Mississippi Small Business Spotlight: Leña Pizza & Bagel in Cleveland was named “Dining Destination of the Year” by the Mississippi Small Business Development Center Network, with owner Marisol Doyle crediting community support and noting the restaurant is also a Food & Wine Top 10 pizzeria. Workforce & Training: AccelerateMS and the Mississippi Office of Student Financial Aid launched the UPSKILL Mississippi Grant, covering remaining tuition/fees for eligible certificate and associate programs tied to in-demand fields, plus a $500 annual stipend for books and materials. Local Government Finance: Vicksburg moved to make its ambulance service profitable for the first time since 1969, reaching terms with Merit Health River Region to bill insurers/patients for eligible transports while the hospital covers certain non-billable cases. Energy Costs: Gas prices stayed pressured by global conflicts and refinery disruptions, with AAA warning Labor Day could bring record-high fuel costs; Mississippi-area reporting also showed diesel and regular prices varying by county in the week ending Aug. 15. Space & Regulation: SpaceX unveiled a $100B Starship launch complex in coastal Louisiana, while wildlife groups warned proposed federal rule changes could weaken environmental protections and hurricane safeguards. Business Growth: Birdcall opened its first franchise restaurant in Starkville, signaling further expansion in Mississippi and beyond. Opioid Funding: AG Lynn Fitch announced the 2026 Opioid Settlement Fund grant cycle materials and a new application portal, with applications open Aug. 31–Oct. 5.