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

Today is Thursday, February 19, 2026.

#1 – From WV GAZETTE-MAIL - Brazilian jiu-jitsu classes teach kids strength and resilience

A local Brazilian jiu-jitsu program is helping West Virginia youth build more than physical skills. Instructors at Butch Hiles Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and MMA say their classes emphasize confidence, discipline, perseverance, and emotional resilience — lessons that extend well beyond the mat and into everyday life.

Read more:
https://www.wvgazettemail.com/news/kanawha_valley/transformation-local-brazilian-jiu-jitsu-classes-teach-kids-strength-resilience/article_33232562-cb4a-48b6-ae19-cf0d58c33d7f.html

#2 – From FREDERICK NEWS - Film screening of 'O Pioneer' features live discussion

A screening of the West Virginia-made film O Pioneer will include a live virtual discussion with the filmmakers, offering audiences insight into the creative process behind the production. The event is scheduled for May 15 in Shepherdstown and provides a unique opportunity for viewers to engage directly with the creative team.

Read more:
https://www.fredericknewspost.com/calendar/film/o-pioneer-film-screening-virtual-live-discussion-with-filmmakers/event_b795c723-bf93-4c29-8f60-8666e23beaf0.html

#3 – From WHOVA - Bridging Innovation Week 2026 set for Morgantown

Bridging Innovation Week returns April 27 through May 1 in Morgantown. The statewide gathering connects entrepreneurs, innovators, investors, and community leaders for collaboration, networking, and economic development momentum. Organizers describe the event as a catalyst for creative partnerships and business growth across West Virginia.

Register now:
https://whova.com/web/%40cL%40824wN2nBzReVw%40cW4W5hts9QhUcg-9JPTj%40fzN4%3D/

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, February 18, 2026.

#1 – From WORLD ATLAS - Explore one of West Virginia's most walkable downtowns

A recent travel feature highlights Shepherdstown as home to the most walkable downtown in the state. Visitors can easily explore local shops, restaurants, parks, and historic landmarks on foot, making this charming Eastern Panhandle town a standout destination. To learn more about West Virginia's inviting communities, visit wvtourism.com.

Read more:
https://www.worldatlas.com/cities/this-west-virginia-towns-has-the-most-walkable-downtown.htm

#2 – From WV ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT - West Virginia Film Office supports production statewide

Are you a filmmaker searching for your next production location? The West Virginia Film Office provides competitive production incentives, location assistance, and industry expertise. Its efforts help attract film and television projects that boost local economies while showcasing the Mountain State's scenic landscapes and historic settings.

Learn more:
https://westvirginia.gov/wvfilm/

#3 – From WV EXPLORER - Early signs of spring are emerging in West Virginia

While winter still lingers, early signs of spring are beginning to appear across the state. Native blooms like white trillium, returning migratory birds, and gradually warming temperatures signal seasonal change and invite residents outdoors to enjoy West Virginia's natural beauty.

Read more:
https://wvexplorer.com/2026/01/25/spring-arrives-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 Tuesday, February 17, 2026.

#1 – From WV ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT - West Virginia's automotive industry remains an economic mainstay

West Virginia's modern automotive industry has served as a strong economic pillar for more than 30 years. The sector supports thousands of jobs, drives advanced manufacturing growth, and connects the Mountain State to national and international supply chains for automotive and related products.

Learn more:
https://westvirginia.gov/west-virginias-modern-automotive-industry-has-been-a-rock-solid-pillar-of-our-states-economy-for-more-than-30-years/

#2 – From NEWS TRIBUNE - New River region offers premier hunting, fishing & outdoor recreation

West Virginia's New River region continues to earn recognition as a premier destination for hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreation. With expansive forests, scenic waterways, and abundant wildlife, the area attracts sportsmen and women seeking rugged adventure and unforgettable Mountain State experiences.

Read more:
https://www.newstribune.com/news/2026/feb/08/driftwood-outdoors-west-virginias-new-river-region-offers-hunting-fishing-and-outdoor-recreation/

#3 – From WV EXPLORER - Appalachian Escapes offer unique lodging options in the New River Gorge

Travelers to the New River Gorge region have a creative new lodging option with Appalachian Escapes. The growing collection of themed vacation rentals ranges from 80s nostalgia to wizard-inspired adventures and even tributes to West Virginia's legendary Mothman. Each property also features an escape room experience, adding interactive fun to an overnight stay.

Read more:
https://wvexplorer.com/2026/02/06/appalachian-escapes-vacation-rentals/

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.