Brain-Computer Interface Breakthrough: An Oakland man with ALS can now send messages and write using a brain implant that converts neural signals into text, with a synthesized voice reading his words aloud. EV Policy & Manufacturing: California’s zero-emission push keeps expanding as automakers roll out instant first-buyer rebates up to $3,500, aiming to speed EV adoption. Native Plants & Urban Biodiversity: A Cal State LA-led study finds yards with California native plants draw far more pollinators than conventional landscaping—good news for biodiversity in dense neighborhoods. Defense Tech Contract: The U.S. Air Force awarded Dzyne Technologies $6M to develop the Long-Range Grasshopper autonomous cargo drone for GPS-denied logistics. Public Trust Groundwater Ruling: A California appeals court says counties can’t dodge environmental review—Sonoma must do CEQA analysis for its well ordinance and protect rivers tied to groundwater pumping. Health Research: A new prostate cancer study uses DNA-based comprehensive genomic profiling to better predict overall survival in metastatic hormone-sensitive cases. Tragedy in the Sierra: UCSB PhD student Vikram Mubayi died after going missing on a solo hike; family is seeking answers. Materials Science: UC Berkeley researchers report atomic-scale titanium dioxide turns ferroelectric below 3 nanometers, pointing to new low-voltage memory and logic possibilities. AI’s Hidden Costs: UC Riverside research estimates a typical ChatGPT conversation can carry a surprising water footprint tied to data-center demand.