Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.

Today is Thursday, December 18, 2025.

#1 – From SOUTHERN LIVING - Southern Living names Snowshoe a top winter destination

Southern Living is shining a national spotlight on Snowshoe Mountain Resort, highlighting its ski terrain, village atmosphere, and four-season appeal. The feature points to Snowshoe's mix of downhill skiing, snowboarding, dining, and après-ski charm as reasons it stands out among East Coast resorts. The recognition reinforces West Virginia's growing reputation as a winter recreation destination with big-mountain experiences and small-town warmth.

Read more:
https://www.southernliving.com/skiing-snowshoe-resort-west-virginia-11860772

#2 – From WV ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT - West Virginia's automotive industry keeps moving forward

West Virginia's automotive sector supports a wide range of manufacturers producing parts, components, and advanced materials for vehicles on roads around the world. With a skilled workforce, strong logistics access, and competitive operating costs, the state continues to attract automotive suppliers and related industries. Visit WV Economic Development online to learn more about automotive companies in #YesWV.

Read more:
https://westvirginia.gov/industries/automotive/

#3 – From WV ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY - WVEDA helps build business momentum in #YesWV

The West Virginia Economic Development Authority plays a central role in helping businesses start, expand, and succeed. Through financing programs, partnerships, and strategic support, WVEDA helps companies access capital and move projects forward across the state. The agency's work supports job creation, community investment, and long-term economic growth throughout the Mountain State.

Read more: https://eda.wv.gov/building-business-momentum-how-wveda-helps-west-virginia-grow/

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, December 17, 2025.

#1 – From TECH CONNECT - TechConnect WV builds momentum for innovation statewide

TechConnect West Virginia is strengthening the state's innovation ecosystem by connecting entrepreneurs, startups, investors, educators, and industry leaders. Through events, programming, and partnerships, TechConnect helps accelerate new ideas, support growing companies, and expand West Virginia's tech economy. The organization plays a key role in building networks that keep talent, capital, and innovation rooted in the Mountain State.

Read more:
https://techconnectwv.org/

#2 – From WV COMMERCE - Constellium is a global leader in aluminum innovations

At Constellium Rolled Products in Ravenswood, West Virginia-made aluminum plays a critical role in aerospace, defense, space, and transportation markets worldwide. The facility supplies materials used in commercial and military aircraft, rockets, armored vehicles, railcars, ships, and trucking equipment — exporting products to more than 40 countries. Company leaders say West Virginia's skilled workforce, strong retention of experienced employees, and a growing focus on supporting existing employers make the state an ideal place to serve global markets from a rural Appalachian community.

Watch the video:
https://youtu.be/BDH_4Kxtfpc?si=GhGlMhgijqtWY0GX

#3 – From YAHOO! LIFESTYLE - This West Virginia state park is being called 'nearly perfect'

A national travel feature is spotlighting Beech Fork State Park as one of the most appealing outdoor destinations in the country. The park's scenic beauty, hiking trails and year-round recreation make it ideal for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation. The recognition underscores how West Virginia's state parks continue to draw national attention for their natural beauty and visitor experience. Visit wvstateparks.com and start planning your getaway today!

Read more:
https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/articles/state-park-west-virginia-perfect-204500556.html

Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304.

The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty, and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.

That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.

Today is Tuesday, December 16, 2025.

#1 – From WV ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT - West Virginia's chemical & polymer industry offers opportunity

West Virginia's chemical and polymer sectors trace their roots back generations and remain vital to the state's economy, with abundant natural gas feedstock, skilled workers, and established industrial parks that support production and research. From materials science to advanced materials and polymer production, the industry continues to drive innovation, high-wage employment, and global market connections across sectors like automotive, healthcare, and coatings.

Read more:
https://westvirginia.gov/industries/chemical-polymer/

#2 – From WV SBDC - WV Small Business Development Center fuels entrepreneurship statewide

The West Virginia Small Business Development Center (WV SBDC) provides no-cost coaching and business support for entrepreneurs across the Mountain State — covering business planning, marketing, finance, cybersecurity guidance, and growth strategies. Whether you're launching a startup, expanding a storefront, or navigating digital threats, the WV SBDC remains a key resource for small businesses looking to thrive in West Virginia's diverse economy. To get started, visit the website and click on "Become a client."

Learn more:
https://wvsbdc.com/

#3 – From WV EXPLORER - Why West Virginia's state parks matter now more than ever

As West Virginia's state park system approaches its centennial, officials say the network of 48 parks and forests is more important than ever — not only for recreation and tourism but also for community well-being, conservation, and local economic impact. State parks protect iconic landscapes, create outdoor opportunities for all seasons, and serve as anchors for local pride and regional vacation planning across the Mountain State.

Read more:
https://wvexplorer.com/2025/12/10/west-virginia-state-parks-matter/

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.

