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
94episodes
Episodes
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daily304 – Episode 07.15.2026
2d ago00:03:09Tap to summarizeWelcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Wednesday, July 15, 2026. #1 – From WV ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT – PowerFlo powers manufacturing growth West Virginia's advanced manufacturing sector continues to build momentum as PowerFlo Solutions expands operations in Wood County. The company is investing $20 million to establish a new manufacturing facility in Williamstown, creating at least 120 new full-time jobs. PowerFlo will produce critical electrical infrastructure that supports data centers, artificial intelligence, and other energy-intensive industries. State leaders say the investment strengthens West Virginia's position as a destination for advanced manufacturing while creating new opportunities for workers and communities. Read more: https://westvirginia.gov/powerflo-solutions-expands-advanced-manufacturing-operations-in-west-virginia/ #2 – From OUTSIDE MAGAZINE – Outdoor recreation becomes economic infrastructure West Virginia's outdoor recreation industry is no longer just about tourism—it's becoming an engine for economic growth. A feature from Outside explores how investments in trails, river access, public lands, and outdoor amenities are helping attract visitors, businesses, entrepreneurs, and new residents. Communities across the Mountain State are using recreation infrastructure to support workforce recruitment, quality of life, and long-term economic development, making outdoor assets a competitive advantage for West Virginia. Read more: https://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/destinations/north-america/west-virginia-outdoor-tourism-infrastructure-growth/ #3 – From WV EXPLORER – Wild turkeys make a remarkable comeback A century ago, wild turkeys had nearly disappeared from West Virginia. Today, thanks to decades of conservation, habitat restoration, and responsible wildlife management, the species has made an extraordinary recovery. A feature from WV Explorer highlights how partnerships among wildlife professionals, hunters, and conservation organizations restored healthy turkey populations throughout the Mountain State. The comeback remains one of West Virginia's greatest wildlife conservation success stories. Read more: https://wvexplorer.com/west-virginia-wild-turkeys-comeback/ 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 07.14.2026
3d ago00:03:03Tap to summarizeWelcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Tuesday, July 14, 2026. #1 – From WV ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT – West Virginia's aerospace sector continues to soar West Virginia's aerospace industry is emerging as one of the state's fastest-growing economic sectors. New investments in aviation maintenance, aircraft manufacturing, airport infrastructure, and workforce training are strengthening the state's position in commercial aviation, defense, and advanced aerospace manufacturing. State leaders say West Virginia's strategic location, skilled workforce, and expanding education pipeline continue attracting companies looking to grow in the aerospace industry. Read more: https://westvirginia.gov/elevating-opportunity-west-virginias-expanding-aerospace-sector/ #2 – From WV BUSINESSLINK – Almost Heaven is becoming a destination for entrepreneurs West Virginia is building momentum as a place where entrepreneurs can launch, grow, and scale successful businesses. A feature from WV BusinessLink highlights the state's growing network of business coaches, funding resources, startup organizations, and entrepreneurial support programs. Together, these partners are helping innovators access the tools they need while creating new opportunities across the Mountain State. Leaders say collaboration and a strong statewide ecosystem are making West Virginia an increasingly attractive place to build a business. Read more: https://wvbusinesslink.com/2026/07/06/almost-heaven-for-entrepreneurs-west-virginias-moment-is-now/ #3 – From WV EXPLORER – New River Gorge region builds beyond tourism Five years after the creation of New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, southern West Virginia is leveraging that success to build a more diverse economy. A new regional impact report highlights investments in entrepreneurship, manufacturing, workforce development, infrastructure, and business recruitment across Fayette, Nicholas, Raleigh, and Summers counties. Regional leaders say the goal is to turn increased visitation into long-term economic growth and expanded opportunities for residents and businesses alike. Read more: https://wvexplorer.com/new-river-gorge-economy-growth-nrgrda-beckley/ 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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John Brown & The Raid on Harpers Ferry
4d ago00:02:21Tap to summarizeFactions in both the North and the South had reached a stalemate; the South would keep its practice of slavery and the North would mostly turn a blind eye. Abolitionist John Brown went after the abomination with such a vengeance, that it was impossible for the nation to continue ignoring an atrocity they had accepted as fact. First in Kansas and finally in Harpers Ferry, John Brown let loose a battle cry with an echo that reverberated to the launch of the Civil War.
