Podcast
daily304's podcast
Hosted by West Virginia Department of Commerce · EN
Your window into wonderful West Virginia. Sharing news and opportunities from Almost Heaven. Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and Instagram @daily304
70episodes
Episodes
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daily304 – Episode 06.02.2026
2d ago00:03:00Tap to summarizeWelcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Tuesday, June 2, 2026. #1 – From WV GOVERNOR - WV announces America 250 celebration plans Governor Patrick Morrisey has announced plans for a statewide America 250 celebration at the West Virginia State Capitol. The event will recognize the nation's upcoming 250th anniversary with historical exhibits, educational programming, performances, and community activities highlighting both American and West Virginia history. Officials say the celebration is designed to honor the state's heritage while bringing communities together through civic pride and cultural events. Read more: https://governor.wv.gov/article/governor-morrisey-announces-america-250-celebration-state-capitol #2 – From WV REN FEST - Renaissance Festival returns to Lewisburg The West Virginia Renaissance Festival is preparing for another season of entertainment and immersive experiences near Lewisburg. The festival features live performances, artisan vendors, themed food, costumes, and interactive attractions inspired by Renaissance-era culture and storytelling. Organizers say the annual event continues growing as a tourism destination while supporting local businesses and regional travel. Read more: https://www.wvrenfest.com/ #3 – From THE REAL WV - WV businesses compete in growing AI economy West Virginia entrepreneurs and technology leaders are continuing to push into the rapidly evolving world of artificial intelligence innovation. A feature from Black By God highlights startups and businesses developing AI-driven tools and competing in emerging technology sectors while building opportunities within the state. Leaders say the growth of AI entrepreneurship reflects West Virginia's expanding innovation ecosystem and the creativity of its business community. Read more: https://therealwv.com/2026/05/20/black-by-god-tech-west-virginia-businesses-compete-at-the-edge-of-ai-innovation/ 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.
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Carter G. Woodson & Black History Month
3d ago00:02:10Tap to summarizeEducation is a basic foundation for any individual whose goal is to change the way the world sees things, and Carter G. Woodson built one of the strongest foundations of anyone, much less the son of former slaves. Woodson collected advanced degrees the way some people collect coins and stamps, but with a greater purpose, which was to educate the world, especially about the contributions of Black people to society. Almost a century later, Woodson's influence on American history is seen clearly not just during Black History Month, but each and every day.
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daily304 – Episode 05.28.2026
1w ago00:03:00Tap to summarize*]:pointer-events-auto R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id="c7bc3ff3-05d9-4831-a1f3-4382328d8e20" data-turn-id-container="c7bc3ff3-05d9-4831-a1f3-4382328d8e20" data-testid="conversation-turn-110" data-scroll-anchor="false" data-turn="assistant"> Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Thursday, May 28, 2026. *]:pointer-events-auto R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id= "request-6992738e-ef40-8326-a236-27e795b563a4-0" data-turn-id-container= "request-6992738e-ef40-8326-a236-27e795b563a4-0" data-testid= "conversation-turn-112" data-scroll-anchor="false" data-turn= "assistant"> #1 – From WV TOURISM - Waterfall Trail highlights WV natural beauty The West Virginia Waterfall Trail continues drawing visitors to scenic destinations across Almost Heaven. A mobile app guides travelers to dozens of waterfalls ranging from roadside stops to hidden forest destinations throughout the Mountain State. Tourism leaders say the trail encourages exploration while helping support outdoor recreation and local communities connected to nature tourism. Download your free mobile passport today and earn prizes as you check in at West Virginia waterfalls! Learn more: https://wvtourism.com/west-virginia-waterfall-trail/ #2 – From WV TOURISM - Whitewater rafting season returns to WV Whitewater rafting season is bringing adventure seekers back to West Virginia's rivers and outdoor recreation areas. The state's rafting industry offers experiences ranging from scenic family-friendly floats to high-adrenaline rapids on rivers like the New and Gauley. Tourism officials say whitewater recreation remains one of West Virginia's signature outdoor attractions, drawing visitors from around the country. Read more: https://wvtourism.com/things-to-do/outdoor-adventures/whitewater-rafting/ #3 – From WV TOURISM - Farm-to-table dining strengthens local connections Farm-to-table dining experiences continue growing across West Virginia as restaurants partner with local farms and producers. The movement highlights fresh ingredients, regional cuisine, and community-focused dining experiences that connect visitors and residents to local agriculture. Supporters say farm-to-table initiatives help strengthen rural economies while showcasing the flavors and traditions unique to West Virginia. Read more: https://wvtourism.com/things-to-do/arts-culture-history/farm-to-table/ 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.
