AGP Executive Report

Weather Claims: A right-wing activist says DC’s heat was “geoengineered,” pointing to storms around Mount Rushmore as meteorologists blame a heat dome. Family Finance: Trump Accounts launched July 4 with a $1,000 federal deposit for eligible kids—projected to grow to about $5,560 by age 18 at a 10% annual return (illustrative). Local Tragedy: Authorities identified Carlos Ray Cross, 18, killed in a July 1 Highway 40 crash near Hermosa; one adult was flown after serious injuries. Community Updates (Sioux Falls): Lyon Park and Prairie Trail Park are getting summer playground makeovers, including an accessible play structure and new amenities. Public Safety for Seniors: Hawarden hosted a CarFit event to help older drivers adjust seating and safety features for better comfort and control. Culture & Youth: RedCan Graffiti Jam returns to Eagle Butte July 8–11 with 11 artists creating Lakota-centered murals and family-friendly events. Independence Day (Pierre/Fort Pierre): Fort Pierre’s parade drew huge crowds and floats as the region marked America’s 250th. Arts & Education (South Dakota): Girl Scouts Dakota Horizons returned from a two-week trip to New Zealand and Australia, bringing back stories of culture, friendships, and adventure.

Independence Day in the Black Hills: President Trump returned to Mount Rushmore for America’s 250th, with rain-and-hail delays, lottery crowds, and a fireworks night that doubled as a political message about a “communist menace.” Local Pride & Community Events: The America 250 Freedom Run 5K wrapped up the weekend in Rapid City, while Mitchell kept things calm on the fireworks front with no serious injuries reported. Public Art in Eagle Butte: RedCan Graffiti Jam brings 11 featured artists to Eagle Butte July 8–11, adding new murals and youth-focused activities at the Waniyetu Wowapi Art Park. Youth Travel Story: Girl Scouts Dakota Horizons returned from a two-week trip through New Zealand and Australia, bringing home new friendships and cultural experiences. Health & Mental Wellness: A South Dakota farmer-focused mental health push highlights new solutions for people under pressure. Sports on the Horizon: South Dakota college football schedules for 2026 are out, plus Iowa State’s Cyclones swim and dive 2026–27 meet slate. Remembering Loved Ones: Obituaries for Sgt. Brett Stuart Miller and Robert “Bob” Lee Wiebers.

Black Hills Uranium Watch: A long-stalled Dewey-Burdock in situ uranium mine is pushing to restart South Dakota permitting after a 13-year pause, with opponents worried about impacts to local aquifers. 4th of July Safety (Mitchell): Mitchell Police say the holiday weekend was “pretty quiet” for fireworks injuries, with only minor trash-fire reports and no serious harm. Farmer Mental Health: A Mount Vernon therapist is turning a 100-year-old barn into a mental health clinic, focusing on the question many producers ask: “How do I keep going?” Public Health Advocacy: A Prairie Doc piece argues public health is shaped by policy and investment—and warns kids aren’t on track to live as long as their parents. Politics & Culture (America 250): Trump’s America 250 celebrations—anchored by Mount Rushmore and a National Mall speech—kept spotlighting “communist menace” rhetoric while severe heat and storms disrupted events. Sports & Community: A Lincoln sports complex is swapping basketball/volleyball use for pickleball, reshaping youth programming at the Speedway site. Arts & Local Voice: Art Marmorstein’s column returns to the idea of scarcity—what gets funded, what gets cut, and who decides.

Independence Day 250 in DC: Severe storms and record heat turned the National Mall celebration into a scramble—crowds were evacuated, then allowed back as President Donald Trump insisted he’d speak “no matter what,” with the rally and fireworks pushed to later in the night. South Dakota spotlight: Thousands gathered at Mount Rushmore for South Dakota’s America 250 kickoff, with Trump arriving after a rain interruption and state leaders framing the semiquincentennial as a values-and-identity moment. Culture clash at the celebration: The weekend’s pageantry also drew controversy, including a white nationalist group marching in Washington ahead of festivities, underscoring how polarizing the anniversary has become. Local public-safety angle: The heatwave and weather disruptions led to cancellations and sheltering across multiple cities, a reminder that this “biggest ever” holiday still hinges on basic comfort and crowd safety. Community mental health for farmers: In Mitchell-area coverage, a therapist described building farm-focused counseling support—answering the question many producers ask: “How do I keep going?” Federal sentencing in Sioux Falls: A Sioux Falls man was sentenced to nearly five years in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a felon, part of a broader DOJ crackdown on violent crime.

