West Virginia Explorer West Virginia Explorer News
Browse

David Sibray

David Sibray is the founder, publisher and editor-in-chief of West Virginia Explorer, a news and travel magazine devoted to the state’s history, tourism, outdoor recreation and economic development. For more information, he may be reached at 304-575-7390 or at editor@wvexplorer.com
Woodburn Hall History: Holiday carolers sing outside the entrance to Woodburn Hall.
Communities

WVU revives Woodburn Hall lighting, illuminating legacy of higher ed in West Virginia

by David Sibray

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — As dusk settles over the Monongahela River valley on December 2, a crowd of students, faculty, alumni, and families will gather at a place where West Virginia University began, where the institution’s history, architecture, and spirit converge. Just after 6:30 p.m., beneath a tower long considered the university’s most recognizable symbol, the lights … Read more

West Virginia Veterans Art Show
Arts

West Virginia announces 2026 veterans art show for America250 celebration

by David Sibray

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The W.Va. Department of Tourism has announced plans for a 2026 Veterans Art Show, inviting West Virginia veterans to help commemorate the nation’s 250th anniversary through original works of art. The exhibition, part of the statewide America250 celebration, will open on May 9, 2026, in the West Virginia Culture Center Museum Gallery in Charleston, … Read more

The artificial intelligence ChatGPT platform has evolved from a curiosity to a trusted coworker, according to WVU professor Joshua Meadows.
Communities

WVU Professor: After three years, ChatGPT has become a coworker—not a boss

by David Sibray

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — As ChatGPT turns three, a West Virginia University professor says the artificial intelligence platform has evolved from a curiosity to a trusted coworker that’s reshaping how people work, learn, and communicate at a pace few anticipated. Joshua Meadows, an assistant professor and director of “Data Driven WV” at the WVU John Chambers … Read more

Playgrounds: At least 20 of West Virginia’s 48 park areas require major playground replacements or upgrades.
Attractions

West Virginia state park playgrounds targeted in new fundraising drive

by David Sibray

HURRICANE, W.Va. — The West Virginia State Parks Foundation has launched a statewide campaign to replace and modernize aging West Virginia state park playgrounds, some of which date back decades and no longer meet current safety or accessibility standards. Aging West Virginia state park playgrounds need upgrades The new initiative, called Playground of Possibilities, aims … Read more

Tourism officials say the expansion is aimed at meeting growing demand from local makers and retailers who want to feature the Almost Heaven brand.
Communities

West Virginia tourism office launches “Almost Heaven” brand licensing program

by David Sibray

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The W.Va. Department of Tourism has launched an Almost Heaven brand licensing program—an initiative officials say will give businesses new opportunities to tap into one of the state’s most recognizable marketing campaigns. The program will permit the licensed use of its “West Virginia” logo, “WV” icon, the “Almost Heaven” and “Country Roads” … Read more

Visitors to West Virginia pet-friendly state parks who bring their furry friends will receive a certificate and their pooches a commemorative dog tag.
Attractions

West Virginia launches pet-friendly “West FURginia” state park ranger program

by David Sibray

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — West Virginia officials have launched the West “FURginia” State Park Ranger program, a pet-friendly initiative designed to help park guests and their dogs explore the Mountain State’s natural beauty together. Visitors to state parks who bring their furry friends will receive a certificate and their pooches a commemorative dog tag after completing … Read more