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.

There are many holidays celebrating America's great patriots, our veterans, and yet it feels we still don't have enough. We owe our freedom to the valiant men and women who've fought for our nation's ideals and among the many, Huntingtonian Carwood Lipton stands out. A member of the Easy Company parachute regiment in World War II, Lipton was one of the Band of Brothers, celebrated in both books and the HBO miniseries, which reminded us that the dogs of war are no match for the heroes of liberty.

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

Today is Thursday, February 12, 2026.

#1 – From GENERATION WV - Generation WV highlights community and workforce progress

Generation West Virginia shares updates on regional workforce development events, community programs, leadership opportunities, and ways to connect young talent with careers and civic engagement efforts throughout the state.

Read more:
https://generationwv.org/gwv-january-2026-newsletter/

#2 – From WV NEWS - Tree Farm Committee aims to grow certified tree farms in West Virginia

The West Virginia Tree Farm Committee is actively working to increase the number of certified tree farms statewide. Certification promotes sustainable forest management, supports private landowners, and helps protect forest resources for recreation, wildlife habitat, and future generations.

Read more:
https://www.wvnews.com/braxtonnews/news/west-virginia-s-tree-farm-committee-is-working-to-increase-number-of-certified-tree-farmers/article_19a04e14-2f78-4d2d-8d3a-efa9974cec06.html

#3 – From PHILLY BITE - Discovering the oldest bar in West Virginia

Discover the North End Tavern and Brewery-- said to be the oldest continuously operating bar in West Virginia. Known by locals as "The NET," this Parkersburg institution has been pouring drinks since 1899, serving as an enduring place in community life as a classic gathering spot steeped in Mountain State culture.

Read more:
https://www.phillybite.com/index.php/local-news/11940-what-s-the-oldest-bar-in-the-state-of-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 February 11, 2026.

#1 – From WVNS-TV - Trail upgrades bring good news for hikers and cyclists

Outdoor enthusiasts in West Virginia are seeing new improvements aimed at hikers and bike riders, with trail upgrades designed to enhance access, safety, and recreation opportunities across the Mountain State. The improvements support both outdoor tourism and quality-of-life amenities for residents.

Read more:
https://www.wvnstv.com/news/local-news/good-news-for-hikers-and-bike-riders-in-the-mountain-state/

#2 – From WV E-SHIP - WV E-Ship Ecosystem bridges innovation and entrepreneurship

The West Virginia Entrepreneurial Ecosystem, or WV E-Ship, is helping bridge innovation by connecting startups, researchers, investors, and support organizations. The initiative focuses on turning ideas into viable businesses through collaboration, mentorship, and access to resources across the state. Save the date--April 27 through May 1-- for Bridging Innovation Week.

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

#3 – From WV GAZETTE-MAIL - WV culinary team adds a Polish twist with pączki

A West Virginia culinary team is celebrating tradition with a local take on the pączki — a rich Polish donut typically enjoyed ahead of Lent. The feature highlights how global food traditions are being adapted and celebrated through West Virginia's growing culinary scene.

Read more:
https://www.wvgazettemail.com/life/wv-culinary-team-a-donut-with-a-polish-accent-meet-the-paczki/article_a367953a-7fe2-4877-8c34-ab9698429eaa.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.

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

Today is Tuesday, February 10, 2026.

#1 – From WCHS-TV - Wild Appalachia: The West Virginia Outdoorist explores outdoor life across the Mountain State

The Wild Appalachia series — featuring The West Virginia Outdoorist — spotlights outdoor adventure, conservation leadership, and community connections in West Virginia. Episodes and features delve into places, people, and experiences that show why the Mountain State's natural settings offer a lifestyle of exploration and stewardship.

Read more:
https://wchstv.com/community/wild-appalachia/wild-appalachia-the-west-virginia-outdoorist

#2 – From WV ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT - YESWVS Export Promotion Program supports WV businesses selling abroad

Are you looking to expand your business on a global level? The West Virginia Department of Economic Development's YESWVS Export Promotion Program provides guidance, technical assistance, and financial support to help West Virginia companies access international markets, helping grow exports and connect local products with global buyers.

Learn more:
https://westvirginia.gov/yeswvs-export-promotion-program/

#3 – From WV NEWS - Almost Heaven hits new heights as WV Tourism reports record impact

Travel and tourism generated a record $9.1 billion in economic impact along with 77 million visitors last year, according to the West Virginia Department of Tourism. The latest numbers mark milestones in visitation, spending, and statewide economic contributions as the industry continues to grow.

Read more:
https://www.wvnews.com/news/wvnews/almost-heaven-hits-new-heights-wv-tourism-celebrates-record-9-1b-impact-and-77m-visitors/article_da992e4a-8bbf-4603-aa11-36ec652ad0d1.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.

Great writers have one ear to the ground for the sounds of how the world is turning and one ear to the voices of those around them. When they merge those two sounds, it becomes the music of literature and Davis Grubb is considered one of the great composers. His fascinating work captured the attention of Hollywood and made his writing paragons of great American stories.