State Politics & Ethics: A Politico report says Sen. Mike Rounds’ senior adviser, Robert Skjonsberg, has been registered as a state lobbyist for more than a dozen clients while also being tied to a government-affairs firm, raising fresh questions about conflicts as Rounds pushes AI and ag-related bills. South Dakota Economy & Housing: Watertown’s Benedictine Sisters are turning their 500-acre monastery into “The Village at Harmony Hill,” a major mixed-use development with up to 700 residences plus child care, education, health care and commercial space. Agriculture & Trade: Gov. Larry Rhoden and challenger Dan Ahlers sparred at the State Fair over Trump’s plan to pause tariffs and import more foreign beef, with Rhoden calling it wrongheaded and Ahlers urging stronger pressure on Washington. Health & Community: Community Blood Bank is urging Vermillion residents to donate in September as supplies typically dip after Labor Day, with multiple campus blood drives scheduled. Local Business & Events: Vermillion’s Ribs, Rods and Rock & Roll returns this weekend with a new DJ push aimed at college turnout, plus a farmers market addition. Veterans Housing: VA data shows South Dakota average VA purchase loan amounts rose to $368,002 in Q2 2026. Sports & Local Interest: SDSU released its full 2026-27 men’s basketball schedule, starting with a Kansas State opener in Manhattan.