Data Center Pushback: Opposition gained ground in Virginia’s elections, including in Strasburg, while Chesapeake’s incoming council members say they oppose data centers—raising pressure over where projects can be built and how they affect communities. Workforce: A nearly $8 million federal grant will fund three years of training for 1,000 residents across 33 Appalachian Virginia jurisdictions, targeting healthcare, manufacturing, logistics and skilled trades. Advanced Manufacturing: Virginia-based IperionX reported a roughly sixfold jump in titanium powder output in the September quarter, alongside a follow-on U.S. Army award. Energy: Dominion and NextEra offered some proposed protections in their merger case but rejected rate and staffing freezes, keeping customer affordability in focus. Richmond Industry: Sonoco plans to invest $40 million in its Richmond paperboard mill. Agriculture: Virginia’s corn harvest exceeded expectations despite a drought-stressed start. Aviation: Hampton Roads airport leaders are working to attract international service to Norfolk, with talks underway with two European carriers.