daily304's podcast

Your window into wonderful West Virginia. Sharing news and opportunities from Almost Heaven. Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and Instagram @daily304

daily304 – Episode 02.04.2026 02/04/2026

daily304 – Episode 02.03.2026 02/03/2026

daily304 – Episode 02.03.2026 Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Tuesday, February 3, 2026. #1 – From WV EXPLORER - Restore vs. rebuild: West Virginia communities weigh preservation decisions Communities across West Virginia are exploring whether it’s more cost-effective and beneficial to restore aging downtown buildings rather than demolish and rebuild. Local developers say restoration often preserves community character and unlocks access to funding geared toward historic districts. Read more: #2 – From WV TOURISM - Not a skier? Winter fun beyond the slopes in Almost Heaven West Virginia Tourism’s winter guide highlights activities beyond skiing — from snow tubing at Canaan Valley, Snowshoe, and Winterplace to scenic winter hiking, wildlife watching, cozy cabin escapes, and other outdoor adventures that don’t require skis or snowboards. Start planning your Almost Heaven winter getaway today! Read more: #3 – From WV SBDC - WV SBDC training and business fundamentals workshops for entrepreneurs The West Virginia Small Business Development Center (WV SBDC) provides an array of small business training opportunities across the state. Its Business Fundamentals workshops — available online and in person — help new and aspiring entrepreneurs learn essentials like business planning, loan applications, and marketing, while additional monthly workshops cover topics ranging from strategic practices to relief-fund applications. Learn more: Find these stories and more at . 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 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. /episode/index/show/daily304/id/39971430

Homer Hickam, Jr. 02/02/2026

daily304 – Episode 01.29.2026 01/29/2026

daily304 – Episode 01.28.2026 01/28/2026

daily304 – Episode 01.28.2026 Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Wednesday, January 28, 2026. #1 – From WV SBDC - Businesses encouraged to learn social media tips to engage your customer base Online platforms offer many tools that any type of small business can utilize to learn more about their customers and their preferences. This information can be used to better serve your community and to create worthwhile outreach strategies in the future. The West Virginia Small Business Development Center suggests a few ways you can leverage social media to learn more about your online customer base. Read more: #2 – From THE REAL WV - Winter Music Festival returns to Lewisburg The Lewisburg Winter Music Festival is set to return to downtown Lewisburg on Jan. 30–31, with more than 70 music acts performing across nine venues. Produced by the Southern Appalachia Musician’s Association, the two-day festival blends live music with community support, with performances running nightly and proceeds directed toward nonprofit outreach and music education. Read more: #3 – From AOL - North Fork Mountain Trail offers some of the most scenic views in WV One of West Virginia’s most breathtaking overlooks comes with a steep climb over challenging terrain, but many hikers agree the view is worth it. In Pendleton County, North Fork Mountain Trail to Chimney Top is a 5-mile out-and-back hike that leads to a 360 degree view of the surrounding mountains--and the perfect opportunity to rest while you take in the scenery. Read more: Find these stories and more at . 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 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. /episode/index/show/daily304/id/39900845

daily304 – Episode 01.27.2026 01/27/2026

daily304 – Episode 01.27.2026 Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Tuesday, January 27, 2026 #1 – From WVDNR - Archery in the Schools program offers a fun and inclusive alternative to traditional sports The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources’ Archery in the Schools program is expanding, giving students the chance to learn archery skills, safety practices, and wildlife conservation fundamentals while building confidence and discipline. Learn how you can become an instructor or host a training course at your school. Read more: #2 – From WV ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT - West Virginia’s modern automotive industry continues to thrive West Virginia’s modern automotive industry has stood as a rock-solid pillar of the state’s economy for more than three decades, supporting thousands of jobs and acting as a key hub for manufacturing, innovation, and global supply chains. A closer look inside one of West Virginia’s automotive facilities offers a snapshot of the innovation, precision, and skilled workforce that define the state’s modern automotive industry. Read more: #3 – From WV NEWS - TrainWV Network connects manufacturing professionals with teaching opportunities Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center launches the TrainWV Network, an online portal to connect experienced manufacturing professionals with teaching opportunities, creating pathways for industry experts to help educate and mentor the next generation of skilled workers in West Virginia. Read more: Find these stories and more at . 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 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. /episode/index/show/daily304/id/39887485