Heroes often rise from the place where they were born, and Frank Keeney is just such an example. Born in Cabin Creek, he grew up in the epicenter of the labor struggle of West Virginia's southern coalfields. He did not wait for things to get fixed but decided to fix them himself, getting elected to the UMWA and leading the miners to the first major strike in the state.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zh8tHZUT41o

It's time once again for another #MountainStateMusic throwback – looking at some of our favorite moments on the @FolkloreMusicExchange stage. Sit back and enjoy "Whiskey Shakes" by Kate Boytek! Want to hear more? Check out our website at https://daily304.wv.gov/programs/mountain-state-music/

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.

Today is Thursday, December 11, 2025.

#1 – From WV FILM OFFICE - WV Film Office offers resources and incentives

From rugged outdoor landscapes to small-town streets and historic architecture, West Virginia offers filmmakers a diverse range of shooting locations — and the WV Film Office is ready to help. The office provides location services, crew connections, permitting assistance, and information on state incentives for qualifying productions. Whether you're an independent filmmaker or a major studio planning your next project, Almost Heaven continues to grow as a film-friendly destination.

Read more:
https://westvirginia.gov/wvfilm/

#2 – From DAILY304 - Mountain State Music celebrates WV's artists

The daily304's Mountain State Music series highlights West Virginia musicians across all genres — from bluegrass and folk to indie rock, hip-hop, country, and experimental sounds. Each episode showcases performances, backstories, and the creative culture that defines the Mountain State's music scene. It's a front-row seat to the artists shaping West Virginia's growing arts economy.

Watch the videos:
https://daily304.wv.gov/programs/mountain-state-music/

#3 – From DAILY304 - Video series shares the stories that shaped West Virginia

The History Project from the daily304 brings listeners into the state's rich past through documentary-style storytelling. Episodes explore pivotal events, local legends, cultural traditions, and historic milestones that continue to influence West Virginia today. From coal-town life to political turning points to profiles of influential West Virginians, the series keeps state history alive — and relevant for new generations.

Watch the videos:
https://daily304.wv.gov/programs/the-history-project/

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, December 10, 2025.

#1 – From TECH CONNECT - Registration is open for the 2026 Women & Tech Conference

Early bird tickets are now available for TechConnect WV's "Women & Tech" conference — set for February 13, 2026 in Huntington. Tickets are discounted ahead of the December 13 deadline, and come with a one-year membership to the organization included. The conference promises panels, workshops, and networking intended to uplift women working in or entering the technology sector across West Virginia.

Register now: https://techconnect.kit.com/posts/early-bird-tickets-now-available-for-the-2026-women-tech-conference

#2 – From WV ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT - West Virginia offers incentives for data center growth

The state is offering a "Certified Microgrid Development Program," streamlined permitting, and energy-policy changes to attract data-center projects — making West Virginia one of the most competitive states for data-center investment in the country. Supporters say the changes create opportunities for infrastructure development, tech investment, and new high-value jobs — with the state's energy-friendly environment and regulatory reforms cited as key draws.

Read more:
https://westvirginia.gov/industries/data-centers/

#3 – From JOBCASE.com/WV - Manufacturing Careers in #YesWV

Despite shifts in global trade and the economy, manufacturing still plays a big role in the Mountain State's job landscape. A recent overview from Jobcase spotlights manufacturing job opportunities, hiring trends, and the ongoing demand across sectors like automotive, heavy industry, and skilled trades in West Virginia. For workers — especially those with technical or trade skills — the report suggests there remain many openings, particularly at companies with a long presence in the state.

Read more:
https://www.jobcase.com/articles/manufacturing-in-wv

Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304.

The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: Sharing the wealth, beauty, and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.

That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.

Today is Tuesday, December 9, 2025.

#1 – From WSAZ-TV - Marshall provides update for major new development

Marshall University's "IDEA District" — formerly the Innovation District — is getting new momentum: a recently-presented plan includes buildings for firms like Intuit and Foundever, a planned hotel, an Advanced Manufacturing Center, and a new Welding & Robotics Training Center. Officials say the development aims to bring high-paying jobs to students and help keep graduates in Huntington, fulfilling the district's motto: "impossible doesn't exist anymore."
Read more: https://www.wsaz.com/2025/12/04/marshall-provides-update-major-new-development/

#2 – From WV SBDC - WV SBDC business coaches now cybersecurity certified

All 17 of the West Virginia Small Business Development Center's business coaches recently completed the "North Star Cybersecurity Certification," equipping them to advise small businesses across the state on phishing, password security, malware, data privacy, and other cyber-risks. That means entrepreneurs statewide can tap no-cost coaching that now includes cybersecurity — a growing concern as small businesses face frequent attacks.
Read more: https://wvsbdc.com/all-west-virginia-small-business-development-center-business-coaches-now-cybersecurity-certified/

#3 – From SOUTHSIDE DAILY - List reveals 5 best places to stay in WV for nature lovers

A new travel listing highlights five top-notch stays across the Mountain State — from mountaintop resorts and forested cabins to cozy small-town lodgings — that combine easy access to trails, rivers, and scenic landscapes. Featured stays include Canaan Valley Resort State Park, Blackwater Falls State Park, The Greenbrier, the area around Seneca Rocks, and Berkeley Springs — offering travelers a range from rugged-outdoors to resort-style comfort.

Read more:
https://southsidedaily.com/places-to-stay-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.