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

Today is Wednesday, February 25, 2026.

#1 – From WV TOURISM - Explore the Hatfield-McCoy Mountains region

Hatfield-McCoy Mountains offer year-round adventure across southern West Virginia. This four-season destination features hiking and multi-use trail systems, scenic overlooks, paddling spots, and rich heritage sites. Whether you're planning a family getaway or a rugged outdoor escape, the region delivers natural beauty and unforgettable experiences in Almost Heaven.

Read more:
https://wvtourism.com/places-to-go/travel-regions/hatfield-mccoy-mountains/

#2 – From WV EXPLORER - West Virginia outdoor economy continues to grow

Outdoor recreation and tourism remain powerful economic drivers across the Mountain State. Recent analysis from The Nature Conservancy highlights how hiking, biking, paddling, and wildlife watching support small businesses, create jobs, and strengthen communities. West Virginia's outdoor economy isn't just about recreation — it's about long-term growth and quality of life.

Read more:
https://wvexplorer.com/2026/02/17/west-virginia-outdoor-economy/

#3 – From WHOVA - Bridging Innovation Week 2026 in Morgantown

Registration is now open for Bridging Innovation Week 2026, taking place April 27 through May 1 in Morgantown. The statewide gathering brings together entrepreneurs, investors, researchers, and community leaders to collaborate and spark new ideas for economic development and regional innovation. Don't miss this opportunity to connect and help shape West Virginia's future.

Learn more:
https://whova.com/web/%40cL%40824wN2nBzReVw%40cW4W5hts9QhUcg-9JPTj%40fzN4%3D/

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, February 24, 2026.

#1 – From THE REAL WV - West Virginia ranks 6th best state for filmmaking

West Virginia has been ranked sixth best state in the nation for filmmaking, thanks to competitive incentives, flexible tax credits, no project caps, sales tax exemptions, and workforce training opportunities. The West Virginia Film Office provides resources that make it easier for productions big and small to bring their stories to life in the Mountain State. From scenic landscapes to historic towns, filmmakers continue to discover why Almost Heaven is camera-ready.

Read more:
https://therealwv.com/2026/02/17/wv-ranked-6th-best-state-for-filmmaking/

#2 – From WV TECH PARK - Science on a Sphere brings planetary science to life in WV

The West Virginia Regional Technology Park is home to Science on a Sphere, an immersive exhibit featuring a room-sized globe that displays dynamic datasets of weather systems, climate patterns, and planetary science. The interactive experience strengthens STEM learning for students and community groups across the state, making complex science concepts engaging and accessible.

Read more:
https://www.wvtechpark.com/sos

#3 – From WV FORESTRY - Woodland owners get assistance with forest management

The West Virginia Division of Forestry offers woodland assistance programs to help landowners manage forests for wildlife habitat, timber value, recreation, and long-term health. Services include consultations with professional foresters and guidance on stewardship planning — helping protect West Virginia's forestlands for generations to come.

Learn more:
https://wvforestry.com/manage-your-woodlands-landowner-assistance-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.

An author and scholar respected around the world, Pearl S. Buck brought the secrets of pre-modern China to the Western world and did so with compassion and kindness. Fellow Nobel Laureate Toni Morrison once said of Buck, "She misled me...and made me feel that all writers wrote sympathetically, empathetically, honestly and forthrightly about other cultures." Buck's legacy lives on in her prolific work.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=29lWdvItRmc

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

Today is Thursday, February 19, 2026.

#1 – From WV GAZETTE-MAIL - Brazilian jiu-jitsu classes teach kids strength and resilience

A local Brazilian jiu-jitsu program is helping West Virginia youth build more than physical skills. Instructors at Butch Hiles Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and MMA say their classes emphasize confidence, discipline, perseverance, and emotional resilience — lessons that extend well beyond the mat and into everyday life.

Read more:
https://www.wvgazettemail.com/news/kanawha_valley/transformation-local-brazilian-jiu-jitsu-classes-teach-kids-strength-resilience/article_33232562-cb4a-48b6-ae19-cf0d58c33d7f.html

#2 – From FREDERICK NEWS - Film screening of 'O Pioneer' features live discussion

A screening of the West Virginia-made film O Pioneer will include a live virtual discussion with the filmmakers, offering audiences insight into the creative process behind the production. The event is scheduled for May 15 in Shepherdstown and provides a unique opportunity for viewers to engage directly with the creative team.

Read more:
https://www.fredericknewspost.com/calendar/film/o-pioneer-film-screening-virtual-live-discussion-with-filmmakers/event_b795c723-bf93-4c29-8f60-8666e23beaf0.html

#3 – From WHOVA - Bridging Innovation Week 2026 set for Morgantown

Bridging Innovation Week returns April 27 through May 1 in Morgantown. The statewide gathering connects entrepreneurs, innovators, investors, and community leaders for collaboration, networking, and economic development momentum. Organizers describe the event as a catalyst for creative partnerships and business growth across West Virginia.

