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

Today is Thursday, June 25, 2026.

#1 – From WV EXECUTIVE - Automation helps shape manufacturing future

West Virginia manufacturers are using automation and advanced technologies to improve efficiency and remain competitive.

Industry leaders say automation is helping companies increase productivity, strengthen supply chains, and create opportunities for workforce development. As manufacturers continue modernizing operations, West Virginia remains positioned to support growth in advanced manufacturing and industrial innovation.

Read more:
https://wvexecutive.com/automation/

#2 – From WV ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT - Film industry continues building momentum

West Virginia's film and creative industries continue to attract attention through productions, festivals, and storytelling projects taking place across the state.

Industry advocates say growing interest in film production is helping showcase West Virginia's landscapes, communities, and creative talent while generating economic activity. Continued investment in the creative economy is creating new opportunities for filmmakers, artists, and entrepreneurs throughout the Mountain State.

Read more:
https://westvirginia.gov/industries/film/

#3 – From WV TOURISM - Plan a summer getaway to Almost Heaven

West Virginia is known as one of America's top destinations for outdoor recreation and adventure. From hiking and mountain biking to whitewater rafting and scenic overlooks, the state's natural beauty continues drawing visitors from around the country.

Visit wvtourism.com to request a free vacation guide and start planning your Almost Heaven getaway today!

Learn more:
https://wvtourism.com/

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, June 24, 2026.

#1 – From WVDNR - Citizen surveys help support conservation

The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources is encouraging residents to participate in surveys that help scientists monitor species across the state.

These citizen science efforts provide valuable information on birds, mammals, amphibians, reptiles, insects, and native plants. Officials say public participation helps improve conservation planning while giving residents an opportunity to contribute directly to the understanding and protection of West Virginia's natural resources.

Read more:
https://wvdnr.gov/plants-animals/surveys/

#2 – From WV EXPLORER - Film festivals fuel creative industry growth

Film festivals across West Virginia are helping strengthen the state's growing film and creative economy, officials say.

The festivals provide opportunities for filmmakers, artists, businesses, and communities while attracting visitors and showcasing local talent. Are you a filmmaker trying to get your project noticed? Click the link to learn more about upcoming film festivals and their submission deadlines.

Learn more:
https://wvexplorer.com/west-virginia-film-festivals-fuel-industry-growth/

#3 – From SOUTHERN LIVING - National spotlight shines on New River Gorge

The New River Gorge is garnering more attention as a must-visit destination for outdoor adventure and natural beauty.

Southern Living magazine showcases the area's hiking, rafting, climbing, scenic overlooks, and vibrant local communities. Tourism leaders say national recognition continues reinforcing West Virginia's reputation as a premier destination for outdoor recreation and adventure travel.

Read more:
https://www.southernliving.com/new-gorge-national-park-west-virginia-11992326

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, June 23, 2026.

#1 – From NORTHERN VIRGINIA MAG - Plan a summer adventure in Harpers Ferry

Harpers Ferry may be known for its historical landmarks, but it's also a great destination for outdoor adventure.

A feature from Northern Virginia Magazine showcases activities including hiking, tubing, kayaking, cycling, and exploring the town's rich history. Tourism leaders say Harpers Ferry continues attracting visitors from across the country with its unique combination of outdoor adventure, scenic beauty, and cultural heritage.

Read more:
https://northernvirginiamag.com/things-to-do/travel/2026/06/10/5-summer-outdoor-adventures-in-harpers-ferry/

#2 – From WV SBDC - Small business leaders fuel WV economy

The West Virginia Small Business Development Center recognizes its 2026 Small Business Week award winners.

The honorees represent entrepreneurs and business leaders who have demonstrated innovation, growth, and community impact across multiple industries. Officials say small businesses remain the backbone of West Virginia's economy, creating jobs and supporting local communities throughout the state.

Read more:
https://wvsbdc.com/2026-small-business-week-award-winners-fueling-west-virginias-economy/

#3 – From WV EXPLORER - Trail system provides new hiking opportunities in the Mon Forest

For outdoor enthusiasts seeking a quieter adventure, the new Peters Mountain Trail System provides miles of scenic hiking through the Monongahela National Forest.

The project is being developed through a partnership among Mon Forest Towns, the Monongahela National Forest, and West Virginia University's Outdoor Economic Development Collaborative. The trail features mountain vistas, forest landscapes, and opportunities to experience some of West Virginia's most remote natural beauty.

Read more:
https://wvexplorer.com/peters-mountain-trail-monongahela-national-forest/

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.

Amusement parks started in Europe, evolving from pleasure gardens and fairs, but in the United States, they were created as waterside attractions or by local trolley companies to encourage more ridership on weekends. Created around the turn of the 20th century and called "trolley parks," there were hundreds of them throughout the country and West Virginia was no exception. With seven trolley parks and one waterside park, West Virginia had a collective total of eight amusement parks during the golden age of that great American institution's development, and from among them, Camden Park still thrives, bearing witness to the magic of that era.

