South Caucasus Industry & Trade: Armenia is visibly pivoting away from Russia and toward Europe, with warmer ties also emerging with Türkiye and Azerbaijan—an economic shift that can reshape regional transport routes and business planning. Demographics & Labor: A new global look at birth rates highlights population pressure in Europe and notes San Marino among the lowest-birth-rate countries, a warning sign for future workforce supply. Energy & Grid Modernization: Pasadena Water and Power is moving to replace a 1999 remote grid data system and upgrade CAISO revenue meters under a $425,000 contract, aiming to improve cybersecurity and reliability. Emergency Response Training: Pasadena is seeking extra state funding for Urban Search and Rescue training through 2028, supporting a regional task force that keeps local fire departments ready for major incidents. Water Infrastructure: Marin Municipal Water District approved a $2.65 million partnership with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to advance drought resiliency via “atmospheric river capture” pipeline design. San Marino Sports Link: Larne’s Champions League progression came after beating Tre Fiori of San Marino, boosting Northern Ireland’s European coefficient and prize prospects.