Broadband Expansion: Bluepeak says it has passed 500,000 homes and businesses with fiber across the region, a major infrastructure milestone that signals continued investment in rural and underserved connectivity. Public Works & Water Quality: Lake Mitchell drawdown plans are drawing downstream concern in Mitchell, with questions about how nutrient- and sediment-rich water could affect the James River and what monitoring and permits will cover. Local Business Change: Cherrybee’s Floral and Gifts in Mitchell is changing hands after 28 years, with the longtime owners stepping away and new operators taking over. County Finance: A Yankton County task force is pushing toward a road and bridge levy plan starting with taxes payable in 2027, including a 60-cent-per-$1,000 valuation increase and possible outside help for ambulance funding. Energy & Industry: Caterpillar opened a new Rapid City facility and expanded high-tech training, including virtual reality programs used to safely train workers and speed up product testing. Consumer & Fraud: South Dakota’s AGs are part of a multistate push tied to Cash App fraud protections, with Block facing a $45 million settlement. Weather Risk: Meteorologists warn of a dangerous, long-lasting heat dome that could bring record-level temperatures across the northern Plains and Midwest, raising heat illness and wildfire concerns. Agriculture Innovation: South Dakota Mines students are working on sustainable fertilizer alternatives using microbes and drone-based soil analysis to help farmers cut reliance on synthetic inputs. Community & Safety: Hobo’s Healing Heart’s 0.5K fundraiser in Rapid City is still scheduled, but organizers are adjusting for extreme heat with an optional walk and more indoor activities.