The Battle of Blair Mountain WV Mine Wars – Part 9 01/26/2026

daily304 – Episode 01.22.2026 01/22/2026

daily304 – Episode 01.21.2026 01/21/2026

daily304 – Episode 01.20.2025 01/21/2026

Sheriff Don Chafin – Strike Breaker WV Mine Wars – Part 8 01/19/2026

daily304 – Episode 01.15.2026 01/15/2026

daily304 – Episode 01.14.2026 01/14/2026

daily304 – Episode 01.13.2026 01/13/2026

daily304 – Episode 01.13.2026 Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Tuesday, January 13, 2026. #1 – From STATE OF WV - Temp workers sought for short-term projects Are you looking to gain valuable experience, earn extra income, serve your community, or explore a new career path? The State of West Virginia is accepting applications for a variety of part-time temporary employment opportunities across departments, offering work in areas such as administrative support, field services, and seasonal roles. Learn more: #2 – From MARSHALL ADVANCED MANUFACTURING CENTER - SMART program prepares students for intermediate-level careers Marshall University’s SMART Program provides career skills training in technical fields to help students and adults prepare for in-demand jobs in manufacturing, technology, and other advanced sectors. Students from West Virginia who attend MAMC’s Machinist Technology/CNC Associate Degree Program may be eligible for free tuition through the West Virginia Invests Grant program. Apply now: #3 – From TOYOTA - Toyota creates pathways to skilled trade careers in advanced manufacturing Toyota is expanding efforts to create career pathways into skilled trade and advanced manufacturing roles through education partnerships, apprenticeships, and training programs nationwide. Through the Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education program, students learn valuable skills from robotics to basic electricity, hydraulics, mechanics, and industrial troubleshooting. They also teach soft skills like teamwork, leadership, and time management. Read more: Find these stories and more at . 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 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. /episode/index/show/daily304/id/39698140

C.E. Lively - Agent Provocateur WV Mine Wars - Part 7 01/12/2026

Holiest Ghost - Alabaster Boxer 01/09/2026

daily304 – Episode 01.08.2026 01/08/2026

daily304 – Episode 01.08.2026 Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Thursday, January 8, 2026. #1 – From WV GAZETTE-MAIL - Pastry hot dogs offer a new twist on a WV favorite West Virginia is known for its signature hot dog topped with mustard, onions, chili and slaw--but in the Capital City region a different kind of hot dog dominates the scene. Made famous by Spring Hill Bakery, these hot dogs are made from pastry dough, stuffed with cream and drizzled with chocolate. Sweet variations of this unique pastry dog are popping up all over the Kanawha Valley under different nicknames, from chubby bun to Molly dog to Wimpy John. Read more: #2 – From WVNS-TV - Behind the scenes of a new film shooting in Mercer County A new feature film has selected Mercer County as its backdrop, and local crews and locations are playing key roles. A behind-the-scenes look highlights how the production is engaging with the community, showcasing West Virginia landscapes and small-town charm as cinematic settings. Read more: #3 – From DAILY304 - The History Project highlights WV’s stories, people and places The History Project from daily304 continues to explore compelling episodes from West Virginia’s past — detailed documentary storytelling that preserves local heritage, cultural turning points, and the lived experiences that shaped the Mountain State. The series brings archival voices, local experts, and historical context into vivid focus. Watch the videos: Find these stories and more at . 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 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. /episode/index/show/daily304/id/39632320

daily304 – Episode 01.07.2026 01/07/2026

daily304 – Episode 01.07.2026 Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Wednesday, January 7, 2026 #1 – From WV EXPLORER - From pickleball to mountain biking--discover 5 sports that are growing in WV West Virginia’s sports landscape continues to grow, with expanding programs and participation helping strengthen communities across the Mountain State. From local leagues to broader opportunities for athletes, sports are building healthy habits, teamwork, and hometown pride. The story highlights how athletics are becoming a bigger part of community identity and quality of life — especially as programs evolve and reach more West Virginians. Read more: #2 – From THE REAL WV - Meet Yeager Airport’s wildlife patrol team At West Virginia International Yeager Airport in Charleston, two border collies — Hercules and Ned — have become part of the team keeping runways safer by chasing birds and wildlife away from flight paths. Airport staff say the runway dog program has helped reduce bird strike incidents significantly since it began. Learn how the dogs are trained for this work, how the airport coordinates wildlife patrol, and why Yeager is among a small group of airports using runway dogs as part of airfield safety. Read more: #3 – From WV DHHR - WV Department of Health seeks to implement a $199M rural healthcare transformation The West Virginia Department of Health is seeking a leadership team to implement a $199 million Rural Healthcare Transformation Initiative focused on strengthening healthcare access and systems in rural communities. The initiative aims to improve quality, sustainability, and outcomes — representing a major investment in long-term rural health capacity across the state. Read more: Find these stories and more at . 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 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. /episode/index/show/daily304/id/39632235

