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Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Thursday, Nov. 12, 2026. #1 – From DAILY304 - Mountain State Music brings West Virginia's talented performers to your screen West Virginia has a rich musical heritage, and the next generation of Mountain State artists is adding its own sound to that tradition. Through Mountain State Music, daily304 introduces audiences to talented West Virginia musicians and their original songs. Each month, the series spotlights creative artists performing live from the Folklore Stage, giving viewers an opportunity to discover new voices and hear music made right here in Almost Heaven. From the comfort of your couch, you can enjoy performances that celebrate the creativity and musical talent found throughout the state. And there's no ticket required! Mountain State Music is part of daily304's mission to share the people, places and opportunities that make West Virginia wonderful. Learn more: https://daily304.wv.gov/programs/mountain-state-music/   #2 – From WV ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT West Virginia highlights 52 Opportunity Zones to encourage investment West Virginia is connecting investors with opportunities to support business growth and community development through the federal Opportunity Zones 2.0 program. The state has confirmed 52 census tracts for the initiative, which encourages long-term private investment in designated communities. Investors who place eligible capital into Qualified Opportunity Funds may receive federal tax advantages, including tax deferral, partial tax exclusion and adjustments to the tax basis of eligible gains. The goal is to encourage investment in projects that can strengthen local economies and create new opportunities. The West Virginia Division of Economic Development has launched an online resource featuring an interactive map, program information and links to federal guidance. Interested investors can also connect with local economic development authorities to learn about potential projects in participating communities. Learn more: https://westvirginia.gov/opportunity-zones/   #3 – From WV ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT West Virginia positions its workforce and location for defense industry growth From advanced manufacturing to national security technology, West Virginia is working to attract companies serving America's defense industry. The West Virginia Division of Economic Development highlights the state's skilled workforce, transportation network and proximity to major federal agencies as advantages for defense-related businesses. West Virginia is within a day's drive of 34% of the nation's leading domestic purchasing sectors, defense contractors and federal agencies. Its highways, railways and rivers connect manufacturers with customers and suppliers throughout the eastern United States. The state's proximity to Washington, D.C., also offers advantages for companies seeking access to federal defense operations and decision-makers. Organizations such as the West Virginia chapter of the National Defense Industrial Association help connect industry leaders and support opportunities for growth. State economic development officials offer assistance with site selection, business development and navigating local requirements. For defense companies looking to expand production or establish new operations, West Virginia is ready to compete. Read more: https://westvirginia.gov/industries/defense/   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, Nov. 11, 2026. …and now for the rest of the stories…on today's daily304.com! #1 – From BridgeValley CTC – BridgeValley welcomes six Dow apprentices into process technology program Six West Virginians are getting a head start on skilled manufacturing careers through a partnership between BridgeValley Community and Technical College and Dow. The students have joined BridgeValley's Process Technology associate degree program in South Charleston, combining classroom instruction with hands-on experience at Dow's operations. And here's the best part. Dow covers tuition, books and fees while participants earn a full-time wage! Students learn to monitor industrial equipment, troubleshoot problems, interpret instruments and safely manage manufacturing processes. Those skills can lead to careers in chemical production, refining and other advanced manufacturing industries. BridgeValley also offers opportunities through West Virginia's STAND program, which helps eligible apprentices turn their existing training into college credit and work toward an associate degree. Read more: https://www.bridgevalley.edu/news/2026/AGD_Dow_Apprentices_2026.html #2 – From WV Explorer – Mothman turns 60 as Ohio State celebrates West Virginia's famous legend One of West Virginia's most mysterious legends is celebrating a milestone. It's been 60 years since two young couples reported encountering a large, winged creature with glowing red eyes near Point Pleasant on November 15, 1966. Their account launched the legend of Mothman, a mysterious figure that would inspire books, a Hollywood