AI Infrastructure & Power: OpenAI plans a 20-year lease for a massive Ohio AI data center, backed by Nvidia’s $105B financing, with SoftBank and SB Energy pushing major new power generation—raising big questions about energy, water, and the pace of AI buildout. Mississippi Broadband: Sparklight launched multi-gig internet in parts of the Delta, including Clarksdale and Cleveland, but pricing and true reach beyond listed towns remain unclear. Port & Logistics: The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers cleared the Louisiana International Terminal on the Lower Mississippi River, a $1.8B deepwater container project designed to handle today’s largest ships and expand Gulf trade access. Flood Resilience (Canton): Madison County got federal approval to move forward on the Bear Creek Watershed Project design phase, targeting chronic flooding areas. Water Quality (MSU): Mississippi State researchers won an EPA-funded study to test slag bioreactor barriers that stop fertilizer nutrients from fueling algal blooms and Gulf “dead zones.” Invasive Species: Illinois officials found juvenile silver carp about 80 miles from Lake Michigan and are stepping up surveillance and electrofishing. Public Health Tech: Hospitals in Mississippi and elsewhere are using “I Gave Birth” wristbands to flag postpartum risks and improve emergency response. Education (Science of Reading): Three South Mississippi schools earned Emerging Science of Reading recognition for 2026–27. Food Safety: Walmart recalled Marketside Tomato Bisque Soup Kits in nearly 30 states after a potential Listeria contamination risk.