Religious Life & Community: Fr. Mark McCormick, director of vocations for the Diocese, reflects on how specific South Dakota parishes—like St. Therese the Little Flower (Rapid City) and others across the state—have helped nurture priestly vocations, including stories from the priest convocation this May. Civic Debate: A Sioux Falls runoff election still too close to call is reigniting the question of whether South Dakota should adopt ranked choice voting, with voters ranking preferences instead of picking a single candidate. Local Public Safety & Youth Protection: Mitchell’s Toby Russell, commander of South Dakota’s Internet Crimes Against Children task force, says reports of online child sexual exploitation have surged 660% since 2018 and that cyber tips drive much of the work. Culture & Heritage Spotlight: Deadwood’s Days of ’76 Rodeo is set to bring thousands, and bullfighters Nate Jestes and Beau Schueth say the event’s community feel makes it more than just a job for their families. America 250, South Dakota Style: Trump’s Mount Rushmore kickoff for the 250th birthday leans hard into “American exceptionalism” and a warning about “communism,” while heat and polarization shape how the holiday lands nationwide.

America 250 at Mount Rushmore: President Donald Trump kicked off the 250th birthday weekend in Keystone with a fiery, partisan speech warning of a “communist menace,” tying it to “newcomers” and vowing the U.S. “will never be a Communist country,” while praising Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln and Roosevelt and touting American exceptionalism. Local spotlight: South Dakota’s Independence Day festivities also included fireworks and remarks from Gov. Larry Rhoden alongside the Mount Rushmore program, with organizers navigating heat and wildfire concerns. Community culture: Fort Pierre drew crowds for the unveiling of “Dupree the American Bison,” a new outdoor sculpture blending local art with Tribal songs and shared celebration. Family & safety: Black Hills Medical Group’s HealthWatch urged simple water-safety steps for the holiday weekend—hydration, life jackets, never swimming alone, and keeping kids watched. Arts & entertainment: HBO’s 36-episode “Western masterpiece” take on “Tombstone” is getting buzz as a TV counterpart to the South Dakota-set classic. Global context: Iran began a dayslong funeral for Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, with major public mourning in Tehran.

Freedom 250 at Mount Rushmore: President Donald Trump is set to visit South Dakota today as part of America’s 250th birthday weekend, with Freedom 250 fireworks expected to top $700,000; Mount Rushmore is closed to the public July 3 and reopens July 4, with holiday programming including reenactments, Indigenous demonstrations, and the Air Force Academy Band. First Amendment logistics: The National Park Service has designated a 100-foot protest area near Keystone for signs and chants, with extra law enforcement planned around the area. Indigenous response: The Oglala Sioux Tribal Council opposes the fireworks and presidential visit, citing drought and wildfire risk. Local culture & learning: SDSU Extension launches “605 Igniting Change,” a July 10 chronic disease awareness campaign with a free virtual event and an optional virtual 5K. Rural education event: Rosebud Range Workshop is set for July 15 at the Rosebud Sioux Tribal Ranch, with hands-on rangeland sessions for adults and youth. Health tech trend: A new look at “smart rooms” highlights how tech-enabled hospital spaces are supporting virtual nursing workflows. Community spotlight: Pulse 712 Fitness & Training expands with a new 24/7 training club on Main Street.

Local Government & Elections: Sioux Falls’ mayoral recount is underway after Jamie Smith’s request, with the city clerk holding back details on rejected absentee ballots until public records responses begin. Civic Culture & Heritage: The South Dakota State Museum in Pierre reopened three renovated rooms after nearly $2 million in upgrades, with a Lakota prayer and a big push to preserve state history. America 250 in South Dakota: Vermillion’s Fourth of July celebration rolls out a full day of music, food, a Founding Fathers 5K, and fireworks—plus the National Music Museum’s special $2.50 admission. Travel & Tourism: Travel South Dakota won two Telly Awards for “Into the Roundup” and “Unexpected South Dakota,” spotlighting bison, Western traditions, and the state’s “unexpected” side. Community & Learning: The South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation is offering a free virtual layoff assistance session July 7 to help people reenter the workforce. Sports & Local Legacy: Five new inductees are set for the South Dakota Amateur Baseball Hall of Fame class of 2026, honored during the state tournament in Mitchell. Food Safety: The FDA classified a nationwide recall of certain Zapp’s and Dirty potato chips at the highest risk level due to possible Salmonella contamination.

