STEM Workforce: A new op-ed warns the U.S. may fall behind as competitors invest heavily in science and engineering and more STEM doctorates are earned by temporary visa holders. Beauty & Small Business: Mary Kay launched its limited-edition “K-Beauty Texture Edit,” signaling continued demand for trend-driven products sold through independent consultants. California Antitrust: California’s economy remains dominant, and new legislation expands enforcement against monopolistic behavior—aimed at protecting entrepreneurs and small retailers. Local Growth: Polk County leaders highlighted economic momentum at the CFDC annual meeting, including recognition for small-business development. Payments & Cash Flow: A report explains how merchants can accept crypto without changing pricing, since conversion typically happens at settlement—relevant for small firms evaluating new payment options. Retail Sales Pulse: Fiserv’s Small Business Index shows September sales rose 2.2% year over year as back-to-school demand lifted retail. Disaster & Infrastructure: Swannanoa, N.C. is moving forward with nearly $1.8M in state grants for sidewalk repairs—supporting walkable access for local businesses. SBA & Manufacturing: Alabama Shipyard won SBA Critical Suppliers Prize funding for fabrication upgrades, targeting supply-chain bottlenecks. AI & Jobs: Experts at a workforce panel urged oversight as AI reshapes hiring and raises fears tied to data centers and job displacement. Data Center Politics: The U.S. Senate killed the Ratepayer Protection Act, a bill meant to stop data-center infrastructure costs from landing on residents and small businesses.