Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.
Today is Sunday, Nov. 8, 2026.
…and now for the rest of the stories…on today’s daily304.com!
#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.
#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.
