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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
Gen Z moving to West Virginia
Lodging and Real Estate

More Americans, notably Gen Z, are moving to West Virginia, new census analysis shows

by David Sibray

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — West Virginia has long been associated with outmigration, but new data tell a different story. The Mountain State now ranks among the nation’s top states for net domestic migration, according to Emilia Man, senior research analyst at StorageCafe. Man said an analysis of 2024 U.S. Census data sharply contrasts with the state’s … Read more

Cunningham Knob Addition
National Forests

Monongahela National Forest acquires Cunningham Knob acreage in Randolph County

by David Sibray

ELKINS, W.Va. — The Monongahela National Forest has acquired a 427-acre tract in Randolph County known as the Cunningham Knob addition, expanding public land near Cunningham Knob and the Laurel Fork area. The property was purchased from Cunningham Knob rises above the Sunks of Gandy. Photo by Rick Burgess[/caption] Greenbrier District Ranger Shane Jones said … Read more

Snowshoe Mountain has unveiled its 2026 summer events calendar.
Lodging and Real Estate

Snowshoe Mountain announces 2026 summer events, launches new music fest

by David Sibray

SNOWSHOE, W.Va. — Officials at Snowshoe Mountain, in Youth compete in summer biking events at Snowshoe Mountain. (Photo courtesy Snowshoe Mountain)[/caption] “Summer is probably the mountain’s best-kept secret, but with events like 4848 and Ballhooter, the secret is getting out,” Duncan said. “We have world-class mountain biking and hiking trails, activities at Shavers Lake, one … Read more

"Ascend Heroes" will attract veterans with financial incentives, providing opportunities for them to live and work in West Virginia.
Economic Development

West Virginia launches “Ascend Heroes” initiative to attract veterans

by David Sibray

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – West Virginia has launched an initiative to attract veterans to the state. According to state officials, “Ascend Heroes” will attract veterans with financial incentives, providing opportunities for them to live and work in the state. Created in partnership with the state government, the Wing-2-Wing Foundation, and West Virginia University, the Ascend West … 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