Berkshire Hathaway moves big in housing and AI: Omaha-based Berkshire is committing $16.8 billion over two days, including a $6.8 billion cash deal to buy homebuilder Taylor Morrison and a major Alphabet investment tied to AI buildout. Rail merger review: The federal Surface Transportation Board paused the Union Pacific–Norfolk Southern merger, asking for more details and more public input before environmental review can proceed. Nebraska manufacturing signal: Creighton’s Mid-America Business Conditions Index stayed above growth neutral but slipped, with hiring weak and inflation pressures rising. Local infrastructure spend: Lincoln is preparing a $5.45 million 27th Street rehabilitation project focused on safety and repairs, plus utility and ADA upgrades. Data center zoning debate: Lancaster County commissioners punted on a data-center moratorium, directing planners to revise zoning rules instead. Consumer scam warning: Omaha’s Better Business Bureau flagged an alleged “Thrifty Auto Sales Shop” online car-dealer scam tied to an Omaha address. Public health watch: CDC says several exposed hantavirus cruise passengers have returned home to finish monitoring, with others still under supervision. Agribusiness win: UNL’s NE20620 wheat line earned a Miller’s Choice Award for milling and baking performance. Workforce policy ripple: Nebraska’s minimum wage history is being compared to Oklahoma’s proposed increase, with economists pointing to mixed effects—stronger pay but potential drag in smaller communities.