daily304 - Episode 01.06.2026 01/06/2026

daily304 - Episode 01.06.2026 Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Tuesday, January 6 2025. #1 - WV SBDC business planning services support entrepreneurs The West Virginia Small Business Development Center offers free one-on-one business planning services that help entrepreneurs clarify ideas, build business plans, and prepare for growth — from market research to financial planning. Coaches work with startups and existing small businesses alike, offering guidance that strengthens business fundamentals and long-term success. Link: #2 - Falcon Fest craft beer event launched by Fairmont State University and Short Story Brewery Fairmont State University is launching Falcon Fest, a new craft beer celebration in partnership with Rivesville-based Short Story Brewery. The event aims to bring students, residents, and beer enthusiasts together for community engagement, music, and local flavor — blending higher-education spirit with craft culture in north-central West Virginia. Link: #3 - WVEDA helps build business momentum across West Virginia The West Virginia Economic Development Authority (WVEDA) continues offering financing programs, strategic support, and partnerships that help businesses start, expand, and succeed statewide. Through loans, community investment tools, and collaborative initiatives, WVEDA supports job creation and capital access, fueling economic growth across the Mountain State. Link: Find these stories and more at . 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 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. /episode/index/show/daily304/id/39621210

Bill Blizzard – Union Leader WV Mine Wars – Part 5 01/05/2026

1921 - Kindred Valley 01/02/2026

daily304 – Episode 01.01.2026 01/01/2026

daily304 – Episode 01.01.2026 Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Thursday, January 1, 2025. #1 – From WV GAZETTE-MAIL - Apple Grove wastewater plant nears completion Construction is wrapping up on a long-anticipated wastewater treatment plant in Apple Grove, part of a larger effort to expand sewer service and support economic growth in Mason County. The new system, tied to attracting major investments and improving infrastructure, is expected to go into service early next year, bringing reliable public utility service to local businesses, homes, schools, and future developments. Read more: #2 – From WV EXECUTIVE - ‘Talent transplant’: WVU president’s vision for growthWest Virginia University’s new president, Michael T. Benson, is being spotlighted for his leadership approach — part of what one profile calls a talent transplant for the Mountain State. Benson, who began his tenure in Morgantown in 2025, emphasizes community engagement, workforce alignment, and accessibility as core parts of his vision for WVU’s role in statewide opportunity and economic development. Read more: #3 – From JOBCASE - Manufacturing remains vital to West Virginia’s economyManufacturing continues to be a key employer and economic engine across West Virginia, from heavy industry and automotive suppliers to advanced materials and skilled trades. Longstanding demand for manufacturing jobs — particularly in technical fields — offers opportunities for workers at various experience levels. Read more: Find these stories and more at . 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 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. /episode/index/show/daily304/id/39563705

daily304 – Episode 12.31.2025 12/31/2025

daily304 – Episode 12.31.2025 Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Wednesday, December 31, 2025. #1 – From WV METRO NEWS - Toyota West Virginia celebrates 2025 accomplishmentsToyota West Virginia looks back at a successful year in 2025, reaching key production goals, strengthening supplier partnerships, and contributing positively to the local economy. Company leaders highlighted the plant’s role in advancing automotive manufacturing excellence and supporting workforce opportunities across the Mountain State. Read more: #2 – From WV ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT - WV’s automotive industry demonstrates continued growth and opportunityWest Virginia’s automotive sector continues to be a vital part of the state’s industrial landscape, supplying components, advanced materials, and skilled labor to major manufacturers. With a strong logistics network and competitive business environment, the industry supports jobs and economic diversification, contributing to long-term growth across regions. Learn more: #3 – From WV LIVING - ‘A Story Set at Home’ celebrates WV connection and belongingColorful picture books and a set of cards featuring West Virginia authors make great gifts for the young reader in your life. This feature in WV Living celebrates the ties West Virginians feel to their communities and landscapes. The narrative reflects on what “home” means in the Mountain State — from family traditions and local stories to the natural beauty that shapes everyday life. Read more: Find these stories and more at . 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 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. /episode/index/show/daily304/id/39563700

