Manufacturing & Ag Tax Credit: A UW-Madison CROWE report says Wisconsin’s Manufacturing & Agriculture Tax Credit helped manufacturing competitiveness and boosted job growth over the past decade, widening the gap versus border counties. Passenger Rail Milestone: Amtrak and partner states report Borealis ridership topped 500,000 passengers since May 2024, underscoring demand for Wisconsin-Chicago service. Farm Pesticide Costs: The FTC and states reached a proposed settlement with Corteva that would dismantle loyalty-program tactics that blocked cheaper generics, aiming to lower pesticide prices for farmers. Data Center Transparency Fight: A bipartisan bill would void government NDAs that keep data center plans secret and bar subsidies tied to confidentiality, as communities push back on AI infrastructure. Wisconsin Forest Protection: The DNR won board approval to buy a conservation easement on nearly 1,800 acres in Langlade County, preserving timber land and supporting the Ice Age Trail. Local Business/Construction: Kickapoo Roofing began a 3,300-square-foot roof replacement at Wilderness Resort’s Glacier Canyon Lodge in Wisconsin Dells, targeting completion in December. AI in Banking: WSI Digital and Forward Bank were recognized for a two-year AI adoption partnership, citing measurable staff time savings. Energy Pressure: Commentary and reporting highlight how rising gas and diesel costs are squeezing Wisconsin families, farmers, and small businesses.