movie and an annual festival attracting visitors to the Ohio River community. Now, Ohio State University's Center for Folklore Studies is marking the anniversary with a series of November events called Moth-Vember. Activities include a November 16 screening of The Mothman Prophecies, followed by a discussion with curators from Point Pleasant's Mothman Museum. A November 19 lecture will explore how legendary creatures become part of American folklore. Back in Point Pleasant, visitors can explore the Mothman Museum and see the famous stainless-steel statue created by local sculptor Bob Roach. Sixty years later, nobody has established what the original witnesses encountered. But one thing is certain. Mothman has become an unforgettable part of West Virginia's cultural identity. Read more: https://wvexplorer.com/mothman-60th-anniversary-west-virginia-legend/ #3 – From WV Living – Southern West Virginia Junior Nursing Academy inspires future healthcare workers Future nurses and healthcare professionals are getting a chance to experience the medical field before they even finish high school. The Southern West Virginia Junior Nursing Academy at WVU Institute of Technology in Beckley offers eighth, ninth and tenth graders a free, hands-on introduction to nursing. During the two-day summer camp, students practice taking vital signs, learn sterile procedures and can earn CPR certification. They also visit Beckley ARH Hospital and Raleigh General Hospital, where registered nurses introduce them to real healthcare environments. The academy takes place each June and includes transportation for excursions, scrubs and lunch at no cost. Read more: https://wvliving.com/scrubbing-in-for-camp/ 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, Nov. 10, 2026. #1 – From MAMC - Toyota West Virginia offers paid internships for Marshall manufacturing students Students interested in advanced manufacturing careers have an opportunity to earn while they learn through a partnership between Toyota West Virginia and the Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center. Students enrolling in the SMART program, short for Systems Maintenance, Automation and Robotics Technology, for fall 2027 can apply for paid internships through Toyota's Advanced Manufacturing Technology program. Selected interns will work 24 to 30 hours per week at Toyota's Buffalo manufacturing facility while attending classes two days a week at Marshall's Huntington training center. The two-year program combines classroom instruction with hands-on experience under experienced Toyota mentors. After completing their associate degrees and passing Toyota's maintenance test, participants can apply for available full-time positions. Toyota reports a current starting wage of $40.61 per hour for skilled team members. Applications and required materials are due January 8, 2027, with interns expected to begin in August. Read more: https://www.mfg.marshall.edu/new-smart-students-eligible-for-paid-toyota-wv-internships/ #2 – From YAHOO TRAVEL - Lost River State Park earns national attention as a hidden mountain getaway A scenic destination in West Virginia's Eastern Panhandle is getting national attention for its quiet trails, comfortable cabins and mountain views. A recent Yahoo Travel feature highlights Lost River State Park, a 3,712-acre retreat in Hardy County offering hiking, horseback riding and year-round cabin accommodations. Visitors can explore approximately 23 miles of trails, including the popular hike to Cranny Crow Overlook, where panoramic views stretch across the surrounding mountains. The park also features an Almost Heaven swing, horseback riding trails and recreational amenities, including a swimming pool during the summer season. History enthusiasts can visit the restored Lee family home, built in 1804 and associated with Revolutionary War general Henry "Light-Horse Harry" Lee. For overnight visitors, the park offers 26 cabins, ranging from historic accommodations to modern vacation cabins. Whether you're planning an outdoor adventure or a quiet mountain escape, Lost River State Park offers another reason to explore Almost Heaven. Read more: https://travel.yahoo.com/guides/united-states/west-virginia/articles/west-virginias-state-park-hidden-114500920.html #3 – From BLUEFIELD DAILY TELEGRAPH - Mercer County opens Basecamp visitor experience center in downtown Princeton Visitors exploring southern West Virginia have a new place to begin their adventures. Basecamp by Visit Mercer County recently opened at 858 Mercer Street in downtown Princeton, combining a tourism information center, retail space and local discovery experience. The center offers free travel guides, maps and recommendations for exploring Mercer County's outdoor recreation, restaurants, attractions and historic communities. Visitors can also browse official Almost Heaven merchandise and discover stories celebrating Appalachian music, art, history and culture. One special feature is the Locals Know Best board, where residents and travelers can share recommendations for their favorite places. Visit Mercer County Executive Director Jamie Null says the center is designed to help visitors discover experiences they might otherwise overlook. Read more: https://www.bdtonline.com/news/new-visitor-experience-center-opening-friday-in-mercer/article_99bf8b84-9c54-4fa0-8df6-7cebccd4c76d.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.

