Retail Real Estate: Waterstone Properties Group bought Windsor Square Shopping Center in Matthews, a 657,000-square-foot power center anchored by Sam’s Club, Kohl’s and others, and says it will expand its NC leasing/management office there. Workforce & Economic Development: NC East Alliance named Trip Belote its new president and CEO, with Vann Rogerson shifting to CEO emeritus as the nonprofit pushes career pathways across 29 counties. Broadband Expansion: Kinetic says it added nearly 23% more fiber in the Concord area, passing 38,000+ homes, and will host a week of free community events. Food Supply Chain: The Food Bank of the Albemarle received a $10,000 Wawa Foundation grant to boost access to nutritious meals across northeastern NC. Energy & Cost Watch: GasBuddy reported the week’s lowest E15 price in Franklin County at $3.57/gal and the lowest diesel in Buncombe County at $5.69/gal. Public Safety & Infrastructure: NCDOT and emergency ferry services continue supporting Outer Banks access as Highway 12 damage from the nor’easter remains under repair. Aviation/Defense Tech: The U.S. Army selected Vulcan Elements to supply rare-earth magnets for SkyFoundry small drones, with Vulcan expanding magnet production in Benson, NC. Healthcare/Business: Humacyte added commercialization and life-science leaders Scott Coward and Paul Kuznik to its board as it prepares for Symvess® and an ATEV launch. Local Industry Ops: Lowe’s launched a drone delivery pilot in Matthews with DoorDash and Wing for small home-improvement items.