AI + Cloud in Virginia: AWS added “Generative AI Inference Recommendations” to SageMaker AI Studio, letting developers benchmark GPU setups and deploy lower-latency or lower-cost model serving with a low-code workflow. Defense Materials Research: US Army scientists, with VMI and the US Military Academy, published work on iridium-based light-absorbing/emitting molecules that could feed next-gen defense sensing and on-site fuel ideas. Public Health + Vaccines: A new review finds vaccinated people who still get measles can occasionally transmit it to others, suggesting outbreak investigations should account for that nuance. Energy + Data Centers: A week of coverage keeps circling the same pressure point: AI data centers are driving big electricity demand, reshaping grid planning and local permitting fights. Virginia Education Tech: Virginia Beach will limit Chromebook use for preschool through first grade (no take-home for second grade), citing screen-time feedback and research. UVA Health Genetics: UVA researchers used a new tool to study “indirect” genetic effects on autism risk, highlighting how parent genetics and environment interact. Local Water Infrastructure: Pulaski Town Council heard updates on its water system project, including treatment upgrades and replacement of raw-water transmission lines. STEM in the Community: Virginia Task Force 1 returned home after helping in Colombia’s earthquake response with disaster coordination and structural assessments.