Clyde Craig

Clyde Craig is a writer for West Virginia Explorer. Born in Parkersburg, West Virginia, he traveled with his family across the globe with the U.S. Army before returning to the Mountain State in 2011.
Where the pace of life is slow and folks are friendly, anytime is a good time for a romantic visit to West Virginia.

Seven romantic places to visit this year in West Virginia

Scenic West Virginia harbors innumerable romantic spots in which to celebrate a connection with your amour. No matter the time of the year, you’ll find seemingly limitless sites to visit and places to eat, stay and play with your loved one. Whether visitors to the Mountain State discovered their partners at top dating sites like … Read more

Solar Panels at Shepherd University

Shepherd installs state’s largest non-profit solar array

Shepherd University is now home to the largest non-profit solar installation in West Virginia, thanks to a $100,000 grant from EBSCO Information Services of Ipswich, Massachusetts. The rooftop installation of 189 solar panels atop the university’s Scarborough Library will generate at least 60 kilowatts of power took about three weeks to complete, according to Dr. … Read more

A competitor throws a tomahawk during the annual Mountain Games competition at Heritage Farms near Huntington, West Virginia.

Annual Mountain Games competition tests pioneer skills

Survival on the Appalachian frontier required unique skills around which the fourth annual Mountain Games competition September 21 at Heritage Farm near Huntington, West Virginia, has been built.A Smithsonian affiliate, the farm—which includes 15 hewn-log structures, seven award-winning museums, an artisan center, and five log-cabin inns—has expanded the fourth-annual competition to include eight events, now … Read more

Rafters rafting with Adventures on the Gorge prepare for an adventure on the Gauley River.

Gauley River whitewater rafting season begins Sept. 6

One of the most scenic rivers in the U.S. becomes one of the best whitewater rafting runs in the world on September 6, attracting rafters from across North America and beyond. The Beast of the East, rafters call it.Rafting guides liken the start of “Gauley Season”—the 22 days in September and October when the river … Read more

Seth Withers, marketing consultant for West Virginia Explorer, gears up for a bike race.

New tourism marketer surprised about West Virginia vision

A new marketing consultant for West Virginia Explorer Magazine says he’s found enthusiasm he hadn’t expected as he rediscovers the Mountain State after living in South Carolina.Seth Withers maintained a connection with his home state after moving in 2000—returning often to hike, bike, and visit family—but as he began to talk with clients, he was … Read more

Boats race on the Ohio River at New Martinsville, West Virginia, during the 2017 Regattafest.

New Martinsville to host North America boating championship

The allure of the Ohio River has won the eighth annual Regattafest at New Martinsville, West Virginia, designation as host of the American Power Boat Association’s North American Championships for SST-120, SST-60, SuperSport, and Thundercats categories September 28-29.Sherron Winer, an organizer of the event, said the festival continues to grow and that making the case … Read more

A West Virginia veteran has opened an apiary service.

W.Va. organizations form Veterans-to-Agriculture advisory council

During the 2019 State Fair of West Virginia, a Veterans-and-Warriors-to-Agriculture Advisory Council was formed to establish a cooperative body to tackle veteran issues through agriculture in West Virginia.The council will help streamline and coordinate efforts between many groups, according to Commissioner of Agriculture Kent Leonhardt.“We found there are a lot of organizations focused on helping … Read more

Sea oats bend in the wind along the U.S. coastline.

Which are the best U.S. states for a relaxing holiday?

When traveling to the U.S., it’s easy to get caught in tourist traps, which can lead to additional stress that could be easily avoided. However, there are a number of amazing locations that are relaxing for you and your family regardless of when you decide to visit. So, before you begin applying for your USA … Read more

Students at New River Community and Technical College

Sign-language classes scheduled at New River campus in Beaver

New River Community and Technical College is offering Sign Language I and II courses at the college’s campus near Beaver, West Virginia, this fall, according to school officials.The five-week classes are scheduled for Thursday evenings from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Sign Language I starting August 29, 2019, and Sign Language II starting October 10, 2019.Sign … Read more

A field of hemp in West Virginia greets the dawn.

2019 industrial hemp application period set to open

The application period for the state’s industrial hemp program will open September 1, 2019, according to officials at the West Virginia Department of Agriculture.Those interested in growing industrial hemp for the 2020 growing season must submit an application and all required materials by September 30, 2019, to be considered for licensure, Commissioner of Agriculture Kent … Read more