AGP Executive Report
Last update: 9 hours agoRare Earths & Mining: Greenbrier County residents are asking how a newly announced rare earth element extraction project at Greenbrier Smokeless Coal’s Rupert operation will work, with plans to recover critical minerals from coal tailings and create nearly 250 local jobs. Infrastructure & Local Economy: Gov. Patrick Morrisey announced $630,000+ for southern West Virginia upgrades, including Beckley downtown sidewalks, Fayetteville’s Second Avenue pedestrian bridge, and a nature trail at Twin Falls State Park. Water & Utilities: Kanawha Falls PSD cleared to pursue nearly $24 million in state funding for flood-impacted upgrades, even as a proposed sale tied to West Virginia American Water remains tangled in legal and regulatory steps. SNAP Policy: West Virginia DoHS paused the SNAP Healthy Choices soda ban after a federal court ruling, telling retailers to update EBT systems so eligible items can be purchased without interruption. Food Safety: Aldi recalled frozen Kimchi & Tofu Kimbap in multiple states including West Virginia due to undeclared fish (tuna) allergen risk. Tech & Energy: Microsoft reported a 25% jump in emissions tied largely to expanding data center infrastructure, adding pressure as AI power demand grows. Public Safety: A WSAZ report describes a child’s burn after a “squishy” toy was allegedly left in a hot car in Mingo County, with poison control saying it was heat-related. Tourism Leadership: Tourism Secretary Chelsea Ruby will leave at month’s end, with Curtis Capehart serving as acting secretary starting Aug. 1.
Note: AI summary from news headlines; neutral sources weighted more to help reduce bias in the result. Feedback is welcome. Please let us know if you have any comments or suggestions about the AGP Executive Report.