AI & Open Models: A new analysis argues U.S. AI leadership depends on wider access to “open-weight” models, not just closed systems—sharing is framed as the real competitive edge. Maryland Education: Maryland ranked No. 3 nationally for reading recovery after the pandemic, but literacy advocates say proficiency is still far from where it needs to be and want less classroom tech. Space & Launch Industry: Blue Origin’s New Glenn suffered a major pre-launch explosion setback, raising questions for commercial launch momentum and NASA’s moon timeline. Commercial Space in Maryland: A proposed Calvert County data center tied to AWS highlights how cloud growth keeps reshaping Maryland’s tech footprint. Energy Tech: Plug-in “balcony” solar panels are spreading, but legality varies; Maryland is among states moving to allow them. Focused Ultrasound in Veterinary Medicine: Virginia-Maryland researchers started a world-first focused ultrasound trial (histotripsy) for equine sarcoid tumors. Public Safety & Tech Misuse: A Baltimore County case study shows how AI surveillance can trigger wrongful police actions when probability is treated like certainty. Housing & Data Centers: A Lakeland data center proposal sparked backlash after commissioners learned of it late, echoing Maryland’s own data-center debate. Environment & Transport: Perdue rolled out 100% soybean biodiesel trucks to cut emissions, using tech to keep B-100 usable in colder weather. Health & Policy: A new Workforce Pell rollout shifts eligibility work to colleges as states align short-term training programs with federal rules. Justice & Accountability: Families of Key Bridge collapse victims settled claims ahead of a civil trial, seeking closure and accountability.