AI in Education: South Dakota’s Board of Regents approved new AI degrees across Dakota State and South Dakota State, including a DSU doctoral program and SDSU bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral options—aimed at boosting AI literacy, research, and workforce training. Local Politics: Sioux Falls Mayor Christine Erickson endorsed Gov. Larry Rhoden in the Republican runoff against Toby Doeden, framing it as a partnership for safer neighborhoods and affordability. Gubernatorial Runoff: South Dakota heads to its first-ever governor runoff on July 28, with Rhoden and Doeden split from the June primary and both campaigns turning sharper as voters decide. Tribal Community & Voting: A Lakota community voice argues that elections can’t be treated like politics-only when families need mental health care, housing, addiction treatment, and real support. Health & Cost of Care: A Rapid City nurse practitioner is urging Manitoba to cover nurse practitioner visit costs, saying out-of-pocket fees block access for seniors and families. Education Budget: Rapid City Area Schools approved a $214.8 million 2027 budget, including a major Rapid Valley Elementary addition/renovation and pay increases. Culture & History: A Georgia Southern curator helped uncover a Revolutionary War drum story tied to 1781, adding fresh context to American musical and historical artifacts. Community & Sports: Dakota Wesleyan athletes earned national recognition at the NAIA level, with honors spanning women’s basketball, men’s wrestling, and volleyball. Outdoor Fun: Fort Pierre hosted the Grasslands Triple Crown gravel ride series, bringing wheels-on-gravel tourism to rural South Dakota. Everyday Life: WalletHub ranked Sioux Falls among the least stressed U.S. cities, while Rapid City tied to low unemployment in the same report.