Defense Tech in North Dakota: The U.S. Department of War ran T-REX at GrandSky and Camp Grafton, testing drone and counter-drone systems with major contractors and ND Sen. Kevin Cramer in attendance. Unmanned Ground Vehicle Procurement: The Army Contracting Command is seeking vendors for “GroundBreaker 1” at Camp Grafton in mid-October, with submissions limited to consortium members. Data Center Growth Watch: Morton County advanced a revised data center ordinance, while a statewide tracker counts 26 facilities (only 11 operating) and highlights how much capacity is still in the pipeline. SNAP Policy Shift: North Dakota delayed its planned ban on buying candy and soda with SNAP benefits from Sept. 1 to Nov. 1 after a federal court-related challenge. Trade Shock for ND Exports: Canada pulled back from trade talks and both sides hit each other with 50% tariffs, putting North Dakota’s export-heavy economy at risk. Agriculture Under Pressure: Northern Plains farmers are slowing some crop sales as drought concerns weigh on soybean expectations. Local Business Spotlight: Dickinson’s chamber honored businesses and community leaders at its 119th annual banquet. Corporate Finance: Alerus Financial declared a higher quarterly dividend and approved a new stock repurchase program. Construction Funding Snag: A $78M North Dakota Heritage Center military gallery project is on hold due to a private fundraising shortfall. Energy & Industry Crime: A former CVR Industries manager in Neche faces charges tied to alleged misuse of more than $300,000 in company funds. Meta Settlement Ripple Effects: Multistate Meta child-safety settlements are rolling out nationwide, with ND watching the broader compliance and consumer-protection fallout.