Energy & Taxes: Higher oil prices are boosting state severance and profit-related collections, creating budget windfalls in places like Alaska and Texas. Mining & Policy: A West Virginia politician says a “gold rush” is coming for mining, as lawmakers weigh what comes next for the industry. Water Infrastructure: Gov. Patrick Morrisey’s Southern West Virginia water listening tour hit pushback in McDowell County, where residents questioned promises after years of water-quality problems. Home Energy Rebates: The West Virginia Office of Energy launched the pilot phase of its HOMES whole-home energy rebate program, funded through the U.S. Department of Energy. Banking & Local Business: First Community Bank promoted three commercial banking leaders in its North Carolina region. Hospitality Workforce: WVU is sending a record number of interns to Nemacolin Resort, expanding hands-on training for future hospitality workers. Fuel Prices Watch: GasBuddy reported the lowest regular gas in Preston County at $3.85 and diesel lows in Marshall County at $4.23 for the week ending Aug. 1. Food Safety: The CDC says the cyclospora outbreak linked to iceberg lettuce has expanded to 15 states, including West Virginia. Recreation Funding: Pennsylvania opened a grant round for motorized recreation projects, including ATV and snowmobile trails. Public Safety & Fraud: West Virginia scam reports remain a concern, with Chester logging one scam report in June.