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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
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

Seasonal affective disorder, or "SAD," affects millions of Americans each year and is a form of depression that deserves serious attention.
Communities

Don’t ignore the winter blues: Seasonal affective disorder is a serious form of depression

by David Sibray

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — As the days grow shorter and sunlight becomes scarce, a West Virginia University clinical psychologist is reminding people not to dismiss the “winter blues.” Seasonal affective disorder, or “SAD,” affects millions of Americans each year and is a form of depression that deserves serious attention. Stephanie Cox, professor in the Department of … Read more

Junction of Hatfield-McCoy trails and Spearhead trails
ATV Touring

Hatfield–McCoy trails system now connected to Virginia’s Spearhead trails

by David Sibray

BRAMWELL, W.Va. — Off-road enthusiasts have even more ground to cover in central Appalachia. The Hatfield–McCoy Trail System announced this week that its Pocahontas Trail is now officially connected to Virginia’s Spearhead Trails, creating a seamless dual-state network for riders across the Appalachian Mountains. The new link between the two systems means riders can now … Read more

Preservation grants are being employed to restore the historic Tyree Tavern at Ansted.
Communities

West Virginia historic preservation grants open for 2026 applications

by David Sibray

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — West Virginia is now accepting applications for economic development grants to support and maintain historic properties, particularly those in historic districts across the state. Funded through the National Park Service, the funds are appropriated by the U.S. Congress to support preservation efforts vital to the economic well-being of communities. Applications must be … Read more

Because fireflies communicate through light signals, Heitzman cautioned that flashlights, car headlights, and phone screens can interfere with their mating patterns.
Communities

West Virginia University insect tracker says light pollution threatens rare fireflies

by David Sibray

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — While rare “synchronous fireflies” are becoming a tourist attraction across Appalachia, a West Virginia University researcher is reminding visitors to enjoy the spectacle responsibly and without disrupting the insects’ delicate mating rituals. Synchronous fireflies (Photinus carolinus) are known for their remarkable ability to coordinate their flashes of light in unison, a natural … Read more