daily304 – Episode 06.30.2026

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Tuesday, June 30, 2026. #1 – From ACCESS APPALACHIA - Trails create connections and opportunity Across West Virginia, trail builders, community leaders, and outdoor advocates are working together to expand the state's outdoor recreation network. A feature from Access Appalachia highlights the people and partnerships behind trail development projects that connect communities, improve quality of life, and support tourism-driven economic growth. Supporters say investments in trails continue positioning West Virginia as a premier destination for outdoor recreation and adventure travel. Read more: https://accapp.symmetry-events.com/article/trails-access-the-people-building-west-virginias-outdoor-network/   #2 – From NAM - Form Energy expands manufacturing capacity Form Energy continues to scale production at its Weirton manufacturing facility as demand grows for the company's innovative long-duration battery technology. According to the National Association of Manufacturers, the company has tripled commercial sales while expanding operations to meet increasing demand for reliable energy storage solutions. Economic development leaders say Form Energy's growth highlights West Virginia's role in advanced manufacturing, energy innovation, and next-generation technology development. Read more: https://nam.org/6-form-energy-triples-commercial-sales-and-scales-manufacturing-to-meet-demand-for-reliable-power/   #3 – From WV GAZETTE-MAIL - WV restaurants earn James Beard recognition West Virginia's food scene recently received national attention during the James Beard Awards ceremony in Chicago. Several restaurants with West Virginia ties were recognized during the prestigious culinary awards event, reflecting the growing reputation of the Mountain State's chefs, restaurants, and food culture. Industry leaders say the recognition helps showcase West Virginia's hospitality sector and growing culinary tourism opportunities. Read more: https://www.wvgazettemail.com/life/the_food_guy/food-guy-wv-restaurants-honored-at-james-beard-awards-ceremony-in-chicago/article_cff3019a-3f3f-40a2-a9db-00cbe317ba2a.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.