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daily304 – Episode 07.09.2026
1w ago00:03:08Tap to summarizeWelcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Thursday, July 9, 2026. #1 – From WV SBDC – WV SBDC helps businesses succeed Across West Virginia, entrepreneurs are building successful companies with support from the West Virginia Small Business Development Center. Through one-on-one business coaching, specialized training, and technical assistance, the WV SBDC helps entrepreneurs navigate every stage of the business journey—from startup to expansion. Recent client success stories highlight businesses creating jobs, strengthening local economies, and bringing innovative ideas to market across the Mountain State. Learn more: https://wvsbdc.com/updates/success-stories/ #2 – From WV BUSINESSLINK – WV BusinessLink connects entrepreneurs Starting or growing a business can be challenging, but WV BusinessLink brings hundreds of resources together in one place. The online platform connects entrepreneurs with business planning tools, funding opportunities, mentors, training programs, legal assistance, workforce resources, and networking opportunities. Leaders say the service helps business owners quickly find the support they need to launch, grow, and strengthen their companies. Learn more: https://wvbusinesslink.com/ #3 – From WV E-SHIP E-SYSTEM – Entrepreneurship Ecosystem strengthens innovation West Virginia's Entrepreneurship Ecosystem is bringing together organizations from across the state to help innovators, startups, and small businesses succeed. The collaborative network connects economic development groups, universities, investors, business support organizations, and community partners to create stronger pathways for entrepreneurship. Supporters say the statewide approach is helping foster innovation while creating new opportunities for business growth and economic development throughout Almost Heaven. Learn more: https://www.wveshipecosystem.org/ 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 07.08.2026
1w ago00:03:02Tap to summarizeWelcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Wednesday, July 8, 2026. #1 – From DAILY304 – Mountain State Music showcases WV talent Mountain State Music celebrates the artists, songs, and traditions that define West Virginia's rich musical heritage. Produced by daily304 in partnership with the Folklore Music Exchange, the series features live performances from nationally known artists and rising local musicians performing on the Folklore Stage in Charleston. Organizers say the program helps preserve Appalachian music while introducing new audiences to the incredible talent found across the Mountain State. Watch or listen now: https://daily304.wv.gov/programs/mountain-state-music/ #2 – From DAILY304 – The History Project keeps WV stories alive Every community has a story—and The History Project is making sure those stories are remembered. The daily304 series explores the people, places, and events that shaped West Virginia through engaging videos and historical features. From engineering achievements and Civil War landmarks to influential West Virginians, the program helps connect today's audiences with the state's remarkable past. Watch or listen now: https://daily304.wv.gov/programs/the-history-project/ #3 – From DAILY304 – Photo Gallery captures Almost Heaven Sometimes a picture really is worth a thousand words. The daily304 Photo Gallery showcases breathtaking images from every corner of West Virginia, highlighting scenic landscapes, outdoor adventures, wildlife, historic landmarks, festivals, and everyday moments that make the Mountain State special. The gallery offers residents and visitors alike a fresh perspective on the beauty and diversity of Almost Heaven. View the gallery: https://daily304.wv.gov/photo-gallery/ 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 07.07.2026
1w ago00:03:08Tap to summarizeWelcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Tuesday, July 7, 2026. #1 – From ROLLING STONE – Mountain Stage celebrates a legendary musical legacy For more than four decades, Mountain Stage has introduced audiences to legendary performers and emerging artists from across the musical spectrum. A recent feature from Rolling Stone celebrates the nationally acclaimed public radio program, highlighting its role in showcasing Americana, folk, bluegrass, country, blues, rock, and singer-songwriters while putting West Virginia at the center of America's live music scene. Hosted in Charleston and heard worldwide, Mountain Stage continues to be one of the state's most recognizable cultural ambassadors. Read more: https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-features/mountain-stage-radio-show-anniversary-lineup-1234703623/ #2 – From WVU – WVU physicists make breakthrough in plasma research Researchers at West Virginia University are using advanced laser technology to better understand plasma, often called the fourth state of matter. Their work could improve our understanding of everything from fusion energy and space science to advanced manufacturing and next-generation technologies. University leaders say discoveries like these demonstrate WVU's growing role in cutting-edge scientific research with real-world applications. Read more: https://wvutoday.wvu.edu/stories/2026/06/23/wvu-physicists-unlock-plasma-s-mysteries-with-lasers #3 – From WV EXPLORER – The history behind West Virginia's famous hot dog Few foods are more closely associated with West Virginia than the state's signature hot dog. A feature from WV Explorer traces the origins of this Appalachian favorite, known for its distinctive combination of chili, slaw, mustard, and onions. While recipes may vary from town to town, the West Virginia hot dog has become a beloved tradition that reflects the state's culture, community, and culinary heritage. Read more: https://wvexplorer.com/west-virginia-hot-dog-history/ 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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Hal Greer
2w ago00:02:16Tap to summarizeHuntington's favorite son first made his name as a star at Douglass High School, and then went just a few blocks away to Marshall University. Being the first Black player at any West Virginia college, he shattered ceilings as well as records. First drafted into the NBA by the Syracuse Nationals, he made his name legendary when the team transferred to Philadelphia and became the Seventy-Sixers, where many of his records still stand in franchise history, and he is still known as one of the best players the league has produced.
