Energy & Manufacturing: Antora Energy announced a 5.8 GWh multi-day thermal battery project at Pratt Energy’s biorefinery in Pratt, Kansas, aiming to deliver around-the-clock affordable power and support 100+ construction and operations jobs; it follows Antora’s 5 GWh thermal battery project in Big Stone City, South Dakota. Legal & Consumer Protection: South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley is seeking preliminary federal court approval for a $400 million Sandoz/Fougera generic drug settlement, with eligible buyers from May 2009–Dec. 2019 able to file claims; the state’s share is about $389,077. Workforce & Training: Western Dakota Technical College’s Career Expo in Rapid City drew about 400 students and highlighted skilled trades and healthcare pathways, with officials citing workforce shortages and strong graduate employment outcomes. Agriculture Logistics: Gov. Larry Rhoden issued an executive order to ease high diesel costs for harvest hauling by expanding 10% overweight allowances and suspending a $25 overweight trip permit. Healthcare Affordability: The Trump administration began sending $500 ACA/“Obamacare” refund checks to nearly 1 million Americans in 30 states, including South Dakota. Local Industry & Community: The Western Dakota Career Expo and South Dakota FFA Foundation service grants spotlight ongoing efforts to grow local talent and community projects.