Energy & Politics: Pennsylvania’s energy future is front and center in the 2026 governor’s race, with Gov. Josh Shapiro and GOP State Treasurer Stacy Garrity clashing over affordability, reliability, and how fast to approve projects—while industry groups push for more gas infrastructure to serve power plants and data centers. Advanced Recycling: A federal “advanced recycling” push could affect multiple Philadelphia-area plastics makers, as lawmakers consider a national framework for how recycled content is attributed—aiming to reduce confusion but potentially reshaping local recycling economics. Clean Energy Jobs: Gov. Shapiro announced a $30 million Nokia investment to expand photonic semiconductor test and packaging in Lehigh County, backed by state funding and tied to hundreds of jobs. Wildlife & Health: Pennsylvania officials emphasized tick prevention at Samuel S. Lewis State Park, pointing residents to Lyme risk data and practical steps to avoid bites. Invasive Species: The Governor’s Invasive Species Council highlighted investments supporting native plants and wildlife, as agencies coordinate to slow invasive threats. Severe Weather: Lancaster County tornado history updates show 38 tornadoes since 1950, with recent storms adding to the record. Local Land Use & Data Centers: A Lackawanna County zoning fight over a proposed data center campus in Archbald continues as residents and officials question traffic impacts and what the developer can share. Bats & Policy: A renewed pipeline push in upstate New York raises concerns for bats, underscoring how energy projects can collide with wildlife protection. Biodiversity & Conservation: Keystone Elk Country Alliance named Ben Porkolab as its next president/CEO, continuing leadership focused on elk conservation and education. Water & Plastics: New reporting says microplastics are widespread in Pennsylvania waters, though trends may be shifting.