Energy & Water Stress: Kenbridge, Va., is asking residents to voluntarily conserve water as Flat Rock Creek flow drops and the town’s reservoir level falls, with drought warning conditions in Lunenburg County and emergency status in nearby Charlotte and Mecklenburg. Heat Safety: Hampton Roads is under a heat advisory with heat indices around 101–109°F, and Suffolk has opened cooling centers at two libraries. Data Centers & Public Power: A new EPA proposal would weaken public notice and comment for air permits tied to data centers and other industrial projects, critics say it could leave communities “in the dark” while projects move faster. Semiconductor Supply Chain: The Trump administration backed Micron’s $100B chip hub near Syracuse in court, arguing delays over environmental review would threaten national security. Wildlife & Drought: North Carolina drought worsened in parts of the northern Piedmont and Coastal Plain, and officials urged continued conservation as hot, dry conditions persist. Local Growth & Land Use: Greenfield’s planning board reviewed a 60-home subdivision proposal while also recommending a one-year data center moratorium. Food & Traceability: Seafood Task Force launched a five-year tuna vessel risk-based assurance and remediation program aimed at improving traceability and labor conditions.