Register now:
https://whova.com/web/%40cL%40824wN2nBzReVw%40cW4W5hts9QhUcg-9JPTj%40fzN4%3D/

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, February 18, 2026.

#1 – From WORLD ATLAS - Explore one of West Virginia's most walkable downtowns

A recent travel feature highlights Shepherdstown as home to the most walkable downtown in the state. Visitors can easily explore local shops, restaurants, parks, and historic landmarks on foot, making this charming Eastern Panhandle town a standout destination. To learn more about West Virginia's inviting communities, visit wvtourism.com.

Read more:
https://www.worldatlas.com/cities/this-west-virginia-towns-has-the-most-walkable-downtown.htm

#2 – From WV ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT - West Virginia Film Office supports production statewide

Are you a filmmaker searching for your next production location? The West Virginia Film Office provides competitive production incentives, location assistance, and industry expertise. Its efforts help attract film and television projects that boost local economies while showcasing the Mountain State's scenic landscapes and historic settings.

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

#3 – From WV EXPLORER - Early signs of spring are emerging in West Virginia

While winter still lingers, early signs of spring are beginning to appear across the state. Native blooms like white trillium, returning migratory birds, and gradually warming temperatures signal seasonal change and invite residents outdoors to enjoy West Virginia's natural beauty.

Read more:
https://wvexplorer.com/2026/01/25/spring-arrives-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, February 17, 2026.

#1 – From WV ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT - West Virginia's automotive industry remains an economic mainstay

West Virginia's modern automotive industry has served as a strong economic pillar for more than 30 years. The sector supports thousands of jobs, drives advanced manufacturing growth, and connects the Mountain State to national and international supply chains for automotive and related products.

Learn more:
https://westvirginia.gov/west-virginias-modern-automotive-industry-has-been-a-rock-solid-pillar-of-our-states-economy-for-more-than-30-years/

#2 – From NEWS TRIBUNE - New River region offers premier hunting, fishing & outdoor recreation

West Virginia's New River region continues to earn recognition as a premier destination for hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreation. With expansive forests, scenic waterways, and abundant wildlife, the area attracts sportsmen and women seeking rugged adventure and unforgettable Mountain State experiences.

Read more:
https://www.newstribune.com/news/2026/feb/08/driftwood-outdoors-west-virginias-new-river-region-offers-hunting-fishing-and-outdoor-recreation/

#3 – From WV EXPLORER - Appalachian Escapes offer unique lodging options in the New River Gorge

Travelers to the New River Gorge region have a creative new lodging option with Appalachian Escapes. The growing collection of themed vacation rentals ranges from 80s nostalgia to wizard-inspired adventures and even tributes to West Virginia's legendary Mothman. Each property also features an escape room experience, adding interactive fun to an overnight stay.

Read more:
https://wvexplorer.com/2026/02/06/appalachian-escapes-vacation-rentals/

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.

There are many holidays celebrating America's great patriots, our veterans, and yet it feels we still don't have enough. We owe our freedom to the valiant men and women who've fought for our nation's ideals and among the many, Huntingtonian Carwood Lipton stands out. A member of the Easy Company parachute regiment in World War II, Lipton was one of the Band of Brothers, celebrated in both books and the HBO miniseries, which reminded us that the dogs of war are no match for the heroes of liberty.

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

Today is Thursday, February 12, 2026.

#1 – From GENERATION WV - Generation WV highlights community and workforce progress

Generation West Virginia shares updates on regional workforce development events, community programs, leadership opportunities, and ways to connect young talent with careers and civic engagement efforts throughout the state.

Read more:
https://generationwv.org/gwv-january-2026-newsletter/

#2 – From WV NEWS - Tree Farm Committee aims to grow certified tree farms in West Virginia

The West Virginia Tree Farm Committee is actively working to increase the number of certified tree farms statewide. Certification promotes sustainable forest management, supports private landowners, and helps protect forest resources for recreation, wildlife habitat, and future generations.

Read more:
https://www.wvnews.com/braxtonnews/news/west-virginia-s-tree-farm-committee-is-working-to-increase-number-of-certified-tree-farmers/article_19a04e14-2f78-4d2d-8d3a-efa9974cec06.html

#3 – From PHILLY BITE - Discovering the oldest bar in West Virginia

Discover the North End Tavern and Brewery-- said to be the oldest continuously operating bar in West Virginia. Known by locals as "The NET," this Parkersburg institution has been pouring drinks since 1899, serving as an enduring place in community life as a classic gathering spot steeped in Mountain State culture.

Read more:
https://www.phillybite.com/index.php/local-news/11940-what-s-the-oldest-bar-in-the-state-of-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.