Omaha Meetings Boom: Visit Omaha says planner interest is rising ahead of the CHI Health Center expansion, highlighting hands-on perks like free bra fittings that helped drive strong engagement at MPI’s World Education Congress. Housing Vacancy Puzzle: A new map using Census data shows 14.5 million U.S. homes sit vacant, with high vacancy rates often tied to seasonal properties rather than abandoned housing. Food Safety Watch: Nebraska health officials report cyclosporiasis cases tied to recalled iceberg lettuce are still climbing, with the CDC linking the outbreak to 15 states; meanwhile, salmonella-linked jalapeño recalls keep expanding, with Chipotle and Qdoba pulling the ingredient. Grain Dealer Scrutiny: The Nebraska Public Service Commission filed a complaint against The Andersons over alleged delayed payments for 17 grain deliveries, and urged other producers to report similar issues. UNL Budget Pressure: UNL’s Board of Regents is set to consider cutting ethnic studies due to declining enrollment, while also weighing other program changes and a 2027-29 funding request. Ag Policy Stalls: The Senate Agriculture Committee blocked a new farm bill from advancing, drawing criticism from Nebraska Farm Bureau and lawmakers. Critical Minerals for Defense: Lockheed is in talks to secure scandium and germanium supplies from North American sources, including a Nebraska scandium mine. University Funding Ask: NU regents will consider a 4.25% inflation-based increase in their 2027-29 budget request and targeted funding for research and programs.