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daily304 – Episode 05.27.2026
1w ago00:02:57Tap to summarizeWelcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Wednesday, May 20, 2026. #1 – From WV EXPLORER - Historic preservation grants support WV communities Historic preservation projects across West Virginia are receiving new support through grant funding aimed at protecting the state's cultural heritage. The Frontier-to-Statehood Preservation Fund will provide grants for rehabilitation projects involving historic structures dating to 1871 or earlier. Preservation leaders say the investment helps communities restore important landmarks while supporting tourism, downtown revitalization, and local economic development. Read more: https://wvexplorer.com/historic-preservation-grants-250-wv/?fbclid=IwdGRjcARu1pdleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEe-hCxpK58OqZBb4nX6rX-oXzn7BP98-SfqQ-eO3SCVTdtsaJTgV1H1fOYxEc_aem_kmOlDFadqXapOrzaVHWOsA #2 – From METRO NEWS - Toyota academy prepares next generation workforce Toyota West Virginia is celebrating the newest graduates of its 4T Academy workforce training program. The academy gives high school students hands-on experience in advanced manufacturing, technical education, and workplace readiness while creating direct pathways into manufacturing careers. Toyota leaders say programs like the 4T Academy are helping strengthen West Virginia's workforce pipeline for the future. Read more: https://wvmetronews.com/2026/05/11/toyota-west-virginia-pleased-with-latest-class-of-4t-academy/?fbclid=IwdGRleARwfO1leHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEeQbK5390eD0UrOq90ZPv6Sl81u2e6ttSix2Il7PvqmFpiU_8RrUdnLwTzJWQ_aem_NTMhCdR8CJL71rmw189PIQ #3 – From GENERATION WV - Clay County turns trails into opportunity A growing outdoor recreation initiative in Clay County is helping create new economic opportunities while encouraging residents to stay and build careers locally. Generation West Virginia highlights how trail development, tourism, and community partnerships are helping transform outdoor assets into long-term growth strategies. Leaders say the effort demonstrates how recreation and quality-of-life investments can support workforce retention and rural development. Read more: https://generationwv.org/our-impact/clay-county-leading-the-way-home-how-madison-is-turning-trails-into-opportunity/ 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.
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daily304 – Episode 05.26.2026
1w ago00:02:57Tap to summarizeWelcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Tuesday, May 26, 2026. #1 – From WV ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT - WV aerospace sector continues expanding West Virginia's aerospace industry continues to grow through investments in advanced manufacturing, workforce development, and technology innovation. State leaders say the sector benefits from strategic location, skilled labor, research partnerships, and growing demand tied to defense and commercial aviation industries. Officials believe aerospace remains a key opportunity for diversifying West Virginia's economy and attracting future investment. Read more: https://westvirginia.gov/industries/aerospace/ #2 – From WVDNR - WVDNR highlights online license resources The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources encourages outdoor enthusiasts to take advantage of its online licensing and permitting system. Hunters, anglers, and outdoor recreation users can purchase licenses, stamps, and permits online while also accessing regulations and season information. Officials say the digital platform helps make outdoor recreation more accessible and convenient for residents and visitors alike. Read more: https://wvdnr.gov/license-guide/ #3 – From WV LIVING - Ella + Company creates spaces that feel like home A floral and interior design business in Thomas is gaining attention for blending creativity, hospitality, and community connection. Ella + Company combines floral design, curated home décor, and event styling to help customers create welcoming spaces inspired by Appalachian warmth and modern design. Supporters say businesses like this contribute to West Virginia's growing creative economy and local small business culture. Read more: https://wvliving.com/cultivating-home-at-ella-company/ 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.
