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

Today is Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025.

Discover Mountaineer Country on the gravel biking experience of a lifetime…the Generation WV Fellowship seeks to build meaningful mentorships and leadership training…and break out your spell book for Fayetteville’s annual Wizard Weekend starting this Friday…on today’s daily304.

#1 – From VISIT MOUNTAINEER COUNTRY – Ready to add Mountaineer Country to your biking bucket list? With 25+ exciting new gravel routes launching in spring 2025, there’s a route for every type of rider – from few-hour trips to multi-day adventurers.

Embark on a journey across Monongalia, Preston, and Taylor counties, with routes starting from or connecting popular spots like Morgantown, Mason Dixon Park, Bruceton Mills, Masontown, Terra Alta, Rowlesburg and Grafton.

These routes offer diverse terrain and endless adventure. Expect a mix of unpaved gravel, dirt roads, double tracks, and rail trails. From challenging climbs to thrilling descents, each route promises a unique blend of West Virginia’s history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes.

https://www.visitmountaineercountry.com/gravelroutes/

#2 – From GENERATION WV – West Virginia has long been celebrated for its stunning landscapes, close-knit communities, and rich cultural heritage. Yet, for years, young professionals in the Mountain State have faced a pressing challenge: finding fulfilling career opportunities that empower them to grow without leaving their home state.

This is where the Generation West Virginia (GWV) Fellowship steps in. By offering fellows access to meaningful mentorship, leadership training, and skill-building workshops, the program bridges the gap between ambition and opportunity. Fellows gain more than just career insights—they develop a network of like-minded peers and mentors invested in their success and the future of West Virginia.

Applications for the 2025 Fellowship Cohort are open until March 16, 2025. To learn more and apply, visit https://generationwv.org/our-work/fellowship/apply/

https://generationwv.org/the-power-of-professional-development-retaining-young-talent-in-west-virginia/

#3 – From WVVA-TV – Get set for a magical time as Fayetteville prepares for its annual Wizard Weekend on January 24-26.

The New River Gorge town will transform itself into a wizarding village with food, entertainment and other activities. Event highlights include a falconry demonstration, wizardry school, artisan workshops and more.

To view a schedule of events and activities, check out VisitFayetevilleWV.com

https://www.wvva.com/2025/01/14/fayettevilles-wizard-weekend-dates-announced/

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.

daily304 - Episode 01.22.2025