4th of July safety: South Dakota law enforcement is urging boaters to slow down and avoid drunk driving after a deadly Lake Madison crash killed a 13-year-old during the holiday weekend. Military & local pride: USS South Dakota held a change of command ceremony as Cmdr. Dan Goodwin relieved Cmdr. Burnes Brown. Museum reopening: The South Dakota State Museum in Pierre reopened three renovated rooms as part of the America 250 celebration, with more gallery space to follow later this year. Religious freedom law: A new state measure making it a felony to intentionally disrupt worship services took effect July 1. Community impact after disaster: An Alzada family is rebuilding after a propane explosion destroyed their home, with a community rallying to help. Public safety & drugs near kids: In Tea, two adults face charges after police say fentanyl and meth were found while children were nearby. Elections: Sioux Falls mayoral candidate Jamie Smith filed for a formal recount after losing by two votes. Culture & history: Tribes marked the 150th anniversary of the Battle of the Greasy Grass, with Victory Day observances and cultural events. Sports spotlight: A South Dakota fan was among those celebrating the U.S. World Cup run at Levi’s Stadium.

Sioux Falls Sports & Community: Nebraska setter Bergen Reilly is back home in Sioux Falls for autographs and says she’s loving how women’s sports are growing; she’ll return next week for a clinic and Nebraska plays SDSU in Brookings Sept. 2. America 250 Outdoors: South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks is inviting people to “Adventure 250” across state parks, with weekly challenges and outdoor gear prizes through Sept. 6. Pierre Museums & History: Three newly completed exhibits at the South Dakota Cultural Heritage Center reopen today, with a ribbon cutting and a new “Grit and Glory” America 250 display. Sioux Falls Elections: The mayoral runoff recount request is officially filed—Jamie Smith says it’s coming, while Christine Erickson prepares for what’s next under state deadlines. Cultural Reading & Identity: A review of David Heska Wanbli Weiden’s “Wisdom Corner” spotlights a violent antihero wrestling with trauma, tribal politics, and the aftershocks of boarding schools. Family & Foster Care: A Sioux Falls-area foster family story follows David and Ingunn Jennings as they expand from caring for three brothers to adopting all eight children. Public Safety: Rapid City police remind residents not to leave kids or pets in hot cars and explain what to do if you see someone in danger. Local Health & Meals: Avera Queen of Peace in Mitchell is taking over Meals on Wheels delivery to keep the service running.

National Garden of American Heroes: A Lindenau-born Medal of Honor recipient, Master Sgt. Roy P. Benavidez, is on the short list for a proposed Black Hills monument near Mount Rushmore, part of a federally funded 250-sculpture plan that’s been debated for years. America 250 civic culture: South Dakota’s public universities are rolling out civic engagement events—lectures, history forums, and voter registration efforts—aimed at getting students and communities talking about democracy. Religious freedom law: A new South Dakota measure making intentional disruption of worship services a felony takes effect July 1. Elections and voting access: The League of Women Voters is pushing the state elections board to loosen how proof-of-citizenship documents are accepted for voter registration. Youth leadership: Tea Area student Jaxon Johanneson represented the Tea Area at South Dakota Boys State, earning roles in the mock government. Community services: Codington County Connects is getting a new home after a local building donation, with plans to move in and renovate for health and WIC services. Local lifestyle/business: Sioux Falls-area employer Pathward was named a 2026-2027 “Best Company to Work For” by U.S. News. Sports & safety: Sturgis police are urging safer e-bike riding as popularity grows among kids and teens.

Local Education: Gehlen Catholic K-12 art teacher Beth Schlichte is retiring after 39 years, leaving behind a career built on making art and keeping students curious. School & Youth Programs: Yankton School District promoted assistant coaches to lead volleyball, competitive dance, and competitive cheer programs. Literacy & Health Careers: Teachers packed Mitchell for a statewide literacy conference, while Winner HOSA students headed to an Indianapolis leadership event after qualifying at state. Community & Food Support: South Dakota WIC updates income guidelines effective July 1, with families encouraged to check eligibility and apply online or at local offices. Civic Life & Voting: The League of Women Voters is asking the state Board of Election for new rules clarifying Senate Bill 175’s voter registration and ballot changes, including “federal-only” voter handling. Local Government: Yankton County Commission approved a roads-and-bridges levy plan with a two-year sunset clause. Sports Spotlight: Defensive lineman Chris Dixon is primed for a big senior season for Yankton High. Weather & Safety: 130 mph winds reportedly destroyed windmills across South Dakota, a reminder to check on vulnerable neighbors during extreme conditions.

