Broadband Buildout: Ohio awarded $20 million to Com Net for a Route 30 “middle mile” fiber project, aiming to connect colleges, local governments, and health care across 15 northwest Ohio counties. Utility & Consumer Relief: AES Ohio customers are set for electric bill refunds, while the Ohio Consumers’ Counsel highlighted ways to cut utility costs at a Jackson Rotary talk. State Policy & Industry Oversight: Ohio lawmakers advanced major measures tied to construction contracting rules, behind-the-meter utility services, and defense-industry development, while residents pushed back on data center wastewater and zoning. Workforce Training: Lorain County Community College is expanding manufacturing technician pathways using Ohio Work Ready funding, targeting automation and advanced production skills. Agriculture & Food Supply: USDA accepted 18,000 acres in Ohio for the Conservation Reserve Program, and the Senate Agriculture Committee released “Farm Bill 2.0” text with E15 and SNAP administration changes. Energy & Power: AEP’s Rockport coal plant fight moved into Ohio federal court as Indiana’s AG sought to block a planned closure. Business & Legal: Buc-ee’s sued a Beavercreek store over a similar cartoon beaver trademark. Tech & Health Innovation: Ohio researchers helped develop an AI-driven robotic control system to precisely shape jaw and bone surgical plates for reconstructive care. Retail Timing: Ohio’s annual sales tax holiday runs Aug. 7–9 for qualifying school items and supplies.