daily304 – Episode 05.12.2026

*]:pointer-events-auto [content-visibility:auto] supports-[content-visibility:auto]:[contain-intrinsic-size:auto_100lvh] R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id="53dd621e-b41d-47b2-a8d1-8d22111b521d" data-testid="conversation-turn-88" data-scroll-anchor="false" data-turn="assistant"> Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Tuesday, May 12, 2026. …and now for the rest of the stories…on today's daily304.com! #1 – From THE REAL WV - Charleston musician reflects on success and West Virginia roots A Charleston native is building national momentum in the music industry while staying grounded in West Virginia. Stephen Thomas has gained attention through chart success, viral social media growth, and crossover appeal across multiple music genres. Despite growing recognition, Thomas says his West Virginia upbringing continues to shape both his music and perspective as his career expands. Read more: https://therealwv.com/2026/04/30/from-charleston-to-the-charts-stephen-thomas-reflects-on-success-and-his-west-virginia-roots/ #2 – From WBOY-TV - Trout program teaches Mon County students about wildlife Students in Monongalia County are gaining hands-on experience in conservation and environmental science. Through the "Trout in the Classroom" program, elementary students raised trout before releasing them into local waterways at Mason-Dixon Historical Park. Educators say the project helps students better understand wildlife, ecosystems, and environmental stewardship through direct experience. Read more: https://www.wboy.com/news/monongalia/trout-in-the-classroom-teaches-mon-county-students-about-wildlife/ #3 – From MY BUCKHANNON - WVU team uses AI and data to solve business problems A West Virginia University initiative is connecting students and faculty with businesses and organizations to tackle complex challenges using AI and data analytics. The "Data Driven WV" program pairs teams with companies, nonprofits, and state agencies to help solve problems many organizations lack the resources to address on their own. Leaders say the effort gives students real-world experience while expanding innovation and technology capacity across West Virginia. Read more: https://www.mybuckhannon.com/driving-change-with-ai-and-data-a-wvu-team-tackles-problems-businesses-cant-solve-alone/ Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304. The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: sharing the wealth, beauty, and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo. That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.