Enhanced Geothermal: Mazama Energy, backed by Vinod Khosla, raised $135M to scale super-hot-rock geothermal drilling in Oregon, aiming for much higher power output per well. AI & Privacy Scrutiny: Sen. Ron Wyden pressed Flock CEO Garrett Langley over alleged misuse of its surveillance platform, including claims tied to reproductive health and immigration searches. Oregon University Labor: SEIU 503 classified employees at Oregon’s seven public universities voted to authorize a strike starting as early as Sept. 28, citing cost-of-living gaps and outsourcing protections. Public Safety Tech Risks: Oregon regulators warned about AI-powered investment scams, urging residents to watch for increasingly convincing fraud tactics. Public Health Policy: An Oregon op-ed argues state vaccination exemption rules are driving low childhood immunization rates, as measles and whooping cough concerns grow. Transportation Upgrade: Amtrak Cascades begins introducing its new Airo trainsets Sept. 30, with more service through early 2027 across the Portland–Eugene corridor. Community & Infrastructure: The Bridge of the Gods marks its 100th anniversary with a free centennial celebration in Cascade Locks this weekend.