Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.
Today is Thursday, Aug. 6, 2026.
#1 – From OHIO MAGAZINE – Ohio magazine spotlights West Virginia adventures
West Virginia is earning attention as one of the region’s premier travel destinations.
A feature in Ohio Magazine highlights a dozen reasons to visit the Mountain State, from breathtaking outdoor adventures and historic landmarks to live music and locally owned restaurants. The article showcases destinations including Pipestem Resort State Park, Harpers Ferry, The Purple Fiddle, Mountain State Brewing Company and the Almost Heaven Swingo Challenge—demonstrating why more travelers are choosing West Virginia for their next getaway.
#2 – From VISIT HUNTINGTON – Rails & Ales returns to Huntington
One of West Virginia’s signature summer festivals is back.
The annual Rails & Ales Festival returns to Huntington on Saturday, bringing together craft breweries and cider makers, live music, artisan vendors, local food and thousands of visitors. Since its debut in 2013, the festival has grown into one of the state’s premier craft beverage events while showcasing downtown Huntington and supporting local businesses.
Read more:
https://visithuntingtonwv.org/event/rails-ales-festival-2026/
#3 – From MFG MARSHALL – Welding program grad launches his own business
A strong manufacturing economy depends on a skilled workforce.
After spending nearly five years as a regional truck driver, Dustin Blankenship decided to pivot toward a career in welding by enrolling in the Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center’s Welding Technology Program. Juggling long driving shifts with evening classes, he graduated in 2024 and subsequently transitioned into a shop welding role to expand his hands-on experience with MIG and TIG welding across various metals.
Recognizing an untapped market for licensed and insured mobile welding services in the region, Blankenship launched Tri-State Mobile Welding & Construction in May 2025.
Read more:
https://www.mfg.marshall.edu/29609-2/
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.