daily304 – Episode 05.21.2026

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia. Today is Thursday, May 21, 2026. #1 – From WV GAZETTE-MAIL - Parkersburg road trip highlights WV history and character A new travel feature shines a light on the quirky history, architecture, and local culture that make Parkersburg unique. Reporter Bill Lynch explores historic landmarks, colorful local stories, and community traditions that reflect the city's personality and deep Appalachian roots. Supporters say heritage tourism experiences like these help travelers connect with the people and places that define West Virginia. Read more: https://www.wvgazettemail.com/life/bill-lynch-road-trip-to-parkersburg-for-some-weird-wonderful-history/article_1c7b0267-f013-4daa-ac21-ae99173fd45c.html #2 – From WVU TODAY - WVU students win national manufacturing championship A team of West Virginia University engineering technology students has captured a national title in additive manufacturing. The WVU ETEC team won the inaugural Project MFG Additive Manufacturing National Championship in Texas after competing in advanced engineering and production challenges involving robotic systems and 3D printing technology. University leaders say the achievement highlights West Virginia's growing role in advanced manufacturing education and workforce development. Read more: https://wvutoday.wvu.edu/stories/2026/05/13/wvu-etec-team-claims-inaugural-national-title-at-project-mfg-additive-manufacturing-championship #3 – From WV EXPLORER - Historic Mail Pouch barns continue preservation efforts Historic Mail Pouch Tobacco barns across West Virginia are continuing to receive attention through preservation and restoration efforts. Known for their distinctive painted advertisements, the barns have become iconic roadside landmarks tied to the state's rural heritage and agricultural history. Preservation supporters say protecting the structures helps preserve a visible connection to West Virginia's past while supporting heritage tourism across the region. Read more: https://wvexplorer.com/mail-pouch-barns-west-virginia-saved/?fbclid=IwdGRjcARu6NxleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEerT84sk6KC5P4pmH1wwveO3Glp1edurfI9b3Cr_DH116VV2E8jrwQAwEMasE_aem_yGF9xuD7Zs2V2tnATT3RQQ   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.