Data Centers in Kearney: Worldwide Mission Critical’s conditional use permit for a new data center east of Kearney is set for discussion at the Aug. 21 Planning Commission meeting, with the plan calling for 368 megawatts total demand and repurposing 100 megawatts from a prior crypto operation. Big Tech & Kids’ Safety: Nebraska AG Russell Coleman is part of a multistate trial against Meta over alleged addictive features on Facebook and Instagram that harm children, with opening statements underway in federal court. Omaha Minimum Wage Fight: Nebraska AG Mike Hilgers filed suit to block Omaha’s minimum wage ordinance, arguing it conflicts with state law and could force statewide cost increases. Agriculture Policy: The American Farm Bureau is pushing for lower regulatory costs and reforms to strengthen the produce sector, citing rising import pressure and shrinking U.S. fruit and vegetable output. Rail Funding Shift: Federal Railroad Administration money tied to canceled California high-speed rail funding is being redirected to rail safety and Amtrak upgrades, including $5.3B across 23 states. Local Business & Community: UNK’s Blue Gold Welcome kicks off with the Blue Gold Showcase and the Loper Lot Party, while Grand Island business leader Ray O’Connor’s death is prompting tributes for his local development work. Energy Prices Watch: GasBuddy reports show Nebraska regular gas averaging $3.87 in the week ending Aug. 8, with notable low points in multiple counties.