wvstateparks.com for more information on snow sports in Almost Heaven.  Read more: https://wvexplorer.com/2025/01/03/strange-phenomena-canaan-valley-wv-west-virginia/   Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.  That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.  

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2024. Ariana Shives of the WV Digital Identity Hub shares her knowledge about securing our future…Sprouse Windows and Doors continues to serve #YesWV with top-notch products…and discover Elkins, an eclectic gem that calls to travelers seeking outdoor adventures…on today's daily304. #1 – From THE DAILY304 – In this episode of Innovators and Entrepreneurs, we talk to Ariana Shives with the West Virginia Digital Identity Tech Hub about how her organization is leading the charge with protecting your personal information. “We're extremely lucky. We have some really incredible technology that exists in and around digital identity, biosecurity, authentication – all around West Virginia,” she says. 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. Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel so you won't miss out! Watch now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?si=ccE99k6M9CKuwSnR&v=EbUTdfj4K3w&feature=youtu.be   #2 – From WVDED – To get to where you're going, you have to know where you've been. For Sprouse Windows and Doors, that journey began in 1991 in the quiet town of Paden City, West Virginia.  Initially focused on fabricating vinyl windows for their other ventures, Sprouse Windows and Doors quickly recognized a broader market need. They saw an opportunity to deliver high-quality, competitively priced windows consistently and promptly.  The company took a big step forward when it relocated its corporate operations to a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in New Martinsville. This move underscores their commitment to growth, efficiency, and continuing to serve their customers with top-notch products. Read more: https://westvirginia.gov/sprouse-windows-and-doors-a-legacy-of-quality-and-innovation/   #3 – From ISLANDS.COM – Between West Virginia's oldest town and the Snowshoe Mountain ski resort, an unassuming eclectic gem calls to travelers seeking outdoorsy adventures. Home to fewer than 7,000 residents, this charming and quiet town is known as Elkins. Surrounded by mountains and located near the Tygart Valley River and Monongahela National Forest, Elkins is the perfect base camp for active travelers who want to kayak, hike, climb, or camp. Elkins also offers unique and cozy lodging options for visitors who want to explore outdoors during the day but rest under a roof at night. Once you've recharged, jump head first into Elkins' other fascinating attractions. Nearby points of interest like a scenic railroad, historical sites, museums, markets, and more promise sightseers hours of fun. Read more: https://www.islands.com/1734906/elkins-west-virginia-town-hidden-mountains-quiet-eclectic-cozy-lodging-outdoor-thrills/?zsource=msnsyndicated   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, Dec. 26, 2024. Discover how Constellium aluminum's innovative solutions impact multiple industries…Learn about the famous people, places and events that shaped West Virginia…and hear about how the WV Small Satellite Center aims to solve real-world problems using state-of-the-art technology…on today's daily304. #1 – From WVDED – Meet Constellium, a world-leading manufacturer and recycler of aluminum products and solutions. Let's delve into the remarkable contributions of Constellium in #YesWV and how their innovative solutions are significantly impacting multiple industries. Check out the video to learn how this Ravenswood manufacturer is empowering a sustainable future, advancing the automotive industry and revolutionizing aerospace technology. Learn more: https://westvirginia.gov/exploring-the-power-of-constelliums-innovative-solutions-in-yeswv/   #2 – From THE DAILY304 – Perfectly centered among the Eastern states, West Virginia is where the thresholds of the North, South and Midwest all converge with the Appalachian Mountains, to tell the history of our nation in microcosm.  Major events like the Revolutionary and Civil wars, and famous people ranging from Daniel Boone to Katherine Johnson, mix with the rich heritage of Native Americans and men and women of all colors who reshaped the world and serve as guides through the American story. Tune in to “The History Project” to learn about the famous people, places and events that shaped West Virginia. Watch now: https://daily304.wv.gov/programs/the-history-project/ #3 – From THE DAILY304 – In this episode of Innovators and Entrepreneurs, we talk to David Martinelli, Director of the West Virginia Small Satellite Center and Scott Zemerick, Chief Scientist at TMC Technologies. Together they're spearheading the West Virginia Small Satellite Center, an innovative program that aims to solve real-world problems using state-of-the-art satellite technology.  Tune in for conversations and wisdom from West Virginians who have built their companies and launched new ideas here in the Mountain State. Watch the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?si=xyDI-ZzsAJhfNGyB&v=6FQc896qpPI&feature=youtu.be   Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.  That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.  