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Carter G. Woodson & Oliver Jones' Tea Room
1w ago00:02:11Tap to summarizeWhen history is told, it is often shaped by those who've benefitted most in the telling of its story. Sometimes it takes someone to rouse us from our complacency and remind us that history is shared by everyone and before Carter G. Woodson did that for us, a coal miner from Fayette County, West Virginia named Oliver Jones did it for him, setting in motion one of America's most significant educational movements and events, Black History Month.
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daily304 – Episode 05.21.2026
2w ago00:02:56Tap to summarizeWelcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Thursday, May 21, 2026. #1 – From WV GAZETTE-MAIL - Parkersburg road trip highlights WV history and character A new travel feature shines a light on the quirky history, architecture, and local culture that make Parkersburg unique. Reporter Bill Lynch explores historic landmarks, colorful local stories, and community traditions that reflect the city's personality and deep Appalachian roots. Supporters say heritage tourism experiences like these help travelers connect with the people and places that define West Virginia. Read more: https://www.wvgazettemail.com/life/bill-lynch-road-trip-to-parkersburg-for-some-weird-wonderful-history/article_1c7b0267-f013-4daa-ac21-ae99173fd45c.html #2 – From WVU TODAY - WVU students win national manufacturing championship A team of West Virginia University engineering technology students has captured a national title in additive manufacturing. The WVU ETEC team won the inaugural Project MFG Additive Manufacturing National Championship in Texas after competing in advanced engineering and production challenges involving robotic systems and 3D printing technology. University leaders say the achievement highlights West Virginia's growing role in advanced manufacturing education and workforce development. Read more: https://wvutoday.wvu.edu/stories/2026/05/13/wvu-etec-team-claims-inaugural-national-title-at-project-mfg-additive-manufacturing-championship #3 – From WV EXPLORER - Historic Mail Pouch barns continue preservation efforts Historic Mail Pouch Tobacco barns across West Virginia are continuing to receive attention through preservation and restoration efforts. Known for their distinctive painted advertisements, the barns have become iconic roadside landmarks tied to the state's rural heritage and agricultural history. Preservation supporters say protecting the structures helps preserve a visible connection to West Virginia's past while supporting heritage tourism across the region. Read more: https://wvexplorer.com/mail-pouch-barns-west-virginia-saved/?fbclid=IwdGRjcARu6NxleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEerT84sk6KC5P4pmH1wwveO3Glp1edurfI9b3Cr_DH116VV2E8jrwQAwEMasE_aem_yGF9xuD7Zs2V2tnATT3RQQ 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.