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daily304 – Episode 07.02.2026
2w ago00:02:58Tap to summarizeWelcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Thursday, July 2, 2026. #1 – From WV NEWS: Ascend WV becomes national talent attraction model What began as an innovative idea to attract remote workers has grown into a nationally recognized model for talent attraction and community development. A recent profile highlights how Ascend West Virginia has helped bring new residents, entrepreneurs, and professionals to communities across the state. Leaders say the program demonstrates how quality of life, outdoor recreation, affordability, and community engagement can work together to attract and retain talent. Read more: https://www.wvnews.com/statejournal/news/top_story/ruby-ascend-wv-has-become-nationwide-talent-attraction-model/article_b210583b-58e7-4140-9987-8fa2ea610ef0.html #2 – From WVOW RADIO: Elk statue celebrates conservation success A new elk statue is honoring the individuals and organizations that helped restore elk populations to West Virginia. The statue, located along Route 73 at Country Roads Byway Visitor Center in Logan, honors three WV Division of Natural Resources officials and recognizes decades of conservation work that brought elk back to the Mountain State after they disappeared more than a century ago. Read more: https://www.wvowradio.com/post/new-elk-statue-honors-leaders-behind-west-virginia-wildlife-success-story #3 – From WV EXPLORER: Tomlinson Run offers unique state park experience Tucked away in West Virginia's Northern Panhandle, Tomlinson Run State Park offers visitors a distinctive mix of outdoor recreation, natural beauty, and history. A feature from WV Explorer highlights the park's rolling forests, scenic trails, fishing opportunities, and historic significance. Often overlooked by travelers heading elsewhere, the park continues attracting visitors looking for a quieter way to experience Almost Heaven. Visit wvstateparks.com and start planning your Tomlinson Run getaway today! Read more: https://wvexplorer.com/tomlinson-run-unusual-state-park-northern-panhandle/ 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 07.01.2026
2w ago00:02:57Tap to summarizeWelcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Wednesday, July 1, 2026. #1 – From WV EDA - Manufacturer grows through innovation and WVEDA support When demand emerged for advanced disinfection technology, one West Virginia manufacturer saw an opportunity and got to work. With support from the West Virginia Economic Development Authority, Safe UV in Morgantown expanded its capabilities and brought innovative solutions to market. Economic development leaders say the story demonstrates how access to capital and strategic support can help businesses grow, create jobs, and meet emerging market needs. Read more: https://eda.wv.gov/this-manufacturer-saw-the-need-for-disinfection-technology-and-got-to-work-with-help-from-wveda/ #2 – From WOWK-TV - Forestry partnership supports healthier forests The West Virginia Division of Forestry and the U.S. Forest Service are working together to improve forest health throughout the state. The partnership focuses on addressing invasive species, managing forest resources, reducing wildfire risks, and supporting long-term sustainability. Forestry officials say healthy forests are essential to West Virginia's economy, outdoor recreation industry, wildlife habitat, and quality of life. Read more: https://www.wowktv.com/news/west-virginia/west-virginia-forestry-usda-forest-service-team-up-to-improve-forest-health/ #3 – From EARTH TV - Video showcases Toyota's sustainable future Learn how Toyota is driving a sustainable future through initiatives like biodiversity conservation, pollinator habitats, and solar energy, alongside advancements in hybrid battery recycling, EV, and hydrogen technology. This segment from the Earth TV Series, hosted by John Holden, highlights Toyota's dedication to innovation and environmental stewardship as they work toward a cleaner world. Watch the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JkgpICP0x0c 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 06.30.2026
2w ago00:03:13Tap to summarizeWelcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Tuesday, June 30, 2026. #1 – From ACCESS APPALACHIA - Trails create connections and opportunity Across West Virginia, trail builders, community leaders, and outdoor advocates are working together to expand the state's outdoor recreation network. A feature from Access Appalachia highlights the people and partnerships behind trail development projects that connect communities, improve quality of life, and support tourism-driven economic growth. Supporters say investments in trails continue positioning West Virginia as a premier destination for outdoor recreation and adventure travel. Read more: https://accapp.symmetry-events.com/article/trails-access-the-people-building-west-virginias-outdoor-network/ #2 – From NAM - Form Energy expands manufacturing capacity Form Energy continues to scale production at its Weirton manufacturing facility as demand grows for the company's innovative long-duration battery technology. According to the National Association of Manufacturers, the company has tripled commercial sales while expanding operations to meet increasing demand for reliable energy storage solutions. Economic development leaders say Form Energy's growth highlights West Virginia's role in advanced manufacturing, energy innovation, and next-generation technology development. Read more: https://nam.org/6-form-energy-triples-commercial-sales-and-scales-manufacturing-to-meet-demand-for-reliable-power/ #3 – From WV GAZETTE-MAIL - WV restaurants earn James Beard recognition West Virginia's food scene recently received national attention during the James Beard Awards ceremony in Chicago. Several restaurants with West Virginia ties were recognized during the prestigious culinary awards event, reflecting the growing reputation of the Mountain State's chefs, restaurants, and food culture. Industry leaders say the recognition helps showcase West Virginia's hospitality sector and growing culinary tourism opportunities. Read more: https://www.wvgazettemail.com/life/the_food_guy/food-guy-wv-restaurants-honored-at-james-beard-awards-ceremony-in-chicago/article_cff3019a-3f3f-40a2-a9db-00cbe317ba2a.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.
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