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.   Today is Saturday, Dec. 21, 2024. Start the New Year off right with a First Day Hike at WV state parks…Ravenswood officials are excited about a water development grant that is expected to boost recreational opportunities in the city…and Charleston's Chef Paul Smith is 2024's West Virginian of the Year…on today's daily304.   #1 – From WBOY-TV – Celebrate the new year with a refreshing stroll in the great outdoors! On Jan. 1, several West Virginia state parks are offering First Day Hikes. All of the hikes are free, guided and perfect for families and people more comfortable hiking in groups. All ages are welcome and everyone who participates in one of the hikes will receive a First Day Hike patch. Parks offering the hikes include Blackwater Falls, North Bend, Tygart Lake, Cacapon Resort, Kanawha State Forest, Pipestem Resort, Twin Falls Resort, Watoga and Cedar Creek. For details, visit wvstateparks.com and click on Events. Read more: https://www.wboy.com/wv-outdoors/list-first-day-hikes-to-kick-off-the-new-year-in-west-virginia/   #2 – From WSAZ-TV – The city of Ravenswood has been awarded a $36 million grant from the West Virginia Water Development Authority for water enhancement projects. With the money, the city plans to build a new wastewater treatment plant, create the Sand Creek Pedestrian Bridge, and create a welcome center/commercial building. They also will build two 14-spot boat slips and a boat access ramp at Sand Creek Marina. Lastly, the city is going to create a Sports Complex where the current lagoons sit. Mayor Josh Miller says this helps push Ravenswood to become a true river town. “I mean, you got to have a reason for people to come to your town,” Miller said. “This world now, it's about experience, and when they come to Ravenswood, I want them to have a positive experience.” Read more: https://www.wsaz.com/2024/12/12/grant-helping-revitalize-ravenswood-true-river-town/   #3 – From WV LIVING – This past June, during a star-studded gala in Chicago, Paul Smith made history by becoming the first chef in West Virginia to ever win the prestigious James Beard Award for “Best Chef: Southeast.” “I wasn't there just for my restaurant or even my city,” he says. “I looked at it as having the whole state behind me, because that's what we do here in West Virginia. We celebrate our own.” For that reason and so many others, WV Living honors him as its 2024 West Virginian of the Year.  Months after that monumental achievement, “Chef Paul” chatted with the magazine staff at his Charleston restaurant,1010 Bridge, to talk about what this achievement has meant to him and what the future may hold. Read more: https://wvliving.com/paul-smith-is-savoring-success-on-the-national-stage/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR1fJDcmUtHS5SFeTDG-dhY7ABZufYn_KG72ppj9WnRjkXB--v-aA7Tr4l0_aem_vslI6LuhqMBXzErW1EymRQ   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.  

Nancy Santomero and Vicki Durian hitchhiked from Arizona to West Virginia in the summer of 1980. They planned to attend the Rainbow Gathering, an annual event where like-minded, free spirits could peacefully gather and celebrate. Just before they arrived, someone killed them. The murder remains unsolved, and the question remains: Were the women killed by West Virginian locals, as law enforcement believed? Or were they victims of serial killer Joseph Paul Franklin? Keep up with us on Instagram @serialkillerspodcast! Have a story to share? Email us at serialkillerstories@spotify.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Amendment 1 focuses on medically assisted suicide. Related Resources WWYS - Assisted Suicide is Compassionate  __________ Register for the 2025 Colson Center National Conference May 30- June 1 in Louisville, KY at colsonconference.org.