AstraZeneca Expansion: Albemarle County says a $9.7M state site-readiness grant could help land a new neighbor at the Rivanna Futures campus as the $4.5B AstraZeneca plant gears up for 600 jobs by late 2029/early 2030. Defense & Maritime Tech: At Shangri-La, AUKUS leaders pushed ahead on undersea drones and payload development for Uncrewed Underwater Vessels, with deliveries starting in 2027, while warning the “seabed is a battlefield” amid attacks on critical cables. Offshore Wind Policy: The Trump administration’s proposed offshore wind inspection fees could cost projects millions annually, raising fresh alarms for Virginia’s coastal wind pipeline. Public Safety: A deadly I-95 bus crash in Stafford County killed five, including two children, as officials review the driver’s licensing and training. Local Governance & Taxes: Danville City Council will consider FY2027 budget moves, including personal property tax reductions and a casino revenue appropriation. Agriculture & Weather: USDA drought disaster aid expands to more Virginia counties as frost-and-freeze damage and dry conditions squeeze orchardists and farmers. Energy & Infrastructure: VDOT named a new resident engineer for Louisa to oversee highway maintenance and emergency response across three counties. Wildlife Conservation: Smithsonian reported six black-footed ferret kits born at its Front Royal facility, a bright spot for recovery efforts.