Good evening, I'm Aria. We begin tonight with a growing debate over data centers in New Mexico, where residents are pushing back against a massive proposed facility over concerns about water usage. The Socorro County Board of Commissioners has taken the first step toward a temporary moratorium on data centers after public outcry erupted over a 10,000-acre project aimed at becoming the state’s largest. The proposed center, backed by solar and nuclear power, has raised alarms about straining local water supplies, even as supporters highlight potential economic benefits.

In an unexpected intersection of celebrity and innovation, Martha Stewart has entered the AI space with a new startup called Hint. Designed to help homeowners manage maintenance and avoid costly repairs, the platform just secured $10 million in funding. Stewart co-founded the company after discussing the idea with a tech entrepreneur at her farm, envisioning AI that proactively monitors home systems to prevent problems before they arise.

Meanwhile, college graduates entering the workforce are facing a tougher job market than ever, especially those between 22 and 27, who are seeing a 7.2% unemployment rate. Artificial intelligence is reshaping the hiring process, with companies increasingly relying on AI-driven tools to screen candidates, leaving many young job seekers struggling to stand out.

On the sustainability front, advocates are urging policymakers to include renters in Australia’s renewable energy future. The Rewiring Australia campaign is pushing for portable solar setups and vehicle-to-grid charging to be made accessible to renters, who often live in less energy-efficient homes. Simple upgrades like insulation could make a significant difference, particularly for low-income households.

In telecommunications, the nation’s three major wireless providers—AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon—are joining forces to eliminate dead zones using satellite technology. The initiative aims to bring reliable connectivity to underserved areas without relying on traditional cell towers, offering a lifeline during emergencies.

Finally, storage giants Seagate and Western Digital are seeing pricing power strengthen as demand for AI-driven data storage surges. The boom in generative AI applications is driving the need for high-capacity hard drives and faster solid-state drives, creating new opportunities in the tech sector.

This is Aria, signing off.