Bill Wither's music has become such a staple of our lives that it's hard to imagine it didn't always exist. Growing up in West Virginia's Southern Coalfields, Withers took inspiration from the people around him to create these amazing songs, and today his work is used as anthems for the independent spirit, kindness and charity, and for those whose love is as irreplaceable as the sun. Inducted into just about every music hall of fame imaginable, Bill Withers articulated our love and angst, giving us a body of work that we can always lean on.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Sunday, Nov. 8, 2026. #1 – From WV PUBLIC BROADCASTING - Marshall University lands $3 million to advance aerospace and defense workforce training West Virginia's aerospace industry is getting a boost through a new partnership involving Marshall University and Huntington Tri-State Airport. The U.S. Economic Development Administration has awarded more than $3 million to support the Aerospace, Resilience, Manufacturing and Operations for Readiness, or ARMOR, coalition. The initiative will help establish a national hub for aerospace and defense innovation through airport improvements, new equipment and specialized workforce training. The funding will also support curriculum development to prepare workers for careers in advanced manufacturing and aerospace technology. Federal officials say the investment will support nearly 600 jobs. Marshall Vice President Brandon Dennison says the program will build on West Virginia's history of supplying parts and components for the nation's defense industry while helping local businesses modernize and compete. The goal is to strengthen the state's aerospace manufacturing capabilities and prepare West Virginians for the skilled jobs of tomorrow. Read more: https://wvpublic.org/story/economy/armor-program-comes-to-marshall/   #2 – From WEIRTON DAILY TIMES - Discover Northern WV introduces new identity for Northern Panhandle tourism There's a new name inviting visitors to explore the northernmost corner of Almost Heaven. The former Top of West Virginia Convention and Visitors Bureau is now known as Discover Northern WV, reflecting a refreshed approach to promoting tourism in Brooke and Hancock counties and the city of Weirton. While the name has changed, the organization's mission remains the same: attract visitors, promote local attractions and support businesses throughout the region. From the scenic trails of Tomlinson Run State Park to the colorful creations at Fiesta Tableware, the Northern Panhandle offers plenty to discover. Visitors can also explore the historic communities of Wellsburg and New Cumberland, enjoy local festivals and experience the region's rich manufacturing heritage. Discover Northern WV operates a visitor center at 243 Three Springs Drive in Weirton, where travelers can find recommendations, brochures and information about local attractions. Explore the region at northernwv.com. Read more: https://www.weirtondailytimes.com/news/local-news/2026/10/new-name-same-mission-top-of-wv-cvb-now-known-as-discover-northern-wv/   #3 – From WV PUBLIC BROADCASTING - Laurel Fork Farm named one of America's top 100 small businesses A family farm in the mountains of West Virginia is earning national recognition for its creativity and determination. Laurel Fork Farm, located along the Tucker-Randolph county line, has been named one of the 2026 CO-100 Top 100 Small Businesses in America by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. The 400-acre farm, operated by Marsha Waybright and her family, was selected from more than 12,000 applicants and recognized in the Champions of Adaptability category. What began as a traditional family farm has grown into a destination offering lodging, farm tours, educational workshops, dinners and locally made products. The transformation began when the family renovated an old farmhouse into a bed-and-breakfast and discovered that guests wanted to learn about their rural lifestyle. Today, the farm also supports the nonprofit West Virginia School of Traditional Skills, offering opportunities to learn heritage crafts and practical skills. Waybright says diversifying the farm's activities helped preserve the family business. It's a West Virginia success story built on entrepreneurship, tradition and a willingness to try something new. Read more: https://wvpublic.org/story/economy/w-va-farm-named-one-of-top-100-small-businesses-in-u-s/   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 Saturday, Nov. 7, 2026.   #1 – From MU ADV MFG - Gestamp and Marshall launch apprenticeship pipeline for manufacturing careers West Virginia students are getting a head start on manufacturing careers through a new partnership between global automotive supplier Gestamp and the Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center. Gestamp is launching registered tool-and-die apprenticeships across six U.S. manufacturing facilities, including its South Charleston plant. The program will begin with 32 apprentices. Marshall's Apprenticeship Works program is helping develop the training, provide technical instruction and coordinate with the U.S. Department of Labor. The partnership also creates opportunities for high school students. Students from Ralph R. Willis Career and Technical Center in Logan County are participating in a pre-apprenticeship program at Gestamp's South Charleston facility. They spend approximately 15 hours each week learning about manufacturing processes, technology and workplace operations while gaining experience that can count toward future apprenticeships. Marshall's pre-apprenticeship initiative now reaches schools in 13 West Virginia counties. It's a partnership connecting education with industry and helping young West Virginians build careers close to home. Read more: https://www.mfg.marshall.edu/gestamp-launches-apprenticeship-pipeline-with-mamc/   #2 – From WV PRESS - Canaan Valley receives $1 million for snowmaking improvements Winter recreation is getting a boost at Canaan Valley Resort State Park in Tucker County. The resort will receive $1 million for snowmaking equipment improvements designed to increase the amount of snow that can be produced across its skiable terrain. The funding is part of approximately $19.7 million in statewide investments announced for West Virginia's state parks, forests and outdoor recreation areas. Other improvements include $3 million for a new 34-site campground and electrical upgrades at Little Beaver State Park, $2.275 million for cabin and lodge improvements at Twin Falls, and $1 million for rehabilitation of the lower tram building at Hawks Nest. Additional funding will support wastewater infrastructure, paving, cabin repairs and other improvements throughout the park system. The investments come as West Virginia's tourism industry continues to grow, with state officials reporting $9.4 billion in annual economic impact. Read more: https://wvpress.org/breaking-news/canaan-valley-to-receive-1m-for-snow-making/   #3 – From WEST LIBERTY - West Liberty University opens two miles of improved campus hiking trails Students and outdoor enthusiasts have a new place to explore at West Liberty University. The university has completed improvements to two miles of hiking trails in its 169-acre Campus Woods, creating opportunities for recreation, wellness and outdoor education. A $25,000 grant from Expand Energy helped fund a new trailhead, directional signage, a bridge over North Fork Short Creek and equipment for trail maintenance.  Students also played an important role. During a volunteer event supported by Volunteer West Virginia, students built benches and picnic tables, marked trails and removed debris and invasive plants. Visual Communication Design student Bre Boogaart even created the trail system's branding and signage. University leaders say the trails will support academic research, hands-on learning and student engagement while giving students, employees and the surrounding community a place to enjoy nature. Read more: https://westliberty.edu/news/west-liberty-university-completes-work-on-two-miles-of-campus-hiking-trails/   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 Thursday, Nov. 5, 2026. …and now for the rest of the stories…on today's daily304.com! #1 – From MU Advanced Manufacturing – Charleston technology company brings innovative product to life with Marshall's help A Charleston technology company is turning a creative idea into a working product with help from the Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center. KDE Technology is developing Synapse Digital, a tabletop device combining wireless phone charging, digital advertising and interactive features for restaurants, entertainment venues and other public spaces. The center provided $5,000 in early-stage assistance, along with engineering expertise and advanced 3D-printing equipment. Working with MAMC engineer Adam Eshem, KDE leaders Tony Brown and Lee Ayers refined the device's design, improved heat management and developed a durable enclosure. The product features two high-speed wireless chargers and a digital display. Its cable-free charging design also aims to reduce security risks associated with public charging stations. With the hardware completed, KDE is developing the software and advertising network needed to bring Synapse Digital to market. It's an example of how West Virginia's manufacturing resources are helping entrepreneurs turn ideas into products. Read more: https://www.mfg.marshall.edu/innovations-bring-creation-to-life-with-assistance-from-mamc/ #2 – From WV SBDC – WV SBDC helps childcare entrepreneurs build businesses that support working families Childcare is essential for working families, and the West Virginia Small Business Development Center is helping entrepreneurs build businesses that meet that need. Through its Childcare West Virginia: Building the Business that Supports Business initiative, the WV SBDC provides resources for people interested in