daily304 – Episode 12.30.2025 12/30/2025

Mother Jones – Union Leader WV Mine Wars – Part 4 12/29/2025

daily304 – Episode 12.25.2025 12/25/2025

daily304 – Episode 12.25.2025 Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Thursday, December 25, 2025. Need a hunting or fishing license in West Virginia? A simple guide helps you find exactly what you need — fast. NEXT: Looking to grow your business overseas? Europe could be your next export opportunity. AND: The History Project revisits a surprising Christmas-season story — how Glen Dale, West Virginia, once helped make toy magic for the world. …and now for the rest of the stories…on today’s ! #1 – From WVDNR West Virginia’s license guide makes it easier to get started Whether you’re hunting, fishing, or looking to purchase a gift for the outdoors lover in your life, the West Virginia DNR license guide breaks down what licenses are required and how to get them. The centralized resource helps residents and visitors quickly navigate requirements, renewals, and fees — saving time and reducing confusion. Learn more: #2 – From WV ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Why Europe should be your next export destination West Virginia businesses looking to expand globally may want to look across the Atlantic. A new export guide outlines why Europe offers strong opportunities — including large consumer markets, established trade relationships, and demand for advanced manufacturing, specialty goods, and U.S.-made products. With the right strategy and support, exporting to Europe can help West Virginia companies diversify revenue and scale internationally. Learn more: #3 – From DAILY304 The History Project: When toy magic lived in Glen Dale, West Virginia This episode of The History Project explores how Glen Dale, West Virginia, became home to one of the largest toy-manufacturing operations in the world. In the 1930s, the Louis Marx Toy Company transformed a former aircraft plant into a massive production facility — eventually employing more than 2,000 workers and producing iconic toys like the Big Wheel, now housed in the Smithsonian and the Toy Hall of Fame.Though the factory closed in the 1980s, Marx toys remain prized collectibles — a reminder that, for a time, the magic often associated with the North Pole was being made right here in West Virginia. Watch the video: Find these stories and more at . 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 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. /episode/index/show/daily304/id/39524405

daily304 – Episode 12.24.2025 12/24/2025

daily304 – Episode 12.24.2025 Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Wednesday, December 24, 2025. White Grass offers cross-country skiing adventures and scenic winter trails in West Virginia’s highlands. NEXT: The West Virginia State Parks Foundation has received a significant grant from the Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation to support conservation and park experiences. AND: Marshall University researchers are using modern technology to advance precision medicine. …and now for the rest of the stories…on today’s ! #1 – From WV EXPLORER White Grass Cross-Country Skiing: Winter trails and scenic adventure White Grass Ski Touring Center in West Virginia’s Allegheny Highlands is a destination for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and peaceful winter exploration. With more than 50 kilometers of groomed trails set against panoramic mountain views, White Grass offers both beginner and advanced options for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a quiet, invigorating winter experience. Read more: #2 – From WV PRESS ASSOCIATION WV State Parks Foundation awarded $50,000 The West Virginia State Parks Foundation has received a $50,000 grant from the Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation. The funding will support park stewardship, community engagement, and improvements that enhance the outdoor experience for both residents and visitors alike. Foundation leaders say the investment will help protect parklands and expand opportunities for education and recreation throughout the state park system. Read more: #3 – From WV PUBLIC BROADCASTING Marshall University researchers use technology to advance precision medicine Researchers at Marshall University are employing cutting-edge technology to push forward precision medicine — tailoring treatments and medical strategies based on individual characteristics. The work aims to improve health outcomes by analyzing data at a detailed level, offering potential advances in how diseases are understood and treated. Read more: Find these stories and more at . 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 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 /episode/index/show/daily304/id/39524375

daily304 – Episode 12.23.2025 12/24/2025

daily304 – Episode 12.23.2025 Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Tuesday, December 23, 2025. Discover the hidden wonders of Greenbrier County’s caves — a subterranean adventure in West Virginia. NEXT: A locally made coal-infused decking product is turning heads with strength and sustainability. AND: These West Virginia scenic overlooks deliver “bucket list” views with no experience necessary. …and now for the rest of the stories…on today’s ! #1 – From WV EXPLORER Explore Greenbrier County’s caves and underground beauty Greenbrier County is home to remarkable cave systems, including Lost World Caverns and other limestone wonders that offer guided tours, geological marvels, and year-round adventure. From stalactites to subterranean chambers, these caves showcase the Mountain State’s rich natural history — and provide a mild-weather escape from seasonal extremes. Read more: #2 – From TIMES LEADER Locally produced coal-infused decking offers durability and style A new decking product made locally in West Virginia incorporates coal into its composite mix — creating a strong, weather-resistant surface ideal for outdoor spaces. Community leaders say Consol Innovations’ unique product exemplifies how traditional resources like coal can find new life in modern, sustainable applications. Read more: #3 – From ONLY IN YOUR STATE West Virginia overlooks with bucket-list views — no experience needed Did you know that many of West Virginia’s most scenic overlooks can be accessed without a lengthy hike? With well-maintained trails and viewpoints that don’t require technical skill, iconic spots like Lindy Point and Coopers Rock offer unforgettable views for photographers, families, and anyone who loves nature. Visit to learn more and start planning your Almost Heaven getaway today! Read more: Find these stories and more at . 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 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. /episode/index/show/daily304/id/39524310

Mother Jones – Union Leader WV Mine Wars – Part 4 12/22/2025

Beside The Light - Samuel James 12/19/2025

daily304's podcast

TOPICS