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daily304 – Episode 05.20.2026
2w ago00:02:56Tap to summarizeWelcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Wednesday, May 20, 2026. #1 – From WV EXPLORER - Historic preservation grants support WV communities Historic preservation projects across West Virginia are receiving new support through grant funding aimed at protecting the state's cultural heritage. The Frontier-to-Statehood Preservation Fund will provide grants for rehabilitation projects involving historic structures dating to 1871 or earlier. Preservation leaders say the investment helps communities restore important landmarks while supporting tourism, downtown revitalization, and local economic development. Read more: https://wvexplorer.com/historic-preservation-grants-250-wv/?fbclid=IwdGRjcARu1pdleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEe-hCxpK58OqZBb4nX6rX-oXzn7BP98-SfqQ-eO3SCVTdtsaJTgV1H1fOYxEc_aem_kmOlDFadqXapOrzaVHWOsA #2 – From METRO NEWS - Toyota academy prepares next generation workforce Toyota West Virginia is celebrating the newest graduates of its 4T Academy workforce training program. The academy gives high school students hands-on experience in advanced manufacturing, technical education, and workplace readiness while creating direct pathways into manufacturing careers. Toyota leaders say programs like the 4T Academy are helping strengthen West Virginia's workforce pipeline for the future. Read more: https://wvmetronews.com/2026/05/11/toyota-west-virginia-pleased-with-latest-class-of-4t-academy/?fbclid=IwdGRleARwfO1leHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEeQbK5390eD0UrOq90ZPv6Sl81u2e6ttSix2Il7PvqmFpiU_8RrUdnLwTzJWQ_aem_NTMhCdR8CJL71rmw189PIQ #3 – From GENERATION WV - Clay County turns trails into opportunity A growing outdoor recreation initiative in Clay County is helping create new economic opportunities while encouraging residents to stay and build careers locally. Generation West Virginia highlights how trail development, tourism, and community partnerships are helping transform outdoor assets into long-term growth strategies. Leaders say the effort demonstrates how recreation and quality-of-life investments can support workforce retention and rural development. Read more: https://generationwv.org/our-impact/clay-county-leading-the-way-home-how-madison-is-turning-trails-into-opportunity/ 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.
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daily304 – Episode 05.19.2026
2w ago00:02:51Tap to summarize*]:pointer-events-auto R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id= "request-6992738e-ef40-8326-a236-27e795b563a4-0" data-turn-id-container= "request-6992738e-ef40-8326-a236-27e795b563a4-0" data-testid= "conversation-turn-108" data-scroll-anchor="false" data-turn= "assistant"> Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Tuesday, May 19, 2026. #1 – From POST INDUSTRIAL - Wheeling's character takes center stage A new editorial spotlight is celebrating the people, culture, and creativity that make Wheeling stand out. The feature highlights the city's blend of history, arts, architecture, and community spirit — embracing the "wonderful and weird" qualities that continue attracting residents, visitors, and entrepreneurs. Supporters say Wheeling's authenticity and revitalization efforts are helping shape a new chapter for the city and the region. Read more: https://postindustrial.com/stories/voices-lets-celebrate-everything-that-makes-wheeling-wonderful-and-weird/?fbclid=IwVERDUARu1mhleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEepsfor4Ml1aR3d_y_TuFUX5k7T5xF_NGG-D53QxdoKs7OGMcic0L70fEYpQE_aem_91VvGAPimHrdlek-J0pcYg #2 – From WV EXPLORER - Historic preservation grants support WV communities Historic preservation projects across West Virginia are receiving funding to help restore and protect important landmarks. More than 250 preservation grants are supporting work on historic buildings, museums, cultural sites, and community spaces throughout the state. Preservation leaders say the investments help maintain local history while supporting tourism, economic development, and downtown revitalization efforts. Read more: https://wvexplorer.com/historic-preservation-grants-250-wv/?fbclid=IwdGRjcARu1pdleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEe-hCxpK58OqZBb4nX6rX-oXzn7BP98-SfqQ-eO3SCVTdtsaJTgV1H1fOYxEc_aem_kmOlDFadqXapOrzaVHWOsA #3 – From MARSHALL MANUFACTURING - Entrepreneur expands business with MAMC support A West Virginia entrepreneur is reaching new markets with assistance from the Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center. The angler-turned-business owner worked with MAMC to improve operations, strengthen product development, and expand distribution opportunities. Leaders say partnerships like this help small businesses innovate, compete, and grow while strengthening West Virginia's manufacturing and entrepreneurial ecosystem. Read more: https://www.mfg.marshall.edu/angler-turned-entrepreneur-reels-in-new-markets-with-mamc-assistance/ 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.
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Booker T. Washington
2w ago00:02:15Tap to summarizeAmerican history is full of famous names, but only a few are fully recognized by most everyone and Booker T. Washington is one of those names. The author of "Up From Slavery" used his own story to help bring about racial reform. From enslavement to the halls of academe, Washington became the right man for his times.
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