Every day, professionals across the board are working to improve the Mountain State, giving their all to ensure that their respective fields are making a noticeable impact on their communities. These leaders represent hard work, a determination for achieving their goals and a love for their home state that inspires them to stay and do all they can to move it forward, all while still having many years of their career ahead of them.

In 2022, Governor Jim Justice approved the bid award of $31.9 million for the Wheeling Streetscape Project. This project, scheduled to be completed by summer 2025, will beautify downtown Wheeling by adding decorative traffic signals, plants and trees as well as brickwork along Main and Market streets and between 10th and 16th streets. ADA-compliant curb cuts and widened sidewalks are also part of the project.

Amidst its renowned rolling hills and tight-knit communities, West Virginia faces a serious issue: the prevalence of food deserts and widespread food insecurity.
In many rural and urban areas, access to fresh food is limited or nonexistent, contributing to higher rates of diet-related illnesses and leaving residents with few nutritious options.

Bees often go unnoticed as they fly, usually overlooked and sometimes feared. Yet, these tiny creatures, along with other pollinators like butterflies, birds and moths, are essential for the food supply. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) notes that they pollinate one in every three bites of food humans eat. Beekeepers play a crucial role in maintaining the health and preservation of these bee colonies.

With an increasing need for sustainable farms that produce fresh, quality food, West Virginia is working to create a new generation of farmers who will carry on production for decades to come.

Nestled upon a wind-swept mountaintop-removal coal mining site in northern Nicholas County sits a unique and expansive agricultural property. Where large machinery once stripped away soil, fauna and topographical features to mine precious black gold, over 100 acres of reclaimed land now hosts a robust and active orchard with more than 25,000 maturing and producing apple and pear trees.

When purchasing produce or meat, consumers often have little certainty about where it came from or how fresh it is. As more West Virginians recognize this, an increasing number are turning to locally sourced food.

In West Virginia, roughly 36% of farm producers are women, according to the 2022 Census of Agriculture. Three women—Brookedale Farm Owner and Operator Donna Brooke-Alt, Sunset Berry Farm Owner Jennifer Gilkerson and White Picket Farm Founder and Owner Deb Hartshorn—are leading the state in agritourism, combining traditional farming methods with entertainment and community building offerings.

From pumpkin patches and Christmas tree farms to wineries, cideries and u-pick fields, West Virginia agritourism offers wild and wonderful opportunities no matter what part of the state you’re in or what season it is. Whether you are planning a day trip or vacation, the Mountain State is filled with hidden gems.

Wheeling, WV’s, culinary scene is a direct reflection of its unique spirit. From long-standing restaurants that have been operating for generations to new, contemporary spots that offer modern experiences, the city hosts an array of diverse dining options. Whether visitors prefer comfort food, a more elegant atmosphere or a laid-back coffee run, there is something in Wheeling to accommodate.

For many years, my travel bucket list excluded Australia. It seemed to lack the historic, aesthetic appeal that drew me to Europe or the vibrant, eclectic culture of South America I had enjoyed on my travels. Australia was a destination I didn’t feel the need to rush to visit, and when considering a trip there, Tasmania wasn’t top of mind. However, my assumptions could not have been more wrong. Tasmania should be on everyone’s bucket list.

Christmas time in West Virginia is nothing short of mesmerizing. As the weather gets colder and snow starts to fall, locals begin to immerse themselves in the holiday spirit. With the help of Christmas villages and light shows, that spirit is brought to life.