Generalizations are often made about more rural states within America, and West Virginia is no stranger to being portrayed stereotypically. Skewed representations of this state have existed since its inception, were proliferated during the early days of industrialization, and remain part of the local and national subconsciousness today.
On occasion, circumstances arise that illustrate the need [...]

Posted in Culture, Government, Media, West Virginia 16 Comments »

West Virginia has always possessed many forward-thinkers, but 2007 could mark a turning point in the state’s cultural and economic future. A significant number of community, business, and opinion leaders are shifting from traditional approaches to development given the realization that a “new economy” has arrived, and if measures are not taken to adapt, many [...]

Posted in Business, Culture, Economy, Government, Tourism, West Virginia 16 Comments »

The Extreme Entrepreneurship Tour will travel to the Mountain State on Nov. 15 from 3:00-7:00 p.m. at West Virginia University Tech (Davis Hall). This free session will provide students, entrepreneurs, and community leaders the opportunity to network and brainstorm, in addition to refining their entrepreneurial ideas and initiatives. The agenda format is available here.
Interested persons [...]

Posted in Business, Economy, Government, West Virginia 1 Comment »

The state’s natural environment, including the Monongahela National Forest, is one of its greatest assets. The “Mon” provides a recreational outlet for thousands of residents and visitors, offering some of the best hiking, fishing, camping and hunting opportunities on the East Coast. The hills, streams and trees provide a needed escape from the hustle-and-bustle [...]

Posted in Culture, Economy, Government, Tourism, West Virginia 7 Comments »

Today Gov. Joe Manchin announced his office will accept suggestions from West Virginia residents regarding state welcome signs. You can submit ideas online or call 1-866-SLOGAN-4 through Sept. 19.
The Manchin administration began promoting an “Open for Business” mantra in 2005 and state signs were modified with the theme early last year. Though he is popular [...]

Posted in Business, Culture, Government, Tourism, West Virginia 2 Comments »

A few months ago, I attended a lecture by Stephen Dubner, co-author of the best-selling book Freakonomics. The book is heady, quirky, interesting, and informative. You must understand this book is written by economists that study questions in depth. I’m talking thousands of data points and years of observation. None of their answers are anecdotal [...]

Posted in Business, Culture, Economy, Government, West Virginia 4 Comments »

In recent years mobile phone / wireless Internet services have expanded significantly across the United States. Such expansion has provided benefits in terms of safety, business, and economic development. However, many rural areas throughout the nation still lack a sufficient wireless structure. Within its larger towns/cities and along its Interstate system, West Virginia has good [...]

Posted in Business, Economy, Government, Media, Tourism, West Virginia 2 Comments »