Heat & Power: A heat dome is expanding across the central U.S., pushing temperatures above 100 degrees from Texas to North Dakota and putting tens of millions under heat advisories, with utilities already bracing for triple-digit conditions. Agriculture Under Stress: North Dakota soybean and corn growth is hitting a critical stretch as extreme heat arrives alongside concerns about rainfall, raising the risk of yield penalties. Workforce & Training: North Dakota’s career and technical education push is accelerating, with more CTE centers and programs aimed at steering students into high-demand jobs without leaving the state. Housing & Growth: A new affordable housing law is expected to help the Fargo-Moorhead market by lowering costs and updating outdated programs, tackling inventory limits that are driving up prices. Energy Costs Debate: A letter argues North Dakota should protect its reputation for the cheapest electricity in America as the grid and generation mix face upgrade pressure. Wildlife & Land Stewardship: Audubon surpassed 20,000 acres of grassland restoration in North Dakota and is set to restore more with a new Outdoor Heritage Fund award. Local Safety: Two men died in a head-on crash on Highway 20 near Courtenay; a passenger was seriously injured. Policy Watch: North Dakota trade officials warn threatened Canadian tariffs could hit farms hard ahead of an Aug. 19 start date.