Workforce & Training: Southeast Technical College broke ground on the $18 million James Abdnor Center for Advanced Manufacturing in Sioux Falls, aiming to open in fall 2028 and expand programs for welders and machinists, with funding including $6 million from the state and $6.5 million in federal HUD dollars. State Business Recognition: The South Dakota Retailers Association is taking nominations for Retailer of the Year, Restaurant of the Year, and Community Service awards, due Aug. 31. Economic Development Leadership: Build Dakota’s Administration Board welcomed Tenise Chapman and thanked outgoing member Scott Knuppe, as Gov. Larry Rhoden appointed Chapman to succeed him. Energy Policy: The U.S. Department of Energy canceled the National Interest Electric Transmission Corridors effort (NIETC), ending three proposed corridor designations that had raised landowner concerns. Agriculture Markets: USDA set July Class III milk at $15.52 per cwt., down 46 cents from June, while cattle and hog futures finished the week lower. Local Consumer Watch: GasBuddy reported South Dakota midgrade prices easing, including a lowest Custer County midgrade price of $4.09 in the week ending Aug. 8. Business Legal/Industry: A Texas supplier sued Summit Carbon Solutions over alleged unpaid orders for specialized carbon pipeline valves. Community & Events: Prairie Fest returns Aug. 22 at Good Earth State Park, with a focus on grassland education and family-friendly outdoor time.