AI & Biomedical Computing: USD will host its 8th annual AI Symposium and the 2nd South Dakota Biomedical Computation Consortium Sept. 8-9, bringing together Mines, Augustana, SDSU, DSU and USD researchers plus industry and government, with a keynote on AI in medicine and clinical use cases. Energy Training & Grid Work: Mitchell Technical College dedicated a new Touchstone Energy Utilities Lab focused on underground powerline training, expanding hands-on instruction for utilities careers. Underground Power Lines: Midcontinent Grid Solutions is seeking public feedback on the BECI project/Tranche 2.1 transmission plan that would connect South Dakota-linked 765-kV lines through the Midwest, with MISO projecting major cost and reliability benefits. Data Centers at the PUC: South Dakota’s PUC candidates are clashing over hyperscale data centers, including a proposed year-long moratorium versus a more regulated approach with water reporting and local approval. Agriculture & Livestock Health: South Dakota confirmed its first anthrax case of the year in a Meade County cattle herd, triggering quarantine and vaccination guidance. Drought & Water: Western South Dakota wells are running dry as heat and drought lower shallow aquifers, forcing ranchers and households to find costly alternatives. Consumer/Health Safety: A sprouts recall tied to a multi-state outbreak has been narrowed to distribution in Minnesota and Wisconsin, leaving other illnesses unexplained. Severe Weather Recovery: South Dakota received a presidential disaster declaration for storm damage from late June into early July, with federal aid covering 75% of public infrastructure costs.