STEM & Supply Chain: South Dakota Mines hosted its 4-M Expo, bringing students, industry leaders, and the public together to spotlight mining, materials, engineering, and how the supply chain supports national security. Construction Workforce: AGC of South Dakota’s Construction Career Exploration Camp drew 200+ Black Hills high school students for hands-on training with heavy equipment, welding, concrete, carpentry, and plumbing—aimed at steering more workers into skilled trades. Food Safety: CDC reported an alfalfa sprout outbreak now at 76 illnesses across 16 states, tied to a single seed lot, with recalls expanding into more kitchens. Energy Costs: A think tank says federal energy policy changes could push household energy spending up by about $6,500 on average through 2040, with South Dakota among the states facing roughly $9,000 more. Health & Consumer Watch: FDA expanded recalls tied to E. coli concerns for frozen berries sold in multiple states, including South Dakota. Corrections & Facilities: South Dakota began moving women into a new Rapid City prison; the complex opened with 79 women in late September and is ramping up operations. Generic Drug Settlement: South Dakotans who bought certain generics between 2009 and 2019 may qualify for compensation under a proposed $400M Sandoz/Fougera settlement. Local Industry & Permitting: A judge paused Sioux Falls’ Smithfield expansion plan after ruling the city’s conditional use permit process didn’t follow required rules.