Data Center & Grid Costs: West Virginia lawmakers grilled state regulators and utilities over whether rising data center demand and new transmission lines will drive higher electric bills, with officials saying real ratepayer relief may be limited by federal oversight. Energy Infrastructure Funding: Rep. Riley Moore announced about $10 million in 2027 waterline projects for West Virginia’s Northern Panhandle, including Moundsville improvements and a Wetzel County interconnection to expand service. Transmission Line Opposition: Clarke County officials urged residents to weigh in on a proposed 765-kV Valley Link line, warning of major impacts to rural and historic areas. Water System Upgrades: Weirton’s water board is advancing a $4.34 million Walnut Street line replacement project, including Army Corps and state funding. School Choice Equity: A new analysis finds Hope Scholarship participation is higher in urban ZIP codes than rural ones in West Virginia, raising questions about who benefits from voucher-style programs. Public Safety & Courts: The WV Intermediate Court of Appeals upheld summary judgment for Appalachian Power in a 2022 Logan helicopter crash, removing APCo from remaining state litigation. Local Business/Workforce: Congresswoman Carol Miller visited Beckley’s PATTERN Textile Training and Manufacturing Center, highlighting training that could help grow a regional sewing and custom textile industry. Sports (Business Angle): Winfield’s Mattie Carroll and teammates earned Class AAA All-State honors, underscoring how local athletics can spotlight talent pipelines.