opening or expanding childcare operations. Entrepreneurs can access regional startup guides for childcare centers, family childcare facilities and home-based businesses, along with one-on-one assistance from business coaches. The initiative is supported by the Appalachian Regional Commission and developed in partnership with the West Virginia Workforce Resiliency Office and childcare development company Wonderschool. Its pilot focuses on eight counties: Boone, Jackson, Kanawha, Lincoln, Mason, Putnam, Roane and Wirt. The effort also explores ways employers can help workers manage childcare costs. By helping childcare providers establish sustainable businesses, the program aims to expand childcare access and support workforce participation across West Virginia. Read more: https://wvsbdc.com/tools-and-resources/childcare-industry-resources/ #3 – From STV – Service Wire expansion reaches major construction milestone in Culloden A West Virginia manufacturing company with roots dating back nearly 60 years is making progress on a major expansion. Service Wire Company, a family-owned wire and cable manufacturer headquartered in Culloden, has reached an important milestone with the installation of the final structural steel at its expanding facility. The completed framework marks the transition toward interior construction and equipment installation. Engineering and construction management firm STV is overseeing project coordination, scheduling and collaboration among the construction teams. To commemorate the milestone, employees signed two 24-inch steel beams before installation. The beams will remain visible inside the completed facility. Founded in West Virginia in 1968, Service Wire manufactures American-made wire and cable for industrial, commercial and utility customers. The expansion is designed to increase manufacturing capacity and support the company's next generation of growth. The project is expected to create approximately 60 new jobs. It's another investment in West Virginia's manufacturing workforce and industrial future. Read more: https://stvinc.com/news/service-wire-factory-expansion-reaches-structural-steel-milestone-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.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Wednesday, Nov. 4, 2026. …and now for the rest of the stories…on today's daily304.com! #1 – From WV Commerce – Charlotte Lane reflects on 50 years of leadership and public service in West Virginia After more than five decades practicing law and serving the public, Charlotte Lane continues to help shape West Virginia's future. The chair of the West Virginia Public Service Commission graduated from law school in 1972, when just three women were in her graduating class. Throughout her career, Lane has worked in private practice, served in the West Virginia House of Delegates and spent eight years on the United States International Trade Commission. Energy policy has been a constant focus. Today, Lane says the state's energy resources, growing electricity demand, data center development and transmission infrastructure make the commission's work especially important. She also points to Governor Patrick Morrisey's 50 by 50 energy strategy as a significant part of the state's energy conversation. Beyond public policy, Lane takes pride in mentoring others, particularly women pursuing leadership positions. Her message reflects a career dedicated to public service, navigating difficult decisions and helping make West Virginia a better place to live. Watch the video: https://youtu.be/wsE7KeLUPZM #2 – From WV University – WVU awarded $1 million to prepare students for mining and critical minerals careers West Virginia University is receiving a $1 million award from the U.S. Department of Energy to prepare students for careers in mining engineering and critical minerals. The funding comes through the PROSPECT Planning Prize, an initiative focused on expanding education and strengthening America's domestic mineral supply chains. WVU will use the award to support student scholarships, improve classrooms and laboratories, and expand hands-on learning opportunities. Students will develop skills in producing, processing, recovering and recycling critical minerals used in technologies ranging from energy systems to automobiles. The university also plans to strengthen partnerships with K-12 schools, community colleges, industry employers and national laboratories. WVU's mining engineering program is one of just 14 ABET-accredited programs of its kind in the United States. University leaders say the investment will help prepare the next generation of engineers and scientists while supporting energy security and economic growth. Read more: https://wvutoday.wvu.edu/stories/2026/10/26/wvu-awarded-1m-prospect-planning-prize-to-prepare-students-for-mining-critical-minerals-jobs #3 – From WV SBDC – WV SBDC helps childcare entrepreneurs build businesses that support working families Starting or expanding a childcare business can be challenging, but the West Virginia Small Business Development Center is helping entrepreneurs navigate the process. Through its Childcare Industry