Telecom Expansion: Eaton Fiber is buying Ripple Fiber in a $1.5B deal aimed at expanding Verizon’s fiber reach beyond its current footprint, including adding customers and select network assets in the Carolinas. Health & Care Access: A large study of kids (1–18) found children with medical complexity were less likely to get a primary care follow-up within 14 days after hospital discharge, and those who did had higher readmission and ER visit risks. AI & Infrastructure Debate: Washington’s AI data-center boom is colliding with local concerns over power and water costs, with lawmakers and candidates pushing “pay your own way” rules for new facilities. Legal Tech Fallout: Washington’s NextGen digital bar exam was canceled at the Yakima site due to on-site technology issues, leaving hundreds of would-be lawyers in limbo. Public Safety: Seattle continues to process the Bite of Seattle shooting, including a silent vigil at Seattle Center and renewed scrutiny of police briefing delays. Microsoft in the Spotlight: Microsoft’s latest quarter beat expectations, driven by Azure growth and paid AI seats, reinforcing Seattle’s role in the AI buildout. Waterfront Planning: Mukilteo released an RFQ for a 1.19-acre waterfront lease near the ferry terminal, setting up a new redevelopment push. Radiology Update: New research using 2025 CT scans found adult CT dose reference levels dropped about 22% since 2014, supporting the need for updated benchmarks.