Transgender Sports Ruling: The U.S. Supreme Court upheld state bans on transgender girls and women competing in female school sports, with South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley calling it a win for “female athletes.” Independence Day & Fire Safety: Mount Rushmore’s first fireworks show in six years is set for this Friday, even as drought and wildfire fears spark fresh debate. WIC Support: South Dakota’s WIC program updates income guidelines effective July 1, with eligibility tied to 185% of the federal poverty level. Local Food Network: SDSU Extension released a free directory mapping South Dakota’s local food organizations and how they connect—or don’t—across producers, education, and infrastructure. Agriculture Tech & Soil: A cattle technology field day at Getting Farms highlighted GPS, herd management tools, and research on grazing cover crops and soil health. Culture & Heritage: Crow Nation communities marked the 150th anniversary of Greasy Grass (Little Bighorn) with re-enactments and celebrations. Community Calendar: Menno and Freeman plan July 4 and July 5 worship and patriotic events tied to the 250th anniversary. Sports & Community: Sioux Falls City soccer held a remembrance after co-owner Eric Thomas’s daughter’s team mourned his passing.

International Trade & Education: South Dakota Trade teamed up with the University of South Dakota on a two-track Germany mission to Interzoo 2026, pairing business development for local pet-industry firms with student visits to the U.S. Embassy and academic partnership work. Heritage Food: The Sodak Stamm heritage society is releasing a “Germans from Russia” cookbook for America’s 250th, with sales starting July 4. Family & Reproductive Politics: In Rapid City, Family Voice hosted a luncheon arguing against commercial surrogacy and raising concerns about IVF, framing it as a “children’s rights movement.” Community Support: Rapid City CASA is raffling a newly built playhouse to support kids in foster care, with tickets sold online through July 1. Public Health & Local Life: Rapid City is set to brief city committees on a nearly $5 million EPA grant to expand recycling, cut contamination, and boost education. Sports & Community Loss: Sioux Falls City soccer mourns the death of co-owner Eric Thomas, whose family helped build a team culture described as “a family.” Crime & Safety: A Rapid City man was sentenced to 10 years for attempted enticement of a minor during the Sturgis Rally, and an Okreek man received 5 years 10 months for possessing an unregistered short-barreled rifle.

Heat Advisory: The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory for 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. today across southwest Minnesota and parts of eastern South Dakota, with heat index values up to 104°F—stay hydrated, limit outdoor time, and never leave kids or pets in parked cars. Community & Conservation: The Black Hills Area Community Foundation unveiled the Beautiful Black Hills Initiative, investing $200,000+ to support healthy natural spaces, outdoor recreation, and community building through local groups. Politics & Voting Access: South Dakota Republicans picked Heather Baxter as secretary of state nominee, backing her push for hand-counted ballots and sidelining incumbent Monae Johnson. Gubernatorial Prison Policy: At the GOP convention in Rapid City, governor candidates Toby Doeden and Larry Rhoden clashed over prison policy and recidivism, with Doeden citing a 50% return rate within three years. Culture & Learning: One Book South Dakota’s tour brings author Matthew Davis’s Mount Rushmore history to communities including Rapid City and Pine Ridge, with local storytelling and art tied to America 250. Severe Weather Aftermath: Early Monday storms brought hail, extreme winds, and tornado warnings, with damage reported in central and northeastern South Dakota.

America 250 at Mount Rushmore: President Trump says he’ll attend the July 3 fireworks celebration, with tickets handled through a public lottery and more details on the National Park Service site. Arts & Community Spaces: The South Dakota State Museum will reopen three renovated exhibits with a July 1 ribbon cutting in Pierre, and Goblin Comics in Rapid City is hosting monthly comics club meetups that welcome newcomers. Local Culture & Creativity: Artist calls are open for South Dakota and regional exhibitions, including a Midwest Nice Art submission deadline in Aberdeen. Youth Learning & After-School Support: Philip and McIntosh are among 11 South Dakota programs sharing $9 million in 21CCLC grants to expand out-of-school time activities. Health & Home Safety: A Prairie Doc explainer focuses on dementia and home safety steps caregivers can take to reduce risks. Sports & Pride: Sioux Falls Stampede forward Cooper Soller was drafted by the Tampa Bay Lightning, while Augustana recruit Teddy Lechner was selected by the Colorado Avalanche. Service & Belonging: A new Mitchell nonprofit, MSDR AlterNatives, is pairing practical help with peer support to offer positive alternatives to addiction, crime, and isolation.