Resources initiative, the WV SBDC offers startup guides covering childcare centers, family childcare facilities and home-based childcare businesses. The guides are organized by geographic region and help entrepreneurs understand licensing requirements, business planning and other important steps. Business owners can also connect with WV SBDC coaches for one-on-one assistance. The resources complement the Childcare West Virginia: Building the Business that Supports Business initiative, developed with the West Virginia Workforce Resiliency Office and Wonderschool. The initiative focuses on helping new childcare businesses open, supporting existing providers and exploring ways employers can help workers afford childcare. Its initial pilot focuses on eight counties, including Kanawha, Putnam, Jackson and Mason. The goal is to strengthen childcare businesses while helping more West Virginians participate in the workforce. Read more: https://wvsbdc.com/tools-and-resources/childcare-industry-resources/ 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, Nov. 3, 2026. …and now for the rest of the stories…on today's daily304.com! #1 – From LinkedIn – Ascend WV newcomer discovers an instant community in Charleston When Army veteran Giovanna Kiani decided to leave Tampa, Florida, she wasn't just looking for a new place to live. She wanted a community where she could build the life she imagined. As a remote-working senior recruiting manager in the defense industry, Kiani had the freedom to choose where she lived. She discovered Ascend WV, a program that helps remote workers relocate to the Mountain State. She moved to Charleston in May and quickly became involved in outdoor adventures, community events and networking with other Ascend members. Kiani compares the program to instant coffee. You show up, and suddenly you have a community. Ascend WV recently celebrated its first anniversary in Charleston, where the program has welcomed nearly 100 new West Virginians to the Kanawha Valley. For Kiani, the experience has meant new friendships, more time outdoors and opportunities to participate in her community, including sharing her perspective at the West Virginia Municipal League Conference. Her story highlights how Ascend WV is helping newcomers find more than a place to live. It's helping them find a place to belong. Read more: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/ascend-wv-like-instant-coffee-members-move-charleston-ascend-wv-2ksee #2 – From WV Energy – West Virginia offers $88 million in home energy rebate programs West Virginia homeowners and renters have new opportunities to make their homes more energy efficient. The West Virginia Office of Energy has secured $88 million in federal funding to support home improvements that can reduce energy consumption, improve comfort and potentially lower utility bills. Two programs are available. The HOMES Program supports whole-home energy improvements, including insulation, air sealing and heating and cooling upgrades. Rebates are based on the amount of energy saved. The HEAR Program focuses on efficient appliances and related improvements for eligible low- and moderate-income households. These may include heat pump water heaters, electric stoves, clothes dryers and electrical upgrades. Depending on eligibility, some improvements may be available with little or no out-of-pocket cost. Renters may also qualify with their landlord's approval. Interested residents can visit the Office of Energy website to review eligibility requirements, find participating contractors and register through the application portal to join the waitlist. Learn more: https://energywv.org/programs-initiatives/home-energy-rebate-programs/ #3 – From Metro News – West Virginia launches one-stop permitting portal to support business growth West Virginia is taking another step toward making it easier for businesses to invest and expand in the Mountain State. Governor Patrick Morrisey recently announced the launch of the state's new One Stop Shop Permitting Portal, a digital system designed to simplify the permitting process. The portal allows businesses to manage applications, fees and permit tracking across multiple state agencies through a single online account. It's part of the state's Speed to Build initiative, which aims to reduce delays and help businesses move projects forward more efficiently. The system launched several months ahead of its statutory deadline. Accelerated processing options are scheduled to take effect at the beginning of 2027. Businesses can use the portal voluntarily during the transition period, with mandatory adoption planned for summer 2027. Construction and industry representatives say faster permitting could help companies begin projects sooner, supporting investment and job creation. The goal is straightforward: less paperwork, faster decisions and a more competitive business environment. Read more: https://wvmetronews.com/2026/10/28/governor-announces-one-stop-shop-permitting-portal/ 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.

Scandal Abounds When a Daughter of West Virginia Becomes Engages to a Son of European Royalty