West Virginia is a patchwork of people, places, events, traditions and natural beauty that give the people of our state many reasons to have a special feeling about their home.

Now in its 20th year, "55 Good Things About West Virginia" is a tradition at The State Journal that gives us an opportunity to present our readers with a kaleidoscope's view of the state we call home. All told, we have published 1,100 stories in our "55 Good Things" editions.

We hope the 55 stories included in this year's special edition give our readers a deeper understanding of our rich history and values, as well as our ability to join with friends and families to enjoy a rich life in this special state.

For the third consecutive year, The State Journal staff has joined with its partners at West Virginia Media television stations to present a broadcast version of "55 Good Things About West Virginia." The hour-long special first aired on May 31. It will be rebroadcast at 7 p.m. Saturday, June 4, on:

• WOWK-TV in Huntington-Charleston.
• WTRF-TV in Wheeling.
• WBOY-TV in Clarksburg-Fairmont-Morgantown.
• WVNS-TV in Beckley-Bluefield.

Some of our stories focus on former residents of West Virginia who have built successful lives in other states. In many cases, these natives fondly recall their West Virginia foundations. Other stories touch on the generosity of West Virginia people and their willingness to assist others. And we offer stories about accomplished artists, musicians and athletes who inspire us every day.

To pick up your copy of the 20th edition of "55 Good Things About West Virginia," call (888) 999-0614 or send an email.

To purchase a VHS copy of the television special, call (304) 720-6531 or send an email.

Here are this year's honorees, listed in alphabetical order:

1. American Woodmark
2. ATK
3. Mark Attar
4. Barista’s
5. Gray Barker
6. Benedum Foundation
7. Pamela Boll
8. The Bowen Family
9. Pat Copley
10. The Custard Stand
11. Daniel Vineyards
12. Diamond Electric
13. DiCarlo’s Pizza
14. Drover’s
15. Endless Wall
16. Entler Hotel
17. Jim Foglesong
18. FoodFair
19. Fuji’s
20. Gilmer-Braxton Technology Research
21. Harrah Symphonic Organ
22. John Hendricks
23. Hsu Studios
24. IVS Hydro
25. Johnnie Johnson
26. Kimball War Museum
27. Kreinik
28. Le Sage Natural Water Wells
29. Ellie Mannett
30. 1997 Marshall vs. WVU football game
31. Marx Toy Museum
32. Mayberry’s
33. NewSong Festival
34. Oak Glen High School Wrestling
35. Pray Construction
36. Roadkill Cookoff
37. Robey Theatre
38. Rock Hill Creamery
39. Norm Sartorius
40. Schwabe-May
41. Shibori West
42. Robert Singleton
43. Michael W. Smith
44. Town of Thomas, Tucker County
45. TJ’s Sportsgarden
46. Treasure Mountain Festival
47. Twin Falls State Park
48. Viva Mexico
49. Washington Lands Museum
50. Westbrook Esso
51. Wildernest Inn
52. Wonder Bar
53. Wood Memorial Clock Museum
54. The Woods
55. WVU Stroke Team