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David Sibray

Historian, real estate agent, and proponent of inventive economic development in West Virginia, David Sibray is the founder and publisher of West Virginia Explorer Magazine. For more information, he may be reached at 304-575-7390.
Appalachian Escapes: Straight out of the ’80s: David Sibray, Nate Adams, and Rachel Adkins swap stories in a replica Pizza Hut. (Photo: Holly K. Clark)
Communities

Inside Appalachian Escapes: Themed rentals, escape rooms, and a love letter to West Virginia

by David Sibray

FAYETTEVILLE, W.Va. — What began as a search for an affordable retirement option has turned into one of southern West Virginia’s most imaginative tourism ventures. Nate Adams and his wife, Rachel Adkins, are the founders of Appalachian Escapes, a growing collection of themed vacation rentals near the New River Gorge that combine art, storytelling, and … Read more

The online shop features T-shirts and sweatshirts showcasing the distinctive “Love WV State Parks” logo
Attractions

West Virginia State Parks Foundation launches online merchandise store

by David Sibray

HURRICANE, W.Va. — The West Virginia State Parks Foundation has launched an official online merchandise store, offering supporters a new way to celebrate West Virginia’s parks while directly supporting projects across the state park system. The online shop features T-shirts and sweatshirts showcasing the distinctive “Love WV State Parks” logo, highlighting the state’s parks, forests, … Read more

The study represents the most comprehensive economic impact assessment ever conducted for the university and its affiliated health system. (WVU Photo)
Communities

Study finds WVU and its health system account for 17% of West Virginia’s economy

by David Sibray

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — West Virginia University and the WVU Health System together generate $14.3 billion in annual economic impact in West Virginia, accounting for approximately 17% of the state’s gross domestic product, according to a newly released independent study. The analysis, conducted by national consulting firm Tripp Umbach, found the combined operations at the university … Read more

Outdoor economy in West Virginia: In West Virginia, where natural assets are abundant but traditional industries have declined, outdoor recreation offers a development model that is place-based, scalable, and difficult to outsource.
Communities

West Virginia hosts outdoor economy summit as communities rethink economics

by David Sibray

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — For many West Virginia communities, outdoor recreation is no longer a quality-of-life extra. It’s the new economic infrastructure that’s attracting private investment, supporting small businesses, and helping retain and attract a workforce. That shift in thinking is the driving force behind the inaugural West Virginia Outdoor Economy Summit, which will bring civic … Read more