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

Today is Thursday, June 18, 2026.

#1 – From WVEDA - Hernshaw Farms expands with WVEDA support

Hernshaw Farms is growing its operations with assistance from the West Virginia Economic Development Authority.

The expansion of the Kanawha County mushroom farm will help the business increase production capacity while supporting local agriculture and economic development. State leaders say investments like these strengthen rural communities, create opportunities for growth, and help West Virginia businesses build for the future.

Read more:
https://eda.wv.gov/the-wveda-helps-hernshaw-farms-expand-its-operations/

#2 – From WVDRS - DRS success stories inspire opportunity

The West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services helps residents achieve employment and independence goals through individualized support and workforce programs.

Recent success stories highlight individuals who have overcome challenges, gained valuable skills, and secured meaningful employment opportunities. Officials say these programs help strengthen communities while empowering West Virginians to reach their full potential.

Read more:
https://wvdrs.org/updates-and-information/success-stories/

#3 – From WV EXPLORER - Free summer fun awaits across WV

West Virginia offers plenty of opportunities for affordable summer adventure, and many of them are completely free.

A feature from WV Explorer highlights scenic overlooks, hiking trails, waterfalls, historic sites, festivals, and outdoor destinations that can be enjoyed without spending a dime. Tourism leaders say these experiences help residents and visitors explore the beauty of Almost Heaven while making lasting memories.

Read more:
https://wvexplorer.com/free-things-to-do-west-virginia-summer/

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, June 17, 2026.

#1 – From WV EXECUTIVE - WV prepares for next generation of growth

A new feature from WV Executive explores the trends, industries, and investments shaping West Virginia's next wave of opportunity.

From advanced manufacturing and energy to entrepreneurship, workforce development, and innovation, leaders across the state are focused on building long-term economic growth. Supporters say West Virginia's strategic advantages continue creating new possibilities for businesses, workers, and communities.

Read more:
https://wvexecutive.com/west-virginias-next-wave-of-opportunity/

#2 – From MAMC - Marshall center helps manufacturers succeed

The Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center continues to support companies through technical assistance, workforce training, and operational improvement programs.

The center works with manufacturers across West Virginia to increase efficiency, adopt new technologies, and strengthen competitiveness. Leaders say these efforts help businesses grow while supporting high-quality jobs and economic development throughout the Mountain State.

Read more:
https://www.mfg.marshall.edu/29609-2/

#3 – From WV STATE PARKS - State parks offer family adventures statewide

West Virginia State Parks provide families with opportunities to explore, learn, and create lasting memories outdoors.

From hiking and kayaking to swimming, camping, nature programs, and scenic overlooks, the parks offer activities for visitors of all ages. Tourism officials say family-friendly outdoor experiences remain one of the state's greatest attractions and continue drawing visitors from across the country. Visit wvstateparks.com to book your lodging today!

Read more:
https://wvstateparks.com/family-adventures-you-have-to-try-in-west-virginia-state-parks/

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, June 16, 2026.

#1 – From WV EXECUTIVE - WV manufacturers focus on production growth

West Virginia manufacturers continue embracing innovation, efficiency, and workforce development to increase production and remain competitive.

A new feature from WV Executive highlights how companies across the state are adopting new technologies and operational strategies to improve performance and meet growing demand. Industry leaders say manufacturing remains one of West Virginia's strongest economic drivers, supporting jobs and investment throughout the state.

Read more: https://wvexecutive.com/production-progress/

#2 – From WV EXPLORER - Tourism and history champions honored

The 2026 History Heroes Awards recognized individuals, organizations, and communities dedicated to preserving and sharing West Virginia's rich heritage.

The annual program celebrates efforts to protect historic sites, tell local stories, and promote cultural tourism across the Mountain State. Organizers say preserving history helps strengthen community identity while creating new opportunities for tourism and economic development.

Read more: https://wvexplorer.com/wv-tourism-history-heroes-awards-2026/

#3 – From WV ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT - Automotive industry powers WV economy

West Virginia's automotive sector continues playing a major role in the state's manufacturing economy.

From advanced manufacturing facilities and supply-chain operations to workforce training and innovation, the industry supports thousands of jobs and contributes significantly to economic growth. State leaders say West Virginia's strategic location, skilled workforce, and manufacturing expertise continue attracting automotive investment.

Read more: https://westvirginia.gov/industries/automotive/

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

Joseph McCarthy was a little-known Senator from Wisconsin when he came to Wheeling in February 1950 to address the Ohio County Republican Women's Club. But after giving an incendiary speech in which he claimed to have a list of communist traitors throughout the federal government, McCarthy's name was on the lips of all Americans. With the bitter seeds he planted in Wheeling, he grew the vociferous red scare that would cast a shadow over a nation mired in the angst of the Cold War.